Siargao Island: The Summer Spots to Visit
As the sun beats down on the golden sand beaches and the waves crash against the shore, the picturesque island of Siargao Island comes alive during the scorching summer months. This tropical paradise, known as the “surfing capital of the Philippines,” provides visitors with more than world-class waves. As a result, Siargao Island has become a must-visit destination for adventure-seekers and beach lovers alike.
As you embark on your Siargao adventure, you’ll discover hidden coves and secret lagoons, swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up the warm sunshine. The waves at Cloud 9 will put your skills to the test and push you to your limits, whether you’re an experienced surfer or just starting. And the island comes alive with a vibrant nightlife when the sun sets.
Moreover, what sets Siargao Island apart is its warm and friendly local community. The island’s locals are known for their hospitality, friendliness, and eagerness to chat with visitors. Siargao provides a rich, authentic cultural experience. From bustling markets and street food stalls to laid-back beach bars and restaurants.
Activities to Enjoy in Siargao
Siargao Island is a popular destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities to enjoy. Here are some of the top popular beach activities in Siargao:
- Surfing – Siargao is a must-visit destination for surfers. Cloud 9, a world-renowned surf break, is the most popular spot for surfing, but there are also many other breaks around the island for all levels of surfers.
- Island hopping- tours allow you to visit some of these beautiful islands and enjoy the scenery.
- Snorkeling and diving – There are many great spots for snorkeling and diving around the island, including the coral reefs of Guyam Island and the deep waters around Pansukian Reef.
- Kayaking – is another fun way to explore the coastline and nearby islands. There are many rental shops where you can rent kayaks and explore the area independently.
- Sunbathing and relaxing – Of course, one of the best things to do on the beaches of Siargao is to relax and soak up the sun. The beaches are clean and pristine, with soft white sand and clear blue waters, making them the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Overall, Siargao Island offers a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation, with many activities on its beautiful beaches.
Top Hotels to Book for Your Island Getaway
Many hotels and resorts on Siargao Island offer top-notch amenities and services for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Here are some:
Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa
Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa are on Siargao Island in the Philippines, known for its stunning beaches and world-class surf spots. You can locate this hotel in the municipality of General Luna, the island’s main town and a hub for restaurants, bars, and shops. This beachfront resort offers spacious rooms, a relaxing spa, and stunning ocean views.
Amenities and Activities:
- A beachfront location
- An outdoor swimming pool
- Restaurant and bar
- Spa and wellness center
- A fitness center and yoga studio
- Surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking
- Airport transfers and transportation services.
Nay Palad Hideaway
Nay Palad Hideaway is located at Malinao, General Luna, Surigao del Norte, 8419 Siargao Island, Philippines. As for the price range, the rates at Nay Palad Hideaway can vary depending on the season and the type of villa you choose. It is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines.
Amenities and Activities:
- Private villas
- Private beach area
- Infinity pool
- Restaurant and bar
- Spa and wellness
- Yoga and fitness
Bayud Boutique Resort
The resort is set on a hill overlooking the ocean, offering breathtaking views of the nearby islands and the crystal-clear waters of Siargao.
Amenities and Activities
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Restaurant and bar serving
- 24-hour front desk and concierge service
- Airport transfers and transportation services
- Massage and spa treatments
- Biking and trekking tours
Kawayan Siargao Resort
You can locate Kawayan Siargao Resort in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines. It is about 4.8 km from Cloud 9 surf spot. The resort features beautiful bamboo architecture that adds to the natural ambiance of the lush garden.
Activities and Amenities
- Yoga classes and massages
- Bike rental and tours
- Island hopping tours
- Bar and restaurant
- Airport transfers and transportation services
Isla Cabana Resort
Isla Cabana Resort is a premier beachfront resort in the heart of General Luna in Siargao Island, Philippines. The resort offers a luxurious and comfortable experience, with stylish and well-appointed rooms and villas that provide a relaxing environment for guests.
Amenities and Services:
- Stylish and well-appointed rooms and villas
- Air conditioning and ceiling fans
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Private balconies or terraces
- Complimentary airport shuttle
- 24-hour front desk
- Daily housekeeping
- Laundry and dry cleaning services
- Concierge services
When to Visit for a Crowd-Free Getaway
When to visit is one of the most crucial factors to consider while arranging a trip to Siargao. The perfect time to visit Siargao depends on various factors, including the weather, the surf season, and the level of tourist demand.
