Siargao, located in the east of the Philippines, is known as the country’s surf mecca. But even if you’re not a surfer, Siargao has everything to steal your heart. The island is buzzing with atmosphere in the lively General Luna, while also offering plenty of tranquility for those who just want to relax. In addition to beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife, you’ll find expansive mangroves, turquoise lagoons, and small islands off the coast that are waiting to be discovered. Everything on Siargao breathes that relaxed island vibe you’re looking for as a traveler. It’s a place where you always feel like you should have stayed longer when you leave, regardless of whether you’ve been there for 4 days or 4 weeks. In this article, you’ll read all about the island’s most beautiful places, great restaurants and accommodations, and I’ll tell you where to go in the evening for a good dose of fun.

What is the Best Time to Visit Siargao?

It’s good to know that the best time to visit Siargao differs from the rest of the Philippines. For islands like Palawan and Bohol, the dry season starts in December, but in Siargao, the dry season doesn’t begin until March. The best time to visit Siargao is from March to June. From July, the rainy season officially begins, but this month is still a good time to visit. Often, there’s a short, heavy rain shower daily, but the sun also shines intermittently. From December to February, the rainy season peaks, with even a chance of typhoons. It is therefore not recommended to visit Siargao during these months.

The best time to surf in Siargao: You can surf in Siargao year-round, but for the best waves, visit the island between August and November. The waves are powerful and consistent, perfect for advanced surfers. Are you a beginner surfer? Then March to May is a better period.

How to Get to Siargao?

Because Siargao is somewhat more remote than other popular islands in the Philippines, almost everyone takes a flight to the island. Direct flights depart from Cebu and Manila. Below, you can read about the connections between these destinations.

Transportation in Siargao

The best way to explore Siargao is by scooter, as it’s great to discover the island at your own pace. Outside of the lively General Luna, there’s an entire world of expansive rice fields, beautiful beaches, and winding roads waiting to be explored. There are many scooter rental places in General Luna, with Lola’s Rentals being one of the best. You may pay a bit more than other rental companies, but you get extra service. The scooters are well-maintained, and you’re provided with a dry bag, rain gear, and even a first aid kit. There are also tuk-tuks available for rent if you prefer not to ride a scooter.

If you can’t or don’t want to ride a scooter, public transportation is also a good option. For short trips, you can take a tricycle or habal-habal. This is a motorbike with an extended seat where one or more passengers can ride behind. For longer trips, there are multicabs (small buses with open sides) or colorful jeepneys.

What to Do in Siargao?

There are many fun things to do in Siargao. Here are 15 tips!

Tip: It’s a lot of fun to ride from General Luna to the north of Siargao with this two-day scooter route. A large part of the places and activities described below are part of this route. You’ll be surprised at how diverse Siargao is!

(Learn to) Surf at Cloud 9

Cloud 9 is Siargao’s surf spot. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, there are waves for every level at Cloud 9. Once you arrive at the beach, locals will almost immediately approach you, offering to rent you a surfboard or give you a lesson. Not planning to surf? Cloud 9 is still worth a visit. Especially around sunset, it becomes extra magical: the sky turns orange as surfers catch the last waves in the golden light. Walk along the long pier for a beautiful view of the break and grab a drink at Loka Siargao Bar & Restaurant, a beach bar where live music or a DJ often creates a fun atmosphere. There is a small entrance fee to access Cloud 9, even if you’re just there to watch. Keep your receipt, as it’s valid for the entire day.

Tip: Want to learn to surf in a quieter spot? Head a little further to Ocean 9, a relaxed spot with smaller waves.

Go Island Hopping Around Siargao

Island hopping around Siargao is a must-do! Hop on a boat, sail from one tropical island to another, and have fresh fish for lunch on a pristine white beach. The most popular tour is The Three Islands Tour, where you visit Daku Island, Naked Island, and Guyam Island; three small paradises, each with its own charm. Below, we’ll highlight these three islands.

Stop 1: Naked Island

Don’t be put off by the name, you’re welcome to keep your clothes on when visiting Naked Island. The island got its name because nothing grows on it. It’s an island of white sand, surrounded by clear blue water. In fact, it’s more of a giant sandbar than an island. It’s fun to stop here, walk around in the soft powdery sand, and swim in the shallow waters surrounding the island.

