I don’t know what it is about a university city, but there is always a unique vibrant energy that permeates the air, or is that just the student dorms I can smell?!
Dumaguete is one of the Philippines’ major university cities and is no different. But while it is home to several colleges and universities attracting students from across the country, it is also known as one of the best places to retire in the world.
After visiting this city, I could totally understand why it’s known as the ‘City of Gentle People.’ The atmosphere is laid-back enough to be considered a beach city but buzzing enough to be considered an academic center. And let’s not forget it offers easy access to plenty of beaches and tropical islands nearby.
While the beach resorts, hotels, and guest houses in Dumaguete are all great options for travelers, one type of accommodation stands out above the rest: Airbnbs in Dumaguete.
Not only are Airbnbs more private, but they are great for a local experience, are often personalized and unique, and are typically more cost-effective. What’s not to love?
If this beachside city makes it onto your Philippines bucket list, you’re going to want to hang on to this list of the best Airbnb rentals in Dumaguete:
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: These Are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Dumaguete
Inner-City Treehouse Surrounded by Nature
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Outdoor kitchen and dining area
- > Close to the beach, airport, and downtown
Casa Arietta Hostel
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Air-conditioned dorm rooms
- > Walking distance to Escano Beach
Gorgeous Apartment with Three Bedrooms and City Views
- > $$$$
- > 7 Guests
- > Restaurant and optional breakfast
- > Balcony with mountain views
Guest Studio in a Peaceful Garden with Pool
- > $$
- > 1-2 Guests
- > Available for long-term stays
- > Access to pool and garden
Private Room with Office Space and Shared Jungle Backyard
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Workspace with natural light
- > Covered terrace with living space and dining table
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Dumaguete
There’s a lot of hype around Airbnb—and for good reason. Typically speaking, this type of accommodation offers incredible value for money, featuring homey self-catering facilities with a personal/local touch.
It’s the perfect answer for families, solo travelers, and even digital nomads looking for a private and authentic way to experience a new city.
In my opinion, great Airbnbs are few and far between in Dumaguete. The city is small and doesn’t attract a huge tourist influx compared with other Filipino cities. That said, with a deep dive into the platform, I managed to find some epic Airbnbs in Dumaguete suitable for families, couples, solo travelers, and deal-seekers.
The Airbnbs on this list are typically designed with a local flair, with beachy interiors and simple furniture. Properties range from hand-built treehouses to local family homes to condos in high-rise apartments, so whether you’re backpacking in The Philippines or on a family trip, there’s something for you.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
While it isn’t such a hit with international tourists (yet), Dumaguete is pretty popular with ex-pats, from students to retirees. Because of this, you will find a bunch of Airbnbs that offer long-stay discounts, allowing guests to rent out a fully furnished space for a couple of months.
It’s one of the best places to stay in The Philippines if you’re looking for something with a less touristy feel.
When it comes to amenities, most Airbnbs here have a fully equipped kitchen, although some don’t offer the additional appliances and utensils you might need to prepare a gourmet meal. Wi-Fi, hot running water, and air conditioning are to be expected, which are absolutely essential in this humid country. Strewth!
If I had to pick some added amenities that I recommend you look out for, they would be a BBQ and outdoor living space. Swimming pools are also great for the tropical weather. A few Airbnbs have private pools, but most are often shared with other units.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Dumaguete
Whether you’re looking for an apartment with access to a swimming pool, a private local home designed for a family, or a small bungalow for two, I hope you’ll find a Dumaguete Airbnb that suits your budget and holiday plans on this list:
Inner-City Treehouse Surrounded by Nature | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Dumaguete
Ever wanted to stay in a treehouse in the middle of a city? Well, now you can. From inside this treehouse, you’ll feel miles from civilization. Meanwhile, it’s about a ten-minute drive to the airport and city center.
It’s a real oasis surrounded by trees and water lily ponds. The treehouse has one enclosed bedroom, which is air-conditioned for humid weather- WHEW! The living space, including a dining space with basic kitchenette appliances, is on the ground level of the treehouse in an open-air setting.
This place is perfect if you’re looking to explore some of the great National Parks in The Philippines.
