About most holiday destinations in the world, it can be said that at some point, tourists will say the phrase “I’ve been, I’ve seen, I’ve done it.” But it’s not the case when it comes to the 7,107 islands of the Philippines, or specifically, the island of Siargao. A unique island boasting its own beauty and enchanting characteristics that keep people coming back again and again!

People continue to return to Siargao because it always seems like there are still places they haven’t seen, and they are absolutely right. The island offers much more than just surfing and lounging on the beach. Many travelers who have been to Siargao at least once can attest to the island’s irresistible charm and how it never loses its magic, no matter how many times they visit.

This guide is intended for those who have not yet seen Siargao in all its natural glory and for those who have been here and want to learn more about what the island has to offer them.

Seasons in the Philippines – When is the best time to visit?

Siargao has become a synonymous name for a surfing site, and there’s no doubt about why. The waves in Siargao are not too overwhelming to scare off beginner surfers, yet they are not too mellow for experienced surfers who’ve been challenging the Pacific waves for many years. The experience itself varies from time to time but is always exciting.

When visiting Siargao, consider staying at less conventional lodging options. Surf camps and resorts for surfers are becoming more and more popular in this part of the Philippines, as tourists like to experience the surfing culture beyond the sea territory.

One of the reasons to stay at a surf camp is that you never know who you’ll meet. For example, Kermit Surf Resort is one of the best places to stay when visiting Siargao. It’s an excellent resort, but tourists don’t flock there just for the excellent room service or elegant rooms. The real reason is Gianni, the charming Italian manager of the resort.

When the resort is full, the next option is Pesangan Surf Camp, a much quieter and somewhat isolated place. It’s a newer resort and slightly cheaper.

For couples coming to Siargao for their honeymoon or just for an intimate vacation, there are romantic beachfront villas. Prices range from 2,300 to 2,700 pesos. Even solo travelers book these villas just to enjoy the fantastic view.

Honeymoon in the Philippines – The Perfect Choice.

Surfing Spots You Must Try:

There is a reason why this site is called “Cloud Nine” and why people from all over the world come here just to ride the waves. The waves are challenging and fantastic at the same time, but the difficulty level is suitable for advanced surfers or at least those with some experience. If you are new to surfing, it’s advisable to watch the professionals and get tips from them. The site can get very crowded, so it’s recommended to secure a good vantage point well in advance.

In this part of Siargao, you can find stable waves that are also quite forgiving and manageable. They are suitable for both experienced surfers and newcomers who can successfully handle the waves in this area. It’s a good place to start if you don’t want others to see you during your initial attempts at surfing. The location is somewhat remote, making it ideal for anyone looking to connect with nature.

When you feel quite confident about your surfing skills, this is the place where you can put them to the test. This site is considered one of the best remaining spots on the island and is highly recommended, especially during the swell season. The reef can be somewhat unstable due to scattered sections, so it’s advisable for beginner surfers to stay away from this area. The waves here are also not suitable for novice surfers. It’s crucial to have a strong grip before choosing to surf at this spot.

No, folks, this isn’t a nudist beach. The only naked creature you’ll encounter here is the sun. The island got its name for reasons unrelated to nudity. There are no permanent structures or tree-lined avenues to define it. It’s simply a strip of beach that stretches into eternity, making the Naked Island perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

If you want to get a tan without being bothered by crowds and too many comings and goings, this is the perfect spot to visit. A good 30 seconds of sunbathing under Siargao’s sun will do the trick, and you’ll have a tan that lasts throughout your vacation.

Hidden between two smaller islands, this larger island is primarily inhabited by fishermen. Its long, heart-shaped coastline is adorned with coconut trees and huts that also serve as basic lodging. If you establish friendly relations with the local fishermen, there’s a good chance they’ll invite you to enjoy a lunch or evening meal of fresh fish and seafood.

This is undoubtedly the least inhabited island in the area and is perfect for those who want to swim or simply lounge on the beach for hours with a good book and a refreshing drink. It’s a rather small island, but few tourists visit it, so you can enjoy some quality time on your own if you wish and bask in the beautiful white sandy beach.

