Siargao

Photo: Alejandro Luengo / Unsplash
Key Facts
Best Time to Visit
September to November (peak surf season); March to October for general travel (dry season)
Language
Filipino (Tagalog), Surigaonon, English widely spoken
Currency
Philippine Peso (PHP)
Time Zone
PHT (UTC+8)
Airport
Sayak Airport (IAO), with daily flights from Cebu and Manila
Population
Approximately 130,000 (Siargao Island municipality)
Climate
Tropical maritime, avg 26-32°C year-round, wettest June-February
Safety Rating
Generally Safe (Level 1) — petty theft rare, watch for strong currents
Top Highlights

Cloud 9 Surfing
World-famous reef break producing powerful hollow barrels. Board rental from PHP 300/hour (~$5). Best swells August-November. Beginners should try the nearby Jacking Horse or Stimpy's breaks instead. The iconic Cloud 9 boardwalk offers great photo ops even for non-surfers.

Sugba Lagoon
Stunning emerald lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs on Del Carmen side of the island. Entry fee PHP 50 (~$1), paddleboard/kayak rental PHP 200-350 (~$4-6). Best visited early morning before tour groups arrive. Allow 3-4 hours including travel from General Luna.

Island Hopping: Naked, Daku & Guyam
Classic three-island boat tour visiting palm-fringed Guyam (tiny photogenic islet), Naked Island (bare sandbar), and Daku (largest, with local food stalls). Boat tours PHP 1,500-2,000/person (~$27-36) including lunch. Full day trip, departs 9AM from General Luna.

Magpupungko Rock Pools
Natural tidal pools with crystal-clear water formed by massive flat rock formations. Only accessible at low tide — check tide charts before going. Entry PHP 50 (~$1). Located in Pilar, about 45 minutes from General Luna by motorbike. Allow 2-3 hours.

Coconut Palm Rope Swing
The iconic Siargao rope swing over a coconut palm-lined road has become a social media sensation. Located near the Maasin River bridge. Free to use. Best photos in late afternoon golden light. Combine with a visit to the nearby Maasin River for stand-up paddleboarding.

Sohoton Cove
Hidden lagoon and cave system inside Bucas Grande Island, accessible by small boat through a narrow cave entrance. Jellyfish sanctuary (non-stinging species) nearby. Full-day tour PHP 2,000-2,500/person (~$36-45). Departs from Del Carmen wharf, 1.5 hours from General Luna.

Maasin River
Palm-fringed river perfect for stand-up paddleboarding through a canopy of coconut trees. SUP rental PHP 250-400 (~$5-7) per hour. Best at high tide when water is deeper. A quieter alternative to the main tourist spots. Allow 1-2 hours.
Planned Itinerary
7-Day Siargao Itinerary
Arrival & General Luna Orientation
Arrive at Sayak Airport (IAO) via Manila or Cebu. Van transfer to General Luna (45 minutes, PHP 300/person). Settle into your accommodation and get your bearings on the island's surf-town hub.
Airport van transfer to General Luna(45 minutes)
Vans meet every arriving flight at Sayak Airport. PHP 300/person. The road is paved and passes through coconut groves and small villages
Check-in and settle at your hotel(1 hour)
Stay in General Luna — it's the main tourist base with restaurants, surf shops, and tour operators. Budget dorms from PHP 400, private rooms from PHP 1,500
Lunch at Shaka Siargao(1 hour)
Popular surfer cafe on the main road. Acai bowls PHP 280, fish tacos PHP 250. Good WiFi and relaxed vibe — perfect for getting oriented
Sunset walk along Cloud 9 boardwalk(1.5 hours)
The iconic boardwalk extends over the reef break. Watch surfers ride the barrels if the swell is up. Great photos at golden hour. Free to walk, no surfing experience needed
Cloud 9 Surfing & Coconut Road
Morning surf session at one of the world's most famous breaks (or a nearby beginner spot), followed by an afternoon exploring the island's iconic coconut palm road.
Surf lesson or session at Cloud 9 area(3 hours)
Beginners: book a lesson at Jacking Horse or Stimpy's break (PHP 500/hour including board). Advanced: rent a board at Cloud 9 (PHP 300/hour). Reef booties essential — sharp coral inches below the surface at low tide
Brunch at Kermit Surf Resort restaurant(1 hour)
Right next to Cloud 9. Wood-fired pizza from PHP 350, smoothie bowls PHP 200. The terrace overlooks the surf lineup — great for post-surf refueling
Coconut Palm Rope Swing at Maasin(1 hour)
The Instagram-famous rope swing over the coconut palm-lined road. Free to use. Located near the Maasin River bridge, 20 minutes by motorbike from General Luna. Best photos in late afternoon golden light
Stand-up paddleboarding on Maasin River(1.5 hours)
Paddle through a canopy of coconut palms on this peaceful river. SUP rental PHP 250-400/hour. Best at high tide when water is deeper. A quieter side of Siargao
Island Hopping — Naked, Daku & Guyam
Full-day boat tour to Siargao's three most famous islands. Crystal-clear water, white sand, fresh seafood lunch, and the most photogenic islets in the Philippines.
