Here’s the best things to do in Siargao to make the most of your trip in the Philippines.
I suggest staying in Siargao for at least five days, more is even better. With more time, you can really discover the island all the way up to the North and plan different islands hopping tours.
Siargao is an island island located in the Caraga region of The Philippines. Known as the country’s surfing capital, it has become one of the popular islands in the Philippines, both among locals and travelers thanks to its amazing waves, crystal-clear water, lush coconut grove and incredible atmosphere.
Below you’ll find all the top things to do in Siargao – from the best beaches and surf spots to island hopping tours and natural wonders, including the best coffee and dinner spots.
The easiest way to reach Siargao is by taking a plane from Manila to Cebu City (around an hour), then a second flight to reach Sayak airport in Siargao (around 50 minutes).
Make sure to get a window to admire the unreal views of Siargao from the sky :
There are some direct flights from Manila to Siargao, but usually more expensive, and the departure airport is not Ninoy Aquino but Clark which is 2-3 hours north of Manila, accessible by bus.
Once you land in Siargao, if you don’t want to pay the full price for the white vans waiting in front of the airport (400 php per person), you can just walk outside the airport and prices for a tuktuk will be way more affordable (around 650 for 2, or 900 for 4 people).
There are countless things to see and do in Siargao so let’s get started.
To get started, here’s a bit of an overview of the island : Most activity is located in General Luna, south east of Siargao. This is where are most of the travelers, hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars. If you want to go to more remote and less touristy area, you can opt for Pacifico, an hour north of General Luna. Nice restaurants and hotels, all beachfront.
Ok so first things first, the legendary Cloud 9. Known worldwide as Siargao’s surfing capital, Cloud 9 is home to legendary waves and is the beating heart of Siargao.
Even for non-surfers, it is an incredible place to experience. You can enjoy incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and the beach from the iconic boardwalk and observation deck, especially during sunrise and sunset.
You can just spend hours there, observing people surfing and enjoying the ocean :
On the left of the beach, you find the surf instructors to take a surfing class, usually one hour is 600 php (8,5€), but check the tides beforehand as it is best to go during high tide.
On the right, you will find many beach restaurants, and places to enjoy the area, making a complete package of this beach.
The atmosphere here is truly unmatched: you have surfers from all around the globe enjoying the waves all day long, unreal sunrise, sunsets and and that laid-back and playful spirit that has made Siargao famous worldwide.
I mean, look at those sunsets :
And the sunrises clearly don’t disappoint as well :
Ok next is Catangnan Bridge. A bit after Cloud 9, this bridge overlooking the mangrove forests and offering stunning sunset views has become one of the island’s popular spots. It’s a favorite among cyclists, evening strollers, kids jumping from the bridge into the water, photographers and sunset lovers.
A bit similar to the bridge is the Sunset surfskating Lane, also called Doot. This famous dead end road is a famous gathering spot for surfskaters and sunset lovers. Imagine this : golden hour light, skaters having fun or teaching other people, coconut trees all along the road, ocean views and that relaxed, chill island vibe. Definitely worth experiencing at least once for a sunset !
At the end of this road is Secret Beach. True to its name, this beach offers a secluded slice of paradise and a tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the sunset.
Finally, if you’re looking for a thrill, you can head to the Siargao Wakepark. The one and only cable wakeboarding park in Siargao, set against the island’s stunning tropical scenery. The place also hosts a little Sunday Funday event from 3.30pm to 8pm on Sundays, with live music, and a free ride for every drink bought.
I know I got it since the first day I stepped foot on this island, went back a month later, and plan to be there almost every month. It is THAT special. I found it to be the perfect island, with the great balance of activities (surfing, wakepark, scuba, skateboard…),
While we’re on the topic, regarding the night scene, Siargao has it all covered. There is a different location for parties every day of the week, all closing at midnight the latest. If you wish to continue the party, the Siargao Beach Club is open until 3 am.
Ok so we covered most of the places near General Luna. Now if you want to discover the best places outside of GL, here are my favorites.
Alright, so if you want to go explore the island with a scooter or car, there are plenty of nice stops from General Luna, all the way up north to Alegria Beach, the northernmost point in Siargao.
