The travel time from the port to the lagoon is approximately one hour. Dont worry; they are all of the non-stinging variety! there is a nearby restaurant where you can have your early morning coffee. Being an outdoor adventurer and surfer also molded me to become environmentally conscious. 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. The island is literally naked and bare so its the perfect spot to get away from it all. Here are the usual stops of the land tour (not in order): There are many ways to do this. Cloud 9 is also the most highly commercialized area in Siargao and is a popular surfing escapadein Siargao. Guyam Island is a small, circular island, usually your first stop for the three-island tour. A lot of nice huts to stay cool from the sun. You can take a serene stroll through the white sand and enjoy the seclusion of being out in the middle of the ocean before heading into the warm water. 40 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON SIARGAO, PHILIPPINES - Journey Era Activities - Greenhouse Siargao Loved swimming and sunbathing in the turquoise waters. The waves are perfect for surfing all year round, but the best time is from as early as July to as late as January. This long strip of beach has cottages and coconut trees, a perfect stop to have lunch after a morning of hopping from island to island. Daku Island is the largest of the three islands and is a whole barangay in itself. 3,283.86. The most popular attraction on Siargao Island is the Cloud 9 surfing area in General Luna. Away from the busy crowd of General Luna, the Northern part of Siargao is where you'll find the secluded and almost untouched Alegria Beach. In the northern part of Siargao specifically in the town of Santa Monica, a short hike will bring you to a jungle sanctuary concealed by towering trees and thick forest shrubs. It is also a wonderful place to take photographs of the ocean. It lies about a 20-minute drive from General Luna, past Doot Beach and just before the town of Dapa. Sohoton Cove is home to a stunning lagoon that is teeming with wildlife like fish and birds. I have been backpacking, rock climbing, bouldering, and surfing around the Philippines with that principle since I was in college. 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 waves can become gnarly from September to November. While Mama's Grill may not be a fancy restaurant, the food certainly will not disappoint you. Thirty minutes away from General Luna is the magnificent views overlooking the unbelievably beautiful scene of an endless sea of palm trees. You can find a wide selection of restaurants, souvenir shops, and several cool clothing brands here. We strive to be fully sustainable by opting for eco-friendly fabric like organic cotton and rashguard materials made from recycled plastic bottles and ocean waste in our collection of surf apparels. 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. Siargao's Environmental Issues (The Philippines' Best Island) 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. The food place selection ranges from simple eateries or carinderias to international restaurants. A Sohoton + 3 Islands Combo Tour is available on Klook! 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. All applicable laws apply and will be enforced. Nothing beats a tropical seafood feast while looking out over the sparkling cerulean waters of Daku Island. It is also just a half-hour drive from Pacifico Beach. Though it's a small island, it's packed with awide variety of activities and attractions to enjoy along with itslaidback island vibe. By simply bringing your own refillable water bottles, eco-bags, and throwing your trash properly, you are already making a huge difference. It's along the Maasin Enchanted River in Brgy. Also known among the locals as Casolian Island, Corregidor Island dishes a double dose of great outdoor fun: swimming and hiking. Fronting the Pacific Ocean's mighty swells, the teardrop-shaped island of Siargaoknown as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines has become a favorite go-to tropical destination for local and international travelers. While here, you can jump into the emerald-colored water from an eight-meter cliff. 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. A delightful lunch consisting of a feast of the freshest seafood often caps a morning tour here. It is a unique and very worthwhile experience. To cope with this, we hired an executive assistant and interns (BS Environmental Science graduates) who are helping me with my SEAM projects. Frequently Asked Questions about Siargao Island. One highly recommended place is Shaka Cafe where you can try out their best-selling fruit shakes and smoothie bowls like the Bom Dia and Cloud 9 Kook. Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour. Nothing commercial here just heavenly peace and quiet. Just rent a boat from Cloud 9, and you will be able to get to this underwater cathedral. Truly, Shaka is the perfect place to get your smoothie bowls to fix throughout the day. The best part is that Cloud 9 has great waves all year round. Siargao Island development masterplan in the works Down south of Siargao situates a favorite island-hopping destination. Its hard to miss this viewpoint when you are headed down Siargao Circumferential Road as it opens up before you as you come around a bend in the road. When you're in Siargao, you certainly shouldn't miss this quintessential island experience. Spectacular waves, beautiful spots, and sunset views have made Siargao one of the favorite spots for many professional and amateur surfers, as well as local and foreign tourists in the Philippines. It may look rickety, but this diving