It is also the perfect place to escape the blazing sun as it is in a forested area. The food choices cater to both locals and foreign visitors. First, Siargao perennially has water shortages. per adult. The most iconic "landmark" of Sugba lagoon is the wooden diving board rigged from coco lumber. Cloud 9 tours are popular as it'sthe favorite venue to showcase the talents of local and international surfers during the annual International Surfing competition, which usually held in late September or early October. So, take note: timing is everything. There is even a jellyfish sanctuary where visitors can jump into the water and swim with these unique creatures. An hour away from the surfing haven of General Luna, it situates at the end of a snaking road fringed with Intagrammable palm trees. From vagabonding to the islands beautiful neighboring islands to exploring the island's many natural attractions like lush mangroves, rockpools to beautiful lagoons. There are many ways you can get around the island of Siargao van, tricycle, habal-habal, motorcycle, and bicycle. Great Salt Lake has risen a foot . A lot of nice huts to stay cool from the sun. Visit at the right time, and you will surely see crystal blue waters and that cliff jumping experience you've been dreaming. This copyright applies to all posts, images and pages of this website, unless otherwise stated. The accommodation is nice and is air-conditioned, you can choose what cottage you will get because they have a cottage for small family and bigger family that could accommodate up to 15 pax. Aside from refreshing buko juice, much welcome shade, and various trips in Siargao, its coconut palm trees make for a beautiful backdrop for your tropical vacation photos. The half-submerged cave is full of shimmering stalagmites and stalactites, making for a magical entryway to the lagoon beyond. Siargao hosts the 'Cloud 9 Surfing Cup' each September, an official WSL Pro event. Siargao is cited as one of the best islands in the world, but this popular surfing mecca still has a long way to go. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. There are some right-hand breaks great for longboarding here, or you can simply relax in the sand. Siargao Environmental Awareness (SEA) Movement is our local community's efforts in taking care of our seas. We visited the main town of General Luna when we were in Siargao. Their smoothie bowls are a great way to cool off after a hot day on the beaches of Siargao. It has pristine white beaches and islands, breathtaking lagoons, and lush green coconut trees lined up on the roads. You can explore the main island and see the wonders it keeps in its jagged corners and lush landscapes. There are a variety of other caves located throughout the lagoon as well, some of which are only accessible by diving down into the water and underneath a rock ledge. It gives me hope. Name of the Coastal Area: El Nido, Island Activites Aside from just surfing. The locals are super nice and friendly. It is one of the most extreme of the Siargao tourist spots, and it is also not as well known among tourists. This is a common lunch stop. Cloud 9 Siargao originally gained popularity due to the surf but it has become a mainstream tourist attraction for people who aren't surfers. Have lunch here on your island tour of siargao. The tide-dependent natural pool screams of an idyllic spot to also do a sundry of activities such as swimming and cliff jumping. It lies about a 20-minute drive from General Luna, past Doot Beach and just before the town of Dapa. The island is lined with lovely beaches and covered in vibrant green palm trees. What is your why - why you do what you do? If you are coming to surf, then mid to low tide is best. To cope with this, we hired an executive assistant and interns (BS Environmental Science graduates) who are helping me with my SEAM projects. Instead, guides will bring you to the lagoon on a small dinghy where you can watch the jellyfish merrily swimming around your boat. We were fined when we didnt segregate trash properly, she recalled. Once you arrive, you will see a clearly marked entrance sign and a small ticket office. Caridad, Siargao Island, Surigao del norte. The fact that this strip of beach is typically deserted, only makes it an even more ideal place to learn how to surf. You can also hike to the top of Corregidor Island to marvel at the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. Eventually, they will be the one running the org as they gain more experience and confidence. Only a 15-minute drive from General Luna, this hidden gem can maintain its seclusion because there is no concrete road that leads up to it. Extending far into the sea, the boardwalk leads to a three-story viewing platform where you can watch the surfers. It is an experience that will guarantee heightened adrenaline, maximum thrills and satisfy everyones appetite for adventure. The other two islands are Daku Island and Guyam Island, which along with Naked Island, make up the highly-recommended island hopping tour in Siargao. With the popularity comes several threats to its natural environment, evident in the increasing volume of litter. The Brigham Young University Museum of Art (MOA) is a work of art in and of itself, a four-story creation designed by architect James Langenheim featuring unique angles and large windows. You can stake out your piece of land (or water) and chill out in perfect isolation. Island Hopping: Naked Island, Daku Island & Guyam Island. 