Beaches in General Santos

Explore the best beaches in General Santos and nearby Sarangani.

General Santos City may be best known as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines,” but beyond its bustling port and vibrant food scene, it also offers access to beautiful beaches that locals and tourists love. These coastal gems are worth adding to your itinerary.

From family-friendly resorts with complete amenities to quiet stretches of sand perfect for relaxation, Gensan’s beaches provide something for everyone. We’ve rounded up some of the best beaches in and around General Santos City that showcase the region’s natural charm and laid-back seaside vibe.

1. London Beach (Bawing)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~14 km, 25 min ride from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Affordable family-friendly beach with pools and seaside cottages.
  • Activities: Swimming, picnics, karaoke, family gatherings.
  • Facilities: Rooms, cottages, function hall, swimming pools.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱100–150 per person.
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round; weekdays for fewer crowds.

2. Dolores Tropicana Resort (Tambler)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~12 km, 20–25 min from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Classic GenSan beachfront resort, popular for locals.
  • Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, boating, events.
  • Facilities: Hotel rooms, cottages, restaurant, event spaces.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱100–150 day use.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer months (March–May).

3. Renzo Beach Resort (Bawing)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~16 km, 30 min from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Quiet alternative to London Beach with similar facilities.
  • Activities: Swimming, beach games, overnight stays.
  • Facilities: Rooms, nipa huts, event spaces.
  • Entrance Fee: Around ₱100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekends if you want a livelier atmosphere.

4. Lemlunay Dive Resort (Maasim)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~29 km, 50–55 min from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Diving and snorkeling, part of Sarangani Bay’s marine sanctuary.
  • Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, freediving, infinity pool.
  • Facilities: Dive shop, infinity pool, cottages, restaurant.
  • Entrance Fee: Day use ₱250–300; diving extra.
  • Best Time to Visit: Nov–May for best underwater visibility.

5. Tinoto Beach Area (Maasim)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~30 km, 55 min from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: White sand coves and coral reefs near Lemlunay.
  • Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, diving.
  • Facilities: Small resorts and cottages along the shoreline.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱50–150 depending on resort.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer months for calm waters.

6. Isla Jardin del Mar (Gumasa)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~96 km, 2 hr from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Wide beachfront and SarBay Festival venue.
  • Activities: Swimming, beach camping, volleyball, boating.
  • Facilities: Cottages, function hall, camping areas.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱75–100; cottages ₱500+.
  • Best Time to Visit: May (SarBay Festival) or summer season.

7. White Haven Beach Resort (Gumasa, Glan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~95 km, 2 hr from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: One of Gumasa’s most famous white sand resorts.
  • Activities: Swimming, kayaking, snorkeling.
  • Facilities: Air-conditioned rooms, open cottages, function rooms.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱100 day use.
  • Best Time to Visit: Dec–May (dry season).

8. Rosal Beach Resort (Gumasa, Glan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~95 km, 2 hr from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Budget-friendly beach cottages in Gumasa.
  • Activities: Swimming, beach volleyball, BBQ.
  • Facilities: Native cottages, overnight lodging.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱50–100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekends for social atmosphere.

9. Coco Beach Resort (Gumasa, Glan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~95 km, 2 hr from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Tranquil white sand setting perfect for families.
  • Activities: Swimming, kayaking, picnics.
  • Facilities: Native-style cottages, small rooms.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱75–100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Morning until sunset.

10. Belmar Eco Park & Beach Resort (Kapatan, Glan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~93 km, 1 hr 50 min from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Eco-park vibe with greenery and beachfront.
  • Activities: Swimming, fishing, picnics, eco-walks.
  • Facilities: Picnic cottages, eco-park trails.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱50–100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer and weekends.

11. Britta’s Beach Resort (Gumasa, Glan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~95 km, 2 hr from the city’s plaza.
  • Famous for: Private beach feel in Gumasa.
  • Activities: Swimming, family gatherings.
  • Facilities: Overnight cottages, small huts.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱75–100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Dry season.