Depart General Luna for island hopping tour(30 minutes)
Boats leave around 9AM from General Luna pier. PHP 1,500-2,000/person including lunch. Book through your hotel or any tour operator on the main strip the night before
Guyam Island(1 hour)
Tiny palm-covered islet you can walk around in 5 minutes. The most photogenic of the three — postcard-perfect coconut palms on white sand. Good snorkeling off the north side
Naked Island(1 hour)
A bare white sandbar with no trees or shade — just sand and turquoise water in every direction. Bring sunscreen and a hat. Swimming is excellent. The name comes from its lack of vegetation
Daku Island and lunch(2.5 hours)
Largest of the three islands with palm trees for shade and local food stalls. Fresh grilled fish, rice, and vegetables served on banana leaves. The highlight is lunch cooked by local families — budget PHP 200-300 extra for drinks
Dinner at Bravo Restaurant(1.5 hours)
Filipino-Italian restaurant in General Luna. Fresh catch of the day grilled whole (PHP 400-600 depending on size), homemade pasta, and cold San Miguel beers. Sit on the rooftop terrace
Magpupungko Rock Pools & Pilar
Ride out to the stunning tidal rock pools on the eastern side of the island. Check tide charts — the pools are only accessible at low tide.
Motorbike ride to Magpupungko Rock Pools(45 minutes)
45 minutes from General Luna toward Pilar. Rent a scooter for PHP 350-500/day from shops in General Luna. Roads are mostly paved but can be rough after rain. Bring your International Driving Permit
Swimming at Magpupungko Rock Pools(2 hours)
Crystal-clear tidal pools formed by massive flat rock formations. Entry PHP 50. Only accessible within 2 hours of low tide — check the schedule at your hotel. The main pool is waist-deep with a sandy bottom. Bring snorkel gear for the best experience
Lunch at a local eatery in Pilar(1 hour)
Simple Filipino food — adobo, sinigang, fried fish with rice — from PHP 100-200. The warungs near the Magpupungko entrance are your best bet. Cold buko (coconut) juice PHP 30
Explore Pilar village and countryside(1.5 hours)
Ride through the quieter eastern side of Siargao. Coconut plantations, rural villages, and empty beaches. Stop at any beach that catches your eye — many are deserted
Sunset from Cloud 9 boardwalk(1 hour)
Return to General Luna for another sunset session at the boardwalk. The light changes dramatically each evening
Sugba Lagoon Adventure
Journey to the emerald lagoon on the Del Carmen side of Siargao — a stunning inland sea surrounded by limestone cliffs and mangrove forests.
Drive to Del Carmen and boat to Sugba Lagoon(1.5 hours)
Hire a motorbike or join a tour. Drive 1 hour to Del Carmen wharf, then 30-minute boat ride to the lagoon. Full-day tour from General Luna PHP 1,500-2,000/person
Kayaking and paddleboarding on Sugba Lagoon(2 hours)
Emerald green water surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Kayak rental PHP 200, paddleboard PHP 350. The lagoon is calm and shallow near the edges — perfect for floating. Arrive early to beat tour groups
Cliff jumping at the lagoon platform(30 minutes)
Diving platforms at various heights (3-10 meters) over the deep lagoon water. Free with entry. Only jump from the designated platforms — check water depth first
Lunch on the floating platform(1 hour)
Simple Filipino food served on a bamboo floating platform in the lagoon. Fresh fish, rice, and fruit. The setting is more impressive than the food — eating lunch floating on an emerald lagoon
Evening at General Luna night scene(2 hours)
Rum Jungle bar for live music and cocktails (PHP 150-250), or Harana Surf Resort for a more chill vibe. The surf crowd keeps things going until midnight most nights
Sohoton Cove & Jellyfish Sanctuary
Full-day expedition to the hidden lagoon and cave system of Bucas Grande Island — Siargao's most adventurous day trip.
Transfer to Del Carmen and boat to Sohoton Cove(2 hours)
Depart early (7AM) from General Luna. Drive 1 hour to Del Carmen wharf, then 1-hour boat ride to Bucas Grande Island. Full-day tour PHP 2,000-2,500/person including lunch. This is worth every peso
Explore Sohoton Cove lagoon and caves(2 hours)
Enter the hidden lagoon by swimming through a narrow cave opening — headlamp provided by guides. Inside, the lagoon is surrounded by towering karst cliffs draped in vegetation. Feel like an explorer discovering a lost world
Jellyfish Sanctuary snorkeling(1 hour)
Swim among thousands of non-stinging jellyfish in a sheltered cove. Similar to Palau's Jellyfish Lake but far less known. The translucent golden jellyfish pulse around you — surreal and harmless
Lunch on Bucas Grande Island(1 hour)
Fresh grilled fish and rice prepared by your boat crew on a small beach. Simple, fresh, and satisfying. Included in the tour price
Return to General Luna and farewell dinner(2 hours)
Dinner at Aventino's Pizza and Pasta — popular spot with ocean views. Margherita pizza PHP 350, fresh catch PHP 500. Reflect on an incredible day over cold beers
Departure Day — Last Surf & Farewell
Final morning on the island with a last surf or beach session before the flight home. Sayak Airport is 45 minutes from General Luna.
