Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines. 7. from. When I went back to Siargao for a visit, I met my current partner, James, and he offered me a job at, Be responsible tourists when visiting Siargao and responsible local residents by joining beach clean-ups, refusing single-use plastic, not littering, and opting for a plant-based diet. Go Canyoneering in Tayangban Cave Pool, 14. Data from the DENR-Caraga showed that out of 148 businesses in Siargao island, 49 establishments were found violating environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act or the Environmental Impact Statement System. If youre up for a swim, you can swim around the entire island with little effort! -Read, read, and read more about environmental issues and solutions, -Taking care of your health is taking care of the environment, Fun fact about the environment or a species that you think people should know. By working with the local community, they bring awareness and aim to stop plastic pollution in Siargao. Your day will begin with either an hour and a half boat ride from General Luna or an hour boat ride from Del Carmen, depending on where you chose to depart from. Theres so much to do, see, taste, and experience in Siargao that all these tours mentioned here barely scratches the surface of what the island has to offer completely. You need to know how to swim and should be comfortable taking risks. Once at the lagoon, you will be taken to a large floating pontoon house located right in the middle of it. And its very much alive on the island! The Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement (SEA Movement, or SEAM), a group of volunteers "trying to keep Siargao clean and green," is working double time to ensure that Siargao doesn't follow the fate of our other island destinations. Very few tourists venture here, but those who do are rewarded generously by this serene patch of tropical paradise. It has two distinct sides: one side is rocky with strong currents, while the sandy side is more serene. Island Activites Aside from just surfing. Here are some of the things you can see and do while on the island. Fall in Love With the Island Life in Siargao. Other than surfing, the island boasts other attractions like coconut-lined roads and rivers, pristine beaches, caves, lagoons, and food! It is also more accessible now more than ever, welcoming about 12 flights daily from Manila, Cebu, and Clark. Paddle board through Siargao's lush mangroves or through islands's protected inner reef and enjoy the many stunning views of the island. Those photos won't just look great on your social media feed; it will also be one of your treasured memories. Riding on a motorcycle through palm trees and coming up on this gorgeous surfing beach will make you feel like you're in a road-trip movie. There are lots of hidden beach areas, go out there and explore! 2017 and 2005 were slightly better than 2023. Surfing and skating with the big and small groms (kids who surf). Here are the usual stops of the land tour (not in order): There are many ways to do this. Chill in the Cool Waters of Taktak Falls, 17. 14. It is also a wonderful place to take photographs of the ocean. As a new day dawns, three boys playing in the port of Dapa skim along the water's edge on makeshift wooden surfboards. Corregidor Island, also known as Casolian Island, is sometimes included as a fourth island in the popular tour of Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. White Banana Beach Club 11. The normal boat rate is P1600 for six people. It is an experience that will guarantee heightened adrenaline, maximum thrills and satisfy everyones appetite for adventure. Check out the best Siargao resortsincluding some of the best glamping resorts andluxury resorts in the Philippinesand explore Siargao tours and activities now to experience this paradise like no other! Your comment is now queued for moderation! By coming here coinciding when the ocean levels are at its lowest, you will be rewarded with a jaw-dropping image of crystalline waters forming a natural pool edged by the enthralling shapes of the Magpupungko's rock formation. Theres a two-layer docking area or rest area where you can also rent a table for P50. Each has its unique feature, so the experience wont seem redundant. We were fined when we didnt segregate trash properly, she recalled. Maasin in Pilar, Siargao, the bent coconut tree is around 30 minutes away from General Luna. It is a wonderful place to shop for handcrafted and all-natural products as well. A number of water activities and watching people trying to jump off the diving board is pure entertainment. Most prominent among the three famous islands in Siargao, Daku Island, is also the most breathtaking one. Movement by just believing in my vision, supporting my projects and reminding me that its going to work. Its a good idea to rent a table for 50 pesos so that you can have a place to leave your belongings while you head out to explore. Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve Explore pristine mangrove forest and visit the salt water crocodile project. You can explore the main island and see the wonders it keeps in its jagged corners and lush landscapes. There are many ways you can get around the island of Siargao van, tricycle, habal-habal, motorcycle, and bicycle. Visiting the rock pool requires a small entrance fee of just 50 pesos. A large part of Siargao, despite the many developments happening in some areas, is still undisturbed and unspoiled. No wonder that this teardrop-shaped island is widely regarded as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. Loved swimming and sunbathing in the turquoise waters. 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. the breeze is quite nice. Describing it already sounds fantastic but wait untilyou experience the actual tour. You can spot stalactites formations as you explore the inner cave. If you're not into dive-board jumping, you can laze around Sugba Lagoon, rent one of the wooden rafts, or test your balance stand-up paddleboard out in the water. If you are coming to surf, then mid to low tide is best. If you're the adventurous type, you can try cliff-jumping with the local kids. 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. Although it is not yet as famous as other dive spots in the Philippines, there are still places in Siargao where you can dive. Cloud 9's famous boardwalk is a great spot to snap some photos. There are so many projects in line, and I feel a bit sad I cant give as much time as I want to because of my busy work at Kudo Surf. Siargao Environmental Awareness (SEA) Movement is our local community's efforts in taking care of our seas. To cope with this, we hired an executive assistant and interns (BS Environmental Science graduates) who are helping me with my SEAM projects. It's the same route for all island hoppers. What I really wanted in the beginning was just a public library for kids to go to and develop a love for reading and learning. Tell us about what led you to do your work. If youre one, be prepared to find yourself in awe by the vivid formations and the beauty of all the tropical fish swarming the Blue Cathedral. You can follow the dirt path on the right side of the bridge, and it will lead you to the bent coconut tree. Other beaches you can visit during the tour includes Union Beach, Malinao Beach, Doot Beach and a couple of secret and not-yet-touristy beach destinations. The waves can become gnarly from September to November. Please be extra careful especially if you are just new to surfing. Another popular activity at Naked Island is snorkeling. If you're hungry from all the active water activities in Sugba Lagoon, there's a cafe in the vicinity. Aside from Naked Island, there's Guyam Island. Your guide or a local would gladly climb up a tree and break open a coconut for you for a small fee. Aside from the fruit smoothie bowls, they offer a wide selection of filling fruit shakes and other vegan snacks. Cloud 9 is famous for its barreling right-hand waves and thick hollow tubes that can make every advanced surfer's heart skip a beat. The scenic drive will take you inland through the mountains and down to the coast again. A delightful lunch consisting of a feast of the freshest seafood often caps a morning tour here. The classes are tailored towards both beginners and seasoned yogis, depending on the composition of the class. However, always prioritize safety! You can pass by this spot on your way to the Northern part of Siargao, where Alegria Beach is. 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. It's along the Maasin Enchanted River in Brgy. Don't miss the chance to jump off here, and make sure to take a picture like everyone else! Your guide will tell you where it is safe to land. Some tour operators combine Sohoton Cove with the 3 Islands Tour! Smiling ladies with a small box will greet you and cheerfully let you know theres a fee once you set foot on the island. You start by entering a dark cave and wading through chest-deep water. The half-submerged cave is full of shimmering stalagmites and stalactites, making for a magical entryway to the lagoon beyond. Siargao Island is very friendly to bicycle and motorcycle riders, and the freedom of exploring the island on two wheels just can be beat. Local surfers though know more of several secret spots. Some roads cut across this coco paradise, which creates a scenic view. 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. A Siargao trip won't be complete without exploring the miniature island paradise dotted around it. It's a great detour if you're up for a leisurely hike through grassy trails, rolling hills, and lush coconut groves to the white sand beaches and pebble beaches of Corregidor. If you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance, you certainly can. 