board is strong enough to support tourist after tourist. Avery romantic place for couples. SIARGAO TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary, SIARGAO TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS & New Normal Policies, List of SIARGAO HOTELS & RESORTS Authorized to Operate, How to Get E-HEALTH PASS for SIARGAO / SURIGAO DEL NORTE TOURISTS, 12 Asian Destinations for FIRST-TIME SOLO BACKPACKERS, ALABANG to NAIA / NAIA to ALABANG: P2P Bus Schedule (UBE Express), 11 Movies Showcasing Philippine Destinations that You can Watch on iWant, MANILA TO LEYTE & SAMAR by BUS: List of Operational Routes & Bus Companies, THE BEST OF TOKYO IN 2 DAYS: Sample Itinerary and Budget, Cebu Pacific Launches JUAN EFFECT Sustainable Travel Campaign in Siargao, Traveling to the Philippines: How to Get eTRAVEL QR CODE Online (Arrival Card), Top 35 BANGKOK Things to Do & Places to Visit. 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. The furthest beach from General Luna but definitely worth the hour and a half trip if you have the time, Alegria Beach is known for its quiet and tranquil environment. 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. I teamed up with Cebu Pacific for their. Named because it is as bare as an unclothed body, Naked Islandthe tour's first stopis a picture of oasis characterized by a powdery and blinding white sandbar surrounded by blue waters. A hidden paradise in the Philippines located off the coast of Surigao del Norte, Siargao has found its way to the hearts of travelers all over the world surfers and non-surfers alike, and is now known as one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. If you befriend them well, they might take you there. Just be mindful that there are nearby reefs, so look for parts where the water is deep enough for you to swim in without stepping on sharp rocks. Siargao Island is a tropical paradise located in the Surigao del Norte province of the Philippines. 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! There are a variety of other caves located throughout the lagoon as well, some of which are only accessible by diving down into the water and underneath a rock ledge. In addition to Alegria Beach, the northern tip of the island is home to two more must-see attractions that make a great day trip: Santa Monica Pier and Taktak Falls. Located near the beach, this surfer-themed cafe has a fantastic view of Cloud 9. Fall in Love With the Island Life in Siargao. This tide-dependent pool has been one of the go-to non-surfing spots and is often combined with caves and beaches on a day tripin Siargao. Here are the Details. On weekdays, Im usually in the office 9:30am-4pm for my day job at Kudo. I dont want to destroy my playground. 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. As a new day dawns, three boys playing in the port of Dapa skim along the water's edge on makeshift wooden surfboards. Whats even better is that you dont have to go far to get there! One of the islets you shouldn't miss out on is anescapade in Naked Island. MANILA, Philippines - Siargao Island, a popular surfing destination in the Philippines, is next in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) crackdown on business establishments . Coconut is practically a ubiquitous sight in this island. Daku Island, Siargao: Important Travel Tips That adds another layer to the already many reasons to visit the island. I do not recommend if the pool is still closed. Choose your partner very carefully and surround yourself with good and quality people. Surf School Whether you are a total beginner, With a name like Secret Beach, this is a sandy strip you know you have to come and experience. Instead, there is only a dirt path through a coconut forest. There is a cost of 100 pesos to enter the cave, and it includes a mandatory guide. Photos by The Forest Camp Resort/Nay Palad Hideaway IMPORTANT:Theresorts featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. 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). 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. Take note though that this is advanced divers only. Each island offers something unique and seeing them one after another is a wonderful experience. 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. 2017 and 2005 were slightly better than 2023. One of the highlights here is jumping off the diving platform into the clear turquoise (sometimes emerald) waters. Guyam Island is a small island distinctly appearing with a patch of small forest on the middle. It is a wonderful place to shop for handcrafted and all-natural products as well. 12 Best Resorts in Siargao Island Philippines: Beachfront, General Luna, For Groups, Family-Friendly By Jessa Tek-Ing Verified Expert Jump to chapter 12. He helped me start S.E.A. Bats are flying around, which may or may not be responsible for the weird echoes you hear! Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines. Explore the Magpupungko Beach if you want to feel some sand beneath your feet or do cliff-jumping but be extra careful because the rocks are sharp; it would be better to wear protective footwear or aqua shoes. Well try to get back to you soonest. The most popular tour for visitors to Siargao Island is the three-island tour to nearby Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island all in one day. 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. Visit at the right time, and you will surely see crystal blue waters and that cliff jumping experience you've been dreaming. Those photos won't just look great on your social media feed; it will also be one of your treasured memories. Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. This time there is nothing on the island,no trees, no shade and plenty of sand. The surf line is well offshore and you can walk in the shallows between the surf and the beach. 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. She's also a mountaineer, production designer, and cineaste. Don't be afraid to get lost under the coconut palms as you roam around the island. Your guide will take you through a crack in a rock formation leading to Tayangban Cave Pool and down into the waist-deep water. I spend one weekday and Saturdays for S.E.A. Enjoy the beauty of Sugba Lagoons located in Del Carmen. The, I worked in Singapore for 5 years as ground stewardess at a premium airline lounge and taught yoga on the side. Continue your off-island adventures and lagoon explorations by booking a tour to Sohoton Cove. An hour away by boat from Dapa Port in Siargao, a tour here will take your breath away, thanks to the scenic nature gems comprising of verdant forested islets, jagged limestone formations, and crystal-clear waters glistening under the blue sky plus a medley of wonderful spots such as hidden coves and lagoons. I was a member of the U.P. Enjoy your barbecue with a generous serving of rice and an ice-cold beer to have that full Siargao Island experience. It's more than just a tourist destination. The island is surrounded by glistening blue waters and colorful coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. A tour to Sugba Lagoon usually costs around 1,500 pesos per person. One of the must visit in Siargao. So, take note: timing is everything. 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. Airline companies are making an effort too like Cebu Pacifics initiative, the Juan Effect sustainable tourism campaign, encouraging everyJuan to do his or her part no matter how small that act is. For diving enthusiasts planning to visit Siargao, be sure to include the island diving spots in your itinerary. A visit to this enchanting lagoon indeed wouldn't be complete without jumping from its famed diving board. The long trip won't be in vain though, rest assured that it will be worth it. The fact that this strip of beach is typically deserted, only makes it an even more ideal place to learn how to surf. The Blue Cathedral can be found on the wall of Cloud 9's rock entry. Thanks to the generous shade provided by the trees and the chilly waters of the falls itself, cold air will welcome you as you approach the waterfalls. Together with the support of a friendly coach to help you get the most out of your time here on the island. Siargaos seascape has to be the islands best feature. As of this writing, there are no helmets or life jackets provided when canyoneering in Tayangban. Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection. 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. If you're hungry from all the active water activities in Sugba Lagoon, there's a cafe in the vicinity. The rock pools only appear at certain times, particularly when the tide is low. These are Cebu, Bohol, Masbate, Negros, Samar, and Panay. Instead, guides will bring you to the lagoon on a small dinghy where you can watch the jellyfish merrily swimming around your boat. The island is lined with lovely beaches and covered in vibrant green palm trees. A large part of Siargao, despite the many developments happening in some areas, is still undisturbed and unspoiled. Others offer fantastic opportunities for cliff jumping. Learn about its top destinations. Youve probably seen photos of the bent coconut tree sticking out over the river. Some roads cut across this coco paradise, which creates a scenic view. Copyright 2022 The Poor Traveler Itinerary Blog. This is where many tours stop for lunch, and visitors are provided with a bungalow on the beach where they can relax for a while. You can dive off the nearby cliffs, or explore the caves surrounding the crystal pools. It gives me hope. White Banana Beach Club 11. Siargao also has excellent hiking spots to offer. It's best to enjoy the beaches of Siargao with a refreshing healthy fruit shake or smoothie bowl. Entrance fee: P100 per boat It is a popular spot for cliff-jumping, tree-jumping, or for just taking some nice photographs. If things go well, the livelihood project and SEAM the brand can power this growing group and continue making environmental projects on the island. 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. Shaka Cafe is most famous for its signature smoothie bowls that are as vibrant as Siargao Island itself. Surfing isn't only the only exciting activity you can do in the Surfing Capital. The surf school program is fun, structured, professional and safe. Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. When we went to have a beach vacation at Siargao, it was indeed a relaxing vacation. Don't leave the place without jumping into the waters from the wooden platform built beside the pontoon houses they say in Sugba Lagoon, one must take a dive of faith into the "perfectly splendid" turquoise waters of the lagoon to complete a memorable experience. The negatives are actually also good. What 3 pointers would you provide for people who'd like to start seriously pursuing an environmental lifestyle? But if youre on a tight budget you can always bring your own food. It is one of the most extreme of the Siargao tourist spots, and it is also not as well known among tourists. 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. For more information about this campaign, visit www.juaneffect.com. A surfing competition sponsored by the government of Surigao del Norte is held here every year. Your guide or a local would gladly climb up a tree and break open a coconut for you for a small fee. 