Early morning surf or beach walk(1.5 hours)
One last session at Cloud 9 or a sunrise walk along the General Luna shoreline. The morning light on the reef is golden
Breakfast at Harana Surf Resort(1 hour)
Filipino breakfast: longsilog (longganisa sausage, garlic rice, fried egg) PHP 200. Fresh mango shake PHP 100. A proper farewell to island mornings
Last-minute souvenir shopping(30 minutes)
Pick up Siargao-branded clothing, coconut oil, or local crafts from shops along the General Luna main road. Prices are reasonable — PHP 200-500 for t-shirts
Van transfer to Sayak Airport(45 minutes)
Vans depart from General Luna 2-3 hours before flights. PHP 300/person. Allow extra time — the road can be slow if a truck is ahead. Arrive at the tiny airport 1 hour before departure
14-Day Siargao Itinerary
Arrival & General Luna Orientation
Arrive at Sayak Airport (IAO) via Manila or Cebu. Van transfer to General Luna (45 minutes, PHP 300/person). Settle into your accommodation and get your bearings.
Airport van transfer to General Luna(45 minutes)
Vans meet every arriving flight. PHP 300/person. The road is paved and passes through coconut groves
Check-in and settle at your hotel(1 hour)
General Luna is the main tourist base. Budget dorms from PHP 400, private rooms from PHP 1,500
Lunch at Shaka Siargao(1 hour)
Surfer cafe on the main road. Acai bowls PHP 280, fish tacos PHP 250. Good WiFi and relaxed vibe
Sunset walk along Cloud 9 boardwalk(1.5 hours)
Iconic boardwalk over the reef break. Watch surfers if swell is up. Free to walk
Cloud 9 Surfing & Coconut Road
Morning surf session followed by the iconic coconut palm road and Maasin River paddleboarding.
Surf lesson or session at Cloud 9 area(3 hours)
Beginners at Jacking Horse or Stimpy's (PHP 500/hour with board). Advanced at Cloud 9 (board rental PHP 300/hour). Reef booties essential
Brunch at Kermit Surf Resort(1 hour)
Wood-fired pizza from PHP 350, smoothie bowls PHP 200. Terrace overlooks the surf lineup
Coconut Palm Rope Swing at Maasin(1 hour)
Free rope swing over coconut-lined road. 20 minutes by motorbike from General Luna. Best photos in late afternoon
SUP on Maasin River(1.5 hours)
Paddle through coconut palm canopy. PHP 250-400/hour. Best at high tide
Island Hopping — Naked, Daku & Guyam
Full-day boat tour to Siargao's three famous islands with fresh seafood lunch on Daku.
Island hopping boat departure(30 minutes)
Boats leave 9AM from General Luna pier. PHP 1,500-2,000/person including lunch
Guyam Island(1 hour)
Tiny palm-covered islet. Walk around in 5 minutes. Good snorkeling off the north side
Naked Island(1 hour)
Bare white sandbar — just sand and turquoise water. Bring sunscreen and hat
Daku Island and lunch(2.5 hours)
Fresh grilled fish on banana leaves prepared by local families. PHP 200-300 extra for drinks
Dinner at Bravo Restaurant(1.5 hours)
Grilled catch of the day PHP 400-600, rooftop terrace
Magpupungko Rock Pools & Eastern Siargao
Ride to the tidal rock pools on Siargao's quieter eastern coast. Check tide charts — accessible only at low tide.
Motorbike ride to Magpupungko(45 minutes)
45 minutes from General Luna. Scooter rental PHP 350-500/day
Swimming at Magpupungko Rock Pools(2 hours)
Crystal-clear tidal pools. Entry PHP 50. Only accessible within 2 hours of low tide
Lunch at a local eatery in Pilar(1 hour)
Filipino food — adobo, sinigang, fried fish from PHP 100-200
Explore eastern Siargao beaches(2 hours)
Ride through coconut plantations and deserted beaches. Stop wherever looks inviting
Sugba Lagoon Adventure
Journey to the emerald lagoon on Del Carmen side — kayaking, paddleboarding, and cliff jumping in a limestone amphitheater.
Drive to Del Carmen and boat to Sugba Lagoon(1.5 hours)
Tour from General Luna PHP 1,500-2,000/person. 1-hour drive then 30-minute boat
Kayaking and paddleboarding on Sugba Lagoon(2 hours)
Emerald water surrounded by limestone cliffs. Kayak PHP 200, paddleboard PHP 350
Cliff jumping at the lagoon platform(30 minutes)
Platforms at 3-10 meters over deep lagoon water. Check depth first
Lunch on the floating platform(1 hour)
Fish and rice on a bamboo platform floating on the lagoon
Rest Day — Beach & Town Vibes
Slow day in General Luna. Sleep in, lounge on the beach, explore the town at your own pace.
Sleep in and late breakfast(2 hours)
No alarm today. Breakfast at your hotel or at Yellow Fin in General Luna — eggs Benedict PHP 280, fresh juice PHP 120
Beach time at General Luna shore(3 hours)
Grab a hammock or lounger at one of the beachfront spots. Read, nap, swim. The reef-protected shore has calm water
Afternoon massage(1.5 hours)
Multiple massage shops along the main road. Filipino hilot massage from PHP 350/hour. A fraction of Bali prices
Sunset cocktails and night market(2 hours)
Rum Jungle bar for live music and cocktails PHP 150-250. Street food stalls on the main road serve grilled skewers and fresh fruit shakes
Sohoton Cove & Jellyfish Sanctuary
Full-day expedition to Bucas Grande Island's hidden lagoon, caves, and non-stinging jellyfish sanctuary.
Boat to Sohoton Cove via Del Carmen(2 hours)
Depart 7AM. Drive 1 hour to Del Carmen wharf, 1-hour boat. Tour PHP 2,000-2,500/person including lunch
Explore Sohoton Cove lagoon and caves(2 hours)
Swim through a narrow cave to enter the hidden lagoon surrounded by towering karst cliffs
Jellyfish Sanctuary snorkeling(1 hour)
Swim with thousands of non-stinging golden jellyfish. Similar to Palau but far less known
Lunch on Bucas Grande Island(1 hour)
Fresh grilled fish prepared by boat crew on a beach. Included in tour
Surf Progression Day
Dedicate a full day to improving your surfing at various breaks around General Luna. Multiple spots suit different skill levels.
Early morning surf at Jacking Horse(2 hours)
Less crowded morning session. Board rental PHP 300/hour. This break is more forgiving than Cloud 9 — good for intermediate surfers building confidence
Breakfast at Harana Surf Resort(1 hour)
Longsilog (sausage, garlic rice, fried egg) PHP 200 with a mango shake
Mid-morning session at Stimpy's or Quicksilver(2 hours)
Ask local surfers which spot is working best with current conditions. Each break has a different character depending on tide and swell direction
Lunch at Kermit Surf Resort(1 hour)
Refuel with wood-fired pizza and cold coconut water. Watch the Cloud 9 lineup from the terrace
Sunset surf at Cloud 9(1.5 hours)
If conditions allow, the evening glass-off at Cloud 9 is magical. Lower crowds as day-trippers leave. Experienced surfers only — this is a serious reef break
Pacifico Beach & Northern Siargao
Explore the quieter northern end of the island — Pacifico Beach is a 45-minute ride through rural villages and offers a completely different surf break.
Motorbike ride north to Pacifico Beach(45 minutes)
Through villages, coconut groves, and rural Siargao. The road is paved but can be rough in parts
Surfing or swimming at Pacifico Beach(2.5 hours)
Left-hand reef break popular with longboarders. Much less crowded than Cloud 9. White sand beach with palm trees. Board rental from small shops on the beach
Lunch at a local carinderia in Burgos(1 hour)
Ultra-local eateries serving Filipino home cooking. Point at what looks good in the display case. Complete meals PHP 80-120
Secret Beach near Pacifico(1.5 hours)
Ask locals for directions to the hidden coves north of Pacifico Beach. Some require a short jungle walk. Bring water and snorkel gear
Return to General Luna for dinner(1.5 hours)
Dinner at Aventino's Pizza — ocean-view Italian. Margherita PHP 350, seafood pasta PHP 400
Tayangban Cave Pool & Del Carmen Mangroves
Discover Siargao's underground cave pool and the vast mangrove forests of Del Carmen — the largest mangrove area in Mindanao.
Tayangban Cave Pool(2 hours)
Hidden cave with a pool of turquoise water inside. Entry PHP 50. Guides lead you through shallow cave passages with headlamps. The chamber opens to a skylight-lit pool. 40 minutes from General Luna toward Del Carmen
Del Carmen Mangrove Forest boat tour(2 hours)
Paddle or motor through the largest mangrove forest in Mindanao. Boat tour PHP 500-800/person from Del Carmen wharf. Spot monitor lizards, kingfishers, and mudskippers. Best in morning light
Lunch in Del Carmen town(1 hour)
Small local restaurants serving fresh seafood. Grilled tuna jaw PHP 150-250. Del Carmen is less touristy than General Luna — prices are lower
Afternoon rest and General Luna wander(2 hours)
Browse surf shops and boutiques. Pick up reef-safe sunscreen, boardshorts, or locally made jewelry. General Luna's main strip is compact and walkable
Rest Day — Yoga, Wellness & Slow Morning
Second rest day to recharge before the final stretch. Yoga, spa treatments, or simply hanging in a hammock.
