It is best to allot one whole day for an island-hopping tour that will take you to Siargao's so-called the big three: Daku, Naked, and Guyam. Climb up on the tree, grab the rope, take the epic swing, let go and plunge into the calm waters of Massin river. Though it's a small island, it's packed with awide variety of activities and attractions to enjoy along with itslaidback island vibe. Just rent a boat from Cloud 9, and you will be able to get to this underwater cathedral. But fresh fish and other seafood are available and you can have the locals cook for you. Asta is the Managing Editor at PhilippineBeaches.org and a regular contributor to The Poor Traveler. For the touristy towns of General Luna, Del Carmen, and Soccoro, measures are being taken to lessen the impact of rising tourism-related activities on the island. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor Aside from its world-class swells, Cloud 9 attracts crowds as it is easily accessible and has a beautiful, picturesque boardwalk. I was a member of the U.P. That adds another layer to the already many reasons to visit the island. Surf Cloud 9's World Famous Waves Cloud 9 is Siargao's most popular surfing spot. Even if you are not a surfer or not quite up to the skill level it takes to tackle Cloud 9, it is still highly recommended that you come and take a stroll along the boardwalk. This time there is nothing on the island,no trees, no shade and plenty of sand. It has two distinct sides: one side is rocky with strong currents, while the sandy side is more serene. As the Managing Director of the company, Im leading the direction of the brand to do two things: to protect the ocean and to surf epic waves. As the name suggests, Naked Island is, well, naked! It is primarily a fishing village with cottages lined up along the coast. If you still have the energy for dancing, socializing, and drinking with other travelers, parties usually happen at Jungle Disco, Viento, Bravo, and RumBar. I only stop when its time to surf, eat, or sleep. The resort offers yoga classes twice a day. Warm safe. See all tours. Your guide will tell you where it is safe to land. 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How to Get There: You can join a group tour, hire a habal-habal or rent a motorcycle and drive to Pilar. ACTIVITIES : ISLAND HOPPING : Guyam Island, Daku Island & Naked Island; SURFING : Cloud 9, Quicksilver, Tuazon Point, Jacking Horse, Daku Break; POOL JUMPING AT . A one-hour drive from General Luna, Pacifico Beach is located on the north-eastern side of the island. The Philippines is a nature lovers haven with its countless breathtaking beaches, beautiful countryside attractions, and incredible diving spots scattered across the 7,000+ islands in the country. Best enjoyed during the low tide, Magpupungko Rock Pools is another attraction you shouldn't leave out of your Siargao day tour. We visited the main town of General Luna when we were in Siargao. It is my place to go to shed close to the beach and have nice ocean cold breeze and have a cold drink. Pool closed due to land ownership dispute. These unique tidal pools are also perfect picture-taking spots, courtesy to its one of a kind pool and rock formations. What is your why - why you do what you do? Surfing and skating with the big and small groms (kids who surf). Heading to the northern portion of the island, you will arrive at a very conspicuous red bridge. Activities here include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, platform diving, snorkeling, or just lounging under the sun. You can rent a car or motorbike. Make your way through the palm forest to the top of the highest hill to take in some truly spectacular views. Avery romantic place for couples. Siargao is alsopopular for island hopping in the Philippines. Fall in Love With the Island Life in Siargao. The other two islands are Daku Island and Guyam Island, which along with Naked Island, make up the highly-recommended island hopping tour in Siargao. The normal boat rate is P1600 for six people. The water in the pools is bright blue and incredibly clear, making it a popular spot to take a swim and go snorkeling. Mangroves shore up Siargao's ecosystems - Manila Standard This humble eatery has a very casual street vibe, so don't expect a posh set-up. Siargao island has many other activites and attractions to offer. Thanks to easily accessible Manila to Siargao flights, the island has turned into one of the most visited spots in the Philippines, but Siargao hasn't lost its laid-back island vibe. Note: Jellyfish season starts in March, but you will witness the highest concentration of jellyfish during the months of July and August. Thousands of palm trees spread out before you with deep green hills in the background. After you milk the Zen-ambiance of the place, flex your adventurous spirit by jumping into the water from an adjacent cliff. The tour is also accompanied by a satisfying lunch banquet. GENERAL LUNA, SIARGAO (MindaNews / 07 January) The mayor of the country's surfing capital has ordered the temporary closure of Mad Monkey Siargao, operated by Asia's largest hostel chain, Mad Monkey, for alleged deliberate and gross violation of environmental laws. Volunteer | UServeUtah Cimatu said based on data from DENR-Caraga, out of 148 businesses in Siargao Island, 49 establishments were given notices of violation of either the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act or the Environmental Impact Statement System. A tour here will also take you deep into the coconut trees for some additional ogling at beautiful nature and of course, more instagrammable photographs. January precipitation in Utah was well above normal at 196%, making it one of the best winters in the past 20 years! The accommodation is nice and is air-conditioned, you can choose what cottage you will get because they have a cottage for small family and bigger family that could accommodate up to 15 pax. There are lots of hidden beach areas, go out there and explore! All Rights Reserved. Although it is not yet as famous as other dive spots in the Philippines, there are still places in Siargao where you can dive. You can also wait for the sunrise here as surfers catch the early morning swells and/or savor the moment as you think of nothing else but the beautiful spectacle that is sunset. It is also more accessible now more than ever, welcoming about 12 flights daily from Manila, Cebu, and Clark. If you're planning to visit other areas in the country, check out our list of accommodations in the Philippines. 