7. from. Choose your partner very carefully and surround yourself with good and quality people. I had a chance to try it while dining at Harana. The Visayas Island group is located in the central area of the Philippine archipelago. The drive will take you about 45 minutes from General Luna. Surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters, covered in coconut palm trees, and home to some of the most beautiful beach resorts in the Philippines, Siargao is no doubt a dream tropical destination for both local and international travelers, as well as those who want to have their honeymoon in the Philippines. Some of the businesses are taking the initiative to do their part in preserving the environment like using metal straws instead of plastic ones. Youve come to one of the best surfing spots not only in the Philippines but also in the world, so why not? You can pass by this spot on your way to the Northern part of Siargao, where Alegria Beach is. The competition is officially recognized by the World Surf League Pro. This Island truly is a hidden paradise. Caves like Hagukan Cave and Magkuku-ob Cave will also offer you exciting experiences. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Siargao Island. What I really wanted in the beginning was just a public library for kids to go to and develop a love for reading and learning. Here are some spots that deserve a place on your itinerary. In the northern part of Siargao specifically in the town of Santa Monica, a short hike will bring you to a jungle sanctuary concealed by towering trees and thick forest shrubs. I recently wanted to progress with surfing - mainly be able to learn proper technique, master the. White Banana Beach Club 11. The water is also deep enough to allow for cliff jumping off the surrounding rock formations. In the recent staging of Shore It Up in July, the program conducted its educational component, the Junior Environmental Scouts (JES) for 80 school children to heighten public opinion against illegal marine activities. One of the must visit in Siargao. "What sets Siargao apart is there are a lot of business owners who are environmentally conscious," says Ponio-Quadelli. It is a wonderful place to shop for handcrafted and all-natural products as well. Daku Island is the largest of the three islands and is a whole barangay in itself. Tourists were initially allowed to swim with the gelatinous creatures of the lagoon as the jellyfish were harmless. Bats are flying around, which may or may not be responsible for the weird echoes you hear! You will hit many of the landmarks and attractions on this list if you choose to do so, and the rode itself is incredibly picturesque. A red bridge at Maasin Village indicates the amazing wonders that lie secreted by the coconut forest ahead. He helped me start S.E.A. The best part is when I see the kids learning what is taught to them, and seeing more and more people supporting the cause. It is probably the second-best Siargao Island surf spot after Cloud 9, with fantastic reef breaks just a quick paddle away from shore and a choice of both right-hand and left-hand waves. Photos by Vitalis Villas/Balesin Island Club IMPORTANT:The properties featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. Also, the good thing about Siargao is that it covers all degrees of expertise, so whether you are a newbie or an expert, theres a surf break that is right for you. Maasin River is a 30-minute drive from General Luna. Ltd. All Rights Reserved However, you are only going slow through the town so it is okay. If youre up for a swim, you can swim around the entire island with little effort! Harana Surf Resort 7. Just 20 minutes from Naked Island lies one of the most beautiful locales you will likely visit during your travels. Here are your options: From Del Carmen port, register at the local port authority and charter a boat or wait for other passengers to fill up the boat. On weekdays, Im usually in the office 9:30am-4pm for my day job at Kudo. You can bring your own Was probably the best place in all of Siargao. Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines,"the island boasts some of the most influential surf breaks in the world. It is located off the coast of Siargao Island and about a 45-minute boat ride from General Luna, past Daku Island. Taste the Best Barbecue at Mamas Grill, 12. Cimatu said based on data from DENR-Caraga, out of 148 businesses in Siargao Island, 49 establishments were given notices of violation of either the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act or the Environmental Impact Statement System. The MPA also includes a no-take zone, which prohibits fishing and other activities that could damage the coral reefs. From vagabonding to the islands beautiful neighboring islands to exploring the island's many natural attractions like lush mangroves, rockpools to beautiful lagoons. One of the islets you shouldn't miss out on is anescapade in Naked Island. Coconut is practically a ubiquitous sight in this island. Because of the abundance of coconuts on this island, it's an excellent spot to sip on buko juice (coconut juice]. - makes for one hell of a great photo opportunity. Plan out your itinerary with this ultimate list of the best things to do in Siargao. Heading to the northern portion of the island, you will arrive at a very conspicuous red bridge. Locals that we met very friendly. Here are 18 activities waiting for you the dream tropical and surfing destination that is Siargao. Siargao island has many other activites and attractions to offer. Here are the usual stops of the land tour (not in order): There are many ways to do this. It is primarily a fishing village with cottages lined up along the coast. Getting there is quite expensive, but all those islets, lagoons, beaches, caves, and karst cliffs make up for it. It is located within the vicinity of Cloud 9, close enough for you to still watch the master surfers carving up the waves. The drive follows a dirt road lined with palm trees, which leads right down to the beach. Concealed by the stunning islets scattered off the coast of Del Carmen in Siargao, is a gem of a nature spot whereone would enjoy spending a few hours of unperturbed nature-tripping. Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve Explore pristine mangrove forest and visit the salt water crocodile project. The Blue Cathedral can be found on the wall of Cloud 9's rock entry. It's a great detour if you're up for a leisurely hike through grassy trails, rolling hills, and lush coconut groves to the white sand beaches and pebble beaches of Corregidor. from. Thirty minutes away from General Luna is the magnificent views overlooking the unbelievably beautiful scene of an endless sea of palm trees. There are so many epic things to do in Siargao including white sand beaches, world-class surf breaks, unique cave pools, palm tree rope swings, island hopping, and much more! It won't be a complete experience unless you enjoy a refreshing buko drink by the shores of Guyam Island. Once you reach the red Maasin Bridge, you know you're near. The island is surrounded by glistening blue waters and colorful coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Also prices and details on rental requirements, TERMS OF USE & It is actually one of the most well-known surfing spots in the entire Philippines, as the right-breaking reef creates a barrelling wave known for its thick, hollow tubes. The beautiful turquoise lagoon is surrounded by mountains and can be explored by canoes, paddleboards, and bamboo rafts. Siargao Island is very friendly to bicycle and motorcycle riders, and the freedom of exploring the island on two wheels just can be beat. As the Managing Director of the company, Im leading the direction of the brand to do two things: to protect the ocean and to surf epic waves. Once you're there, don't let the opportunity to feel like Tarzan pass. how to get around, and the best things to see and do there in this article. This paradise is better on the low tide. If you rented a boat, lunch is not covered. The journey through Tayangban Cave Pool takes about 15 minutes, after which you will emerge to a beautiful, emerald green cenote with some fantastic spots for cliff jumping. What are the best day trips from Siargao Island? The Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement (SEA Movement, or SEAM), a group of volunteers "trying to keep Siargao clean and green," is working double time to ensure that Siargao doesn't follow the fate of our other island destinations. The waves are perfect for surfing all year round, but the best time is from as early as July to as late as January. Most prominent among the three famous islands in Siargao, Daku Island, is also the most breathtaking one. Watch the stunning waves touch the shore in all its glory. Either way, the long drive will be worth it. Siargao is famous, locally and internationally, for the cloud 9 waves; however, for those who don't surf or are done surfing, there are other things to do. Feel free to bring your food, or better yet, buy fresh seafood in the main island of Siargao and have locals cook them for you at Daku Island. While waiting, follow us on these channels. They also serve sumptuous all-day breakfast and specialty coffee. This locally-owned and family-operated joint