Morning yoga session(1.5 hours)
Several yoga studios in General Luna offer drop-in classes. Lotus Shores and Kawayan Siargao have daily sessions from PHP 400-500. Open-air shalas with ocean breeze
Late brunch at Yellow Fin(1 hour)
Eggs benedict PHP 280, avocado toast PHP 220, fresh dragon fruit smoothie PHP 150
Spa afternoon(2 hours)
Hilot massage (traditional Filipino healing massage) from PHP 350/hour. Or try the coconut oil treatment — fitting for an island with a million coconut palms
Sunset beers at Rum Jungle(2 hours)
Live acoustic music most evenings. Craft cocktails PHP 200-300. The open-air bar is the social hub of General Luna's surf scene
Corregidor Island & Southern Siargao
Explore the less-visited southern tip of the island. Corregidor Island offers empty beaches and a glimpse of Siargao before tourism arrived.
Ride south through Union and San Isidro(1 hour)
The southern road passes through fishing villages where tourism hasn't penetrated. Wave to curious kids. The road can be rough — take it slow on your motorbike
Corregidor Island(3 hours)
Hire a local boat from the southern tip (PHP 500-800 for the boat). White sand, no other tourists, pristine reef for snorkeling. Bring everything you need — no facilities
Lunch with a local family(1.5 hours)
If you're friendly (and you will be), fishing families along the south coast may invite you to share a meal. Bring small gifts — candy for kids, instant coffee for adults. This is authentic Philippines
Return via the inland road(1 hour)
The interior route passes through dense tropical forest and elevated viewpoints. Stop at any turnoff that looks interesting
Second Island Hopping — Bucas Grande Variations
Return to the Bucas Grande area for spots you missed on the first trip, or explore alternative islands the bigger tours skip.
Private boat charter from Del Carmen(1 hour)
Hire a private bangka (PHP 3,000-5,000 for the boat, split among your group) to visit lesser-known islands. Ask the boatman to take you where the group tours don't go
Hagukan Cave and hidden lagoons(2.5 hours)
Swim into sea caves and explore hidden lagoons that only appear at certain tides. Your boatman knows the spots — communicate what you're interested in
Snorkeling at untouched reefs(1.5 hours)
The reefs around lesser-visited islands near Bucas Grande are in excellent condition. Sea turtles, giant clams, and colorful soft corals. Bring your own snorkel gear for the best experience
Beach picnic lunch(1 hour)
Pack food from General Luna or have your boatman arrange fresh grilled fish on a deserted beach. Cold drinks and fresh coconuts
Farewell dinner at Bravo(1.5 hours)
Last supper at the rooftop — whole grilled fish, garlic rice, and a toast to Siargao
Departure Day — Last Morning in Paradise
Final morning on the island before the flight out. One last surf, one last sunrise, and fond farewells to the island that stole your heart.
Sunrise at Cloud 9 boardwalk(1 hour)
Wake up early for the quietest, most beautiful moment on the island. The reef shimmers gold at first light
Breakfast at Harana Surf Resort(1 hour)
Filipino breakfast: tapsilog (marinated beef, egg, garlic rice) PHP 220. Fresh calamansi juice PHP 80
Last-minute shopping(30 minutes)
Siargao-branded clothing, coconut oil, local crafts from General Luna shops. PHP 200-500 for shirts
Van transfer to Sayak Airport(45 minutes)
PHP 300/person. Depart 2-3 hours before flight. The tiny airport is charm itself
21-Day Siargao Itinerary
Arrival & General Luna Orientation
Arrive at Sayak Airport (IAO) via Manila or Cebu. Van transfer to General Luna (45 minutes, PHP 300/person). Settle in and explore the surf town hub.
Airport van transfer to General Luna(45 minutes)
Vans meet every flight. PHP 300/person
Check-in and settle in(1 hour)
Stay in General Luna. Dorms from PHP 400, private rooms from PHP 1,500
Lunch at Shaka Siargao(1 hour)
Acai bowls PHP 280, fish tacos PHP 250. Good WiFi
Sunset walk along Cloud 9 boardwalk(1.5 hours)
Iconic boardwalk over the reef. Watch surfers if swell is up
Cloud 9 Surfing & Coconut Road
Morning surf at one of the world's most famous breaks, followed by the iconic coconut palm road and Maasin River.
Surf lesson or session at Cloud 9 area(3 hours)
Beginners at Jacking Horse (PHP 500/hour). Advanced at Cloud 9 (PHP 300/hour board rental). Reef booties essential
Brunch at Kermit Surf Resort(1 hour)
Wood-fired pizza PHP 350, smoothie bowls PHP 200
Coconut Palm Rope Swing(1 hour)
Free swing over coconut-lined road near Maasin bridge. 20 min by motorbike from GL
SUP on Maasin River(1.5 hours)
Paddle through coconut canopy. PHP 250-400/hour. Best at high tide
Island Hopping — Naked, Daku & Guyam
Full-day three-island boat tour with fresh seafood lunch on Daku Island.