40 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN SIARGAO #1 Enjoy the best Siargao Surf spots! Just be sure to ask them where the safe spots are to make the jump. There are also some sections of deeper water, but ropes and bamboo make the cave easy to traverse and navigate. Cottage rental: P250. You can go 2 hours before the low tide to avoid the crowds. In the recent staging of Shore It Up in July, the program conducted its educational component, the Junior Environmental Scouts (JES) for 80 school children to heighten public opinion against illegal marine activities. Naked Island, a 200-meter long strip of sand in the middle of the Pacific is completely bare, except for a few shells ushered in by the waves. We brought our snorkeling gear and were impressed by the structures and the variety of fishes for such a difficult environment (needle fish, parrot fish, eels, anemone fish, etc.). Joining an island-hopping escapadein Siargao should be on top of your list. Once you reach the red Maasin Bridge, you know you're near. Other than mimicking Tarzan and Jane, most visitors spend a cozy morning here paddling up and down the river by boat. Some tour operators combine Sohoton Cove with the 3 Islands Tour! Theres a rope attached to the tree where you can swing back and forth from and, maybe, let go and plunge into the river. I'd go as far to say this was one of my favourite island hopping tours and experiences in all of the Philippines. Try some traditional Filipino dishes or opt for restaurants serving more western fair. This is one of the most unique experiences offered on the island and is a great choice for those seeking some extra excitement. We also did experience the high tide and the low tide in the surfing beach site and when it's low tide, it's a low tide that the corals are visible and the water is only up to your ankle. Their smoothie bowls are a great way to cool off after a hot day on the beaches of Siargao. The best time to come is around sunrise or sunset. It is located on the northwestern portion of the island. The MPA also includes a no-take zone, which prohibits fishing and other activities that could damage the coral reefs. If things go well, the livelihood project and SEAM the brand can power this growing group and continue making environmental projects on the island. Aside from surfing, one of the most photographed and iconic Siargao experience is the curved coconut rope swing in Maasin River. With warm sunlight, gentle waves beneath your feet, and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, Siargao has an inexplicable charm that will surely win your heart. Photos by Gallery by Chele (left) and Lore Manila (right) If you want to experience the local culture in the Philippines, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in it is to try different kinds of f Best Palawan Guide: Top Tours, Where to Stay, How to Get Around, 20 Most Beautiful Sandbars in the Philippines: White Sand, Longest, Vanishing, 15 Best Tropical Bali-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Siargao, Cebu, Bohol, 10 Best Treehouse Resorts in the Philippines for a Scenic Getaway at Mountains, Beaches & Rivers, 11 Best Santorini-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Vigan, Top 18 Tourist Spots in Siargao Island: Surfing, Beaches, Islands, Lagoons, Top 10 Marinduque Tourist Spots: Beaches, Islands, Caves, Nature Parks, Must-Try Tasting Menu in Manila & Nearby: Degustation Restaurants, Siargao travel guide for COVID-19 travel requirements, See our popular Siargao Vacation Packages, See our popular Siargao Island Hopping Tours, Siargao package deals with hotel and airfare. per adult. Guyam Island is a place you will never want to leave. Your guide will take you through a crack in a rock formation leading to Tayangban Cave Pool and down into the waist-deep water. To fuel my wanderlust, I moved to Davao after UP Diliman days and worked as a river rafting guide and photographer. My typical day is waking up before 5AM to surf. (If youre on a group tour, this is already included in the package.). Check out our article on the best beachfront resorts in Siargao and explore Siargao tours and activities now to experience this paradise like no other! She's also a mountaineer, production designer, and cineaste. This paradise is better on the low tide. It gets too crowded at times. Ltd. All Rights Reserved Experience the ultimate island life in Palawan, the Last Frontier of the Philippines. Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines. Despite its popularity in the global surfing scene, Siargaohas a lot more to offer. Try to visit the place early in the morning so you can have the place to yourself. Smart supports Siargao Island's bid to protect the environment Each island offers something unique and seeing them one after another is a wonderful experience. The surf line is well offshore and you can walk in the shallows between the surf and the beach. Located in the town of Soccoro in Surigao del Norte, Bucas Grande is a separate group of islands from Siargao. Just remember to layer on sunscreen so youll only get healthy glowing natural bronze without the sunburn. The scenic drive will take you inland through the mountains and down to the coast again. Go snorkeling or relish the stunningly clear water for a swim. There is a hidden blue lagoon down the Maasin River. Only a 15-minute drive from General Luna, this hidden gem can maintain its seclusion because there is no concrete road that leads up to it. Take note though that this is advanced divers only. If you're not sure about it, just watch the local kids how they do it. Located in Bucas Grande Island and only a one-hour boat trip from Dapa port in Siargao, this place is truly a hidden paradise. While Mama's Grill may not be a fancy restaurant, the food certainly will not disappoint you. This locally-owned and family-operated joint serve one of the best barbecue in Siargao. Concealed by the stunning islets scattered off the coast of Del Carmen in Siargao, is a gem of a nature spot whereone would enjoy spending a few hours of unperturbed nature-tripping. Being in nature strengthens my bond with the environment. 15 AMAZING Things To Do In Siargao - Jonny Melon Reef Beach Resort 9. You can go on a day trip with friends to Corregidor and bond over activities such as picnic by the beach, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Visitors can kayak to the area and gently touch the adorable gelatinous residents of Bucas Grande. Spread all over the islands are charming seaside towns adjacent to picturesque beaches where one can quench their thirst for a beach fix. Thats your landmark for the bent coconut tree. Nice small village between Magpupungko Lagoons and Rock Formations and Pacifico surfing beaches. Soak up the sun and get that perfect tan. The water is about 6-foot deep. Tucked away in the north-eastern coastline of Siargao, it is approximately a 1-hour drive away from the center. Make a short stop on the side of the road to appreciate the lush coco paradise that seems endless as it sprawls across the island! If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The most iconic "landmark" of Sugba lagoon is the wooden diving board rigged from coco lumber. The top diving spot in Siargao, however, is the blue Cathedral. Locals that we met very friendly. I recently wanted to progress with surfing - mainly be able to learn proper technique, master the. If you want to get away from the noise in GL, visiting the north of Siargao is a must. A very good swimming and beach option with lovely white sand and clear waters.. You will ride their boat with their guide who will narrate to you the history and all. Because of Mama's Grill's popularity, the place is usually always full. I spend one weekday and Saturdays for S.E.A. Or you can simply walk-in. EIN for organizations is sometimes also referred to as taxpayer identification number (TIN) or FEIN or simply IRS Number. Island Hopping: Naked Island, Daku Island & Guyam Island. Tours typically include pick-up, drop-off, and a provided lunch. Smiling ladies with a small box will greet you and cheerfully let you know theres a fee once you set foot on the island. Santa Monica Pier is a roughly hour-and-twenty-minute drive from General Luna. Describing it already sounds fantastic but wait untilyou experience the actual tour. The pier extends far over the ocean water below and, as it faces west, it is an amazing place from where to watch the sun dip below the horizon in the evening. It is ideal to go here during sunrise to get a jaw-dropping view of the sunrise-kissed mountains. Swim in the sparkling waters of Naked Island, lounge in the shallows, and can work up a beautiful tan. how to get around, and the best things to see and do there in this article. We loved it! It offers technical surf breaks for advanced surfers and is perfect for people who want to veer away from the crowded Cloud 9. Aside from Naked Island, there's Guyam Island. Have fun exploring on foot and make sure you spend some time in the water as well. Boat Tour Rates: P3000 P3500 (Sohoton Cove Tour Only, good for 5 pax); P4000 (Sohoton + Three-Island Tour, good for 5 pax), Other Fees: P500 (smaller boat to Sohoton Cove) P50 (entrance fee); P50 (environmental fee); P350 (tour guide); P100 (docking fee per boat). It is a quintessential tropical paradise that inspires you to sit back for a minute and enjoy some refreshing coconut water. Another popular attraction on the island is Sugba Lagoon. Cloud 9 tours are popular as it'sthe favorite venue to showcase the talents of local and international surfers during the annual International Surfing competition, which usually held in late September or early October. Thanks to its majestic landscape of rolling hills dotted with palm trees (likened to Batanes), white sandy shores, and glistening surrounding turquoise waters, it's a perfect tour to enjoy a secluded beach bumming experience, achieve tan-colored skin, and bond with friends while devouring a sumptuous picnic meal under the sun. Sugba Lagoon is a gem tucked away in the quiet town of Del Carmen in Siargao. Activity 1: Construct a planning and management measure chart by per adult. It is also a fantastic spot to go snorkeling, and there is a diving platform as well. So, timing is everything. It is a wonderful place to shop for handcrafted and all-natural products as well. While a lot of surfers flock here, the beach usually isnt very crowded, and youll easily be able to claim your own spot in the sand. Dont worry; they are all of the non-stinging variety! This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Daku Island is a truly gorgeous sight, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and full of palms. Recommendation: Siargao should continue to promote sustainable tourism practices, such as encouraging visitors to use eco-friendly products and services, and to reduce their carbon footprint. Other popular surf spots include; Quicksilver which is considered as the little brother of Cloud 9, Jacking Horse, Cemetery Pesangan Right, Dako Surf Break, Pacifico Beach, Tuason Left, Tuason Right, Stimpies and Rock Island. The drive up takes you through the islands interior before following the coast the rest of the way. Once you arrive at the beach, you will be amazed by the picture-perfect postcard setting. Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines,"the island boasts some of the most influential surf breaks in the world. The cave pools, also known as the Kantoloi Twin Cenotes, go as deep as over 100 meters. This renowned tourist stop is located on the eastern side of Bucas Grande Island, which lies to the southwest of Siargao Island. You will find a range of different eateries, including cafes, bars, and restaurants, serving a wide variety of both local and international cuisine. Aptly translated from its Philippine-Spanish name as "largemouth", the island of Bucas Grande situates on the other part of Siargao in the municipality of Socorro. It has a calm and casual atmosphere and doesnt usually see many tourists, so it feels much more secluded than other beaches on the island. Listen to the sound of the waves as you soak up the sun. #SeatizenSunday: Marja Abad, Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement, Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. Photos byTreehouse de Valentine/Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa IMPORTANT:The properties featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. Living in Siargao gave birth to S.E.A Movement. The island had been under-the-radar and is only known to surfers until the early 2010s. The town of General Luna has the most number of commercial establishments on the island resorts, restaurants, cafs, and bars. Swing in Maasins Bent Coconut Tree Rope, 18. If youre solo or you dont want to plan anything, you can join a group tour instead! It comes as no surprise since Siargao has several pristine islets that are every beach lover's dream. Have lunch here on your island tour of siargao. A nice place for anyone wanting peace and quiet. If youre not sure what island youre in, the large letters spelling GUYAM might be a nice indicator. Not a real snorkeling or swimming area. Besides helping the local economy by purchasing things and availing of services, you can also help to preserve the natural resources of the destination for the future generation. Siargao is famous, locally and internationally, for the cloud 9 waves; however, for those who don't surf or are done surfing, there are other things to do. As Siargao Island has become a more popular tourist spot, its culinary scene has grown accordingly to accommodate the tastes and preferences of tourists. Plan out your itinerary with this ultimate list of the best things to do in Siargao. Continue your off-island adventures and lagoon explorations by booking a tour to Sohoton Cove. A surfing competition sponsored by the government of Surigao del Norte is held here every year. 2,547.82. Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour. But if you want to catch the ocean in its best surfing conditions, visit from September to December. Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. The booming tourism industry has a positive effect on the economy and livelihood of the people by opening business and job opportunities, but it also has a negative impact. You will pass by local eateries before you reach the beach and rock pools. Since its free labor, I just rely on the volunteers availability and donors donations. Alegria Beach's tranquil vibe, fine white sand, salty sea breeze, and crystal clear water is sure to refresh any weary traveler. These natural pools are created from water left behind in a coastal rock formation when the ocean retreats at low tide. On weekdays, Im usually in the office 9:30am-4pm for my day job at Kudo. To cope with this, we hired an executive assistant and interns (BS Environmental Science graduates) who are helping me with my SEAM projects. SEA Movement - Home - Facebook About 1 hour from gen. Luna. Aside from the fruit smoothie bowls, they offer a wide selection of filling fruit shakes and other vegan snacks. check it out early in the morning. It's along the Maasin Enchanted River in Brgy. 7. from. SEA movement organises beach clean up on a regular basis, inviting locals as well as tourists to participate. Aside from just surfing. Instead, there is only a dirt path through a coconut forest. I love everything Im doing for S.E.A. Surrounded by fine greens of trees and other shrubberies, the calm waters in Sugba Lagoon instantly projects a charming secluded setting. We stayed in a resort nearby where the beach was 50 meters away. If you feel like ramping up your adventures in Siargao, then you must experience the Tayangban Cave Pool tour. Both jobs are making me very busy, checking emails, leading the team, planning and executing projects. Best of all, though there will likely be other tourists there, it isnt usually overly crowded, and the lagoon is plenty big enough to enjoy your own private corner of it. There are nearby spots for surfing in Siargaohere that are excellent for beginners to intermediate levels. The 3-storey wooden hut that sits on the reef overlooking the wave is an epic spot and one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset.