Siargao is where surfers, digital nomads, and adventure seekers come together, drawn by crystal-clear waters, legendary waves, and an easygoing atmosphere.
Once a quiet fishing village, Siargao has transformed into a bucket-list destination while still maintaining its raw, untouched beauty.
Siargao was the last stop on my month-long trip through the Philippines. I stayed for seven days at the end of the rainy season. Even through the rain, I managed to enjoy the island!
Whether you’re here to chase waves, work remotely, or just relax on pristine beaches, here is my guide for your next trip to Siargao, Philippines.
Weather in Siargao and the Best Time to Visit
Siargao has three main seasons, Dry, West, and Surf Season. I visited the first week of March and it rained about 60% of the time.
When it rains, the side roads, as well as the landscape around your accommodations in Siargao, get muddy, which makes it hard to walk around. Aim to be there later in March through October to avoid the mud.
- Dry Season (March – October) – Best for beach trips, sightseeing, and island-hopping.
- Surf Season (August – November) – Peak wave season, attracting surfers from around the world.
- Wet Season (November – February) – Occasional typhoons but still enjoyable, with fewer crowds.
If you’re after sunshine and beaches in Siargao, visit between March and May. If you’re here for the waves, September and October offer the best surf conditions.
How to Get to Siargao
To reach Siargao, the easiest and fastest way is by flying. The island is served by Sayak Airport (IAO), located in Del Carmen.
Since the airport is small, it only accommodates propeller planes (turboprop aircraft) from major Philippine airlines like Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines.
Pay attention when you book your flight!! You want airport code IAO and not SUG (Surigao City). If you fly into the wrong airport, your only option is to take a ferry to Siargao.
Multiple ferry operators run services between Surigao and Dapa Port (Siargao’s Port), the main entry point to the island. It takes 2 to 3 hours depending on the vessel type.
How to Get Around Siargao
From the airport, there will be shared taxi vans to take groups of you to your hotels. My van stopped at three places before we got dropped off and it took about 45 minutes. The vans cost 300 PP ($6 USD) per person and you need exact change.
Once you are in the General Luna area (where most of the hotels are) you can hire tricycles or tuk-tuks for 50 PP ($1 USD) per person to get to most areas on the coast.
Once you are settled at your hotel, you can also rent a scooter (more on that later!)
Best Things to Do in Siargao
1. Surf at Cloud 9 (Even If You’re a Beginner)
Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines, and Cloud 9 is its most famous wave.
The legendary right-hand barrel attracts surfers from around the world, making it a must-visit spot even if you just want to watch the pros in action.
If you’re new to surfing, plenty of smaller breaks nearby cater to beginners. Hire an instructor for around $10 USD per hour—several surf schools line the beach, offering lessons and board rentals.
2. Island-Hopping: Three Islands in One Day
Siargao’s nearby islands are practically untouched, and you would hate to miss them. Book a day trip (preferably on a sunny day) to visit:
- Daku Island – The biggest of the three, perfect for swimming and enjoying fresh seafood in a beachfront hut.
- Guyam Island – A tiny, postcard-perfect island with palm trees, soft sand, and crystal-clear waters.
- Naked Island – A stunning sandbar surrounded by nothing but turquoise waters.
Tours typically cost 3400 PP ($50-$60 USD) per person, including lunch. If you prefer flexibility, rent a private boat for around $150 USD. Ask your hotel to help you plan this. Book Here.
3. Explore Marvelos Somoyot Cave
If you’re into adventure, then you must visit the Marvelos Somoyot Cave. It is located in the lush interiors of Siargao, an hour north of Cloud 9. This cave is a breathtaking wonder filled with rock formations, bats, and a natural pool.
With a guide, you explore the cave by foot, while admiring the limestone structures. You need to crawl through two small places and climb in a few places, so if you are afraid of the dark or are claustrophobic, this is not for you!
Make sure to wear dark clothes as you will get muddy. They will provide a helmet with a light and gloves.
Tours cost 400 PP + 20 PP for the environmental fee ($8 USD per person) and include a local guide who ensures you navigate the cave safely. Google Map
Siargao Pro Tips
- Bring Cash: Almost no one takes credit cards, ATMs are often out of cash and many venues will not have change so prepare to be “tipping” often.
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Water Safety: Tap water is NOT safe to drink. Many venues will have filtered water stations to fill up your reusable bottle.
- Language: English and Filipino (Tagalog) are widely spoken.
- Visa: Most tourists can enter visa-free for up to 30 days.
- Bathroom Etiquette: Do NOT put toilet paper in the toilet! Many places don’t provide any, so always carry tissues or wipes.