Boat departure from General Luna(30 minutes)
9AM departure. PHP 1,500-2,000/person including lunch
Guyam Island(1 hour)
Tiny photogenic islet with coconut palms. Walk around in 5 minutes
Naked Island(1 hour)
Bare white sandbar. Bring sunscreen — zero shade
Daku Island and lunch(2.5 hours)
Fresh grilled fish on banana leaves by local families
Dinner at Bravo Restaurant(1.5 hours)
Grilled catch of the day PHP 400-600 on the rooftop
Magpupungko Rock Pools & Pilar
Ride to the tidal rock pools on the eastern coast. Check tide charts before going.
Motorbike to Magpupungko(45 minutes)
45 minutes east. Scooter rental PHP 350-500/day
Swimming at Magpupungko Rock Pools(2 hours)
Crystal-clear pools. Entry PHP 50. Only accessible at low tide
Lunch in Pilar(1 hour)
Adobo, sinigang, fried fish from PHP 100-200
Explore eastern beaches(2 hours)
Deserted beaches and coconut plantations on the quieter side of the island
Sugba Lagoon Adventure
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and cliff jumping in the emerald lagoon on Del Carmen side.
Drive to Del Carmen and boat to lagoon(1.5 hours)
Tour PHP 1,500-2,000/person
Kayaking and paddleboarding(2 hours)
Emerald water surrounded by limestone cliffs. Kayak PHP 200, paddleboard PHP 350
Cliff jumping(30 minutes)
Platforms at 3-10 meters over deep water
Lunch on floating platform(1 hour)
Fish and rice on bamboo platform floating on the lagoon
Rest Day — Beach & Slow Living
First rest day. Sleep in, lounge, massage, and soak up the island pace.
Sleep in and late breakfast(2 hours)
Yellow Fin — eggs Benedict PHP 280, fresh juice PHP 120
Beach time at General Luna(3 hours)
Hammock, swim, read. Calm water inside the reef
Filipino hilot massage(1.5 hours)
Traditional healing massage from PHP 350/hour
Sunset cocktails at Rum Jungle(2 hours)
Live acoustic music. Cocktails PHP 200-300
Sohoton Cove & Jellyfish Sanctuary
Full-day expedition to the hidden lagoon and cave system of Bucas Grande Island.
Boat to Sohoton Cove via Del Carmen(2 hours)
7AM departure. Tour PHP 2,000-2,500/person
Explore lagoon and caves(2 hours)
Swim through narrow cave opening into a hidden lagoon surrounded by karst cliffs
Jellyfish Sanctuary(1 hour)
Non-stinging golden jellyfish pulsing around you. Surreal experience
Beach lunch on Bucas Grande(1 hour)
Fresh grilled fish by boat crew. Included in tour
Surf Progression Day
Full day dedicated to surfing multiple breaks around General Luna.
Early session at Jacking Horse(2 hours)
More forgiving break than Cloud 9. Board rental PHP 300/hour
Breakfast at Harana(1 hour)
Longsilog PHP 200 with mango shake
Mid-morning at Stimpy's or Quicksilver(2 hours)
Ask locals which break works best with current conditions
Sunset session at Cloud 9(1.5 hours)
Evening glass-off. Experienced surfers only — serious reef break
Pacifico Beach & Northern Siargao
Explore the quieter north. Pacifico Beach offers a completely different surf break and empty white sand.
Ride north to Pacifico Beach(45 minutes)
Through villages and coconut groves. Road is paved but rough in parts
Surfing or swimming at Pacifico(2.5 hours)
Left-hand reef break, popular with longboarders. Much less crowded than Cloud 9
Lunch at a carinderia in Burgos(1 hour)
Point-and-choose Filipino home cooking. PHP 80-120 per meal
Hidden coves north of Pacifico(1.5 hours)
Ask locals for secret beaches. Short jungle walks required. Bring snorkel gear
Tayangban Cave Pool & Del Carmen Mangroves
Underground cave swimming and the largest mangrove forest in Mindanao.
Tayangban Cave Pool(2 hours)
Hidden cave with turquoise pool. Entry PHP 50. Guides lead through shallow passages with headlamps. 40 min from General Luna
Del Carmen Mangrove boat tour(2 hours)
Largest mangrove forest in Mindanao. PHP 500-800/person. Spot monitor lizards and kingfishers
Lunch in Del Carmen(1 hour)
Grilled tuna jaw PHP 150-250. Less touristy prices than General Luna
Afternoon back in General Luna(2 hours)
Browse surf shops and boutiques. Pick up reef-safe sunscreen or locally made jewelry
Rest Day — Yoga & Wellness
Second rest day. Yoga, spa, and slow island living.