Stop 2: Daku Island

Daku means big, and that’s exactly what this island is: the largest of the three. Here, you’ll find a lively fishing village, where you can have fresh fish grilled for just a few dollars – served with rice and a typical Filipino sauce. You can snorkel in the clear waters surrounding the island, and it’s definitely worth taking a walk through the village to catch a glimpse of local life. Daku Island is usually where you stay a bit longer during the tour and have lunch on the beach.

Stop 3: Guyam Island

Guyam Island is exactly how you’d draw a deserted island: small, white sand, lots of palm trees, and bright blue water. You can walk around the island in a minute, but the view never gets boring. There’s a small stall where you can grab a smoothie or a hamburger, which you can eat on a wooden bench or just in the sand.

Stop 4: Secret Sandbar

Lastly, we want to mention Secret Sandbar, which is just off the coast of Guyam Island. This is a shallow piece of sea with pristine white sand at the bottom. Since this sandbar never fully dries out, you’ll be standing in water up to your waist or chest. It’s like you’ve ended up in a natural, crystal-clear pool in the middle of the sea. Between the floating boats, with views of the surrounding islands, it’s the perfect spot to take a dive.

Shopping in General Luna

Along Tourism Road, the main street in General Luna, you’ll almost trip over cozy cafés and restaurants, but if you also love a bit of shopping, this is the place to be. This street has many small boutiques. Perfect if you want to grab some beautiful souvenirs or something nice for yourself. Stores like Goodies and Vinta Alternative Market are fun to browse: here you can find everything from handmade jewelry to sustainable clothing.

Tip: Around sunset, it gets extra cozy at Sunset Bridge. Every evening, street food stalls, jewelry, and clothing vendors line up. It’s bustling with energy, and with a beautiful sunset in the background, it’s the perfect spot to end your day in Siargao.

Tour the Endless Palm Tree Plantations

Siargao is the island of endless landscapes filled with palm trees. When you drive about half an hour from General Luna, you’ll come across a road that cuts through a palm tree plantation. This road is called Siargao Palm Tree Road, or sometimes Burgos Coconut Road. It’s stunning to cruise along. Be sure to also visit Coconut Plantation Viewpoint, where you’ll have a spectacular view of the endless sea of palm trees.

Boat or Swim in the Maasin River

Maasin River is a magical river with a beautiful dark green color that winds its way through Siargao’s inland. Maasin Bridge River is a beautiful part of the river, with many palm trees lining the banks. It feels like you’ve stepped into a tropical painting. Once there was an iconic curved palm tree with a rope swing over the water, but sadly it has fallen. Now, in its place, there’s a diving platform if you want to take a refreshing dive. You can also rent a small boat and head to a natural pool.

It’s best to visit Maasin Bridge River early in the morning when you won’t have to share this magical spot with too many other people. Later in the day, it gets busier. It’s located on Siargao Palm Tree Road, so these spots are perfect to combine.

Visit Sugba Lagoon

On the west side of Siargao lies one of the island’s most enchanting places: Sugba Lagoon. This is a turquoise lagoon surrounded by densely vegetated, spherical islands rising from the water. This stunning area is also known as the Raja Ampat of the Philippines. A day trip to this lagoon is highly recommended because you can swim in crystal-clear water, jump off a wooden platform, or paddle around the green rock walls with a SUP or kayak. Combine your visit to Sugba Lagoon with Kawhagan Island and Pamomoan Beach. These two white sand beaches are a short distance from the lagoon and both are stunning. It’s quieter here than at the lagoon, and you can order a nice lunch.

You can book an organized tour from General Luna, often combined with other island highlights. But you can also easily arrange your visit to Sugba Lagoon on your own. Drive with a scooter or tuk-tuk to the port of Del Carmen, where you can rent a boat. The prices are per boat (for a maximum of 6 people), and if you’re in a smaller group, it’s often easy to find fellow travelers to share a boat with. From the port, it takes 30 to 45 minutes to sail to Sugba Lagoon.

Tip: Leave early in the morning to Sugba Lagoon because it’s quieter there then. Also, bring some cash. A small entrance fee is charged at each island or beach you dock at.

Discover the Most Beautiful Beach in Siargao – Pacifico Beach

Pacifico Beach is located on Siargao’s east coast and feels much more rugged and authentic than the busier General Luna. Pacifico Beach is not the place to go for nightlife, but rather for quiet beaches and unspoiled nature. The beach is often visited by surfers looking for strong waves. But even without a surfboard, this is a great place to spend an afternoon (or longer). You can also swim here, but be careful as there may be strong currents.