- Be Patient: Food takes longer than expected to make, and often items are out. Be patient and flexible when dining.
- Tipping Etiquette: It is not expected as many venues will add a 10% service charge to all checks. If you do not see a service charge, it is typical to round up the bill as a tip.
- Make Reservations: Book your flights and accommodations in advance. Many flights and hotels will be sold out in the peak season.
4. Swim in Sugba Lagoon
Sugba Lagoon, about an hour from General Luna, is one of Siargao’s most breathtaking spots. Think turquoise waters, wooden diving boards, and lush mountains all around.
Paddleboarding, kayaking, and cliff jumping are popular activities here. The entrance fee is about $7 USD, and renting a paddleboard or kayak costs around $5 USD per hour. Google Map
You can rent a private driver, rent your own car, or take a tour which includes the lagoon.
5. Magpupungko Rock Pools
These tidal pools appear during low tide, creating stunning natural swimming areas with crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations. The entrance fee is less than $1, and it’s best to visit early to beat the crowds.
Make sure to check tide schedules as you should only go during LOW tide. If you go during high tide, you won’t see the rock formations and possibly get injured!
Just like the lagoon, you can rent a private driver, rent your own car, or take a tour which includes the rock pool. Google Map
Fun Tours to Take in Siargao
6. Try Wakeboarding at Siargao Wakepark
For a fun adrenaline rush, head to Siargao Wakepark. This cable wakeboarding park is perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Equipment rental and coaching are available, making it a great activity for all skill levels. Prices vary, but expect to pay around 1200 PP ($20 USD) for a session. Check their rates here.
Siargao Accommodation Options:
- Hostel (Private Room Options): Sinag Hostel
- Mid-Level Hotel: Ohana Resort Siargao
- High-End Hotel: Nay Palad Hideaway (All Inclusive)
Where to Stay in Siargao
Siargao has accommodations for every budget. Whether you want a beachfront villa or a cozy hostel, here are some options:
- Luxury: Nay Palad Hideaway – A high-end resort with private villas, top-tier service, and a secluded beachfront location.
- Mid-Range: Ohana Resort Siargao – Offers large guest rooms (some with a kitchen), a huge swimming pool (with a swim up pool), and an all day breakfast menu and bar.
- Budget: Sinag Hostel – A social backpacker’s haven with dorms, private rooms, and nightly events.
I stayed at Ohana Resort and it was comfortable and clean for my week-long stay. It is under new management as of February 2025 and they will be making more improvements to the already impressive property in the coming year.
Where to Eat in Siargao
Siargao’s food scene is very international. It was challenging to find local Filipino food!
There are a few BBQ stands that serve fresh meat and vegetable skewers, but the majority of the restaurants cook pizza, burgers, and sandwiches.
I visited over a dozen restaurants during my week-long stay and here are my top picks:
- Cev – Specializing in fresh seafood and ceviche, a favorite among visitors.
- Noods Wok Bar– Serves up flavorful, handcrafted ramen and stir-fried noodle dishes with a unique island twist. I loved it so much I went three times!
- NAGA – A cozy spot offering delicious Filipino comfort food with a modern touch, featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and flavorful local specialties. They take credit cards!
- Shaka Café – Famous for its colorful smoothie bowls, perfect for a healthy breakfast.
Pro Tip:
Bring tissues everywhere to use as food napkins and toilet paper!! I buy a tube of them and keep the container in the side of my day pack whenever I am traveling. And don’t throw any paper items into the toilet!
- Bebie’s – The go-to place for affordable and delicious grilled seafood and meats.
- Ver De Siargao – A plant-based paradise offering fresh, healthy, and flavorful vegan dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
- Violegre Gastropub– A gastropub serving a mix of gourmet Filipino and international dishes and live music.
- French Bakery – Quick serve restaurant that offers hot and cold sandwiches, as well as homemade desserts
Renting a Scooter in Siargao
The best way to explore Siargao is by scooter. Rentals cost around 500 PP ($9 USD) per day, and you’ll need to provide a valid passport.
No special permits are required, but wearing a helmet is mandatory (both for safety and to avoid fines). I would still get an International License from your home country just to be safe.
Gas stations are rare, but you can buy fuel in soda bottles at roadside stalls for convenience.
Pro Tip for Wifi:
To stay connected to the internet while traveling, I use an E-sim called Airalo, in conjunction with a local sim (SMART in the Philippines). You can purchase the e-sim at any time, as long as your phone is E-sim compatible.
Siargao’s Only Grocery Store: Puregold
If you need to stock up on essentials, Puregold Siargao in General Luna is your best bet. It’s the only full grocery store on the island, offering a variety of snacks, drinks, and household items.
