The most evident is the amount of trash littered on the street and the beach, which would end up in the landfill or the ocean. Cloud 9 is only recommended for advanced surfers, as it breaks on a very shallow reef. SMART MOVE. The Blue Cathedral can be found on the wall of Cloud 9's rock entry. If you thought you'd done everything in Siargao, then you're in for another pleasant surprise. It is primarily a fishing village with cottages lined up along the coast. I recently wanted to progress with surfing - mainly be able to learn proper technique, master the. Being an outdoor adventurer and surfer also molded me to become environmentally conscious. Tours typically include pick-up, drop-off, and a provided lunch. Photos by Vitalis Villas/Balesin Island Club IMPORTANT:The properties featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. A beautiful island with only a few isla.ders who just fish and grow there own food. PRIVACY POLICY The, I worked in Singapore for 5 years as ground stewardess at a premium airline lounge and taught yoga on the side. Make your way through the palm forest to the top of the highest hill to take in some truly spectacular views. FIND & BOOK A HOTEL IN SIARGO ISLAND TODAY. Points of Interest & Landmarks Lookouts, Bring your own food and take your rubbish back with you to keep it pristine. I only stop when its time to surf, eat, or sleep. But the most convenient is to join a group tour. A bicycle, on the other hand, will make it easier to get acquainted with the locals and with the local way of life. Go snorkeling or relish the stunningly clear water for a swim. 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. The tour is also accompanied by a satisfying lunch banquet. It is located within the vicinity of Cloud 9, close enough for you to still watch the master surfers carving up the waves. Pool closed due to land ownership dispute. It lies about a 20-minute drive from General Luna, past Doot Beach and just before the town of Dapa. You can charter a private boat or join a group tour. The cave is dark, but the guide will carry a torch to illuminate the beautiful stalactite formations inside. Also, the good thing about Siargao is that it covers all degrees of expertise, so whether you are a newbie or an expert, theres a surf break that is right for you. You can also dip in the cold waters of the pool, swim around, and snap some photos as souvenirs. That adds another layer to the already many reasons to visit the island. Maasin River is a 30-minute drive from General Luna. If you need more help planning your trip, check out our SIARGAO TRAVEL GUIDE! Just be prepared to wait for at least 30 minutes since the restaurant tends to be jam-packed during peak hours. Volunteer | UServeUtah Island Activites Aside from just surfing. Naked Island tours feature one of the three islands you can see from the shores of General Luna. Aside from surfing, one of the most photographed and iconic Siargao experience is the curved coconut rope swing in Maasin River. Santa Monica Pier is a roughly hour-and-twenty-minute drive from General Luna. You need to know how to swim and should be comfortable taking risks. There are also private properties along the beach. 2,547.82. Beginners surfing lesson starts at P1000 for two hours. Well try to get back to you soonest. Those photos won't just look great on your social media feed; it will also be one of your treasured memories. It won't be a complete experience unless you enjoy a refreshing buko drink by the shores of Guyam Island. Entrance fee: P100 per boat Lovely island with lots of great spots for picture taking. Surf School Whether you are a total beginner, Your guide will tell you where it is safe to land. The most popular of which is the world-renowned Cloud 9where even the Red Hot Chili Peppers' frontman Anthony Kiedis once surfed. A morning or an afternoon dip heredepending on low-tide conditions of the seasonis a guaranteed time well-spent, so make sure to include a Magpupungko rock pools tour in your Siargao travel itinerary. Other beaches you can visit during the tour includes Union Beach, Malinao Beach, Doot Beach and a couple of secret and not-yet-touristy beach destinations. Surrounded by massive and majestic green limestone formations and blazing blue waters, you can't help but marvel at Sohoton Cove's raw beauty. There are also hammocks and swings if you want to want to rest, read a book, or take a quick nap as you hear the sound of waves crashing on the rocks by the shore. We are excited to team up with nonprofit, faith, and government organizations nationwide to share volunteer needs and opportunities to serve. Siargao also has excellent hiking spots to offer. It is ideal to go here during sunrise to get a jaw-dropping view of the sunrise-kissed mountains. The Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement (SEA Movement, or SEAM), a group of volunteers "trying to keep Siargao clean and green," is working double time to ensure that Siargao doesn't follow the fate of our other island destinations. The most iconic "landmark" of Sugba lagoon is the wooden diving board rigged from coco lumber. 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. I dont want to destroy my playground. The booming tourism industry has a positive effect on the economy and livelihood of the people by opening business and job opportunities, but it also has a negative impact. Taste the Best Barbecue at Mamas Grill, 12. Paddle board through Siargao's lush mangroves or through islands's protected inner reef and enjoy the many stunning views of 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. These are some of the reasons why you must add Siargao tours toyour bucket list. Also prices and details on rental requirements, TERMS OF USE & Aside from refreshing buko juice, much welcome shade, and various trips in Siargao, its coconut palm trees make for a beautiful backdrop for your tropical vacation photos. This teardrop-shaped island has grown steadily in popularity over the past few years and is often known as the countrys surfing capital. An hour away from the surfing haven of General Luna, it situates at the end of a snaking road fringed with Intagrammable palm trees. As soon as you arrive at Corregidor Island, you will see why it was worth making the trip out. THE 10 BEST Outdoor Activities in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor Located