-Read, read, and read more about environmental issues and solutions, -Taking care of your health is taking care of the environment, Fun fact about the environment or a species that you think people should know. Daku Island is a truly gorgeous sight, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and full of palms. Here are 18 activities waiting for you the dream tropical and surfing destination that is Siargao. Its hard to miss this viewpoint when you are headed down Siargao Circumferential Road as it opens up before you as you come around a bend in the road. Learn about its top destinations. The water is also deep enough to allow for cliff jumping off the surrounding rock formations. Note that the rocks at Magpupungko Rock Pools can be quite sharp, so it is a good idea to wear aqua shoes or other protective footwear. We are excited to team up with nonprofit, faith, and government organizations nationwide to share volunteer needs and opportunities to serve. The surf school program is fun, structured, professional and safe. There is a small fee of 20 pesos to use the swing, and locals rent out boats for only 150 pesos that you can use to paddle up and down the river. Activities here include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, platform diving, snorkeling, or just lounging under the sun. Thousands of palm trees spread out before you with deep green hills in the background. The MPA also includes a no-take zone, which prohibits fishing and other activities that could damage the coral reefs. The cave is dark, but the guide will carry a torch to illuminate the beautiful stalactite formations inside. The Siargao Circumferential Road will treat you to a very picturesque drive, leading you to different tourist sites on the island. You will find a range of different eateries, including cafes, bars, and restaurants, serving a wide variety of both local and international cuisine. If you're not sure about it, just watch the local kids how they do it. 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. Despite a disappointing first look and an overcrowded entrance, the rock pools were wide and varied. However, always prioritize safety! It is also a fantastic spot to go snorkeling, and there is a diving platform as well. What are the best day trips from Siargao Island? Thanks to easily accessible Manila to Siargao flights, the island has turned into one of the most visited spots in the Philippines, but Siargao hasn't lost its laid-back island vibe. The last quarter of the year is the busiest surfing season; surfers and tourists from all over the world seek to experience the best swells. This must-do day trip in Siargao is a 40-minute drive to Del Carmen from General Luna, and another hour and a half journey by boat. There are many ways you can get around the island of Siargao van, tricycle, habal-habal, motorcycle, and bicycle. Agoda is part of Booking Holdings Inc., the world leader in online travel & related services, Agoda is part of Booking Holdings Inc., the world leader in online travel & related services, Things to Do in Siargao Island, Philippines | Top Activities & Attractions, Search hotels & accommodations in Siargao Island, Kermit Surf Resort and Restaurant Siargao. 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. When I went back to Siargao for a visit, I met my current partner, James, and he offered me a job at, Be responsible tourists when visiting Siargao and responsible local residents by joining beach clean-ups, refusing single-use plastic, not littering, and opting for a plant-based diet. That adds another layer to the already many reasons to visit the island. Being in nature strengthens my bond with the environment. Highlighted by a cave mouth leading to a dark chamber inhabited by bats, one must wade deep, canyoneering style, into an inner pool for 15 minutes before seeing daylight again and emerging into an open basin enclosed by rock formations and tree vines. As soon as you arrive at Corregidor Island, you will see why it was worth making the trip out. Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines. But if youre on a tight budget you can always bring your own food. We were fined when we didnt segregate trash properly, she recalled. Most Philippine tour packages in Siargao range from 3 to 5 days, complete with flights, accommodations, and free Siargao private tours or shared tours. Above the water, Siargao enchants tourists with its palm-fringed white sand beaches and islets. If you're a hiking enthusiast, you might want to check out Corregidor Island, also known as Casolian Island. They are all just a quick boat ride from General Luna, where your trip will begin. If youre on a group tour, lunch is usually served as part of the package. I love my job, but not all jobs are perfect. It is an underwater wonder with a 20-meter wide hole that features caverns at the north and east side. 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. 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An hour away from the surfing haven of General Luna, it situates at the end of a snaking road fringed with Intagrammable palm trees. Highly appreciate Coach Ana for being so warm, friendly, and patient. It offers technical surf breaks for advanced surfers and is perfect for people who want to veer away from the crowded Cloud 9. Siargao is the Philippines most famous surf spot and Cloud 9 break is Top 10 in the World. The most popular attraction on Siargao Island is the Cloud 9 surfing area in General Luna. The island is also encircled by a healthy coral reef ecosystem making it an ideal snorkeling and scuba diving spot. Very few tourists venture here, but those who do are rewarded generously by this serene patch of tropical paradise. Read the full terms here: Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, CONTACT US per adult. The three-island tour covers Guyam, Naked, and Daku Islands. It has pristine white beaches and islands, breathtaking lagoons, and lush green coconut trees lined up on the roads. Hagukan Cave is a luminescent cave with blue waters. 