“My soul is full of longing
For the secret of the sea,
And the heart of the great ocean
Sends a thrilling pulse through me.”
– Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Mati is known for its long, gorgeous coastline of creamy sand beaches and sparkling blue waters perfect for surfing and beach activities. It is Dahican, now a popular destination among beach lovers. The blueness of the Pacific sea in these parts of my birthplace makes it one of the most beautiful beaches you can ever find in the islands of Mindanao. Even at sundown, when waves are high and playful, you see skimboarders dotting the shores of this long sandy strip. Man is not the only one entranced by this paradise. Playful dolphins swim by, a couple of manatees (dugong) frolic close to the shore, and turtles lay their eggs in the deep powdery sands.