The ride to Pacifico Beach takes about 1.5 hours from General Luna and is just as beautiful as the destination itself. Along the way, you pass rice fields, palm groves, and small villages, until you reach the ocean. In the area, you’ll find a handful of cafés, often run by locals or travelers who once came here and never left. Life moves at a slower pace here, and that’s what makes this part of the island so attractive.

Relax at Alegria Beach

At the very northern tip of Siargao lies Alegria Beach, a beach where you’re likely to meet the fewest other travelers. It’s pure, quiet, and surrounded by nature. No beach bars or crowds here, just a calm sea where you can enjoy swimming or drifting in the shallow waters. Alegria is not a place you just ‘stop by’ because it’s about a two-hour drive from General Luna. For the ultimate experience, stay overnight at Kaha Island Stay and go to the beach at sunrise. The light is soft, the water is still, and it feels like you have the world to yourself.

Swim in Magpupungko Rock Pools

Magpupungko Rock Pools is one of the most famous attractions in Siargao. These turquoise tidal pools are hidden among the rocks on the island’s east coast and are only visible at low tide. When the tide recedes, several crystal-clear natural pools emerge, shielded from the rough sea behind. You can swim, jump from cliffs, or relax on the rocks. Check the tides in advance and plan your visit when the tide is low. If you arrive too late and the water has risen again, the pools quickly disappear beneath the waves.

Navigate Your Way Through Tayangban Cave

On the way from General Luna to Magpupungko Rock Pools, you’ll pass Tayangban Cave. With a local guide, you wade through chest-high water, between towering rock walls, and even under the road you just drove over. The cave tour takes only about ten minutes but feels like a mini expedition. At the end, the gorge suddenly opens, and you find yourself in a hidden canyon with clear turquoise water. When the sun shines through the foliage here, the place feels even more magical. Jump off the wooden deck and float around in this refreshing pool before continuing on your journey.

Yoga with a View

Stretch, unwind, and enjoy a beautiful view all at once. Sounds wonderful, right? In General Luna, you can take yoga classes at several places, but one of the best spots is Bodhi Yoga Center – Lakshmi. Here, you’ll take your class on an elevated, open yoga deck with views of the greenery. While doing the sun salutation, a cool breeze flows through the space, and you can hear the sounds of nature around you. They offer multiple classes daily for all levels. Check the current yoga schedule.

Relax at Doot Beach

For a relaxing beach day away from the crowds of General Luna, hop on a scooter and ride to the farthest point of the peninsula. Here, you’ll find Doot Beach, a quiet beach hidden among palm trees, which, together with the surrounding islands, forms a kind of natural lagoon. During the day, it’s often peaceful, and at sunset, people love to come here to finish the day with a game of football or some social time with others. It’s about a 15-minute drive from General Luna to Doot Beach.

Tip: If you drive a little further back into the village from Doot Beach and follow the route, you’ll come across a beautiful, peaceful winding road lined with palm trees. Along the way, you’ll pass the beautiful Secret Lagoon and a few hidden beaches that are fun to explore.

Wakeboarding at Wakepark Siargao

Siargao isn’t just for surfing, you can also wakeboard here! At Wakepark Siargao, you’ll find a small lake with a two-tower cable system, ideal for beginners but also for advanced riders. You can learn the basics of wakeboarding or practice tricks. Every Sunday afternoon, Wakepark Siargao is extra fun. During Sunday Funday, local pros give demonstrations, music plays, and you can enjoy the spectacle with a drink in hand.

Climb, Crawl, and Squeeze Through The Marvelous Somyot Cave

Deep in the north of Siargao lies a hidden cave that’s rarely visited by people: The Marvelous Somyot Cave. You should know that this is a bit adventurous and not for the claustrophobic. With a helmet, headlamp, and gloves, you’ll enter the island’s darkest spot with a guide. Don’t expect a leisurely walk, as you’ll have to climb, crawl, and scramble. Sometimes you’ll literally have to squeeze through narrow openings, step over smooth stalagmites, and pull yourself up rocks. But it’s all worth it because after about 15 minutes, you’ll find a hidden, crystal-clear pool where you can take a dip in the fresh water. Make sure to wear clothes that can get dirty and wet. It’s smart to wear your swimwear underneath. You can arrange the guide at the cave entrance.