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. If you want to get away from the noise in GL, visiting the north of Siargao is a must. A very good swimming and beach option with lovely white sand and clear waters.. You will ride their boat with their guide who will narrate to you the history and all. Photos by Vitalis Villas/Balesin Island Club IMPORTANT:The properties featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. The classes are tailored towards both beginners and seasoned yogis, depending on the composition of the class. Cloud 9 is Siargao's most popular surfing spot. Just be mindful that there are nearby reefs, so look for parts where the water is deep enough for you to swim in without stepping on sharp rocks. Your comment is now queued for moderation! This is a very relaxed and picturesque spot where you are likely to meet a lot of the friendly locals. Aside from its world-class swells, Cloud 9 attracts crowds as it is easily accessible and has a beautiful, picturesque boardwalk. Pool closed due to land ownership dispute. A relaxing side-trip here, the only waterfalls on the island,can also help you psych-up for your surfing lessons later. from. It can be a long ride but savor the moment. Living in Siargao gave birth to S.E.A Movement. The fact that this strip of beach is typically deserted, only makes it an even more ideal place to learn how to surf. I only stop when its time to surf, eat, or sleep. Your guide will tell you where it is safe to land. Going here is fun and I personally enjoy our experience here. Visitors come from all over the Philippines and across the globe to experience the world-class surf, white sand beaches, beautiful sunsets, natural rock and cave pools, and smaller neighboring islands. 6 talking about this. Best enjoyed during the low tide, Magpupungko Rock Pools is another attraction you shouldn't leave out of your Siargao day tour. Youve probably seen photos of the bent coconut tree sticking out over the river. Just rent a boat from Cloud 9, and you will be able to get to this underwater cathedral. Just a 13-minute drive east from General Luna, Doot Beach is an easy and very worthwhile trip from town. 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! Siargao Island Hopping 2 Day Trips from $58.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island 7 from $45.00 per adult Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour Full-day Tours from $85.00 per adult Sugba Lagoon Tour and Magpupungko Rock Pools Full-day Tours from $60.00 per adult What are the best outdoor activities in Siargao Island? 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. And its very much alive on the island! The pair share the goal of transforming the tourism sector into a digital-savvy industry that empowers not only travelers, but also local businesses, communities, and environmental conservationists. If you befriend them well, they might take you there. Im the Managing Director of Kudo Surf, a surf brand that holds sustainability and community at its core. Discover why Tagaytay is a favorite weekend destination for local travelers, especially those from the capital Manila. Take advantage of the seclusion to commune with nature, feel the powdery white sand on your feet, and take tons of photographs without worrying about photobombers. Aside from just surfing. As of this writing, there are no helmets or life jackets provided when canyoneering in Tayangban. There are so many projects in line, and I feel a bit sad I cant give as much time as I want to because of my busy work at Kudo Surf. Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. 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. The road from the airport to other parts of the island has also been developed from the bumpy rough road to smooth concrete ones, making traveling around the island more convenient and efficient. Subscribe on Youtube! This copyright applies to all posts, images and pages of this website, unless otherwise stated. The travel time from the port to the lagoon is approximately one hour. While waiting, follow us on these channels. Well try to get back to you soonest. 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. It won't be a complete experience unless you enjoy a refreshing buko drink by the shores of Guyam Island. They can also buy SEAM merchandise to help us raise funds for operations and projects. By simply bringing your own refillable water bottles, eco-bags, and throwing your trash properly, you are already making a huge difference. It is an experience that will guarantee heightened adrenaline, maximum thrills and satisfy everyones appetite for adventure. the breeze is quite nice. A beach tour in Siargao will take you to several of its must-see beaches such as Pacifico Beach. #SeatizenSunday: Marja Abad, Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement, Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. Asta is the Managing Editor at PhilippineBeaches.org and a regular contributor to The Poor Traveler. When I went back to Siargao for a visit, I met my current partner, James, and he offered me a job at Kudo Surf. When we went to have a beach vacation at Siargao, it was indeed a relaxing vacation. Renting a motorcycle or a bicycle for a day or more is a popular transportation option among tourists. Theres a rope attached to the tree where you can swing back and forth from and, maybe, let go and plunge into the river. But the most convenient is to join a group tour. Thirty minutes away from General Luna is the magnificent views overlooking the unbelievably beautiful scene of an endless sea of palm trees. With the popularity comes several threats to its natural environment, evident in the increasing volume of litter. 