Casa Arietta Hostel | Best Budget Airbnb in Dumaguete
One of the best ways to keep costs low is to stay in a hostel, and luckily for the budget travelers out there, Casa Arietta is a great option. As long as you don’t expect anything too luxurious, this hostel offers clean and comfortable accommodation for a small nightly rate.
At this affordable Dumaguete Airbnb, you can choose from mixed-gender dorms, female-only dorms, and even budget double rooms with shared bathrooms. There is a shared kitchen to store and prepare your own food and even a BBQ and outdoor dining space for a more social dinner experience.
Whilst the cost of living in The Philippines is pretty low, this place is great for those on a tight budget.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIGorgeous Apartment with Three Bedrooms and City Views | Over-The-Top Luxury Airbnb in Dumaguete
Now, let’s move on to one of the most luxurious Airbnbsin the city. Kingswick Residences and Lodge is a home suitable for seven guests across three bedrooms. It provides self-catering accommodation with an on-site restaurant and bar. Within your private home, you’ll have a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious living area with a terrace.
Wake up to the sound of birds chirping in the trees below, and enjoy your morning coffee on the terrace overlooking the surrounding mountains. When you’re ready to start the day, a continental, American, or Asian breakfast is served at the property every morning.
This might just be my favourite place to stay in Dumaguete.
Guest Studio in a Peaceful Garden with Pool | Perfect Dumaguete Airbnb for Solo Travelers
If you love to travel alone but don’t have the cash to spend on a hotel room, you’ll want to check out this super affordable studio in the suburbs of Dumaguete. Owned, designed, and decorated by a local family, this studio is one of the most homey on the list. Think of it as a guest cottage at the bottom of the garden.
When you stay at this Airbnb in Dumaguete, you can use the family’s garden and swimming pool, and prepare meals in your private kitchen. Double French doors open into the garden, making it feel more like you’re staying with family than at an Airbnb. It’s just perfect for solo travelers in The Philippines.
Private Room with Office Space and Shared Jungle Backyard | Perfect Short-Term Airbnb for Digital Nomads
Let’s get real. The average digital nomad doesn’t need a luxurious place to stay. Instead, it’s the work-from-home-friendly amenities and location that can make or break accommodations for digital nomads. This spot fits the bill perfectly. It’s designed for a maximum of two guests, with a studio setup including a dedicated workspace.
The room has a shared bathroom and common spaces, including a kitchenette and dining area where you can prepare simple meals between meetings. Location-wise, it’s perfectly positioned to explore the city, coastline, and surrounding mountains on your off days.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Dumaguete
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Dumaguete.
Six-bedroom Family Home with Private Pool
This Dumaguete Airbnb ticks all the boxes of a good, family-friendly home. It has six full bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, a big open-concept living space, and a fully equipped kitchen with BBQ facilities to prepare family-style meals. It’s the perfect place for those traveling as a family.
But that’s not all—it’s also just 100 meters from the shoreline and a short walk from the city center. Oh, and it has a private pool, with a sixth bedroom in a separate building across from the pool. The entire space is beautifully designed, with blue and white tones and coastal decor influences.
Oversized City Center Studio with Modern Fittings
Perfect for two guests, this fully furnished apartment sits on the third floor of a condo apartment block. It’s so well located that it is only a short walk from the port area, iconic Boulevard, and university campus.
The studio is surprisingly roomy, with a five-seater dining table, a modern bathroom with a rainwater shower, and a comfy lounge area with a U-shaped couch. It also has a separate workspace for those who need to tend to some emails.
If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, note that this apartment is on the third floor and only has stair access.
Two Bed Apartment at Sulit Budget Hotel
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Airbnb in Dumaguete that is close to the airport, we’ve got you covered. This self-catering apartment is located in a budget hotel. And you know what that means – breakfast, room service, and free parking on the property!
If that doesn’t convince you, the hotel has a 24-hour reception and even offers airport transfers. The apartment is simple and fitted with comfortable beds and complimentary toiletries. It’s exactly what you would expect from an affordable hotel and is great value for money.
Peaceful Guest Bungalow in the Dumaguete Suburbs
You’ll feel instantly at home once you walk through the gates of this tranquil guest house in the burbs. Set at the bottom of a well-maintained family garden, this guest cottage has one bedroom and an additional room in another building, with enough space to fit four guests total.