Nightlife in Siargao

Siargao has a vibrant nightlife. Every evening, you’ll find a party somewhere on the island, from laid-back beach vibes to dancing into the late hours. Here’s the weekly schedule:

• Saturday: Harana Surf – The most popular party of the week with two stages and tropical beats. Organized at one of the best hostels on the island.
• Sunday: Happiness Beach Bar – Sunday Funday! It has a relaxed beach vibe with great music.
• Monday: Mama Coco – Retro night with funky beats. Small, cozy, and always danceable, even on other days of the week.
• Tuesday: Barbosa – Tropical disco tunes to dance to.
• Wednesday: Goodies – During the day, it’s a cozy hotspot to eat and shop, but on Wednesday, it turns into a dancefloor with underground house & techno sounds.
• Thursday: Bed & Brew – On Thursday, people love to gather for a drink.
• Friday: Mama Coco & Barbosa – Double party on Friday night. The best house and techno at two different locations to start your weekend off right.

Tip: All parties officially end at midnight, but if you’re not ready to go home, you can head to the afterparty at Siargao Beach Club. Every night, with your feet in the sand, drinks in hand, and dancing under the stars.

Tips for Good Restaurants in Siargao (General Luna)

The food in Siargao is amazing! In General Luna, you’ll find cozy restaurants everywhere serving the most delicious dishes, from Western to local and fresh fish for a bargain.

• Kermit – One of the most popular restaurants on Siargao, always busy and lively. The food is great, and the prices are reasonable. The menu features a mix of Western and local dishes.
• La Carinderia – Authentic Italian food. Think homemade pasta and tiramisu that you can’t miss.
• Spotted Pig Café – A popular spot for breakfast or brunch. Favorites include avocado and pumpkin toast. If it’s full, head to the nearby Las Palmas Villas restaurant, they serve the exact same menu.
• Kurvada – Here, you can fill your plate with fresh local dishes.
• Sanabowl Superfood Café – This small spot offers a wide range of superfoods. Order a colorful healthy smoothie bowl, perfect for a light lunch or a vitamin boost after surfing.
• Roots – Here, you can enjoy a surprising 7-course tasting menu. Perfect for a special night out! There are two dinner shifts per night, so booking in advance is a must.
• Shaka – Located on the beach at Cloud 9, you can enjoy tasty fruit bowls and smoothies here.
• Bravo – Restaurant, bar, and pool by the beach. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon with good food, cocktails, and occasional live music.
• CEV – Ceviche & Kinilaw – One of the best restaurants on the island if you love ceviche or kinilaw. Reservations are recommended, but sometimes you can just walk in with a bit of luck.
• Sibol – A laid-back restaurant where you can enjoy food all day long. In the evening, it gets even livelier with live music, making it a great place to start your evening before heading to a party.
• The Cat & Gun – A cozy spot where you can enjoy delicious bagels and pitas.
• Coastal Grounds Coffee Siargao – The place for the best coffee on the island.

• Halika Siargao – Here you can get the best ice cream on Siargao.

Where to Stay in Siargao?

General Luna is the vibrant heart of Siargao, and it’s the best place to stay. Most restaurants, cafés, surf shops, and bars are located along Tourism Road, the main street running through the village. Everything is within walking distance, making it the perfect base. Here are three great places to stay in and around General Luna.

Our Favorite Spots in Siargao

The cute cottages at Mao Mao Surf look just as charming on the inside as they do on the outside. All cottages have a beautiful outdoor bathroom and a comfortable bed with a mosquito net. The atmosphere is wonderful, mainly created by the lovely staff. They also serve delicious healthy breakfasts, offer surf lessons, and have a central location. If you prefer a quiet hostel, Happiness Hostel Siargao is perfect! Located along Tourism Road, it’s exactly between General Luna and Cloud 9. Every corner is beautifully styled with bamboo elements, and both dormitories and private rooms are very comfortable. There’s a large shared lounge where you can play games or have a bite to eat. If you have a slightly bigger budget, Soultribe Beach Retreat is fantastic. Every morning begins with a dive in the sea, as you stay in a beautiful bungalow on a stunning beach. You can relax in a hammock on your bungalow’s veranda, take a yoga class, swim in the pool, or rent a paddleboard to go SUPing.

Mao Mao Surf More Information

Happiness Hostel Siargao More Information

Soultribe Beach Retreat More Information