Siargao markets itself as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines." Fair enough — Cloud 9 is world-class. But here's a secret: most things worth doing on Siargao have nothing to do with surfing. The lagoons, rock pools, island hopping, and food scene don't require you to stand on a board. I know because I can't surf and I had the best island week of my life here.
The Must-Dos
Sugba Lagoon
A turquoise lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs and jungle. You reach it by boat (30 minutes from Del Carmen, PHP 1,500-2,000 per boat, fits 6-8 people). The water is so clear you can see fish from the bamboo diving platform. Paddleboarding and kayaking available (PHP 150-200/hour). Swimming is free once you're there.
This is the single most photogenic spot on Siargao and it lives up to the photos. Go early morning — by noon the tour boats arrive and the lagoon fills up.
Magpupungko Rock Pools
Natural tidal pools formed by ancient rock formations. Only accessible at low tide (check the schedule — ask your accommodation). The water is chest-deep, crystal clear, and ringed by flat rock platforms perfect for sunbathing. Entry: PHP 50. It's about 45 minutes from General Luna by motorbike.
Timing is everything. If you arrive at high tide, the pools are submerged and there's nothing to see. Plan around the tide table.
Island Hopping: Naked, Daku, and Guyam
The classic trio. Hire a boat from General Luna (PHP 1,500-2,000 for the circuit, 4-5 hours). Naked Island is a bare sandbar in the middle of the ocean — nothing but sand and turquoise water. Daku Island has palm trees, picnic tables, and a grilled seafood lunch setup (PHP 200-400 for fresh fish cooked on the spot). Guyam Island is tiny — a ring of sand around a cluster of palms. Instagram-perfect.
Sohoton Cove
A network of caves and lagoons in the mangrove area near Del Carmen. Boat access only. You swim through narrow cave openings into hidden lagoons surrounded by limestone. The jellyfish sanctuary here has non-stinging jellyfish you can swim with (similar to Palau's famous lake). PHP 2,500-3,000 per boat.
Maasin River
A palm-lined river perfect for paddleboarding. The coconut palms form a natural tunnel over the water. It's photogenic and peaceful — the opposite of the surf scene. Paddleboard rental: PHP 200-300/hour. The famous coconut palm rope swing is here too (free, just show up).
Food for Non-Surfers
Siargao's food scene has exploded. General Luna has cafes and restaurants that wouldn't be out of place in Manila.
Bravo — best pizza on the island. Wood-fired, genuine Italian dough. PHP 300-450. Run by an Italian expat.
Kermit — another Italian (Siargao has a disproportionate Italian food scene). Pasta, seafood, excellent cocktails. PHP 250-500 for mains.
Shaka — the surfer cafe that's actually good for everyone. Smoothie bowls, sandwiches, strong coffee. PHP 150-300.
Local carinderias — the cheapest option. Small roadside eateries serving Filipino staples: adobo, sinigang, fried fish with rice. PHP 80-120 for a full meal.
The coconut is king here. Fresh buko (young coconut) juice from any roadside stand: PHP 30. Coconut milk curries. Coconut oil everything. If you don't like coconut, Siargao will convert you.
Getting Around Without Surfing
Rent a motorbike (PHP 350-500/day) and explore. The island is small enough to ride end-to-end in 90 minutes. The coastal road from General Luna north passes through coconut plantations, fishing villages, and empty beaches with no names. Stop whenever something looks interesting. It always is.
For non-riders, habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) go everywhere for PHP 50-200 depending on distance. Or hire a tricycle for a full day (PHP 1,500-2,000).
Who Is Siargao For (Without Surfing)?
Lagoon lovers, island hoppers, people who like small-town island vibes over resort polish, budget travelers, and anyone who wants Philippines island beauty without Boracay's party scene or Palawan's remoteness. The fact that surfers discovered it first is incidental — the island works just as well without a board.
Combine with Palawan for lagoons and El Nido, or Boracay for beach parties.
