🌊 Siargao Island – The Surfing Capital of the Philippines

Siargao, a teardrop-shaped island off the northeastern coast of Mindanao, is the undisputed surfing capital of the Philippines. But beyond the legendary Cloud 9 waves, Siargao reveals a laid-back soul of hidden lagoons, island-hopping adventures, palm-lined roads, and a barefoot lifestyle. It’s where thrill meets tranquility.

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📍 Where is Siargao?

• Located in Surigao del Norte, northeastern Mindanao

• Surrounded by the Philippine Sea and Pacific Ocean

• Known for surfing, nature adventures, and tropical island life

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✈️ How to Get There

• ✈️ Direct flights to Sayak Airport (IAO) from Manila, Cebu, Clark, or Davao

• 🚗 30–45 minutes van or tricycle ride to General Luna (main tourist town)

• 🛳️ Optional ferry route via Surigao City → Dapa Port

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🌟 Top Attractions in Siargao

🏄 Cloud 9

• Siargao’s most iconic surf break, perfect for intermediate and pro surfers

• Famous Cloud 9 Boardwalk – top photo and sunset spot

• Host of international surfing competitions

• Surf schools available for beginners nearby (e.g., Jacking Horse)

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🌴 Sugba Lagoon

• Located in Del Carmen, surrounded by dense mangroves

• Paddleboarding, kayaking, diving from platforms, and serene swimming

• The famous “bent palm tree” for that must-have Instagram shot

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🏝️ Island Hopping (Siargao Trio)

• Naked Island – A dazzling white-sand bar with no shade

• Daku Island – Coconut tree paradise with fresh seafood huts

• Guyam Island – Tiny, circular island perfect for lounging or picnicking

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💧 Magpupungko Rock Pools

• Tide-dependent natural rock pools and cliff-jumping spots

• Visit during low tide for safe and clear swimming

• Surreal turquoise pools carved by time and sea

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🌿 Maasin River & Palm Tree Rope Swing

• Paddle or take a small boat down the lush river

• Famous palm swing over emerald-green water

• Affordable and local-run eco-attraction

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🌊 Pacifico Beach & Alegria

• Northern Siargao – uncrowded surf breaks and secluded beaches

• Ideal for retreats, yoga, or digital detoxing

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🏄‍♀️ Best Activities

• Surfing (lessons or rentals everywhere)

• Scooter island road trips through palm-lined boulevards

• Yoga and breathwork classes

• Sunset watching at Cloud 9, Malinao Beach, or Secret Spot

• Café hopping in General Luna

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🍽️ Where to Eat

• Shaka Siargao – Vegan smoothie bowls and beachfront breakfasts

• Kermit Siargao – Wood-fired pizza and Italian-Filipino fusion

• Bravo Beach Resort – Tapas and Spanish cuisine with live music

• Harana Surf Resort – Filipino comfort food in a modern setting

• La Carinderia – Home-cooked Filipino meals in a cozy courtyard

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🏨 Where to Stay

• 🌟 Nay Palad Hideaway – Exclusive luxury resort

• 🛏️ Kermit Resort – Surfer-friendly bungalows with top-tier food

• 🛖 Mad Monkey Hostel – Party vibe, beachfront, great for solo travelers

• 🏝️ Isla Cabana Resort – Mid-range beachfront rooms with island luxury

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📅 Best Time to Visit

• 🏄‍♂️ Surf Season: August to November (biggest waves)

• ☀️ Dry Season: March to May (best weather for island hopping)

• 🌧️ Rainy Season: December to February (occasional showers, fewer crowds)

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📸 Top Photo Spots

• 📍 Cloud 9 Boardwalk

• 📍 Sugba Lagoon’s diving platform

• 📍 Palm swing at Maasin River

• 📍 Road between coconut trees

• 📍 Sunrise at Guyam Island

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🌿 Travel Tips

• Bring cash – ATMs are limited

• Book accommodations early (especially during dry/surf season)

• Rent a scooter for full island access

• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life

• Respect local customs — Siargao is casual, but conservative outside surf areas