Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
18/08/2025
Mary Polczynski, Pexels
Siargao Island is widely recognized as the Philippines' premier surfing destination, offering world-class waves for all skill levels. Beyond its famed surf breaks, it presents a blend of serene natural beauty, including pristine beaches, tranquil lagoons, and captivating rock pools, alongside a vibrant and social atmosphere.
General Luna serves as the central hub for social interaction, particularly along Tourism Road, where a diverse array of restaurants, cafes, and bars cater to visitors. The island fosters a strong community feel, making it easy for travelers, including backpackers and digital nomads, to connect, with hostels like Mad Monkey and surf camps often serving as social hotspots. Nightlife is lively, with designated party locations each evening.
Top 7 Things to do in Siargao Island
The island invites visitors to explore its unique natural attractions, from world-renowned surf breaks to hidden lagoons and tidal pools, alongside vibrant island-hopping adventures and scenic inland excursions.
1. Surfing at Cloud 9
Experiencing the world-renowned surf break at Cloud 9 is a quintessential Siargao activity. Even if one does not surf, the iconic boardwalk offers an excellent vantage point to witness skilled surfers ride the powerful waves, particularly at sunset. For those new to surfing, local instructors are readily available to provide lessons, making it accessible for beginners to catch their first wave. Renting a board is also an option for more experienced individuals.
Cost: Surfboard rental is typically under PHP 550 per day (around $10 USD). Lessons with an instructor can be obtained for not much more than the board rental fee.
Transport: Cloud 9 is located in General Luna, the main tourist hub, and is often within walking or short tricycle distance from most accommodations. Motorbike rentals are widely available in General Luna for around PHP 300-400 per day.
2. Island Hopping: Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands
Embarking on a 'Tri-Island Tour' to Naked, Daku, and Guyam Islands is a highly recommended full-day excursion. Naked Island is a pristine sandbar completely devoid of vegetation, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Daku Island, the largest of the trio, offers a relaxing setting with a white-sand beach and the opportunity for a fresh seafood lunch. Guyam Island is a small, tear-drop shaped islet with scattered trees and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for unwinding.
Cost: A group tour typically costs around PHP 1,500 - 2,000 per boat (for up to 6 people) for the boat rental, plus an additional entrance fee of around PHP 400 per person to the islands. This often includes a BBQ beach lunch. DIY by hiring a boat can range from PHP 1,500-2,000 for the boat, excluding individual island fees and lunch.
Transport: Tours typically depart from General Luna pier, a central point easily accessible by tricycle or rented motorbike from most accommodations.
3. Magpupungko Rock Pools
Visiting the Magpupungko Rock Pools provides a unique natural experience, accessible only during low tide when a network of jewel-toned saltwater pools and impressive rock formations are revealed. These tidal pools are deep enough for swimming and even offer opportunities for cliff jumping for the adventurous. It is advisable to wear reef shoes for protection against the rocky surfaces. The area also features a white-sand beach.
Cost: Entrance fee is PHP 50-60 per person, with an additional motorbike parking fee of PHP 20-25.
Transport: Located in Pilar, about a 45-minute to one-hour drive from General Luna. The easiest way to reach them is by renting a scooter (PHP 350-400 per day) and following the main circumferential road. Alternatively, joining a guided land tour is an option.
4. Sugba Lagoon
A serene turquoise lagoon nestled within a vast mangrove forest, Sugba Lagoon is a highlight for nature lovers. Visitors typically reach the lagoon via a scenic boat ride through the mangroves. Once there, activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, and jumping from a diving board into the clear waters. The duration of stay at the lagoon is often limited to 3 hours to manage crowds.
Cost: Boat rental for Sugba Lagoon (up to 6 people) can range from PHP 2,150 to PHP 2,700, plus an entrance fee of PHP 50 (local) / PHP 100 (foreigner) and a terminal fee of PHP 20. Organized land tours that include Sugba Lagoon may cost around PHP 1,800 per person and cover transfers and other destinations.
Transport: Sugba Lagoon is accessed from Del Carmen harbor, approximately a 45-minute drive from General Luna. Renting a scooter (around PHP 350 per day) is a popular self-serve option. Tricycles or private vans can also be hired.
5. Tayangban Cave Pool
Embarking on an adventurous journey through Tayangban Cave Pool offers a thrilling experience. This water-filled cave system involves wading through dark, narrow passages, often with bats overhead, guided only by headlamps. The adventure culminates in an open natural pool with a jumping platform and a rope swing, providing a refreshing reward after the underground trek. Visitors should be prepared to get wet.
Cost: The entrance fee is typically PHP 70-160 per person, with a mandatory guide fee of PHP 100-200.
Transport: Located in Pilar, about a 30-minute motorbike ride from General Luna. It's often combined with visits to Magpupungko Rock Pools and the Coconut Mountain View as they are in the same direction. Motorbike rental is the most common way to get there (PHP 300-400 per day).
6. Sohoton Cove National Park
A day trip to Sohoton Cove National Park offers an enchanting encounter with unique limestone formations, hidden lagoons, and a non-sting jellyfish sanctuary (seasonal). Exploring the cove involves navigating through mystical caves like Hagukan Cave, known for its bioluminescent water, and Magkukuob Cave, which features a cliff diving spot. This destination provides a distinct blend of adventure and natural wonder, showcasing Siargao's diverse ecosystems.
Cost: An organized tour combining Sohoton Cove and island hopping is around PHP 2,000 per person, including entry fees and lunch. A private boat to Sohoton Cove alone can cost around PHP 3,000-4,000 (for up to 6 people), excluding individual entrance fees (around PHP 800 per person for Sohoton Cove, which includes permit, environmental fee, and boat fees within the sanctuary).
Transport: Sohoton Cove is a significant day trip from Siargao, requiring a 2-3 hour boat journey from General Luna or Dapa Port. Tours often include transfers from General Luna to the jump-off point.
7. Coconut Mountain View
The Coconut Mountain View offers a breathtaking panoramic vista of countless coconut palm trees stretching endlessly across the landscape, reaching towards the mountains. This iconic viewpoint provides a picturesque backdrop for memorable photographs and allows visitors to appreciate the island's lush, green interior. It's a quick and easy stop that highlights the island's natural abundance.
Cost: There is generally no entrance fee for the Coconut Mountain View itself, though small local vendors may sell snacks or souvenirs.
Transport: Located along the Siargao Circumferential Road, approximately a 25-minute to 45-minute drive from General Luna, depending on the exact viewpoint chosen. It is easily accessible by rented motorbike and often part of a self-guided land tour or organized island land tour.
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