Another popular attraction on the island is Sugba Lagoon. There are cottages around the waterfalls where you can lounge in and listen to the flowing water. These pools are located in Pilar and are the area's primary tourist draw. Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. It's more than just a tourist destination. The masterplan will strive to strike a balance among people, the environment and economy, while seeking to align both public and private sector-led projects to Siargao's longterm development goals, said Karmi Palafox, senior urban planning consultant for Palafox Associates. Choose your partner very carefully and surround yourself with good and quality people. You can stake out your piece of land (or water) and chill out in perfect isolation. 40 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SIARGAO #1 Enjoy the best Siargao Surf spots! There are also some sections of deeper water, but ropes and bamboo make the cave easy to traverse and navigate. These are some of the reasons why you must add Siargao tours toyour bucket list. I enjoyed it more then El Nido ,Palawan. A fascinating coral reef ecosystem can be viewed while snorkeling near the island. One of the highlights here is jumping off the diving platform into the clear turquoise (sometimes emerald) waters. 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. Siargao is cited as one of the best islands in the world, but this popular surfing mecca still has a long way to go. Places to Visit in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor Siargao Island development masterplan in the works 18 EPIC Things To Do In Siargao [Philippines] In 2023 If you thought you'd done everything in Siargao, then you're in for another pleasant surprise. The negatives are actually also good. Some tour operators combine Sohoton Cove with the 3 Islands Tour! Another remarkable natural attraction in Sohoton Cove is the lagoon filled with thousands of stingless jellyfish. Here is the list of Siargaos surf breaks: Note: The annual Cloud 9 Surfing Cup usually happens in late September or early October, so expect huge crowds during this time. Mama's Best is truly the best place to go if you want authentic and affordable Filipino barbecue grill experience. Taste the Best Barbecue at Mamas Grill, 12. Good looking crystal green water. Naked Island is a sandbar that is the usual stop on the way back to the main island. Explore the Enchanting Sohoton Cove National Park, 6. However, always prioritize safety! Others offer fantastic opportunities for cliff jumping. The drive follows a dirt road lined with palm trees, which leads right down to the beach. That's Guyam Island. When I went back to Siargao for a visit, I met my current partner, James, and he offered me a job at Kudo Surf. Surrounded by limestone hills, Sugba boasts a 87 hectar area and maintains one of the largest mangrove forests in the Philippines. A red bridge at Maasin Village indicates the amazing wonders that lie secreted by the coconut forest ahead. Your day will begin with either an hour and a half boat ride from General Luna or an hour boat ride from Del Carmen, depending on where you chose to depart from. Siargao also has excellent hiking spots to offer. AirSWIFT Now Flies to ROMBLON! It is located off the coast of Siargao Island and about a 45-minute boat ride from General Luna, past Daku Island. Above the water, Siargao enchants tourists with its palm-fringed white sand beaches and islets. This teardrop-shaped island has grown steadily in popularity over the past few years and is often known as the countrys surfing capital. Have fun exploring on foot and make sure you spend some time in the water as well. 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. per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island. Cloud 9 is Siargao's most popular surfing spot. Caridad, Siargao Island, Surigao del norte. Siargao island has many other activites and attractions to offer. per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island. This locally-owned and family-operated joint serve one of the best barbecue in Siargao. The cave is dark, but the guide will carry a torch to illuminate the beautiful stalactite formations inside. 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. 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. Learn about its top destinations. By working with the local community, they bring awareness and aim to stop plastic pollution in Siargao. Watch the stunning waves touch the shore in all its glory. Try some traditional Filipino dishes or opt for restaurants serving more western fair. If you want to make sure you have the swing all to yourself to take some epic pictures as you swing into the river, try to come as early in the morning as possible. But you can always take lots of photos. Take this tour and see for yourself what these islands have to offer. The best time to come is around sunrise or sunset. It has a calm and casual atmosphere and doesnt usually see many tourists, so it feels much more secluded than other beaches on the island. In a statement Tuesday, DENR said information from its Caraga regional office showed that out of 148 businesses in Siargao Island, 49 establishments have been given . 