Things to do Siargao: Island Guide

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The moment you step off the tiny plane at Siargao’s small airport, the island rhythm instantly takes over. Palm trees sway in the warm breeze, colourful flowers line the roads, scooters with surfboards zip past and the sea is never far away. Siargao may be known as the surf capital of the Philippines, yet it also charms visitors with cosy boutique hotels, friendly hostels and adventurous scooter routes around the island. Because the coastline is mostly reef with only a few sandy beaches, the island attracts surf lovers and, thankfully, still keeps mass tourism at bay. It is getting busier every year though, so this is the perfect moment to plan your trip. These are the best things to do on Siargao!

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How to get there?

From Cebu or Manila you can hop on a small propeller plane that reaches Siargao in about two hours. I flew with Philippine Airlines and booked Comfort Class for a few extra euros. That meant priority boarding, lounge access and a generous twenty five kilo luggage allowance. Ideal for impulsive souvenir shopping.

Before you fly, make sure to withdraw cash. ATMs on the island do not always work and occasionally card skimming occurs. Rent your scooter at Lola’s Rentals or PangPang and always bring your international driver’s licence. Without it your roadtrip might end sooner than planned.

Where to stay?

– Click on the names for rooms and rates –

At Vedya Hostel and Happiness Hostel you will easily meet other travellers. Vedya became my home away from home and the café serves the tastiest veggie breakfasts and lunches. It is also a great spot to work if you have a deadline haunting you. Mao Mao Surf is a very popular, affordable and stunning accommodation, that is almost always fully booked. They also run one of the best surf schools on the island.

ROOMS AND RATES VEDYA HOSTEL

Siago Beach Resort is perfect for long lazy dinners and has the comfiest sunbeds on a postcard worthy stretch of sand. Even if you are not staying there you can rent a bed, although you should arrive early. Las Palmas Villas is a tropical dream with beautifully designed rooms and a serene pool surrounded by lush plants.

Soultribe Beach Retreat offers affordable beachfront stays and unforgettable retreats. For those who want to splurge, Nay Palad Hideaway is where the glitterati dive deep into luxury. If you prefer something romantic and a little magical, you can sleep under the stars in a transparent dome at Bubble Siargao.

ROOMS AND RATES LAS PALMAS VILLAS

On the first 2 photos Mao Mao Surf and Vedya Hostel. Last photo Las Palmas Villas

ROOMS AND RATES MAO MAO SURF

The tastiest hotspots in General Luna

At Mondayyy’s you can sink into a giant beanbag and enjoy perfect avocado toasts. This was my favorite spot to work! Shaka Café is famous for its smoothie bowls with front row views of the Cloud 9 surfers.

A true hidden gem is Saint Thomas Coffee that serves the best matcha on the island. Other great breakfast and lunch spots include Vedya, Spotted Pig, Amon Café, Sana Bowl and The Soul Shack where ceremonial cacao will lift your spirit. Do not forget to explore the cute shop inside. For refreshing coconut coffee or an ice cold coconut head to Coco Frío.

In the late afternoon Sunset Bridge transforms into an open air kitchen. Order Adobo simmered in soy sauce and vinegar or try Kinilaw, the Filipino style ceviche with coconut vinegar. Finish with Halo Halo, a colourful dessert with crushed ice, fruit and ube ice cream, or choose Toron, crispy banana with caramel.

THIS IS A FUN SUNSET SKATE EXPERIENCE

Another lovely sunset spot is the welcoming Pop Up Bar. Around Cloud 9 you will find many relaxed cafés and a fantastic view all day long. There are no sunbeds so bring a towel and watch out for sea urchins while entering the water. At night walk the famous Cloud 9 bridge and watch the island’s best surfers during their golden hour sessions.

Tip: locals love adding sugar to everything so gently ask for “no sugar” unless you want to book an emergency dentist appointment when you return home.

In the evening, Roots serves high end, creative veggie dishes, Amore offers deliicous Italian food & wine and Food Lab Shack brings Vietnamese street flavours to the table. Kurvada is budget friendly and loved by locals and Cumin is the place for Asian fusion. For the best cocktails, make your way to Manu.

If you are in the mood for dancing, Siargao has a party almost every night. On Saturdays Harana Surf Resort turns into a beach dance floor and on Sundays Wakepark hosts a fun gathering with cold beers and great DJs. Anyone brave enough can jump on a wakeboard.

