The Scenic Siargao, Philippines

I made it! My dream of visiting Siargao - the Surfing Capital of the Philippines finally happened and I just can't get over it!

Siargao is a beautiful island located in the Philippine province of Surigao del Norte. It's known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and world-class surf breaks. If you're looking for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation, Siargao should definitely be on your list.

HOW TO GET TO SIARGAO FROM MANILA

Located 762 away from Manila, traveling to Siargao by plane will take you almost 3 hours. Airlines such as Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly to Siargao regularly. Prices of flights vary on which airline you chose.

GOING TO SIARGAO FROM THE AIRPORT

The airport in Siargao is located in the town of Del Carmen, which is about a 40-minute drive from the center of Siargao. The best option for getting to the center of Siargao from the airport is through a tourist van. If you're staying at a hotel or resort, they may also offer shuttle services from the airport.

From Sayak Airport (Siargao Airport)

GETTING AROUND SIARGAO

The best way to travel around the island is by motorbike. You can hire motorbikes for only

300 - 450 PHP. Some shops may require you to show your driver's license.

If you don't know how to drive motorbikes you may ride "tricycles" which cost 30php/trip.

CURRENCY

Establishments in Siargao accept Philippine peso currency only. You may exchange your money at the airport in Manila. You can also withdraw money in some ATMs with debit cards, make sure that your card is allowed to do international transactions, and remember to inform your bank regarding this to avoid future problems.

Some business establishments also accept GCash or Maya as a mode of payment.

TOURIST SPOTS

Cloud 9 - Cloud 9 is a world-famous surf break located on the eastern coast of Siargao. It's known for its hollow, barreling waves that attract surfers from all over the world. There's also a boardwalk where you can watch the surfers and enjoy the beautiful view.

Magpupungko Rock Pools - The Magpupungko Rock Pools are a series of natural pools and rock formations located on the eastern coast of Siargao. During low tide, you can swim in the pools and explore the unique rock formations. There's also a nearby beach where you can relax and enjoy the sun.

Sugba Lagoon - Sugba Lagoon is a beautiful lagoon surrounded by lush greenery and towering limestone cliffs. You can rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the lagoon, or simply relax on one of the floating huts. There's also a nearby mangrove forest that you can explore.

Guyam Island - Guyam Island is a small island located off the coast of Siargao. It's known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can take a boat tour of the island and spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach.

Daku Island - Daku Island is another beautiful island located off the coast of Siargao. It's larger than Guyam Island and has more facilities, including restaurants and beach huts. You can take a boat tour of the island and spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Sohoton Cove - Sohoton Cove is a natural wonder located on the nearby island of Bucas Grande. It's a network of caves, lagoons, and rock formations that you can explore by boat. There's also a nearby jellyfish sanctuary where you can swim with non-stinging jellyfish.

Pacifico Beach - Pacifico Beach is a beautiful white sand beach located on the northeastern coast of Siargao. It's less developed than other beaches on the island, but it's known for its excellent surfing conditions and stunning scenery.

These are just some of the top tourist spots in Siargao. There are many other beautiful beaches, lagoons, and attractions waiting to be discovered on this tropical island.

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to visit some of the tourist destinations due to the weather. My tour guide canceled our activities for safety reasons.

ACTIVITIES

Surfing - Siargao is known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines" and is famous for its world-class surf breaks, including Cloud 9. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are plenty of spots to catch some waves.

Island hopping - Siargao is surrounded by beautiful islands and islets, such as Guyam Island, Daku Island, and Naked Island. You can take a boat tour to visit these islands, go snorkeling or diving, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches.

Swimming and sunbathing - Siargao has many beautiful beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun, such as General Luna Beach, Pacifico Beach, and Malinao Beach. Most beaches are also suitable for swimming, but always check the water conditions and safety guidelines before going in.

Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking - Many beaches and lagoons in Siargao are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking. You can rent equipment and explore the calm waters of Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools, or any of the nearby beaches.

Scuba diving and snorkeling - Siargao has several world-class dive sites, including the Blue Cathedral, the Manta Bowl, and the Shark Wall. You can also go snorkeling and explore the coral reefs and marine life around the islands.

Island trekking and exploring - Siargao has a lot of natural beauty to explore, including its lush forests, mangrove swamps, and rock formations. You can go trekking to see waterfalls, caves, and other hidden gems, or rent a motorcycle or bicycle and explore the island at your own pace.

Bar Hopping - If you're looking for a bit of nightlife, head to General Luna. This town has several bars and restaurants that cater to tourists, and it's a great place to meet other travelers.

These are just some of the many activities you can do in Siargao. With its natural beauty, friendly locals, and laid-back vibe, Siargao has something to offer for every type of traveler.

Overall, Siargao is an amazing destination for those looking for a tropical island getaway. With its beautiful beaches, world-class surf breaks, and friendly locals, it's sure to be an unforgettable vacation.

WHERE TO STAY IN SIARGAO

Siargao offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts. Whether you're looking for a cozy guesthouse, a private villa, or a stylish boutique hotel, you'll find plenty of options to choose from on the island.

Click here to read where I stayed in Siargao:

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