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. 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. You will be able to see the iconic tree from the bridge. 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. Thousands of palm trees spread out before you with deep green hills in the background. Siargaos seascape has to be the islands best feature. The competition is officially recognized by the World Surf League Pro. We loved it! Cloud 9 is only recommended for advanced surfers, as it breaks on a very shallow reef. Just remember to layer on sunscreen so youll only get healthy glowing natural bronze without the sunburn. If you're planning to visit the island soon, remember that Siargao is more than just a place for island-hopping excursions. If you're not sure about it, just watch the local kids how they do it. This is a common lunch stop. 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. 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. It lies about a 20-minute drive from General Luna, past Doot Beach and just before the town of Dapa. Siargao Island Villas 6. But fresh fish and other seafood are available and you can have the locals cook for you. If you're a hiking enthusiast, you might want to check out Corregidor Island, also known as Casolian Island. Cimatu said based on data from DENR-Caraga, out of 148 businesses in Siargao Island, 49 establishments were given notices of violation of either the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act or the Environmental Impact Statement System. Let the seawater wash do its magic and wash away any worries. 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. It is ideal to go here during sunrise to get a jaw-dropping view of the sunrise-kissed mountains. If you still have the energy for dancing, socializing, and drinking with other travelers, parties usually happen at Jungle Disco, Viento, Bravo, and RumBar. We strive to be fully sustainable by opting for eco-friendly fabric like organic cotton and rashguard materials made from recycled plastic bottles and ocean waste in our collection of surf apparels. Why Siargao was rated best island in Asia for 2019 I will never know Another beach, another island. There are nearby spots for surfing in Siargaohere that are excellent for beginners to intermediate levels. Siargao isn't only for avid surfers, it is also for beach lovers who have no qualms of getting baked and achieving golden skin under the sun. There are also Siargao tour packages with airfare from Manila available on an online travel agency like Guide to the Philippines. It is one of the most extreme of the Siargao tourist spots, and it is also not as well known among tourists. See it here: Port Pilar Tides. Your guide or a local would gladly climb up a tree and break open a coconut for you for a small fee. What 3 pointers would you provide for people who'd like to start seriously pursuing an environmental lifestyle? Entrance fee: P100 per boat Siargao Island : Challenging ecotourism in the Philippines Caves like Hagukan Cave and Magkuku-ob Cave will also offer you exciting experiences. Because of the abundance of coconuts on this island, it's an excellent spot to sip on buko juice (coconut juice]. 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. Make your way through the palm forest to the top of the highest hill to take in some truly spectacular views. You start by entering a dark cave and wading through chest-deep water. This blog is designed and arranged by Happtone.com. If you happen to be in Siargao around the time of the surfing . It can be a long ride but savor the moment. But the most convenient is to join a group tour. Three-Island Tour Naked Island Daku Island Guyam Island Siargao Land Tour Magpupungko Rock Pools Maasin River Coconut Mountain View Sugba Lagoon Sohoton Cove (Bucas Grande Islands) Surfing Cloud 9 Boardwalk and View Deck Burgos Coconut Road Food trip! 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. Here are your options: From Del Carmen port, register at the local port authority and charter a boat or wait for other passengers to fill up the boat. Visiting the rock pool requires a small entrance fee of just 50 pesos. Daku Island, Siargao: Important Travel Tips Movement by just believing in my vision, supporting my projects and reminding me that its going to work. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor But if you want to catch the ocean in its best surfing conditions, visit from September to December. The rock pools only appear at certain times, particularly when the tide is low. If you're not into dive-board jumping, you can laze around Sugba Lagoon, rent one of the wooden rafts, or test your balance stand-up paddleboard out in the water. It may be scorching hot in the noonday sun, but youre bound to enjoy the excellent contrast between the perfect white sand and blue sky. To fuel my wanderlust, I moved to Davao after UP Diliman days and worked as a river rafting guide and photographer. 