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. It won't be a complete experience unless you enjoy a refreshing buko drink by the shores of Guyam Island. Whether you're into underwater activities like diving, snorkeling or island-hopping in Siargao, Daku Island is the place to be. Note that the rocks at Magpupungko Rock Pools can be quite sharp, so it is a good idea to wear aqua shoes or other protective footwear. Each island offers something unique and seeing them one after another is a wonderful experience. Guyam Island is a place you will never want to leave. She's also a mountaineer, production designer, and cineaste. Which is perhaps why it is also called the Secret Beach. Whether you are a total beginner, already have some experience or simply looking to push your surfing to the next level, Greenhouse offers all that and more. Are you planning that island getaway to Siargao Island soon? Some of the most favored restaurants are Harana Surf Resort & Restaurant, Kermit Surf Resort & Restaurant, Buddhas Surf Resort, Mamas Grill, Shaka Siargao, and Aventinos Pizzeria. As soon as you arrive at Corregidor Island, you will see why it was worth making the trip out. But if youre on a tight budget you can always bring your own food. Ltd. All Rights Reserved If you are a newbie surfer, this is also the best place to learn as seasoned surfers double as instructors. Photos by Vitalis Villas/Balesin Island Club IMPORTANT:The properties featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. Easy to reach via a 45-minute sea journey aboard an outrigger boat, this is one island in Siargao that you must include in your travel itinerary. Entrance fee: P100 per boat Romantic Beach Villas 8. If youre craving for some fresh seafood and mouth-watering barbecue, look no further than the crowd favorite, Mama's Grill. Located near the beach, this surfer-themed cafe has a fantastic view of Cloud 9. Try to visit the place early in the morning so you can have the place to yourself. In college, Marja studied BS Social Work, where shed go to a day care center in Payatas to teach teachers a Read-Aloud-Program for children. The travel time from the port to the lagoon is approximately one hour. For those on a honeymoon that can last a week or two, there are . Among the most recommended dive spots are the Seeco Reef Coral formation near Naked Island (good for certified open water divers at 11 meters) and the Daku Coral Beach Staghorn Reef at 9 meters. Location: Siargao Circumferential Rd, Dapa, Surigao del Norte Siargao hosts the 'Cloud 9 Surfing Cup' each September, an official WSL Pro event. Mountaineers, which taught me the Leave No Trace Principle. If you rented a boat, lunch is not covered. It is highly recommended that you spend some time exploring the palm forest and even try to climb some of the trees! When we went to have a beach vacation at Siargao, it was indeed a relaxing vacation. The road from the airport to other parts of the island has also been developed from the bumpy rough road to smooth concrete ones, making traveling around the island more convenient and efficient. 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. The surf school program is fun, structured, professional and safe. Secret Beach has knee and shoulder high swells that are the perfect place for beginners to start. On the way to attractions like Pacifico Beach, Magpupungko Rock Pool, and Tayangbang Cave Pool, you'll drive by a picturesque road lined with elegant and tall coconut trees. Aside from just surfing. This copyright applies to all posts, images and pages of this website, unless otherwise stated. Picture a tiny tropical island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean as a grove of luscious palm trees circled by beautiful white sand and a lovely array of rock formations. The food place selection ranges from simple eateries or carinderias to international restaurants. The spit of sand provides easy access to a colorful reef that has all sorts of colorful fish flitting around. Their smoothie bowls are a great way to cool off after a hot day on the beaches of Siargao. The north end of Siargao Island is quieter than the busy tourist areas around General Luna, but there is plenty to see here as well. Entrance Fee: P20. At frontline of S.E.A Movement is Marja Abad, who traces her environmentalism from her elementary and high school education in Miriam College. I was a member of the U.P. The resort offers yoga classes twice a day. Naked Island tours feature one of the three islands you can see from the shores of General Luna. It gives me hope. 