Understanding Siargao Island
Siargao is an island in the Philippines that lies off the northeast coast of Mindanao. It is part of Surigao del Norte province and comprises nine municipalities: Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, General Luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, Santa Monica, and Socorro. Smaller islands are located around the main one.
When you come to Siargao for the first time, it’s easy to feel confused by how different the tourists are from the locals. The tourists tend to be adventurers who get excited about waves and surfing, while the locals are more simple people who keep to themselves. For example, I am a tourist and Jojo is a local.
Prior to the mid-2010s, Isla Mujeres was a fairly protected surfing location, with waves that were only occasionally seen. In the surfing world, news of the island’s spectacular waves exploded around this time. Today, surfing is quite popular on the island. This is especially true in General Luna, where magnificent surf can be found.
Where to stay in Siargao
You have endless options for places to stay while on Siargao Island. The island is a popular tourist destination that welcomes visitors of all budget levels. No matter how much money you are willing to spend, there is an accommodation that will suit your needs.
General Luna, located near many popular attractions such as Cloud Nine and Quicksilver surfing camps, Mama’s Grill, and the General Luna public market, is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a mix of fun and relaxation on your vacation.
Top Siargao Resorts and Inns
La Luna Island Resort was our home for a recent vacation, and we loved it! The rooms were well-sized with comfortable beds, Perfect for us as it was close to many great places to eat.
How to get to Siargao Island
By Air
Sayak Airport is the island’s tiny yet functional airport, located in Jesselton. Air travel to Siargao is the most convenient option.
By Ferry
You can also travel to Siargao on a Roll-on, Roll-off (RoRo) ferry. These ferries leave from and return to Surigao City. The main seaport on the island is located in Dapa. Boat and ferry rates vary, between PHP 200-300.
Things to do in Siargao
Siargao Land Tour
The main island may be explored, and its jagged edges and vibrant vistas will amaze you. Here are the typical stops on a land tour.
- The Magpupungko Rock Pools are located in the province of Iligan. During low tide, the retreating shore exposes rock formations and natural baths, which may be utilized for some relaxing swimming. It’s an all-natural infinity pool, to say the least. Entrance fee: P50.
- The Sugba Lagoon is a stunning turquoise body of water, flanked by a two-story docking area. It’s perfect for swimming, paddling, canoeing, and snorkelling; and there’s plenty of equipment available to rent onsite. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s even a diving platform you can use for free! Entrance fee: P50.
- Coconut Mountain is a beautiful place to visit. Siargao is carpeted with rows and rows of coconut palms. Exploring the island becomes more pleasurable thanks to the soothing natural beauty and photogenic locations along the route.
- Maasin River. There is a picturesque river, particularly the area with the bent coconut tree hanging over the water. There’s a rope attached to the tree where you can swing and dive into the river from. The water is about 6 feet deep. Entrance fee: P20.
3 Islands Tour
The three islands closest to General Luna are Guyam Island, Daku Island, and Naked Island. If you want to go on a private yacht charter, you can either book a personalised trip or participate in a group tour. If you’re part of a group, the wharf is where you can hire your own boat for P1,500 to P2,000 per boat. This does not include lunch, though. Fresh seafood may be found on Daku Island (which the locals may cook for you), but if money is tight, bring your own food instead. It doesn’t cover the following fees for entering and anchoring on the islands:
- Guyam Island: P30 per head
- Daku Island: P100 per boat
- Naked Island: free of charge.
If you would rather not hassle with preparations or want to meet new people, we recommend joining a group tour.
Sohoton Cove (Bucas Grande Island)
Sohoton Cove is located on Bucas Grande Islands, an intricate network of spectacular karst hills and islands that are home to beautiful lagoons, beaches, and even caves. In some lagoons, stingless jellyfish may be seen floating in the water, which tourists can swim with and interact with if the timing is correct.
Jellyfish season starts in March and lasts until August.Sohoton Cove is located in Socorro, Surigao del Norte and though a bit removed from Siargao, it is still easy to get to if you have the time or money. Boat tours from Siargao cost P3000, but some boatmen combine it with the 3 Islands Tour to make one large tour of all the islands for around P4000. The best way to save money on this trip would be finding other travelers willing to split the cost with you.
Surfing!
Siargao’s top attraction is, without a doubt, surfing (as our instructor tells us while we ride the rails). The island features beautiful waves that have made it famous worldwide–such as the “Cloud 9” swell. These waves are found on General Luna coast and the best places to catch them are at Cloud 9 and Quicksilver surfing camps.
These camps rent out surfboards and offer classes for beginners and intermediates alike. A 2-hour beginner class costs PHP 1000 which allows you plenty of time to perfect your skills…or take about 2 dozen epic wipeouts!
Cloud 9 Boardwalk
The Cloud 9 beach is also home to the Boardwalk and Tower, which has become a landmark in the area. Made out of wood, this three-story structure offers guests an unbeatable view of not only the Cloud 9 beach but also the waves and Pacific Ocean beyond it. There is a PHP 50 entrance fee required.
Here’s a tip:If you want to watch a beautiful sunrise, make sure you get to the tower before dawn.
Secret Spot
The “Secret Spot” or “Secret Place” is a popular name for Siargao. It isn’t as hidden as its name implies. Rather than being a tightly guarded secret, it’s an area that seldom attracts attention in comparison to the other Siargao attractions.
However, make no mistake: this destination must be on your list if you visit Siargao. There are two sides to it: Doot Beach, which is a tranquil beachfront with fine, semi-white sand, and the mangrove forest, where you may hire out a small paddle boat to explore the floating vegetation. It’s located roughly half an hour by car from General Luna City proper and off the beaten track.
When is the best time to visit Siargao?
Siargao Island has a dry and wet season, with the months between March and November being relatively dry and the remainder of the year being rainy. If you’re only visiting Siargao for surfing, these periods don’t matter. Year-round, the waves are powerful. The dry season, however, from March to November is particularly appealing since various events occur during these seasons, notably the Siargao Cloud 9 Surfing Cup.
Take into account that most visitors have the same mindset, and you’ll realize why Siargao may become more packed than usual in these months.
Is Siargao safe?
Although Siargao is safe, tourists should be careful when swimming in the open water. The area has a seasonal jellyfish population, so it’s always best to ask around before taking a dip!
Don’t worry about safety. When on the boat, use life vests. When out, avoid leaving electronic devices plugged in. On beaches and rocky shores, wear aqua shoes. These little precautions may go a long way toward ensuring that you enjoy every minute of your trip to paradise.