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. The water is also deep enough to allow for cliff jumping off the surrounding rock formations. 7. from. Away from the busy crowd of General Luna, the Northern part of Siargao is where you'll find the secluded and almost untouched Alegria Beach. A surfing competition sponsored by the government of Surigao del Norte is held here every year. You can pass by this spot on your way to the Northern part of Siargao, where Alegria Beach is. Mangroves shore up Siargao's ecosystems - Manila Standard What are the best outdoor activities in Siargao Island? To cope with this, we hired an executive assistant and interns (BS Environmental Science graduates) who are helping me with my SEAM projects. - makes for one hell of a great photo opportunity. Its Blue Lagoon is often compared to some of the lagoons in El Nido, Palawan. One such activity is island hopping; Daku Island is the biggest in the trio which includes Guyam and Naked Islands. People who live here locals and foreigners alike are living their life stories in this paradise. environmental laws and those who are not," Roy Cimatu, environment chief, said in a statement. You can also hike to the top of Corregidor Island to marvel at the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. Guyam Island is another tiny island that you can easily walk from one side to the other of in a matter of minutes. A huge part of why only a few travelers visit Alegria Beach is that it is approximately an hour's drive from General Luna. Siargao is alsopopular for island hopping in the Philippines. Nothing commercial here just heavenly peace and quiet. The waves can become gnarly from September to November. Whether you're into underwater activities like diving, snorkeling or island-hopping in Siargao, Daku Island is the place to be. It is a wonderful place to shop for handcrafted and all-natural products as well. 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. They also serve sumptuous all-day breakfast and specialty coffee. Your stop on Daku Island is sure to be one of the highlights of your island-hopping tour and your trip as a whole, so make sure you take lots of pictures. It gives me hope. UServeUtah is happy to connect you to service opportunities in your community so you can make a difference wherever you are and however you want to serve. Highly appreciate Coach Ana for being so warm, friendly, and patient. Which is perhaps why it is also called the Secret Beach. The warm and friendly locals inhabiting the island are on a mission to preserve the magic of Siargao's natural beauty. You will hit many of the landmarks and attractions on this list if you choose to do so, and the rode itself is incredibly picturesque. Guyam Island is a small island distinctly appearing with a patch of small forest on the middle. Here are the Details. Communities lead the way in creating a more resilient Siargao Island See all tours. Picture a tiny tropical island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean as a grove of luscious palm trees circled by beautiful white sand and a lovely array of rock formations. Don't leave the place without jumping into the waters from the wooden platform built beside the pontoon houses they say in Sugba Lagoon, one must take a dive of faith into the "perfectly splendid" turquoise waters of the lagoon to complete a memorable experience. It is best to allot one whole day for an island-hopping tour that will take you to Siargao's so-called the big three: Daku, Naked, and Guyam. The most popular of which is the world-renowned Cloud 9where even the Red Hot Chili Peppers' frontman Anthony Kiedis once surfed. Photos by Vitalis Villas/Balesin Island Club IMPORTANT:The properties featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. Best of all, though there will likely be other tourists there, it isnt usually overly crowded, and the lagoon is plenty big enough to enjoy your own private corner of it. Magpupungko Rock Pools are exposed during low tide and submerged at high tide. Guyam Island is a small, circular island, usually your first stop for the three-island tour. You can charter a private boat or join a group tour. Drive Along to Siargaos Palm-lined Road, top tourist destinations in the Philippines, Siargao package deals with accommodation andairfare, See our popular Siargao Vacation Packages, cave, beach, and tidal pool experience in Siargao, See our popular Siargao Island Hopping Tours. . From vagabonding to the islands beautiful neighboring islands to exploring the island's many natural attractions like lush mangroves, rockpools to beautiful lagoons. The best part is when I see the kids learning what is taught to