Morning yoga(1.5 hours)
Lotus Shores or Kawayan Siargao. Drop-in PHP 400-500. Ocean-breeze shalas
Late brunch at Yellow Fin(1 hour)
Avocado toast PHP 220, dragon fruit smoothie PHP 150
Coconut oil spa treatment(2 hours)
Full body massage and coconut oil treatment PHP 500-800. Fitting for coconut island
Evening at Rum Jungle(2 hours)
Live music, craft cocktails, surfer stories
Southern Siargao & Corregidor Island
Explore the untouristy southern tip. Fishing villages and deserted offshore islands.
Ride south through Union and San Isidro(1 hour)
Fishing villages where tourism hasn't penetrated. Wave to curious kids
Corregidor Island by local boat(3 hours)
Hire a boat from the southern tip PHP 500-800. White sand, no tourists, pristine reef. Bring everything you need
Lunch with locals(1.5 hours)
Fishing families may share a meal if you're friendly. Bring gifts — candy for kids, coffee for adults
Return via interior road(1 hour)
Dense tropical forest and elevated viewpoints
Cooking Class & Local Culture Day
Spend the day learning about Filipino cuisine and Siargao culture beyond the surf scene.
Morning market visit in General Luna(1 hour)
The wet market near the pier has fresh fish, tropical fruit, and local produce. Arrive by 7AM when fishermen bring in the catch. A window into daily island life
Filipino cooking session(3 hours)
Several homestays offer cooking lessons. Learn to make kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), sinigang (sour soup), and chicken adobo. PHP 500-800/person including ingredients. You eat everything you cook
Visit a coconut wine (tuba) maker(1 hour)
Watch local tuba climbers scale 20-meter coconut palms barefoot to collect sap. Fresh tuba is sweet; fermented is alcoholic. A tradition threatened by modernization. Ask your tuk-tuk driver to find one
Sunset at the bamboo viewpoint(1 hour)
Local viewpoints along the east coast road offer panoramic sunset views without the Cloud 9 crowd
Second Island Hopping — Bucas Grande Variations
Private boat to lesser-known islands and caves that group tours skip.
Private boat charter from Del Carmen(1 hour)
Private bangka PHP 3,000-5,000 for the boat. Ask the boatman for spots groups don't visit
Hagukan Cave and hidden lagoons(2.5 hours)
Sea caves and hidden lagoons that appear at certain tides. Your boatman knows the spots
Untouched reef snorkeling(1.5 hours)
Sea turtles, giant clams, colorful soft corals around lesser-visited islands
Beach picnic lunch(1 hour)
Fresh grilled fish on a deserted beach. Pack food or have boatman arrange
Rest Day — Free Morning & Photography Walk
Third rest day. Free morning followed by a golden-hour photography session through the island's most scenic spots.
Free morning — sleep in or swim(4 hours)
No plans. Beach, hammock, book. This is why you came for 3 weeks
Late lunch at Mama's Grill(1 hour)
Local spot near Cloud 9. Grilled pork belly PHP 180, garlic rice PHP 30. Authentic and cheap
Golden hour photography ride(2.5 hours)
Motorbike through coconut palm roads, past rice paddies, and to Cloud 9 boardwalk during the final hour of light. Siargao's coconut-lined roads are most beautiful at 4-5PM
Deep Dive — Siargao Scuba Experience
Take a discover scuba or certified dive around Siargao's reefs. The island's underwater world rivals its surf.
Discover Scuba or fun dive(4 hours)
Several dive shops in General Luna. Discover Scuba (no certification) PHP 3,000-4,000. Certified divers PHP 2,000-3,000 for 2-tank dive. Sites include Dako Reef, Blue Cathedral, and Naked Island wall
Lunch at Shaka Siargao(1 hour)
Post-dive refueling. Burrito bowl PHP 280, recovery smoothie PHP 180
Afternoon beach rest(2 hours)
No strenuous activity after diving. Lounge on the beach with a book
Dinner at Aventino's(1.5 hours)
Ocean-view Italian. Margherita PHP 350, seafood linguine PHP 400. Celebrate your dives
Overnight in Dapa — Siargao's Quiet Capital
Move to Dapa, the actual capital of Siargao Island, for a night. See the non-touristic side of the island and the ferry port town.
Ride to Dapa(30 minutes)
The administrative capital is north of General Luna. Less scenery, more real life. Simple guesthouses from PHP 500/night
Dapa fish market and port(1.5 hours)
The ferry port has a bustling fish market early morning. Watch inter-island boats load and unload. This is where Siargao connects to the mainland
Explore Dapa town(2 hours)
Colonial-era church, local bakeries (try ensaymada bread), and the town plaza. No tourists — just Filipino small-town life
Sunset from Dapa shoreline(1 hour)
The western-facing shore has views across to smaller islands. A completely different sunset perspective
Dinner at a local Dapa restaurant(1.5 hours)
No tourist restaurants — eat what locals eat. Lechon kawali (crispy pork belly) PHP 120-180, fresh fish PHP 100-200
Santa Monica Mangrove Walk & Return to GL
Visit the boardwalk through mangroves near Santa Monica, then return to General Luna for your final days.