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. Tucked in the forest of Pilar in the center of Siargao island is the Tayangban Cave Pools. The masterplan will strive to strike a balance among people, the environment and economy, while seeking to align both public and private sector-led projects to Siargao's longterm development goals, said Karmi Palafox, senior urban planning consultant for Palafox Associates. Other than mimicking Tarzan and Jane, most visitors spend a cozy morning here paddling up and down the river by boat. It is best to come to Doot Beach at high tide. Located in General Luna town, Cloud 9 is where most of the surfing action happens. There are nearby spots for surfing in Siargaohere that are excellent for beginners to intermediate levels. More interestingly, Secret Beach can be surfed all year round thanks to its location; it faces South and is a bit protected from the wind. The water in the pools is bright blue and incredibly clear, making it a popular spot to take a swim and go snorkeling. You can rent a car or motorbike. It is also a fantastic spot to go snorkeling, and there is a diving platform as well. per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island. Theres a two-layer docking area or rest area where you can also rent a table for P50. Siargao History Viento Del Mar Siargao That's Guyam Island. Why Siargao was rated best island in Asia for 2019 I will never know Another beach, another island. You also dont need to worry about the other fees because these are part of what you paid for. SEAM is growing so fast and its just harder for me to manage. Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve Explore pristine mangrove forest and visit the salt water crocodile project. Shaka Cafe in Siargao is the go-to place for instagrammable healthy food choices such as fruit bowls and cold-pressed juices. CLOUD 9 SIARGAO - The Ultimate Guide (2022) | Jonny Melon If you feel like ramping up your adventures in Siargao, then you must experience the Tayangban Cave Pool tour. Try some traditional Filipino dishes or opt for restaurants serving more western fair. Relocation not the only solution for Siargao coastal residents, gov't The classes are tailored towards both beginners and seasoned yogis, depending on the composition of the class. With the popularity comes several threats to its natural environment, evident in the increasing volume of litter. The tour is also accompanied by a satisfying lunch banquet. We brought wine glasses and bottles of ros which we sipped while watching the beautiful sunset by the shore. Underwater, Siargao offers just as much beauty underneath the waves. Aside from Naked Island, there's Guyam Island. All Rights Reserved. In addition to providing a lot of great dining opportunities, General Luna is also a fantastic place to go shopping for souvenirs or for some new clothing and accessories to wear during your travels. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor Note: Jellyfish season starts in March, but you will witness the highest concentration of jellyfish during the months of July and August. If you are coming to surf, then mid to low tide is best. There is even a jellyfish sanctuary where visitors can jump into the water and swim with these unique creatures. (If youre on a group tour, this is already included in the package.). In the northern part of Siargao specifically in the town of Santa Monica, a short hike will bring you to a jungle sanctuary concealed by towering trees and thick forest shrubs. Also prices and details on rental requirements, TERMS OF USE & Entrance fee: P30 per person. Renting a motorcycle or a bicycle for a day or more is a popular transportation option among tourists. The Visayas Island group is located in the central area of the Philippine archipelago. Naked Island tours feature one of the three islands you can see from the shores of General Luna. Tour operators often coordinate with the locals here to provide a freshly cooked barbecue meal. Have you ever gone to a place and felt like you're in a scene of a movie? However, that is no longer permitted today, and visitors are not allowed to swim in that lagoon. This is a common lunch stop. Good looking crystal green water. This Island truly is a hidden paradise. 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. 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 Poor Traveler is managed by WanderGeneration, Inc.Email us: yoshke@thepoortraveler.net. How to Get There: You can join a group tour, hire a habal-habal or rent a motorcycle and drive to Pilar. The most popular of which is the world-renowned Cloud 9where even the Red Hot Chili Peppers' frontman Anthony Kiedis once surfed. 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. As this is a very popular tourist stop, you can expect some crowds, but the pools are large enough to comfortably accommodate many people. Thousands of palm trees spread out before you with deep green hills in the background. A Siargao trip won't be complete without exploring the miniature island paradise dotted around it. Describing it already sounds fantastic but wait untilyou experience the actual tour. This palm-covered oasis is so small that you can walk to the other side of the island in about 50 steps. Smiling ladies with a small box will greet you and cheerfully let you know theres a fee once you set foot on the island. It is undoubtedly a destination for the adventurous and is a part of this Siargao day tour. Siargao is a motorcycle- and bicycle-friendly island. We were fined when we didnt segregate trash properly, she recalled. Even better, take out your camera and take photographs of the palm tree-lined street against a pastel blue sky.