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. One of the islets you shouldn't miss out on is anescapade in Naked Island. It is one of the top activities around Siargao Island for adrenaline seekers, but visitors of all kinds are sure to have an enjoyable experience here. 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. Visitors come from all over the Philippines and across the globe to experience the world-class surf, white sand beaches, beautiful sunsets, natural rock and cave pools, and smaller neighboring islands. They also serve sumptuous all-day breakfast and specialty coffee. Not too far before Maasin Village, when coming from General Luna, you will find the Sea of Palms, an elevated viewpoint that looks out over a veritable sea of coconut trees. 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's best to enjoy the beaches of Siargao with a refreshing healthy fruit shake or smoothie bowl. Name of the Coastal Area: El Nido, Watch the stunning waves touch the shore in all its glory. It is a quintessential tropical paradise that inspires you to sit back for a minute and enjoy some refreshing coconut water. Your stop on Daku Island is sure to be one of the highlights of your island-hopping tour and your trip as a whole, so make sure you take lots of pictures. Del Carmen town in Siargao observes Shore It Up Week every first week of March He helped me start S.E.A. There is also the Siargao Blue resort lounge, great music and drinks. more. When you're in Siargao, you certainly shouldn't miss this quintessential island experience. More than its famous surf breaks, the island has its unique laidback charm that attracts and excites the wanderlust in every traveler who stumbles upon it even if it doesn't have many5-star hotels in the Philippines like in other famous islands. Siargao will surely not disappoint you. There is a small fee of 20 pesos to use the swing, and locals rent out boats for only 150 pesos that you can use to paddle up and down the river. The Brigham Young University Museum of Art (MOA) is a work of art in and of itself, a four-story creation designed by architect James Langenheim featuring unique angles and large windows. I really hope that one day, SEAM will be self-sustaining and be able to pay a good wage to its staff who can work full-time for the organization. Cottage rental: P250. Have fun exploring on foot and make sure you spend some time in the water as well. The best part is that Cloud 9 has great waves all year round. Because there isnt much here, not even trees, the activities are limited. Even better, take out your camera and take photographs of the palm tree-lined street against a pastel blue sky. Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. From there, you will walk through a small canyon that will lead you to a fantastic emerald green rock pool under the shade of growing vines and forest trees. As the name suggests, Naked Island is, well, naked! A relaxing side-trip here, the only waterfalls on the island,can also help you psych-up for your surfing lessons later. 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. You can also dip in the cold waters of the pool, swim around, and snap some photos as souvenirs. Once you're there, don't let the opportunity to feel like Tarzan pass. Thousands of palm trees spread out before you with deep green hills in the background. Located on the northern part of Siargao, it is considered as a swimmer's delight because of its powdery sands, clear waters, and calm waves. Corregidor Island's seascape is just as picturesque as its landscape. Siargaos seascape has to be the islands best feature. Explore the Enchanting Sohoton Cove National Park, 6. There are a lot of independent retailers on the island selling a variety of clothing, jewelry, swimwear, surf gear, and even skincare products. These natural pools are created from water left behind in a coastal rock formation when the ocean retreats at low tide. Guyam Island is a small island distinctly appearing with a patch of small forest on the middle. Siargao Island Hopping 2 Day Trips from $58.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island 7 from $45.00 per adult Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour Full-day Tours from $85.00 per adult Sugba Lagoon Tour and Magpupungko Rock Pools Full-day Tours from $60.00 per adult No doubt, it's a paradise blessed with beauty from Mother Nature wherever you go. The long trip won't be in vain though, rest assured that it will be worth it. Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island, Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour, Sugba Lagoon Tour and Magpupungko Rock Pools, Siargao Sohoton + Club Tara + Tiktikan Lagoon, 3 Islands, Secret beach and Coral Garden Full-Day Tour, Siargao Sugba Lagoon + Kauhagan Island + Pamomo-an Island, Siargao Trio Island Hopping (Shared Tour), Siargao 3 Island hopping + Corregidor Island.