12. King James White Cove (Gumasa, Glan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~95 km, 2 hr.
  • Famous for: Family-friendly beachfront with cottages.
  • Activities: Swimming, bonfires, overnight stays.
  • Facilities: Rooms, open cottages, videoke.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Off-peak for privacy.

13. Kamari Resort & Hotel (Gumasa, Glan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~95 km, 2 hr.
  • Famous for: Resort-hotel with beachfront and modern amenities.
  • Activities: Swimming, events, watersports.
  • Facilities: Hotel rooms, restaurant, function halls.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round.

14. Horizons Beach Resort (Gumasa, Glan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~95 km, 2 hr.
  • Famous for: Scenic sunrise and peaceful setting.
  • Activities: Swimming, family events, picnics.
  • Facilities: Rooms, cottages, function areas.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱100.
  • Best Time to Visit: March–May.

15. Gumasa Beach (public strip)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~95 km, 2 hr.
  • Famous for: “Boracay of the South” white sand shoreline.
  • Activities: Swimming, camping, beach games.
  • Facilities: Open beach plus nearby resorts.
  • Entrance Fee: Public (free), some access ₱50–100.
  • Best Time to Visit: May (SarBay Festival).

16. Lumasal Beach Area (Maasim, Sarangani)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~32 km, 1 hr.
  • Famous for: Peaceful, less crowded alternative.
  • Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, fishing.
  • Facilities: Simple cottages, picnic areas.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱50–100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for quiet.

17. Siguel Beach (Bawing, GenSan)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~20 km, 35 min.
  • Famous for: Local cove with calm waters and nice sunset view.
  • Activities: Swimming, fishing, beach picnics.
  • Facilities: Nipa huts, small cottages.
  • Entrance Fee: ₱50–100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Afternoons for sunset.

18. Kiamba Baywalk & Beach Resorts (Kiamba, Sarangani)

Quick Overview:

  • Distance: ~66 km, 1 hr 40 min.
  • Famous for: Scenic baywalk and beach town vibe.
  • Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, town fiestas.
  • Facilities: Small inns, cottages, eateries.
  • Entrance Fee: Free at baywalk; resorts ₱50–100.
  • Best Time to Visit: Town fiesta season or dry months.

Tips for Beachgoers

The dry season (November to May) is the ideal time for beach trips in Gensan. Summer months (March–May) are especially popular, but weekends can get crowded.

What to Bring

  • Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sun protection.
  • Extra clothes, swimwear, and towels.
  • Snacks and drinking water (though many resorts have stores or allow grilling).
  • Cash (not all resorts accept digital payments).

Local Etiquette

  • Always dispose of trash properly—help keep the beaches clean.
  • Respect local communities and resort rules.
  • If you plan to drink or play music, keep the volume moderate to avoid disturbing others.

Safety Reminders

  • Swim only in designated areas.
  • Supervise children near the water.
  • Bring a first aid kit for minor cuts or sunburn.

Popular Activities

  • Beachside Dining: Many resorts and nearby eateries serve fresh seafood, from grilled fish to tuna dishes—a must-try when in Gensan.
  • Water Sports & Recreation: Some resorts offer snorkeling, boating, and even kayaking. Perfect for those who want more than just swimming.
  • Camping & Bonfires: Beaches like Gumasa and Glan allow overnight stays, with options for tents or cottages. Bonfires are popular during group trips.
  • Photography & Sunsets: Queen Tuna Park and Tango Beach are favorites for capturing sunsets over Sarangani Bay.

Combine your beach outing with nearby attractions:

  • Mt. Matutum for hiking.
  • Lake Sebu in South Cotabato for culture and nature.
  • Sarangani Highlands for panoramic bay views and dining.

To Sum It Up

General Santos City and its nearby areas offer a wonderful mix of beach experiences, from accessible public shores to pristine white sand destinations. There’s a beach for every mood and occasion.

These coastal gems highlight the city’s charm beyond its title as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines.” So pack your swimwear, gather your friends or family, and enjoy the refreshing seaside adventures waiting for you in and around General Santos.

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