16 Tourist Attractions and Best Things to do in Siargao Island, Philippines
Located in the southern part of the country lies an island that has gotten a lot of attention in the past years for its great waves, friendly locals, and beautiful palm trees. Siargao province attracts surfers and travelers from across the country and as well as across the world. But what can one really do in Siargao?
Learn Surfing
Siargao isn’t a surf something for no reason. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there is sure to be a surf break in Siargao that you would love. For example, if you’re looking for neat barrels, go to Cloud 9. If you are a beginner or a longboarder, check out Jacking horse. While for short boarders, Stimpys is definitely enjoyable. But if you want to do a bit more discovering, even for beginners, Guian (somewhat a secret beach) is another surf break which looks amazing but great for beginners.
Visit Taktak Falls
Found in Santa Monica, Taktak waterfall is an enjoyable drive from General Luna. There is a lot to do here that it can be a whole day trip. Try facing your fears of heights by going cliff jumping or tree jumping. Discover the beauty of nature by exploring the top to the bottom of the falls. Another positive about it is that not a lot of people go here, so it isn’t crowded. Lastly, it is the ONLY falls you will see in Siargao; don’t miss out on it!
Go to Magpupungko Tidal Pool
This is a famous spot in the province that will leave you undeniably speechless. The Magpupungko rock pools can be seen during low tide, thus making it a good time to explore. The shimmering and clear coral blue waters looks heavenly. Discover the coves and caves found here and as well as try out cliff jumping here too. However, it is advisable that before going here you make sure that you get there during low tide, so you really will be able to see its beauty.
Siargao Island Hopping – Guyam, Daku and Naked Island
Your trip will not be complete without Siargao island hopping experience. Three of the most famous islands that you should visit are Gayum island, Naked island, and Daku island. They are only a short boat ride from each other, and from General Luna. Daku island is the island you should go to if you wanna go on a swim and have lunch. Then rest on Naked island because it literally is just a sandbar. Then right before going back to General Luna, go to Guyam island to just have snack underneath the palm trees. The photos you can take here will be spectacular, especially in the naked island. Imagine a picture of the sea that’s never-ending.
Experience Sohoton Cove
There are a lot of things to do here, tons of attractions to see. Discover the mysterious and magical caverns, grand rock formations, dazzling lagoons, and numerous little islands. But the main Sohoton Cave is absolutely a must-not-miss. Jellyfish can be creatures to fear but luckily, here they are stingless jellyfish so you can admire them with no fear. Plus, there are tours that offers going here plus the three islands mentioned above.
Party All Night
The nightlife here is very fun and lively. There’s a lot of bars and clubs that you can choose from. If you are staying for a couple of days, try to go bar and club hopping every night which actually is the culture there. During the summer or surfing season, there is a different venue for the main party. Your usual bravo and rum bar are typical choices you would love to order, but you cannot say you experienced Siargao party night till you try ‘jungle’.
Chill at Cloud 9 Boardwalk
Other than surfing, Cloud 9 can also be a place where you can just chill and relax. This is a good place to watch the sunset. Sit by a hut or by the sand, then see how beautiful the sunlight reflects on the blue waters, turning it into a pastel red and orange color. Enjoy the view as well as surfers, try to catch a couple more waves just right before the sky completely darkens. Getting the perfect sunset picture for Instagram won’t be difficult here.
Tayangban Cave Pool
Going here is quite an adventure. Guided by instinct, let yourself continuously float in darkness as you swim in a cave that the only light you will see are from the torches. As you do this, you get to see bats fly above you, just a couple of meters away. Soon you will get to the actual cave pool which now has sunlight peeking through and it offers another cliff jumping experience. Finally, finish off the tour of Tayangban cave by taking a dip in the open pool.
Sugba Lagoon
Another day trip you can take is going to Sugba Lagoon. What you will see is a stunning lagoon that has a lot of tall and soaring mountains around it. There are also floating huts that have diving boards you can use and also SUP as well, all up for rentals. Once again, expect to see blue waters and lush green vegetation surrounding you. Enjoy the cool breeze coming from the trees and the water. Make sure to take tons of photos!
Go on a Food Trip
Don’t we all love food? Well, you are in luck because in Siargao there is tons of food quite incomparable to ones found in the city. Looking for something cool and refreshing? Shaka has very delicious smoothie bowls that are actually pretty inexpensive. How about some great snacks, maybe Mexican cuisine? Miguels have fantastic burritos and tacos! They prepare the food fast but still tasting amazing. Or maybe you want something Italian? Aventinos pizza is really cheap but the flavors are to die for! Now if you want to chug down some good tasting craft beers, try out the ones by Monkey Eagle Brewery.
Attend A Yoga Class
Lotus Shores is a known place in Siargao for surfing and also for their accommodation of retreat center. But what many really love about it is that it is the resort you should go to if you want to do yoga and truly find the beauty in life away from the physical aspects of it. It is known to be very conducive and effective when it comes to teaching yoga.
Visit Alegria Beach
Soft white sandy beach; Alegria beach looks like a beach that has clouds for sand and sky for its sea. The beauty of it seems to have no words that can describe it. Plus, the palms trees that are lined up in the beach gives an additional color contrast to the existing beautiful scenery. From General Luna, this is quite a long drive, however, it is worth it.
Catch the Beautiful Sunset
Sunsets in Siargao may be if not the best, at least one of the best sunsets you will ever witness in your whole life. The life in Siargao is very peaceful and serene. It’s surroundings are kept clean and it is obvious how the locals try to be tourist friendly but still not commercializing it enough that it loses its truest image. Everything still looks and feels untouched. Of course, there are more beautiful places to watch the sunset, but almost everywhere you go is a beautiful place.
Rent a Bike
A lot of bike shops in Siargao can be found in Dapa. May it be a mountain bike or a very dainty and cute vintage bike, they have it. No need to worry, many tourists have tried, tested and trusted the bike shops in Siargao because these bikes are kept in pristine condition. You can opt to explore or go to nearby places by renting a bike. This is a good way to go around. Or just take cute photos with the vintage bikes. (they really are cool)
Ride a Habal-habal
Well if going around Siargao on a bike isn’t floating your boat, there are also motorbikes or habal-habal. They can also be your easy way around the province. Drivers of these habal-habal are very kind, accommodating and helpful. And many would be surprised that Habal-habal here actually cost cheap. Some habal-habal do change their price BUT it isn’t too far off from some of the cheapest ones we know.
Acoustic Night at Buddha’s Surf Resort
If party night isn’t your cup of tea or you have already gotten your fill of it, you can just attend the acoustic night at Buddha’s Surf Resort. Listen to some chill music while chomping down on some tasty food. Plus, this is a good place to just talk and relax with your friends. Observe the ‘chill’ side of Siargao. The place is so comfortable that you might not even want to check on your phone because it provides such a receptive atmosphere.
Check out our complete list of recommended Hotels and Resorts in Siargao via Agoda or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
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