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. Here are some spots that deserve a place on your itinerary. Please be extra careful especially if you are just new to surfing. I have been backpacking, rock climbing, bouldering, and surfing around the Philippines with that principle since I was in college. In addition to Alegria Beach, the northern tip of the island is home to two more must-see attractions that make a great day trip: Santa Monica Pier and Taktak Falls. Good looking crystal green water. Movement. Copyright 2022 The Poor Traveler Itinerary Blog. Loved swimming and sunbathing in the turquoise waters. Describing it already sounds fantastic but wait untilyou experience the actual tour. Siargao is cited as one of the best islands in the world, but this popular surfing mecca still has a long way to go. It is located within the vicinity of Cloud 9, close enough for you to still watch the master surfers carving up the waves. 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. Island Hopping: Naked Island, Daku Island & Guyam Island. Home to the famous Cloud 9 and other beginner-friendly surf beaches tucked in some of the hidden spots all over the island, Siargao is on every surfer's dream destination. Getting There: From Siargao, the jumping-off point to Bucas Grande Islands is Dapa port. Another popular activity at Naked Island is snorkeling. 3,818.62. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. The most popular of which is the world-renowned Cloud 9where even the Red Hot Chili Peppers' frontman Anthony Kiedis once surfed. Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour. The order that you visit the islands will depend on which tour you sign up with. This paradise is better on the low tide. A number of water activities and watching people trying to jump off the diving board is pure entertainment. Visitors can kayak to the area and gently touch the adorable gelatinous residents of Bucas Grande. Most of the islands top dining spots are located in and around General Luna. Pacifico Beach is the sweetest escape you can have far away from the crowded tourist spots of General Luna. If you're hungry from all the active water activities in Sugba Lagoon, there's a cafe in the vicinity. Be responsible tourists when visiting Siargao and responsible local residents by joining beach clean-ups, refusing single-use plastic, not littering, and opting for a plant-based diet. The surf line is well offshore and you can walk in the shallows between the surf and the beach. If you have the chance, then try to plan your day around seeing both! There are also some sections of deeper water, but ropes and bamboo make the cave easy to traverse and navigate. The resort offers yoga classes twice a day. Another challenge to to keep volunteers and sustain projects. If you like beers, you might want to try Siargaos very own draft beer General Luna Pale Ale. 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. environmental laws and those who are not," Roy Cimatu, environment chief, said in a statement. It is also a wonderful place to take photographs of the ocean. Corregidor Island, also known as Casolian Island, is sometimes included as a fourth island in the popular tour of Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. Others offer fantastic opportunities for cliff jumping. As mentioned earlier, there are several idyllic islets off the coast of Siargao that you should experience. Guiwan Beach is one of Siargao's best-kept secrets. Entrance fee: P100 per boat Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa 10. There is a cost of 100 pesos to enter the cave, and it includes a mandatory guide. I love everything Im doing for S.E.A. Provo is home to multiple must-see museums full of art and culture. 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. It is also just a half-hour drive from Pacifico Beach. Make your way through the palm forest to the top of the highest hill to take in some truly spectacular views. Some roads cut across this coco paradise, which creates a scenic view. This list of things to do in Siargao has to begin with the surf, it is after all the surfing capital of the Philippines. One of the islets you shouldn't miss out on is anescapade in Naked Island. Are you planning that island getaway to Siargao Island soon? Be careful, however, as climbing the jagged rocks can result in scratches and bruises. Driving through these quiet palm-lined streets is one of the experiences that you'll surely miss once you get back to the city. 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. Th Best Palawan Guide: Top Tours, Where to Stay, How to Get Around, 20 Most Beautiful Sandbars in the Philippines: White Sand, Longest, Vanishing, 15 Best Tropical Bali-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Siargao, Cebu, Bohol, 10 Best Treehouse Resorts in the Philippines for a Scenic Getaway at Mountains, Beaches & Rivers, 11 Best Santorini-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Vigan, Best Tagaytay Tourist Spots: Taal Lake View, Picnic Grove, & Sky Ranch, 5-Day Bohol to Dumaguete Itinerary: Chocolate Hills, Island Hopping, Apo Island, 15 Must-Visit Visayas Tourist Spots: Boracay White Beach, Cebu Diving, Bohol Countryside, 4. Sohoton Cove is only accessible at low tide through the Sohoton Cave. The waves can become gnarly from September to November. Or you can simply walk-in. When you're in Siargao, you certainly shouldn't miss this quintessential island experience. The streaming waters of Taktak Falls provide a wonderful prelude to experiencing the bounteous nature of Siargao. You can also wait for the sunrise here as surfers catch the early morning swells and/or savor the moment as you think of nothing else but the beautiful spectacle that is sunset. 