Siargao is located within the jurisdiction of the third-largest and southernmost island in the Philippines, Mindanao. It is known for being home to some of the most delicious fruits and freshest seafood. If you get tired of surfing (for now) and need to recharge, you may want to try some of the local fruits. Here are some of the things you must try during your stay in Siargao.

Mango – If you are from outside Southeast Asia, you may have never tasted the flavor of Filipino mangoes. They are bright yellow when fully ripe and have a sweet taste (with a very subtle hint of tartness depending on their ripeness) that is exceptionally delicious. Many locals enjoy them as part of their daily diet, but you can also mix them with other tropical fruits. Restaurants on Siargao typically include mango in their menus throughout the year, but its flavor is especially exquisite during the summer.

Durian – Think of some of the best cheeses in the world: they may have a strong odor but taste heavenly. The same goes for durian, an exotic fruit that grows in the forests of Mindanao. When you adapt to its smell and texture, it becomes irresistibly appetizing. You can eat durian as it is or in sweet treats. Some people can’t stand the pungent odor and the fruit’s custard-like texture, so they prefer to enjoy it as a dessert.

Italian food – Yes, you read that right. Your visit to Siargao should include at least one meal at Kermit’s restaurant, owned by the same guy who runs the surf camp. The pizza served here is considered a delicacy for both locals and foreign tourists due to its wonderful and authentic flavor. A meal at Kermit’s is a genuine Sicilian experience.

Sugba Lagoon: This is one of those places you visit and just want to keep gazing at forever. The lagoon itself is breathtaking, but the views along the way are simply too marvelous to pass up. The limestone cliffs and mangrove trees are pieces of paradise left untouched by modern life.

Magpopongko Rock Pools: If you prefer to stay active while enjoying all the natural beauty Siargao has to offer, this is an excellent place to snorkel for hours. If you have kids (or if you’re a kid at heart), cliff jumping is another fun activity you can do in the rock pools. The water is fantastic, especially in the cooler morning and late afternoon hours when it’s not too cold for swimming.

Fishing: If you’re a big fan of fishing, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find some of the largest tuna and marlin in the Philippines’ waters near Siargao. Fishing is regulated, but you’ll surely enjoy every moment trying to catch one of those giant fish.

Biking: Sports and exploration don’t have to be separate things when you visit Siargao. For around 200 pesos, you can rent bikes for the whole day and get lost in the biking trails. You’ll likely come across even more beautiful sights as you ride, so consider bringing along some friends to enjoy the adventure together. Even young children can have fun with this mode of exploration. Just make sure not to stray too far so you can find your way back. In any case, you can always ask the locals for help.

Jungle Disco: While Siargao may not offer the wild nightlife that some foreign tourists seek, it does offer lively and fun-filled parties with plenty of alcohol and adrenaline. As soon as the sun sets, the Jungle around General Luna turns into a happening spot where you can drink and dance to great music with friends and family.

Bukas Grande Island: For those who love jellyfish and are not too thrilled about getting stung, this is a great place to visit. You can find hundreds, if not thousands, of different jellyfish species on this island and observe them up close.

• Siargao is not an expensive destination, but make sure to bring enough local currency, as there are very few ATMs and not all places accept cards.
• Before booking accommodations, make sure you know which sites and places you want to visit. Siargao offers so many activities that the multitude of choices can be overwhelming. If you’re into surfing, check out the three best surf camps and resorts that cater to surfers.
• Don’t expect high-end accommodations in Siargao. There are perhaps only two relatively high-end resorts on the island, so if you value staying in quality hotels and money is not an issue, you’re in luck. However, during the peak season, if you haven’t booked in advance, you may have to settle for more basic places.
• Crime in Siargao is almost non-existent. However, it’s advisable not to bring valuable items with you, if possible. If you have an expensive camera, it’s a good idea to hang it around your neck to keep it close to you.
• It’s recommended to move from one place to another and book accommodations for one or two nights at each place if you plan to explore the island thoroughly. There are plenty of places to stay where your main goal is to see as much as possible without worrying about hotel availability.Siargao may not offer a wide selection of luxury hotels and massive beachfront bars, but it compensates with natural beauty, cleanliness, and warm, heartfelt hospitality. A simple place is highly recommended for your visit.