Here’s a detailed guide on when to visit Siargao based on these factors:
Weather Conditions:
Because Siargao has a tropical climate, the year is typically warm and humid. The island experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season runs from March to October, while the wet season runs from November to February.
Surf Season:
Siargao is famous for its surfing spots, and the island attracts surfers worldwide. The surfing season in Siargao runs from September to May, with the peak season being November to February. So if you’re a surfer, the best time to visit Siargao is during the surfing season. During this period, the waves are at their best, and you can ride some of the world’s giant and most challenging waves.
Tourism Demand:
Siargao has become increasingly popular in recent years, and the island can get quite crowded during peak seasons. Avoid peak season and travel during the off-peak season if you’re searching for a more laid-back and affordable vacation.
The off-peak season runs from June to August and from March to May. During this period, the island is less crowded, and you can enjoy the attractions and activities without the hustle and bustle of peak season. Accommodations and tours are also cheaper during this period, making it ideal for budget travelers.
- Plan your visit during the dry season if you seek bright skies and crystal-clear waters.
- If you’re an avid surfer, consider visiting during the surfing season
- Opt for the off-peak season if you desire a more laid-back and economical holiday.
Despite the timing, Siargao is a stunning island bound to create an unforgettable experience.
Siargao Dreams: Your Guide to Getting There
Siargao, a tropical paradise in the Philippines, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers worldwide. If you’re planning a trip to Siargao and wondering about transportation from Manila, here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you:
By Air
Air is the quickest and most convenient way to get to Siargao from Manila. Sayak Airport in the town of Del Carmen is a small airport on the island. Several airlines operate regular flights from Manila to Siargao, including Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and SkyJet. Flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours, and the cost can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking.
By Sea
You can travel by sea if you prefer a more picturesque route to Siargao. Regular ferry services connect Manila to Surigao City, the closest city to Siargao. Once in Surigao City, you can take a ferry or speedboat to Siargao Island. The ferry from Manila to Surigao City can take around 30 hours. Depending on sea conditions, the cost varies based on your selected accommodation. The ferry or speedboat ride from Surigao City to Siargao Island takes approximately 3-4 hours.
By Land and Sea
An alternative and less expensive choice are to travel by land and sea. For example, take a bus from Manila to Butuan or Davao. The travel duration varies depending on the bus operator and road conditions, but it usually takes around 24 hours. There are several ways to reach Siargao Island. First, take a van or bus from Butuan or Davao to Surigao City, which takes approximately 4-5 hours. Then, once you arrive in Surigao City, you can take a ferry or speedboat to Siargao Island.
In summary, there are three ways to get to Siargao: air, sea, or land-sea travel.
- Flying is the quickest and most convenient
- Traveling by sea is more scenic but can take longer.
- A combination of land and sea travel is also possible, but it may be slower and less expensive.
The travel mode choice depends on personal preferences, budget, and time constraints.
Beyond the Beach: Exploring Nearby Towns from Siargao
Siargao is a stunning Philippine island renowned for its exquisite beaches, transparent waters, and exceptional surfing locations.
Here are some nearby/adjacent towns in Siargao and their top spot destinations:
- General Luna – General Luna is the main town of Siargao and is the most popular among tourists. You can find the famous Cloud 9 surf break, a long, barreling wave perfect for advanced surfers. Other popular spots in General Luna include the beautiful Sugba Lagoon, the picturesque Magpupungko Rock Pools, and the stunning Naked Island.
- Dapa – Dapa is another town in Siargao that’s worth a visit. It’s where you’ll find the Siargao Island View Deck, which offers breathtaking views of the island and its surrounding waters. Dapa is also home to the Tak Tak Falls, a beautiful waterfall perfect for swimming and relaxing.
- Del Carmen – Del Carmen is a quiet town in the northeastern part of Siargao. It’s where you can find the beautiful Sugba Lagoon, a stunning turquoise lagoon perfect for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Del Carmen is also home to the Sohoton Cove National Park, a protected area with diverse flora and fauna.
- San Benito – San Benito is a small town in Siargao known for its beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets. It’s where you can find Alegria Beach, a quiet and secluded beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. San Benito is also home to the Magkukuob Cave, a beautiful limestone cave worth exploring.
- Pilar – Pilar is a town in the eastern part of Siargao. It’s where you can find the stunning Mapupungko Beach and Tidal Pools, rock formations that create natural swimming pools during low tide. Pilar is also home to the Coconut Palm Forest, a scenic spot perfect for taking pictures and relaxing.
