Nestled in the heart of the Philippines lies a hidden paradise that’s only recently caught the eye of adventurers on social media. Siargao, a breathtaking island getaway, has been my personal retreat long before its digital fame. This teardrop-shaped island, surrounded by the pristine Philippine Sea 196 kilometres southeast of Tacloban, offers a tranquil escape with its succession of reefs, idyllic points and powdery white beaches.
Why Siargao Deserves Your Attention
Best known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” Siargao boasts year-round surfing conditions that cater to enthusiasts and professionals alike. The island’s crown jewel, Cloud 9, offers spectacular rolling barrels over a vibrant reef, making it a haven for surfers and bodyboarders. Beyond the surf, Siargao’s leisurely pace is a balm for the soul, providing the perfect backdrop to disconnect and rejuvenate in a world that never slows down.
With a welcoming community of 120,000 residents, Siargao embraces visitors with open arms. While Surigaonon is the local tongue, Tagalog, Cebuano and English are also widely spoken, making communication a breeze. Handy tools like Google Translate can help bridge any gaps if needed. Despite what some might think, the journey to Siargao is straightforward. It is a short, rewarding flight from Cebu City which transports you to this oasis of tranquility.
A Personal Connection to the Filipino Spirit
As someone with Filipino heritage, my bias towards the Philippines’ vibrant culture and warm-hearted people is undeniable. The Filipino spirit is characterized by kindness, intelligence, and respect, always prioritizing the wellbeing of others. This genuine hospitality and mouthwatering cuisine makes the Philippines a must-visit destination. If Siargao hasn’t made it onto your travel bucket list yet, I urge you to consider it. The island offers many reasons to visit from its rich culture to its natural beauty.
Ultimate Siargao Guide: Ideal Length of Stay
To truly experience Siargao, I recommend dedicating at least a week to explore its wonders. Split your time between a serene, romantic villa by the ocean and more adventurous pursuits around the island. Siargao promises an unforgettable blend of relaxation and adventure, catering to every traveller’s dream.
My goal is to inspire you and to embark on an unforgettable journey to the breathtaking Philippines. Allow me to guide you through the wonders of Siargao Island, a gem in the heart of the Pacific that promises adventure and relaxation.
Dive into this blog post to uncover everything you need to know about Siargao Island, ensuring you’re fully prepared to cross off this magnificent destination from your bucket list.
Your Ultimate Guide to Reaching Siargao: The Island Paradise
Whether you’re looking for the swiftest route to plunge into its crystal-clear waters or prefer a more scenic journey, here’s how to navigate your way to this tropical haven.
By Air: Fast Track to Paradise
The journey to Siargao Island begins with a flight to the Philippines, typically landing in major hubs like Manila or Cebu. From there, the fastest path to the island is a direct flight to Siargao.
- From Cebu to Siargao: Expect to spend around $200 AUD for a one-way ticket. The beauty of flying from Cebu is the convenience and speed, making it the top choice for those eager to hit Siargao’s famous waves. Look out for hot deals on Expedia and Skyscanner, where bargains can significantly lower your travel costs.
- From Manila to Siargao: Direct flights are also available from Manila, costing about 190 AUD one way. The capital offers more flight options and with savvy searching on Expedia, Skyscanner and other travel sites, you can land some fantastic deals.
By Sea
For the travellers who revel in the journey as much as the destination, taking a ferry to Siargao adds a layer of adventure and scenic beauty.
Surigao to Siargao: Embark from Surigao City, located at the northeastern tip of Mindanao and set sail directly to Siargao Island. Companies that sail to Siargao Island are:
- Montenegro Shipping Lines Ferry
- Evaristo and Sons Sea Transport Corp
- Fortune Angel Ferry
Tickets can be conveniently purchased online or at the ferry terminal. The unique advantage of traveling by ferry is the option to bring a car. Hiring a vehicle from Surigao City allows for ultimate freedom to explore Siargao at your own pace. Check with the ferry companies for the cost and logistics of transporting your car across the sea.
Discover Your Dream Stay in Siargao: Beachside Bliss
Embarking on a journey to Siargao Island introduces you to the symphony of waves day and night. My personal haven during this island escapade was the Kawili Resort, a beachside villa that defines spacious luxury with breathtaking ocean views. Nestled in a tranquil spot with seamless access to General Luna and the sandy doorstep of the beach, this resort is a gem found on leading accommodation platforms like Booking.com, Agoda and Expedia.