serve one of the best barbecue in Siargao. You can bring your own food to eat here too. Enjoy the beauty of Sugba Lagoons located in Del Carmen. Check out the best Siargao resortsincluding some of the best glamping resorts andluxury resorts in the Philippinesand explore Siargao tours and activities now to experience this paradise like no other! EIN for organizations is sometimes also referred to as taxpayer identification number (TIN) or FEIN or simply IRS Number. By simply bringing your own refillable water bottles, eco-bags, and throwing your trash properly, you are already making a huge difference. It's along the Maasin Enchanted River in Brgy. Living in Siargao gave birth to S.E.A Movement. Plan out your itinerary with this ultimate list of the best things to do in Siargao. A tour here will also take you deep into the coconut trees for some additional ogling at beautiful nature and of course, more instagrammable photographs. She's also a mountaineer, production designer, and cineaste. And should you visit at the right season, you will be able to encounter the stingless jellyfish at Sohoton Cove. Youve probably seen photos of the bent coconut tree sticking out over the river. Data from the DENR-Caraga showed that out of 148 businesses in Siargao island, 49 establishments were found violating environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act or the Environmental Impact Statement System. Located in Bucas Grande Island and only a one-hour boat trip from Dapa port in Siargao, this place is truly a hidden paradise. Shaka is also a very vegan-friendly joint. It's best to enjoy the beaches of Siargao with a refreshing healthy fruit shake or smoothie bowl. By working with the local community, they bring awareness and aim to stop plastic pollution in Siargao. Whether you want thethrill, to tick off some of the things to do on your bucket list, or to let loose and relax, Siargao is the place to be. Have you ever gone to a place and felt like you're in a scene of a movie? Even before reaching your destination, the ride itself is already an attraction. Location: Siargao Circumferential Rd, Dapa, Surigao del Norte The place offers a variety of activities such as dive-board jumping, kayaking, board paddling, and of course, swimming. If youre one, be prepared to find yourself in awe by the vivid formations and the beauty of all the tropical fish swarming the Blue Cathedral. It has a calm and casual atmosphere and doesnt usually see many tourists, so it feels much more secluded than other beaches on the island. Those photos won't just look great on your social media feed; it will also be one of your treasured memories. Some tour operators combine Sohoton Cove with the 3 Islands Tour! Naked Island, a 200-meter long strip of sand in the middle of the Pacific is completely bare, except for a few shells ushered in by the waves. Some of the most favored restaurants are Harana Surf Resort & Restaurant, Kermit Surf Resort & Restaurant, Buddhas Surf Resort, Mamas Grill, Shaka Siargao, and Aventinos Pizzeria. It is best to come to Doot Beach at high tide. It gets too crowded at times. 1. Magpupungko Rock Pools are exposed during low tide and submerged at high tide. As this is a very popular tourist stop, you can expect some crowds, but the pools are large enough to comfortably accommodate many people. Explore the Magpupungko Beach if you want to feel some sand beneath your feet or do cliff-jumping but be extra careful because the rocks are sharp; it would be better to wear protective footwear or aqua shoes. Cloud 9 is one of the popular surf breaks in General Luna, but if you are not that into balancing yourself on a surfboard and be wiped out several times, you can just relax and chill strolling down the iconic long boardwalk. If you like beers, you might want to try Siargaos very own draft beer General Luna Pale Ale. If you need more excitement after caving, cliff-jumping will provide it. While Mama's Grill may not be a fancy restaurant, the food certainly will not disappoint you. At frontline of S.E.A Movement is Marja Abad, who traces her environmentalism from her elementary and high school education in Miriam College. How to Get There: You can join a group tour, hire a habal-habal or rent a motorcycle and drive to Pilar. Best of all, though there will likely be other tourists there, it isnt usually overly crowded, and the lagoon is plenty big enough to enjoy your own private corner of it. If you're the adventurous type, you can try cliff-jumping with the local kids. The travel time is approximately two hours. 