Santa Monica Mangrove Boardwalk(1.5 hours)
Elevated boardwalk through mangrove forest on Siargao's northeast coast. Entry PHP 20. Birdwatching and crab spotting. Less known than Del Carmen mangroves but more accessible on foot
Coconut plantation walk(1 hour)
The roads between Santa Monica and Dapa pass through endless coconut plantations. Pull over and walk among the palms — the symmetry is mesmerizing
Return to General Luna(30 minutes)
Back to your familiar base for the final stretch
Afternoon surf session(2 hours)
One more crack at your favorite break. You've improved over three weeks — enjoy the progress
Dinner at Kermit(1.5 hours)
Wood-fired seafood pizza and cold San Miguel. Watch the surf lineup one more time
Community Volunteering & Beach Cleanup
Give back to the island that's given you so much. Join a beach cleanup or community project.
Beach cleanup with a local NGO(3 hours)
Ocean Clean-Up Siargao and similar groups organize regular cleanups. Ask at your hotel or check social media. Plastic waste is a serious problem — your help matters
Visit a local school(1.5 hours)
Some schools welcome visitors who want to read to kids or play games. Bring school supplies as gifts (notebooks, pens from General Luna shops). Ask your hotel to arrange
Lunch at Mama's Grill(1 hour)
Reward your good deeds with grilled pork belly and garlic rice. PHP 200 total
Free afternoon — your choice(3 hours)
Surf, swim, nap, shop. You know the island by now. Revisit your favorite spot
Farewell Tour — Greatest Hits
Revisit your favorite spots one last time. This is your personal victory lap around Siargao.
Sunrise surf at your favorite break(2 hours)
First light, empty lineup, your best-loved wave. This is the session you'll remember
Return to Maasin River for final SUP(1.5 hours)
One more paddle through the coconut palm canopy. PHP 250/hour
Lunch at your favorite restaurant(1.5 hours)
Whatever became your go-to spot over three weeks. Order the dish you'll miss most
Sunset at Cloud 9 boardwalk(1.5 hours)
Your final Siargao sunset from the boardwalk where it all started. Say goodbye properly
Farewell dinner and drinks(2.5 hours)
Round up the friends you've made. Dinner at Bravo, drinks at Rum Jungle. Exchange contact details. Three weeks creates real friendships
Departure Day — Leaving the Island
Final morning on Siargao. Pack up, say goodbye, and carry the island spirit home with you.
Early morning beach walk(1 hour)
One last sunrise on the sand. Let the waves wash over your feet
Breakfast at Harana(1 hour)
Tapsilog (marinated beef, egg, rice) PHP 220. Fresh calamansi juice PHP 80. A proper Filipino farewell
Final shopping and goodbyes(30 minutes)
Grab any remaining souvenirs. Say goodbye to your hotel staff, your favorite restaurant servers, the surf instructor who taught you
Van transfer to Sayak Airport(45 minutes)
PHP 300/person. Arrive 1 hour before flight at the tiny airport. Deep breath — you'll be back
Travel Tips
Visa & Entry
30-Day Visa-Free Entry
Most nationalities (including US, UK, EU, Australia) get 30 days visa-free in the Philippines. Bring a return/onward ticket — airlines check this before boarding. Extension to 59 days possible at the Bureau of Immigration in Surigao City for PHP 3,030 (~$55).
transport
Getting Around by Motorbike
Rent a scooter for PHP 350-500/day (~$6-9) from shops in General Luna. Roads are mostly paved but can be rough and muddy after rain. International Driving Permit technically required but rarely checked. Wear a helmet — police checkpoints do fine helmetless riders PHP 500.
Flights and Ferries
Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly direct from Manila and Cebu to Sayak Airport (IAO). Book 2-3 weeks ahead for best fares (PHP 2,000-5,000 one-way from Manila). The airport is 45 minutes from General Luna — vans meet every flight (PHP 300/person).
Budget
Budget-Friendly Island
Siargao is affordable: dorm beds PHP 400-600 (~$7-11), local meals PHP 100-200 (~$2-4), surf lessons PHP 500/hour (~$9). ATMs exist in General Luna but often run out of cash on weekends — bring enough pesos from Manila or Cebu. Credit cards accepted at upscale resorts only.
Avoid the Peak Season Price Surge
Prices double during the Siargao International Surfing Cup (late September/October) and Christmas-New Year holidays. Book accommodations months in advance for these periods. March-May offers good weather, smaller crowds, and regular pricing.
Safety
Surf Safety and Reef Awareness
Cloud 9 is an advanced reef break — beginners should not attempt it. Sharp coral reef is inches below the surface at low tide. Wear reef booties. Always surf with a buddy and respect the lineup. Surf schools in General Luna offer beginner lessons at safer beach breaks for PHP 500/hour.
Local Customs
Island Etiquette
Siargao's locals are famously friendly but respect the island: don't litter (it's a real problem), avoid single-use plastics (many shops have banned them), and keep noise down after 10PM in residential areas. Tipping is not expected but appreciated — round up or add 10% at restaurants.
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