them, and seeing more and more people supporting the cause. The locals are super nice and friendly. Aptly translated from its Philippine-Spanish name as "largemouth", the island of Bucas Grande situates on the other part of Siargao in the municipality of Socorro. These are Cebu, Bohol, Masbate, Negros, Samar, and Panay. Daku Island is a truly gorgeous sight, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and full of palms. Even better, take out your camera and take photographs of the palm tree-lined street against a pastel blue sky. Warm safe. Photos by The Forest Camp Resort/Nay Palad Hideaway IMPORTANT:Theresorts featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. Any of these may not be reproduced on another blog/website without the author's expressed written consent. Try to visit the place early in the morning so you can have the place to yourself. What are the top attractions to visit in Siargao Island? If youre not sure what island youre in, the large letters spelling GUYAM might be a nice indicator. If you're the adventurous type, you can try cliff-jumping with the local kids. You can also beat much of the crowds if you come earlier in the day. Despite its popularity in the global surfing scene, Siargaohas a lot more to offer. It is also just a half-hour drive from Pacifico Beach. You will pass by local eateries before you reach the beach and rock pools. All applicable laws apply and will be enforced. 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. Either way, the long drive will be worth it. A great activity for rest days or when the waves are flat. It's along the Maasin Enchanted River in Brgy. Thats how S.E.A. It is located within the vicinity of Cloud 9, close enough for you to still watch the master surfers carving up the waves. Seeing a community literally living on garbage made me wonder how it reached to that stage and how it could be prevented.. You can spot stalactites formations as you explore the inner cave. 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. Activities - Greenhouse Siargao Among the most recommended dive spots are the Seeco Reef Coral formation near Naked Island (good for certified open water divers at 11 meters) and the Daku Coral Beach Staghorn Reef at 9 meters. Cloud 9 Siargao originally gained popularity due to the surf but it has become a mainstream tourist attraction for people who aren't surfers. Youve come to one of the best surfing spots not only in the Philippines but also in the world, so why not? It is also more accessible now more than ever, welcoming about 12 flights daily from Manila, Cebu, and Clark. Siargao History Viento Del Mar Siargao Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island, Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour, Sugba Lagoon Tour and Magpupungko Rock Pools, Siargao Sohoton + Club Tara + Tiktikan Lagoon, 3 Islands, Secret beach and Coral Garden Full-Day Tour, Siargao Sugba Lagoon + Kauhagan Island + Pamomo-an Island, Siargao Trio Island Hopping (Shared Tour), Siargao 3 Island hopping + Corregidor Island. 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. Provo is home to multiple must-see museums full of art and culture. Siargao Island is usually accessed through Sayak Airport, which is about a 10-minute drive from the municipality of Del Carmen and a 40-minute drive from the main tourist town of General Luna. Movement. Entrance Fee: P20. Learn about its top destinations. Maasin River is a 30-minute drive from General Luna. The exhilarating experience will be one for the books! Youve probably seen photos of the bent coconut tree sticking out over the river. Smart supports Siargao Island's bid to protect the environment The island has a limited supply of freshwaterlocal springs dry up during the summer months, while groundwater sources are now experiencing saltwater intrusion. Read the full terms here: Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, CONTACT US From General Luna, you have to get to the town of Del Carmen port. Some roads cut across this coco paradise, which creates a scenic view. SEA Movement - Home - Facebook Located in Bucas Grande Island and only a one-hour boat trip from Dapa port in Siargao, this place is truly a hidden paradise. No wonder that this teardrop-shaped island is widely regarded as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. 