2017 and 2005 were slightly better than 2023. Take this tour and see for yourself what these islands have to offer. The negatives are actually also good. To reach Tayangban Cave Pool, simply head north about half an hour from General Luna. We strive to be fully sustainable by opting for eco-friendly fabric like organic cotton and rashguard materials made from recycled plastic bottles and ocean waste in our collection of surf apparels. The ride to Magpupungko takes only around 45 minutes from General Luna, but you can rent a van to take you there if you travel as a group. However, that is no longer permitted today, and visitors are not allowed to swim in that lagoon. Don't be fooled by its size though, Guyam Island may be small, but you'll soon find yourself charmed by its azure waters, powdery sand, and reefs. Provo is home to multiple must-see museums full of art and culture. And its very much alive on the island! You will know you have reached the tree once you hit the red bridge at Maasin Village, which you can see the bent tree and the rope swing from. But if you want to catch the ocean in its best surfing conditions, visit from September to December. Lovely island with lots of great spots for picture taking. Well try to get back to you soonest. Guyam Island is a place you will never want to leave. A delightful lunch consisting of a feast of the freshest seafood often caps a morning tour here. A lot of nice huts to stay cool from the sun. The location is a 45-minute drive from General Luna. You also dont need to worry about the other fees because these are part of what you paid for. As soon as you arrive at Corregidor Island, you will see why it was worth making the trip out. Just a 13-minute drive east from General Luna, Doot Beach is an easy and very worthwhile trip from town. Spectacular waves, beautiful spots, and sunset views have made Siargao one of the favorite spots for many professional and amateur surfers, as well as local and foreign tourists in the Philippines. Pool closed due to land ownership dispute. It's a part of acave, beach, and tidal pool experience in Siargao. I spend one weekday and Saturdays for S.E.A. We brought our snorkeling gear and were impressed by the structures and the variety of fishes for such a difficult environment (needle fish, parrot fish, eels, anemone fish, etc.). Most group tours also include a stop at Sugba Lagoon, which is located on another island so a boat transfer is added. Romantic Beach Villas 8. It is also just a half-hour drive from Pacifico Beach. SMART MOVE. Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines. The Instagram-famous bent tree of Maasin Village is just a quick, 30-minute drive north of General Luna in the direction of Tayangban Cave Pool and Magpupungko Rock Pools. It's more than just a tourist destination. We brought wine glasses and bottles of ros which we sipped while watching the beautiful sunset by the shore. The 3-storey wooden hut that sits on the reef overlooking the wave is an epic spot and one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset. The Philippines sits roughly 900 miles above the equator and is situated near the Pacific Rim, giving it year-long summer weather that is punctuated by monsoon rains and frequent typhoons. No doubt, it's a paradise blessed with beauty from Mother Nature wherever you go. Even better, take out your camera and take photographs of the palm tree-lined street against a pastel blue sky. Climb up on the tree, grab the rope, take the epic swing, let go and plunge into the calm waters of Massin river. This humble eatery has a very casual street vibe, so don't expect a posh set-up. Motorcycle rentals on Siargao Island cost from around 400 to 800 pesos a day, depending on the model you choose. Join a group tour or charter your own boat to Bucas Grande. As of this writing, there are no helmets or life jackets provided when canyoneering in Tayangban. However, always prioritize safety! See all attractions in Siargao Island on Tripadvisor, See all outdoor activities in Siargao Island on Tripadvisor, See all day trips from Siargao Island on Tripadvisor, Hotels with Private Beach in Siargao Island, Dolphin & Whale Watching in Siargao Island, Waterskiing & Jetskiing in Siargao Island, 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Siargao Island, Adrenaline & Extreme Tours in Siargao Island, Fishing Charters & Tours in Siargao Island, Stand Up Paddleboarding in Siargao Island, Paint & Pottery Studios in Siargao Island, Observation Decks & Towers in Siargao Island, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Siargao Island, Speciality & Gift Shops in Siargao Island, Game & Entertainment Centers in Siargao Island, Things to do near Bayatakan Farm Experience, Things to do near Malinao View Beach Resort, Full-Day New York "Must See" Small-Group Tour plus One World Observatory Ticket, The Best Sapa Tour 2D1N At 3 Star Hotel by LUX LIMO TRANSFER, Swim & Snorkel, Swimming Pigs, lunch & Rose Island Beach Visit, Complete boat tour of the Cinque Terre | Baths, sun, fun and relaxation, Roppongi Hills Observatory & Mori Art Museum Ticket, F3 Rentals - Slingshot and Vanderhall Rentals. Her natural ability to explain surf basics, theories, and technicals make it easier for someone like me who loves to surf and only gets 3 to 4 surf breaks a year.