You can start off by stopping at Coconut Plantation Viewpoint, one of Siargao iconic locations. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of thousands of coconut trees stretching as far as the eye can see. This endless sea of palms perfectly captures the island’s tropical charm.
Just 2 minutes from this viewpoint is the Maasin River Bridge. You can stop here to swim or jump in the tranquil Maasin River surrounded by palm trees, or you can even go kayaking through the river. We liked this stop as it highlights the more authentic side of the island.
5 minutes from the bridge is the Tayangban Cave Pool. You can go explore the narrow limestone cave, with many stalactites (and bats flying on the ceiling!). After a while you will emerge into a stunning turquoise natural pool. It’s a fun little side quest, not too touristy, and the natural pool at the end is a nice and refreshing reward after the cave exploration.
20 minutes from the cave are the Magpupungko Rock Pools and Flats. So, this one needs a bit of anticipation because these natural pools are only revealed during low tide. Only then, stunning turquoise pools surrounded by dramatic rock formations will appear. It makes for the perfect place to swim and is honestly incredible:
(For your info, they will appoint you a guide at the entrance, feel free to say you don’t need it, it is pretty obvious where the rock pools are you don’t to be walked all the way there).
Another 15 minutes will take you to Pacifico Beach. This beach is a hidden paradise, offering long stretches of golden sand and powerful waves. It is a paradise for surfers and travelers looking to escape the crowds and experience Siargao’s raw natural beauty and peaceful spirit.
Now, if you want to go the northernmost point of the island, you can drive for an additional 20 minutes and you’ll reach Alegria Beach. This white sand and crystal-clear water beach is a hidden gem in Siargao. Remote, untouched, and quiet, it makes for the perfect beach to enjoy the sea far away from any crowd (see picture 1 below).
Halfway there, you can stop at Secret Mountain ViewPoint. It is a nice viewpoint of the road overlooking the ocean, definitely makes for a great photo stop (see picture 2 below).
Finally, if you’re looking for a beach closer to General Luna but with fewer crowds, you can consider Mahaybo Beach. With clear waters, palm trees, and white sand, Mahaybo Beach offers a more secluded and peaceful alternative to GL popular spots. You can also surf here, and it is a perfect location as well to watch the sunset :
During your little trip all the way up north, all the roads are pretty deserted, in very good conditions and absolutely stunning, so it is even more a pleasure to drive :
Alright now let’s be a little adventurous and venture to the nearby islands!
- First option : You can book a Island Hopping to the three main nearby islands: Guyam, Daku and Naked Islands.
From 8am to 5pm you will embark on a boat and go from an island to the other. First stop will be Guyam Island, a bit crowded, but offering incredibly clear water and countless palm trees.
Second one will be Naked Island, a pristine sandbar rising from the middle of the ocean, truly a little paradise, but to be careful with the sun here as there is absolutely not an ounce of shade.
And finally, the lunch stop, Daku Island. The whitest sand and clearest water with many colorful boats, postcard worthy:
Each island has its own unique charm, making this island-hopping a complete and memorable experience in Siargao.
- Second option : A bit further away, you can opt for the Sugba Lagoon.
Nestled among lush mangrove forests, Sugba Lagoon is famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and dramatic limestone surroundings. This calm lagoon is the perfect setting for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming and diving off the wooden platform.
Or you can enjoy the stunning scenery, making it one of Siargao’s most breathtaking destinations.
- Third option : The furthest and most expensive expedition, Sohoton Cove.
Nestled within the protected landscapes of Bucas Grande Island, Sohoton Cove is one of the most impressive natural wonders in the Siargao region. Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, hidden caves, and lush mangrove forests, the cove offers an unforgettable experience through some of the country’s most pristine ecosystems.
What makes Sohoton Cove truly special is the Tojoman Lagoon Jellyfish Sanctuary, home to a rare species of stingless jellyfish. You will have the extraordinary opportunity to swim with thousands of gentle jellyfish and observe them swimming from up close. Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience that makes Sohoton Cove a unique attraction in the Philippines.
You will also explore two caves, navigate narrow limestone passages by boat, enjoy a excellent island lunch by the water and be astonished by all the landscapes.