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. Harana Surf Resort 7. 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. Siargao Island is very friendly to bicycle and motorcycle riders, and the freedom of exploring the island on two wheels just can be beat. Pacifico Beach is about an hour's motorbike drive from General Luna. There are some right-hand breaks great for longboarding here, or you can simply relax in the sand. Cottage rental: P300 Aside from the fruit smoothie bowls, they offer a wide selection of filling fruit shakes and other vegan snacks. Easy to reach via a 45-minute sea journey aboard an outrigger boat, this is one island in Siargao that you must include in your travel itinerary. Caridad, Siargao Island, Surigao del norte. Boat Tour Rates: P3000 P3500 (Sohoton Cove Tour Only, good for 5 pax); P4000 (Sohoton + Three-Island Tour, good for 5 pax), Other Fees: P500 (smaller boat to Sohoton Cove) P50 (entrance fee); P50 (environmental fee); P350 (tour guide); P100 (docking fee per boat). Many of the retailers on Siargao Island place a high importance on sustainability, and so you will easily find reusable products like straws and water bottles that help to keep litter on the island low. This palm-covered oasis is so small that you can walk to the other side of the island in about 50 steps. A nice place for anyone wanting peace and quiet. Cloud 9 is famous for its barreling right-hand waves and thick hollow tubes that can make every advanced surfer's heart skip a beat. With the popularity comes several threats to its natural environment, evident in the increasing volume of litter. If you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance, you certainly can. The half-submerged cave is full of shimmering stalagmites and stalactites, making for a magical entryway to the lagoon beyond. But it was hard to get a land and build something, so I just started beach clean-ups with kids, then my friends saw it, so they [started doing] their [own] bit in other ways. I was a member of the U.P. 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. - makes for one hell of a great photo opportunity. Siargao also has excellent hiking spots to offer. You can bring your own Was probably the best place in all of Siargao. There is a hidden blue lagoon down the Maasin River. Siargao Island is a relatively small island, which makes it easy to check out the different stretches of sand along its coast. Seven large islands belong to the Visayan Islands. After you milk the Zen-ambiance of the place, flex your adventurous spirit by jumping into the water from an adjacent cliff. They can also tag SEAM in their social media posts @s.e.a.movement and use the hashtag. For those on a honeymoon that can last a week or two, there are . Plan out your itinerary with this ultimate list of the best things to do in Siargao. 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. Surfing and skating with the big and small groms (kids who surf). One highly recommended place is Shaka Cafe where you can try out their best-selling fruit shakes and smoothie bowls like the Bom Dia and Cloud 9 Kook. This small sandbar surrounded by ocean isnt home to any trees or really any life at all, making it quite a unique place to visit. Nothing commercial here just heavenly peace and quiet. Spread all over the islands are charming seaside towns adjacent to picturesque beaches where one can quench their thirst for a beach fix. Together with the support of a friendly coach to help you get the most out of your time here on the island. All material herein 2005-2023 Agoda Company Pte. Its a good idea to rent a table for 50 pesos so that you can have a place to leave your belongings while you head out to explore. The top diving spot in Siargao, however, is the blue Cathedral. Magpupungko Rock Pools are exposed during low tide and submerged at high tide. FIND & BOOK A HOTEL IN SIARGO ISLAND TODAY. I'd go as far to say this was one of my favourite island hopping tours and experiences in all of the Philippines. Arts & Culture Museums. You can also mingle and share stories with the friendly locals as they are very accommodating in suggesting other activities worth trying while in Siargao. There are a lot of independent retailers on the island selling a variety of clothing, jewelry, swimwear, surf gear, and even skincare products. The best part is that Cloud 9 has great waves all year round. It is also the perfect place to escape the blazing sun as it is in a forested area. Tours typically include pick-up, drop-off, and a provided lunch. Being an outdoor adventurer and surfer also molded me to become environmentally conscious. Shaka Cafe in Siargao is the go-to place for instagrammable healthy food choices such as fruit bowls and cold-pressed juices. Here are the Details. 7. from. That's Guyam Island. The most popular attraction on Siargao Island is the Cloud 9 surfing area in General Luna. 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. 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! See it here: Port Pilar Tides. By coming here coinciding when the ocean levels are at its lowest, you will be rewarded with a jaw-dropping image of crystalline waters forming a natural pool edged by the enthralling shapes of the Magpupungko's rock formation. Surrounded by limestone hills, Sugba boasts a 87 hectar area and maintains one of the largest mangrove forests in the Philippines. Cottage rental: P250. Siargao Island Villas 6. People who live here locals and foreigners alike are living their life stories in this paradise.