While my adventurous spirit led me to rent a motorbike for island explorations, including the famed Cloud 9 surfing spot, I advise caution based on my own experience of minor mishaps. Thankfully, the unparalleled kindness of the local Filipino community helped me deal with the mishaps.
Where to Stay in Siargao: Top Picks for a Mid-Range Budget
Siargao Island Villas: Experience the beachside luxury at Siargao Island Villas, located in the bustling heart of General Luna. With private beach access, exclusive parking, an outdoor pool, on-site dining and a spa and wellness centre, these villas offer everything you could desire for a perfect island retreat. Each modern villa boasts stunning sea views, promising an unforgettable stay. Book early to secure an exceptional deal at this sought-after accommodation.
Takbo Beach Resort: For those seeking incredible value without compromising on luxury, Takbo Beach Resort in General Luna is an ideal choice. Priced at approximately 100 AUD per night, guests enjoy spacious rooms with spectacular beachfront views, complimentary Wi-Fi, parking and a generous daily breakfast. The resort’s grill restaurant featuring live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere. Its prime location and comfortable accommodations make Takbo Beach Resort a must-visit for any traveller to Siargao.
Retreat Siargao Resort: Retreat Siargao Resort in General Luna is steps from the serene Malinao Beach. The resort combines the best of Siargao with stunning accommodations, including an outdoor swimming pool, private parking, lush gardens, and a fine dining restaurant. Perfectly located near General Luna Beach (1 km) and Doot Beach (2.4 km), they offer exclusive amenities such as a trendy bar and a secluded private beach area.
The guest services feature personalized room service, a concierge and custom tour arrangements to enhance your Siargao adventure. Each air-conditioned room is a sanctuary of comfort, equipped with a flat-screen TV, private bathroom, premium bed linens and a terrace with mesmerizing sea views.
Experience Unparalleled Luxury on Siargao Island
Kalinaw Resort: Kalinaw Resort stands as a beacon of luxury on Siargao Island, a destination you simply cannot overlook. Very close to the globally renowned Cloud9 surf break in the Philippines, this resort is the epitome of a tropical sanctuary, offering a secluded and luxurious getaway.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of an elite villa that face a breathtaking oceanfront, each boasting a private infinity pool, cozy lounges and the option to savour European cuisine.
For added convenience, Kalinaw Resort provides thoughtful services including babysitting, laundry, airport transfers and shuttle services ensuring a hassle-free stay.
Each spacious villa at Kalinaw Resort is a testament to luxury. Relax in the comfort of your room’s sofa seating area or refresh in the private bathroom fitted with a luxurious rain shower and complimentary toiletries. Selected villas elevate your experience featuring personal pools with stunning sea views.
Nay Palad Hideaway: Nestled amidst Siargao’s lush jungles and pristine beaches, Nay Palad Hideaway offers luxury. This serene oasis invites you to experience the “barefoot state of mind,” with exclusive villas that feature private pools, stunning views and ultimate privacy. From the wellness centre to the hideaway village with private beaches, yoga, infinity pools and a spa. Engage in cooking classes with renowned chefs, enjoy family-friendly activities and unwind at the outdoor cinema. Nay Palad Hideaway is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, promising an unforgettable Siargao escape.
Top Picks for Budget Travellers
Dahun Villas Siargao: A hidden gem offering spacious studios with modern comforts, including air conditioning and private bathrooms. Ideal for all travellers seeking a peaceful stay, complimented by friendly staff and great value.
Langojon Jianjoy Beach Resort: A beachfront haven with a pool, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Its tranquil setting near local eateries and the welcoming staff makes it a top choice for a relaxing escape.
Bookings Made Easy
Secure your stay directly on their websites or through popular platforms like Booking.com and Agoda for a hassle-free Siargao adventure.
Culinary Delights
Siargao’s food scene is as diverse as it is flavourful, boasting a mix of vibrant cafes and must-visit restaurants that serve up both local delicacies and international cuisines.
Here are my top picks for places that combine great vibes with delicious food:
Shaka Cafe: A perfect tropical escape. Savor the freshest ingredients, all while soaking up breathtaking ocean views and view of the iconic Cloud 9 in the distance. Top-notch service with live music on selected evenings.
The Smoking Joint BBQ Siargao: This place is a paradise for carnivores. They have legendary beef brisket and succulent ribs, famous for selling out quickly—so arrive early to secure them! They have an exquisite basil margarita, praised for its invigorating taste. Every visit at The Smoking Joint is met with exceptional service in an atmosphere that’s simply unmatched.