Take into account though that this expedition requires quite the logistics: First you’ll have around 30 minutes of jeepney from General Luna to Dapa Port. Then around an hour of boat, followed by 20 minutes of van and then a little boat will take you to the cove. But it is definitely worth it and you will have the time of your life that day.
There are so many amazing places to enjoy good breakfast, lunch or even drinks. Siargao’s dining scene is as diverse and vibrant as the island itself. I’ll list here my favorite ones among the ones we tried during our stay.
For breakfast, I would recommend Vedya. The setting is really nice and tranquil, and everything we ordered was absolutely delicious, from the seitan tapa to the breakfast bowls or hummus toast. Definitely order drinks for breakfast, or if you fancy a sweet treat, you can try their amazing cookies.
Just nearby is La Boheme, a stunning boutique hotel that makes excellent breakfast fruit bowls and all kinds of toasts (hummus, avocado, you name it).
Another excellent breakfast spot is Takam. Every dish is carefully crafted and elevated with fresh ingredients and creative presentation. Their mushroom grilled cheese and fluffy expresso pancakes are absolutely delicious. Also definitely recommend their matcha.
Now, Bravo is one of those stunning beachfront restaurants in Siargao. They have a lunch and dinner menu with Spanish flavors and recipes, but it is also an excellent breakfast spot. Way less frequented in the morning, with an access to the beach and their pool, it makes for the perfect for a slow morning. Their grilled spinach sandwich, mango chia pudding and pancakes are really good.
Moving onto lunch and dinner spots!
First and foremost, I’d recommend Lyma. This refined restaurant combines French, Spanish and Asian flavors in a creative menu. This place offers a great dining experience in a beautiful and intimate setting. I can most definitely suggest their spinach ravioli and slow cook beef cheeks (and all of their desserts!). Went twice and will come again.
Another elevated dining spot is Surfing Temple. Their menu offers healthy and refined dishes, in a very nice setting. Their risotto, fish of the day, and lasagna are especially good.
For an excellent ceviche address, you can head to CEV. Although be sure to book days (weeks even) in advance. This is a staple in General Luna, always full house, and for a reason: their ceviche and traditional Filipino kinilaw are super fresh and showcase bold flavors associations.
If you’re looking for a great vegan restaurant, head to Ver De. The menu is filled with healthy but nourishing options, fresh drinks and excellent salads. Definitely worth a try, even if you are not vegan! They pad Thai salad, grilled cheese, crispy tofu or even Cajun tacos are all excellent.
A great beach restaurant is Mr. Turtle. They serve good grilled fish at lunch among many other dishes, and for the evening they make really tasty pizza. The setting is also really nice, from the bamboo roof to the lounge chairs facing the ocean to the colorful little pool, it has everything for you to enjoy a perfect and slow afternoon.
If you’re looking for sushi, buns or wok bowls, you can try Noods Wok Bar. This address is for lovers of Asian cuisine, whether it is stir-fries, sushi or other satisfying comfort food. I can recommend their sauteed tofu, any kind of wok combination, the pork dumplings and little buns are also very good (see pictures 1 and 3 below).
Located on Cloud 9, Loka is a very welcoming beach restaurant with great mango shakes, great cocktails and a nice menu (see picture 2 below). Even their desserts and breakfast were really tasty.
For a more local and authentic experience, I can recommend Annatto’s Barbecue, their grilled chicken is really good and a very affordable option in GL.
And finally, if you end up in Pacifico, make sure to stop at Lebron & Dwayne Tapsihan. They serve traditional Filipino comfort food at any time of day. The bicol express and any of their chicken dishes are particularly good.
That’s it for my Siargao recommendations!
I hope this article gave you a better idea of what to expect from a trip in Siargao, it’s definitely a place worth discovering and staying for a while.
You might even get the “Siargao curse”. This popular island tale has it that when you come to the island for the first time, there is a strong, mysterious pull that makes travelers don’t want to leave, extend their stay, or feel an immediate urge to return. It might not mean that you will literally stay forever there, but that no matter where you go, a piece of your heart will stay behind.
If you plan on coming to Siargao or The Philippines anytime soon you can check out my article regarding what to know before going to The Philippines here.
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