Siargao Travel Guide 2025: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Siargao is a lush, tear-shaped island located in the province of Surigao del Norte in Mindanao, Philippines. It’s best known for Cloud 9, a world-famous surfing spot, but there’s so much more here—turquoise lagoons, rock pools, palm-lined roads, and a tight-knit, eco-conscious community.

By Air

• Direct flights to Siargao (IAO) from Manila, Cebu, Clark, and Davao
• Budget tip: Look for promos on Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, or Sunlight Air

By Sea

• Fly to Surigao City → take a ferry to Dapa Port (1.5 to 3 hours)
• You can also take a bus or van or drive to Surigao City
• A good option if flights to Siargao are fully booked or expensive

💡 Tip: Fly in early to make the most of your day and book in advance during peak months.

Season

☀️ Dry Season: March-May -- clear skies, best for beach hopping and road trips

🌊 Surf Season: July-November -- surf season, consistent waves at all surf breaks

💧 Off-peak: December-February -- fewer crowds, rainy season, better deals

When choosing where to stay in Siargao, it helps to know the vibe of each area. General Luna (GL) is the most popular base for travelers—it’s where most restaurants, cafés, surf schools, and nightlife are located. Staying here puts you close to everything, making it ideal for first-timers and those who want to be in the heart of the action. If you're looking for a quieter, more laid-back experience, Malinao—just a few minutes’ drive from GL—offers a more serene setting with luxury resorts and beachfront villas, perfect for couples or anyone craving privacy. For those who want to completely disconnect, heading north of the island toward Pacifico or Burgos offers remote, scenic stays with fewer crowds, great surf, and a more local, off-the-beaten-path feel.

Siargao offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler and budget. Backpackers and budget travelers will find plenty of affordable hostels and guesthouses in General Luna, with options like dorm beds, fan rooms, and simple beach huts starting at around ₱500–₱800 per night. For those looking for a bit more comfort, mid-range hotels and boutique resorts offer stylish private rooms, air-conditioning, and amenities like pools or cafés, typically ranging from ₱3,000–₱5,000 per night. Travelers seeking a more exclusive experience can choose from Siargao’s high-end resorts, which offer beachfront villas, private pools, and curated experiences like yoga sessions or island tours. These luxury stays—including well-known names like Nay Palad and Bulan Villas—start at around ₱8,000 and can go well over ₱20,000 per night, catering to those who want to enjoy Siargao in style and seclusion. 

Looking for the best places to stay? Check out our full guide to Siargao accommodations here.

While Siargao is internationally known as the Philippines’ surfing capital, there’s so much more to explore beyond the waves. From crystal-clear lagoons to hidden cave pools and lush palm-lined rivers, Siargao offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler. Here are the top must-do activities on the island—no surfboard required:

Island Hopping

Naked Island, Daku Island, Guyam Island A trip to Siargao wouldn’t be complete without island hopping across these three iconic islets just off the coast of General Luna.

• Naked Island is a stretch of pure white sand surrounded by clear blue waters—minimalist and beautiful in its bareness.

• Daku Island is the biggest of the three and the best for a beachside lunch. You can rent a nipa hut, feast on grilled seafood, and even nap in a hammock under the trees.

• Guyam Island is picture-perfect with its ring of coconut trees and rocky tidepools—a great spot to end the day as the sun sets.

Explore Sugba Lagoon

Tucked in the mangroves of Del Carmen, Sugba Lagoon is a serene turquoise paradise ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply lounging on a floating dock. Adventurous travelers can leap off the famous diving board, while those craving stillness can paddle through calm waters flanked by lush limestone cliffs. It's about a 45-minute boat ride from General Luna, but absolutely worth the journey.

Magpupungko Rock Pools

These stunning natural saltwater pools reveal themselves only during low tide, creating a unique swimming and cliff-jumping spot in Pilar, about an hour’s ride from General Luna. Surrounded by fascinating rock formations and tide pools, Magpupungko is ideal for a refreshing dip and some impressive photo ops. Be sure to check tide charts before you go!

Palm Tree Road + Maasin River

Siargao’s most Instagrammed road, lined with towering coconut trees, leads to the scenic Maasin River—home of the iconic palm swing. Visitors can rent a bamboo raft, paddleboard down the peaceful river, or swing Tarzan-style into the water. It’s a laid-back yet memorable experience that shows off the island’s lush, jungle charm.

Sohoton Cove (Bucas Grande)

A day trip from Siargao, Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande is a breathtaking destination filled with hidden lagoons, mystical caves, and stingless jellyfish you can safely swim with. Guided tours take you through narrow rock passages and into emerald-green waters that feel otherworldly. This side trip takes a bit more planning, but the raw beauty of the cove makes it one of the most magical experiences in the area.

Tayangban Cave Pool

For thrill-seekers, Tayangban Cave Pool offers a mix of caving and wild swimming. You'll navigate through chest-deep water in dark, echoing caverns, eventually emerging into a cool open pool surrounded by dramatic limestone. It’s a short adventure—around 20–30 minutes—but one that combines adrenaline and natural beauty in equal measure.

🌴 Book your next activity with us here.

While Siargao is best known for its vibrant surfing community, the island also boasts a diverse food scene. From cozy cafés brewing specialty coffee to restaurants serving international flavors and Filipino favorites, Siargao has become a must-visit destination not only for thrill-seekers, but for food lovers as well.

Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast before a day of island-hopping, a wood-fired pizza after a surf session, or fresh seafood paired with sunset views, the island offers a wide range of dining experiences to suit every palate.

Here’s a curated list of must-try places to eat in Siargao, categorized by cuisine and craving—coffee, dessert, burgers, Asian food, and more.

👉 See the full guide to Siargao's best food spots here

The best way to explore Siargao is by motorbike, but there are several transport options available depending on your travel style and budget:

• Motorbike Rental – ₱350–₱500/day. The most flexible way to explore the island on your own.

• Tricycles – Ideal for short rides around General Luna. Fares usually range from ₱20–₱50.

• Habal-habal – Local motorcycle taxis you can flag down anywhere.

• Multicab Rental – Best for groups or island tours; prices vary by destination.

🛵  Tip: Bring a valid driver’s license and always wear a helmet—even for quick rides.

Siargao is beautiful—and fragile. Help keep it that way by following these eco-travel tips:

• ✅ Bring a refillable water bottle; many cafes offer refills

• ✅ Say no to single-use plastics

• ✅ Support local businesses—eat local, shop local, hire local guides

• ✅ Respect marine life—no stepping on coral or feeding fish

• ✅ Join or support beach cleanups (check with local orgs like SEA Movement)

• ✅ Stay at eco-conscious accommodations if possible

• Eat at carinderias or local BBQs for cheap and authentic meals

• Travel in a group for shared tours and transport

• Use cash—many places don’t accept cards, and ATMs are limited

💡 Daily budget for backpackers: ₱1,800–₱2,300/day (including food, bike, stay, and activity)

Q: Is Siargao safe for solo travelers? Yes, it’s one of the safest islands in the Philippines with a laid-back, welcoming vibe.

Q: Do I need to know how to surf to enjoy Siargao? Not at all! There’s plenty to do even if you never touch a surfboard.

Q: How many days should I stay? Minimum 4–5 days. A full week if you want to do it slow and right.

Siargao in 2025 is not just a surf trip—it’s an experience of community, nature, and slow island living. Whether you’re riding waves, paddling through lagoons, or watching the sunset with a cold beer in hand, Siargao is the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.