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. Both jobs are making me very busy, checking emails, leading the team, planning and executing projects. If youre on a group tour, lunch is usually served as part of the package. Palafox disclosed that their firm has recently secured the . Aside from its seclusion and beautiful scenery, another charm of Secret Beach is its beginner-friendly surfing waves. If youre craving for some fresh seafood and mouth-watering barbecue, look no further than the crowd favorite, Mama's Grill. Ask if the pool at the end is open. THE 10 BEST Outdoor Activities in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor Taktak Falls is 15-meters high; its water softy cascades down a rocky cliff into a small blue-green basin. Extending far into the sea, the boardwalk leads to a three-story viewing platform where you can watch the surfers. It's a great detour if you're up for a leisurely hike through grassy trails, rolling hills, and lush coconut groves to the white sand beaches and pebble beaches of Corregidor. Cottage rental: P300 Where to Stay in Siargao: 12 Best Siargao Hotels & Resorts | Guide to The accommodation is nice and is air-conditioned, you can choose what cottage you will get because they have a cottage for small family and bigger family that could accommodate up to 15 pax. Surrounded by massive and majestic green limestone formations and blazing blue waters, you can't help but marvel at Sohoton Cove's raw beauty. Many years later, shes still answering that question through her actions. Lovely island with lots of great spots for picture taking. Take a boat to Siargao's many neightboring islands, Guyam, Daku and Naked Island are a great place to spend the day, whilst you have a picnic with friends. These natural pools are created from water left behind in a coastal rock formation when the ocean retreats at low tide. Visit at the right time, and you will surely see crystal blue waters and that cliff jumping experience you've been dreaming. On weekdays, Im usually in the office 9:30am-4pm for my day job at Kudo. Once you're there, don't let the opportunity to feel like Tarzan pass. per adult. Just 20 minutes from Naked Island lies one of the most beautiful locales you will likely visit during your travels. Fringed by towering trees, the cool but swimmable Maasin River is highlighted by a slanting lone palm tree that appears to be crossing over the river. Chill in the Cool Waters of Taktak Falls, 17. Surfing and skating with the big and small groms (kids who surf). How to Get There: You can join a group tour, hire a habal-habal or rent a motorcycle and drive to Pilar. Aside from surfing, you can swim in warm blue water of Pacifico Beach or witness the stunning Siargao sunset by its shores. 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. 3) . SIARGAO TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary, SIARGAO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS & New Normal Policies, List of SIARGAO HOTELS & RESORTS Authorized to Operate, How to Get E-HEALTH PASS for SIARGAO / SURIGAO DEL NORTE TOURISTS, 12 Asian Destinations for FIRST-TIME SOLO BACKPACKERS, ALABANG to NAIA / NAIA to ALABANG: P2P Bus Schedule (UBE Express), 11 Movies Showcasing Philippine Destinations that You can Watch on iWant, MANILA TO LEYTE & SAMAR by BUS: List of Operational Routes & Bus Companies, THE BEST OF TOKYO IN 2 DAYS: Sample Itinerary and Budget, Cebu Pacific Launches JUAN EFFECT Sustainable Travel Campaign in Siargao, Traveling to the Philippines: How to Get eTRAVEL QR CODE Online (Arrival Card), Top 35 BANGKOK Things to Do & Places to Visit. Fall in Love With the Island Life in Siargao. When we went to have a beach vacation at Siargao, it was indeed a relaxing vacation. The location is a 45-minute drive from General Luna. It is one of the top activities around Siargao Island for adrenaline seekers, but visitors of all kinds are sure to have an enjoyable experience here. The Siargao Circumferential Road will treat you to a very picturesque drive, leading you to different tourist sites on the island. Once you arrive at the beach, you will be amazed by the picture-perfect postcard setting. So, timing is everything. Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines. Riding on a motorcycle through palm trees and coming up on this gorgeous surfing beach will make you feel like you're in a road-trip movie. This renowned tourist stop is located on the eastern side of Bucas Grande Island, which lies to the southwest of Siargao Island. It is also the perfect place to escape the blazing sun as it is in a forested area. Island Hopping: Naked Island, Daku Island & Guyam Island. Shaka Cafe in Siargao is the go-to place for instagrammable healthy food choices such as fruit bowls and cold-pressed juices. The jumping-off point is the town of Del Carmen, which is about a two-hour drive from General Luna. On the way to attractions like Pacifico Beach, Magpupungko Rock Pool, and Tayangbang Cave Pool, you'll drive by a picturesque road lined with elegant and tall coconut trees. 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 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. SEA movement is an environmental NGO based in General Luna. 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. Recommendation: Siargao should continue to promote sustainable tourism practices, such as encouraging visitors to use eco-friendly products and services, and to reduce their carbon footprint. The water in the pools is bright blue and incredibly clear, making it a popular spot to take a swim and go snorkeling.