For fresh produce and seafood, visit the local wet market nearby, where you can find the freshest catches of the day at affordable prices.
Siargao’s Nightlife: Beach Clubs and Bars
Siargao Beach Club
If you want to sip cocktails while watching the sunset, this is the place to be. It has beachfront lounges, live DJs, and a laid-back, tropical atmosphere perfect for ending your day in style.
It turns into a Vegas-like Nightclub around 10 pm with foam parties on certain nights. When I went, I was also one of the few tourists there, as it is a locals club.
Other Fun Bars in Siargao
- Happiness Hostel Siargao – They have a really cool bar with swings and plenty of seats to enjoy a cocktail inside if it’s raining.
- Reef Beach Resort – They have nightly fire shows and outdoor cocktails.
- Bravo Beach Resort – Another bar on the beach that has fire shows on certain nights.
- Barrel Sports Bar – Ideal for catching a game, playing pool, or just chilling with a drink in hand.
Pro Tip for Entry to the Philippines:
Check the official Philippines website to see if you need a visa. If not, you still need the etravel.gov app to enter the country. Set up the app in stable wi-fi as it does take at least 30 minutes to finish the entire process. Download it here: ETravel
Coworking Spaces in Siargao
Siargao is becoming a hub for digital nomads. The wi-fi is not stable throughout the Philippines, so finding a strong connection can be a challenge.
In February 2025, I only found three true co-working spaces with stable Wi-Fi. There are a few other locations that say they allow working, but do not give power outlets and desk chairs. The three locations below have desks, power, and air-conditioning.
- Alter Space – A modern coworking space with a relaxed setting and high-speed internet.
- Lexias Hostel – A budget-friendly option offering a room with comfortable seating and stable Wi-Fi.
- CocoHub – Located outside the General Luna area, but has fast Wi-Fi, and regular community events for networking.
Where to Workout in Siargao
Here are some gyms in Siargao where you can stay fit while enjoying island life:
Bodhi Yoga Center – Offers various yoga classes, the best part is that you can book in advance and pay online, the few times you don’t need cash! Wear mosquito repellent and be aware that they allow stray dogs to enter the classroom. Book Here.
Crossfit Siargao – Offers Crossfit and HITT classes for all levels, with a fully equipped gym. Book Here.
TawHay Fitness – They have a wide range of fitness classes, including yoga, aerial flow and access to the open gym, with a small cafe. Book Here.
Travel Insurance
I suggest using Safety Wing for travel insurance when traveling abroad. I have found their rates to be the best coverage and they have great customer service.
Final Thoughts: Why Siargao is Special
Siargao is a place where time slows down, where life is measured in sunrises over palm trees, ocean swells, and the laughter of new friends.
Whether you spend your days surfing world-class waves, hopping between stunning islands, or simply enjoying a fresh coconut by the beach, Siargao has a way of making you feel at home.
Siargao isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place you feel. It’s the island that makes you want to stay just a little longer, that lingers in your mind long after you’ve left. 🙂
Siargao Travel Tips
Is Siargao safe for tourists?
Yes, Siargao is generally safe, with friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere, but always take standard travel precautions.
What is the best time to visit Siargao?
March to October is best for island-hopping, while August to November is prime for surfing.
Do I need a visa to visit Siargao?
Most tourists can enter the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days, depending on nationality.
How do I get to Siargao?
Fly to Sayak Airport (IAO) from Manila or Cebu, then take a shared van to your accommodation.
Is there good Wi-Fi in Siargao?
Wi-Fi can be slow, but coworking spaces like Alter Space offer better connections.
Can I rent a scooter in Siargao without a license?
A valid driver’s license is required to rent and drive a scooter legally.
Are there ATMs in Siargao?
Yes, but they are limited and have high fees, so bring enough cash as card payments aren’t widely accepted.
Where can I buy groceries in Siargao?
Puregold in General Luna is the only major grocery store on the island.
Is Siargao good for non-surfers?
Absolutely! There’s island-hopping, lagoons, caves, rock pools, wakeboarding, and a great food and nightlife scene.
How much does it cost to visit Siargao?
Budget travelers can spend around $40-$50 per day, while mid-range and luxury travelers will spend more.
Visiting the Philippines? Here are my Guides:
- Popular Places to Visit in Manila Philippines – Makati Area & Beyond
- What Tiktok Doesn’t Tell You About the El Nido Beaches
- The Best Day Trip from Moalboal – Canyoneering!
- 11 Stunning Beachfront Resorts in Moalboal
- The Best Dive Resort in Moalboal, Cebu
- The Airport at El Nido: The Easy Way to Get to The Beach
- Travel Tax in the Philippines: Do You Need to Pay It?