ROOMS AND RATES HARANA SURF RESORT

Surf spots and active things to do Siargao

Beginners will love Jacking Horse, Quicksilver and Ocean 9. Intermediate surfers can try Quicksilver, Cloud 9, Stimpy’s, Cemetery, Salvacion and Rock Island. Pros challenge themselves at Cloud 9 and Tuason Point.

Book your surf lessons with Mao Mao Surf. Their instructors are calm, encouraging and know exactly which spot suits each level. Some surf breaks can only be reached by boat which makes the experience even more fun!

ROOMS AND RATES MAO MAO SURF

Yet there is more to the island than surfing. You can book a yoga class at Prana Yoga or Buddha Wellness, join Reformer Pilates at Feral Pilates or go all out at Tawhay Fitness or Crossfit Siargao. Mondayyy’s also has a Run Club for early birds. Afterwards treat yourself to a relaxing massage at Isla Natura Spa.

SPEND THE NIGHT IN A MAGIG BUBBLE

The dreamlike three island tour – Things to do Siargao

This popular island hopping trip takes you to three tiny paradises. Book it privately via Mao Mao Surf or arrange it directly at the harbour in General Luna. A traditional banka boat takes you across turquoise water to magical spots.

Guyam Island is my favourite with its soft sand, a basketball court between the palm trees and a cute bar in the middle of the island. Order the mango coffee. I promise it is surprisingly delicious!

Naked Island, a pure sandbank with no shade, feels like your own deserted paradise. Bring a snorkel because you will find many bright blue starfish here.

Daku Island is lively, cheerful and the place to eat grilled fish while children splash in the water. It is touristy yet the lunch is worth it.

ROOMS AND RATES LAS PALMAS VILLAS

Flight delayed or cancelled?
AirHelp makes it quick and effortless to claim compensation, completely hassle free. Whether you fly often or just once a year, it is always worth checking. Click here to see if you are entitled to money back. It takes less than a minute. I have already received 600 euros in compensation!

Siargao’s must visits – Things to do Siargao

Take a refreshing dip at Bugak or Beto Cold Spring. At Coconut Plantation Viewpoint you can have your photo taken by energetic “human drones”. It is a hilarious sight.

Go early to Maasin River around eight in the morning and you may have the place to yourself. Coconut Road is the most photographed road on the island and Magpopongko Rock Pools reveal their beauty only at low tide.

THIS IS AN EXCELLENT PRIVATE TOUR

East coast adventure: Pacifico – Things to do Siargao

Hop on your scooter, pack a poncho for tropical showers and ride from General Luna to Pacifico. Take the route via Santa Fe for the prettiest scenery. Kids wave at you, roosters cross the road and life moves wonderfully slowly. I love these scooter trips.

Stop in Santa Fe for coffee at Bamboo Surf Café or Marmelade. Pacifico is wilder, with big waves and a laid back surf vibe. Enjoy a cup at Swell Café or Manu Brew and have lunch at Dayo Café. Stay at Trogon’s Perch Resort for amazing views and a relaxing infinity pool.

Drive a bit further to Burgos where you will find chill places like The Hub and Kolekbibo. From General Luna the ride takes about ninety minutes and staying overnight is wise because the road back becomes very dark.

ROOMS AND RATES TROGON’S PERCH RESORT

Shopping in General Luna – Things to do Siargao

Browse Vinta Alternative Market for bohemian finds, Côte Femme for beautiful pieces, Goodies Café for cards and home decor and The Concept Store by Golden Monstera for unique jewellery. Fat Lips Surfshop has cute accessories and the small shop next to Mondayyy’s has the best Siargao shirts and surf gear.

Want to stay connected while travelling?
With Airalo you can download an eSIM in just a few minutes, so you can arrange your pickup, check your route, message everyone back home and share your first holiday snaps right away. No more queues at the airport for a physical sim card and no installation drama. With Airalo you are online the moment you land. I am a big fan. Order your Airalo eSIM here and start your next trip completely stress free.

Coconut Plantation View Point

How many days do you need on Siargao?

Five to seven days is perfect for experiencing the island without rushing from one highlight to another. This gives you plenty of time to surf, explore the island on a scooter roadtrip, relax at cosy cafés and join the dreamy three island tour. Additionally, you will have enough room in your schedule to visit Pacifico and the peaceful Maasin River.

It is the friendly people, the lush nature, the sea, the lively markets, the surfers and the unforgettable scooter rides that stay with you long after you have left. The Siargao feeling travels home with you, long after your flip flop footprints and tan lines have disappeared.