Life here follows a wonderfully simple rhythm—surf, eat, sleep, and repeat. Set far from the rush of modern life, this laid-back island has become synonymous with easygoing days, ocean swells, and a deep connection to nature.
Siargao lies on the eastern edge of the Philippine archipelago, its teardrop shape facing directly into the Pacific Ocean. This exposed position delivers powerful swells, making it one of Southeast Asia’s premier surfing destinations and home to the legendary Cloud 9 break.
Yet the island’s appeal extends well beyond surfing. Pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, coconut groves, and lush inland scenery create a tropical paradise for all kinds of travelers.
With its relaxed atmosphere, undeveloped landscapes, and natural beauty, Siargao offers an irresistible blend of adventure and tranquility—explaining why so many visitors find it hard to leave once they arrive.
Surf’s Up!
You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the swells of Siargao. While it’s famed for the world-class waves at Cloud 9, there are breaks for all abilities on the island. General Luna is the main town and hub and there are plenty of surf spots within a short drive from the centre of town.
Complete beginners can take lessons on the small waves and whitewash at spots such as Jacking Horse. As an intermediate surfer, my favourite breaks were Paradise Beach and Secret Beach. A boat ride away, Daku and Salvacion offer bigger waves for intermediate to advanced surfers, as well as less crowded line-ups.
Pro Tip: Most spots in Siargao are reef breaks, which means the waves are often glassy and mellow. However, the sharp reef can be dangerous. If you don’t know the spot, always seek advice from locals about areas to avoid.
Scoot Around the Island
Hire a scooter and take to the roads to discover some of Siargao’s beauty. The scenery is spectacular, especially the view from the Coconut Trees View Deck, where you can admire the blanket of coconut palms that stretch out into the distance.
There is a main road that circles the island giving awesome views of the rugged coastline and over the Pacific. If you reach the far north of the island, Taktak Falls, Siargao’s only waterfall, is a refreshing place to take a break.
Rock Pools and Cave Pools
The Magpupungko Rock Pools and Flats are best visited at low tide when the receding ocean exposes the pools of cool, clear water. Dive in and take a dip in this relaxing spot while enjoying amazing ocean views. These pools can be visited independently or as part of a tour.
In the centre of the island, the Tayangban Cave Pool waits to be discovered. Only accessible via a guided hike through a cave, this natural sinkhole is filled with cool blue water. A swim in the pool is your reward after the adventurous journey to get there.
Go Island Hopping
If you thought the beaches of Siargao were picture-perfect, wait until you see the desert island paradises of the islets just off the coast. Island hopping tours are a popular activity in Siargao and are perfect for exploring some of the best beaches the area has to offer. The three most popular islands, and the ones most tours will visit, are Guyam Island, Daku Island and Naked Island.
Guyam Island is little more than a tiny patch of powdery sand and a few dozen coconut palms. Daku Island is the perfect spot to stop off for lunch, which you can walk off afterwards with a stroll around the coastline.
Naked Beach is so named for the lack of vegetation rather than a lack of bathing suits! Sand, sand and more sand is all you will find on this speck of land, which is actually a sandbar rather than an island.
Kayak Down the River
Maasin River can be accessed from the small barangay (village) a few miles south of Tayangban Cave Pool. It was once known for a swing from which you could propel yourself into the water below. The swing no longer exists, but in its place, near the famous curved palm tree, is a platform that also serves as a good jumping-off point.
Kayak and bamboo-rafting tours are the best ways to experience the river. Enjoy flowing along with the current as you enjoy the tranquillity of the jungle surroundings.
Cool Off in the Springs
After so much island-hopping, surfing and diving in rock pools, you might fancy a swim in some fresh water for a change. If so, you should head to Bugak Spring or Beto Spring. Each is a short scooter ride from General Luna and located close together so you can visit both in one trip.
Bugak Spring is a shallow pool of clear, cool water and it’s the perfect spot for relaxing or enjoying a picnic. Beto Spring is the larger of the two. Here you can enjoy a refreshing swim or take a swing on the rope swing suspended from a tree overhanging the water.
Pro Tip: There are some very sharp rocks around the springs so make sure to wear water shoes.
Enjoy a Sundowner on the Bridge
Sunset is an event in Siargao and as the sun sinks lower in the sky locals and visitors gather on Catangnan-Cabitoonan Bridge (it’s even marked on Google Maps as Sunset Bridge!) to enjoy the spectacle and simply celebrate the end of another day in paradise.
Hawkers sell their wares, skateboarders ride up and down the street and groups of friends try to outdo each other as they dive from the bridge into the sea. Meeting friends here became something of an evening ritual during my time in Siargao.
Make sure you experience it for a sunset like no other. Buy a drink from one of the local vendors, sit back and enjoy the atmosphere – and of course the view!
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