Feel free to use the swimming pool, loungers, and covered dining space in the garden. The suite is fully furnished, with black wooden furniture and Filipino art and decorations, giving it a local flair.
Centrally Located Marina Blu Condo with Two Bedrooms
For a convenient lock-up-and-go rental in Dumaguete, staying here should be a no-brainer. It’s one of my favorite properties on the list, with neutral interiors, beachy decor, and a brand-new kitchenette that makes cooking on vacation a pleasure!
With two bedrooms and an open-concept living and dining space, it’s a spacious apartment for four guests. But there’s more – its location could not be better. It’s just across the street from the beach and a short walk or ride into the city center.
Boho Two-Bed Apartment
The best thing about this stunning home isn’t even that it includes access to a resort-sized swimming pool and gym, or that it has full-time security. These features are cool and all, but its location within walking distance of some of the best restaurants and shops in the city is what really grabbed my attention.
On top of a superb location and shared facilities, the apartment is stylishly decorated with Scandinavian-inspired interiors and wooden furniture. It is airconditioned throughout and has a modern ensuite bathroom with in-unit laundry facilities. You can’t ask for much more than that!
Homey Condo for Four in the Heart of Dumaguete
Nestled in the beating heart of the city, this two-bedroom condo has all the workings to be one of the best Airbnbs in Dumaguete. Starting with its interior aesthetics; the home is furnished with white-washed wooden furniture, elegant lighting, and Filipino-themed bedding and decor.
Guests have access to a well-equipped kitchenette with a four-seater dining table and a living room with a big-screen TV perfect for movie nights. To top things off, you can even use the huge outdoor swimming pool and gym for no extra cost!
Stylish Pet-Friendly Two-Bed Close to the Airport
For travelers with pets, you’ll want to check out this two-bedroom townhouse near the airport. Even though it technically has two bedrooms, there are so many spare beds and sofa beds that up to eight guests could comfortably stay there.
That said, the kitchen is pretty small, with only one electric hob and limited crockery and cutlery. So, if you plan to cook at home, you might want to search elsewhere. From the bedrooms to the open-plan living area, the entire home is beautifully designed with minimalistic interiors with a modern Filipino flair.
Two-Bed Bamboo Cottage on the Beachfront in Dauin
This bamboo cottage might be a bit far out of the city center, but it is so special that I felt it had to make the list. With two bedrooms and one bathroom, this beachfront cottage in Dauin is built using local bamboo, with airy interiors designed to enhance natural light and airflow through the space.
This epic beachfront Airbnb in Dumaguete has an indoor/outdoor living area that will immediately put you in a tropical mindset. AND, it is just a few steps from the beach so for those coming to Dumaguete to dive or sunbathe, it’s the ideal spot.
Bright and Spacious Four-Bed House with Curated Interiors
Closing off the list with a bang, take a look at another spacious townhouse for a group of friends or a large family. This charming home follows a modern aesthetic, with double-height ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and stylish use of glass and concrete. The kitchen is big enough to cook up a storm, and there is plenty of dining space to eat as a family.
Unlike many other private property rentals in Dumaguete, this one has a grassy garden, off-street parking space, and a large sunny terrace overlooking the neighborhood.
FAQ’s About Airbnbs in Dumaguete
What to Pack for Dumaguete
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Dumaguete Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Airbnbs in Dumaguete
I’ve always thought that where expats settle, tourists follow, and I really think this applies to Dumaguete. While not yet a huge international destination, the city offers the perfect combo between beach, culture, friendly locals, and nature. Watch this space…
Finding an Airbnb in Dumaguete isn’t going to be an issue, but finding the best Airbnb might be. Some properties lack quality, some lack flair, and overall, there are limited options for Airbnbs in this city if truth be told.
But while you might not be blessed with a lot of great options, the properties I have managed to get my hands on are pretty wonderful, even if I do say so myself!
Hopefully, you’ve found a Dumaguete Airbnb on this list to suit your budget, travel style, and the amenities you need.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our Backpacking Philippines guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Dumaguete guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Philippines.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