Bayani Restaurant: This restaurant has the authentic charm of Filipino cuisine, a cozy gem with direct access to a scenic beach. Every dish captures traditional Filipino flavours, served in generous portions that promise great value. The service is exceptional and coffee is superb in beautiful ambiance. Bayani Restaurant scores a perfect 10/10—highly recommended for a memorable dining experience during your visit.
Adventurous Eaters
Filipino cuisine is renowned for its rich, bold flavours, often introducing diners to a delightful array of uncommon dishes. Growing up with a Filipino mother, I encountered many unique culinary creations, but one that stands out is bagoong, a pungent shrimp fish paste.
Traditionally enjoyed with raw mango, bagoong is an acquired taste that often found my mother enjoying it outdoors to keep our home free from its strong aroma.
Here are a few daring items from the Siargao (if your game) that you may want to try on your visit:
- Balut: A famed Filipino delicacy, balut is a fertilized duck egg containing a partially developed embryo. It offers a savory, rich flavor that’s often enhanced with a sprinkle of vinegar. While it might sound challenging, it’s a beloved snack across the Philippines and a true taste of local cuisine.
- Tamilok: Found primarily in the coastal and mangrove areas of the Philippines, tamilok, also known as shipworms or woodworms, are long, worm-like creatures usually served raw. Dipped in spicy vinegar with onion and chili, tamilok has a texture akin to oysters and is celebrated for its unique flavor.
- Maskara: Translating to “mask” in English, maskara involves a boiled then deep-fried pig’s head, typically enjoyed with a cold beer. This novelty dish is particularly popular in bars.
Ultimate Guide to Navigating Siargao Island
Siargao Island is full of activities for both the thrill-seeker and those looking to unwind. Getting around the island is a breeze with numerous rental companies offering affordable deals on cars, motorbikes and scooters for the duration of your visit.
For a more personalized experience, many hotels provide options to hire a driver for the day or arrange transport. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local vibe by hopping on a habal-habal (shared motorcycle) or a tricycle around General Luna which will only set you back about $2 AUD.
Now, let’s talk about the hotspots on Siargao Island that I absolutely adore:
Cloud 9 Surfing Area
This spot is legendary among surf enthusiasts and spectators. It’s the perfect place to witness impressive towering waves or to bask in the stunning views of the sunrise and sunset.
If you’re passionate about surfing or bodyboarding, Cloud 9 is your ultimate playground. For beginners eager to catch their first wave there is seasoned instructors available to teach surfing lessons.
Siargao: Island Hopping Adventures
Embark on an unforgettable island-hopping adventure in Siargao, available as a day activity through many local hotels. Tour seven stunning islands, including the serene Naked Island and charming Guyam Island along with a visit to the enchanting Tayangban Cave and picturesque Magpupungko rock pools. Each location offers a mix of adventure and relaxation amidst breathtaking tropical scenery.
For added convenience many competitive tours can be booked through platforms like Viator or Get Your Guide.
Coconut Palm Forest: A Tropical Paradise in Siargao
Nestled in the heart of Siargao, the Coconut Palm Forest offers a breathtaking panorama of towering coconut trees stretching as far as the eye can see.
This scenic spot features a well-positioned viewing deck, perfect for enjoying a snack or a drink from the nearby local store as you take in the lush landscape. Photography enthusiasts and drone operators will find this location particularly appealing as it’s a drone-friendly zone where you can capture stunning aerial shots of the dense canopy.
Whether you’re visiting to witness the spectacular sunrises, vibrant sunsets or simply to immerse yourself in the beauty of countless palm trees, the Coconut Palm Forest promises a truly impressive experience.
Parting Waves: A Tribute to Siargao’s Pristine Waters and the Rich Culture of the Philippines
If you have dreamed of an affordable island escape that’s still off the beaten path it’s time to add Siargao Island to your bucket list destinations.
This blog post explored the enchanting appeal of Siargao, a quaint island that has a rich cultural and stunning scenery. The locals are incredibly warm and welcoming, a trait I can personally testify to, not just because my mother embodies these very qualities.
For those planning a more extensive exploration of the Philippines, consider pairing your Siargao adventure with visits to El Nido and Palawan two other spectacular locations. Hopefully, this post equipped you with all the essentials for navigating Siargao Island making it a top contender for your next travel destination.
Stay tuned for my next post where I’ll unveil another hidden treasure in our magnificent world!