near the beach, this surfer-themed cafe has a fantastic view of Cloud 9. If you are coming to surf, then mid to low tide is best. Long winding roads lined up with verdant palm tree forests will lead you to Pacifico Beach. Make a short stop on the side of the road to appreciate the lush coco paradise that seems endless as it sprawls across the island! There's a cliff-jumping spot at the other end a seven-meter cliff that leads you to 18-feet deep water. A short, 10-minute drive past Santa Monica Pier, youll find Taktak Falls, the only waterfall on Siargao Island. Like S.E.A. If youre up for a swim, you can swim around the entire island with little effort! If you have the chance, then try to plan your day around seeing both! Where to Stay in Siargao: 12 Best Siargao Hotels & Resorts | Guide to Many of the retailers on Siargao Island place a high importance on sustainability, and so you will easily find reusable products like straws and water bottles that help to keep litter on the island low. per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island. Located in General Luna town, Cloud 9 is where most of the surfing action happens. Make sure you have a license and wear a helmet even if no one else is doing it. Check out our article on the best beachfront resorts in Siargao and explore Siargao tours and activities now to experience this paradise like no other! No doubt, it's a paradise blessed with beauty from Mother Nature wherever you go. Visiting the rock pool requires a small entrance fee of just 50 pesos. 18 EPIC Things To Do In Siargao [Philippines] In 2023 It comes as no surprise since Siargao has several pristine islets that are every beach lover's dream. Have fun exploring on foot and make sure you spend some time in the water as well. Guyam Island is a small, circular island, usually your first stop for the three-island tour. The food place selection ranges from simple eateries or carinderias to international restaurants. It's along the Maasin Enchanted River in Brgy. Continue your off-island adventures and lagoon explorations by booking a tour to Sohoton Cove. 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. Home to the famous Cloud 9 and other beginner-friendly surf beaches tucked in some of the hidden spots all over the island, Siargao is on every surfer's dream destination. Siargao will surely not disappoint you. The island is surrounded by glistening blue waters and colorful coral reefs, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. 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. Renting a bicycle is considerably cheaper and an excellent idea if you plan on exploring a smaller area for the day. 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. Getting There: From Siargao, the jumping-off point to Bucas Grande Islands is Dapa port. Aside from just surfing. The road from the airport to other parts of the island has also been developed from the bumpy rough road to smooth concrete ones, making traveling around the island more convenient and efficient. A delightful lunch consisting of a feast of the freshest seafood often caps a morning tour here. Great Salt Lake has risen a foot . Some of the businesses are taking the initiative to do their part in preserving the environment like using metal straws instead of plastic ones. If you follow a lot of travel Instagram accounts, you've probably seen a photo or two of this infamous swing all over your feed. Taktak Falls tour. Shaka Cafe is most famous for its signature smoothie bowls that are as vibrant as Siargao Island itself. Photos by The Forest Camp Resort/Nay Palad Hideaway IMPORTANT:Theresorts featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. This humble eatery has a very casual street vibe, so don't expect a posh set-up. A large part of Siargao, despite the many developments happening in some areas, is still undisturbed and unspoiled. A great activity for rest days or when the waves are flat. There are so many projects in line, and I feel a bit sad I cant give as much time as I want to because of my busy work at Kudo Surf. Youll have the opportunity to watch a wide variety of fish and other marine life under the surface. Loved swimming and sunbathing in the turquoise waters. Harana Surf Resort 7. But fresh fish and other seafood are available and you can have the locals cook for you. Their smoothie bowls are a great way to cool off after a hot day on the beaches of Siargao. The locals are super nice and friendly. Top Things to Do in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor 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. Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve Explore pristine mangrove forest and visit the salt water crocodile project. The classes are tailored towards both beginners and seasoned yogis, depending on the composition of the class. It is undoubtedly a destination for the adventurous and is a part of this Siargao day tour. These unique tidal pools are also perfect picture-taking spots, courtesy to its one of a kind pool and rock formations. By simply bringing your own refillable water bottles, eco-bags, and throwing your trash properly, you are already making a huge difference. Siargao is the Philippines most famous surf spot and Cloud 9 break is Top 10 in the World. Other than mimicking Tarzan and Jane, most visitors spend a cozy morning here paddling up and down the river by boat. People who live here locals and foreigners alike are living their life stories in this paradise. Youve come to one of the best surfing spots not only in the Philippines but also in the world, so why not? Siargao is a motorcycle- and bicycle-friendly island. The top diving spot in Siargao, however, is the blue Cathedral. You can also hike to the top of Corregidor Island to marvel at the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands. I really hope that one day, SEAM will be self-sustaining and be able to pay a good wage to its staff who can work full-time for the organization. As of this writing, there are no helmets or life jackets provided when canyoneering in Tayangban. With its swells that make the surfers adrenaline pumping and feet itching, Siargao has been luring both local and international wave riders to its rolling shores. If you're a first-timerin Siargao who wants to make the most of your stay in this popular surfing destination in the Philippines, it is highly recommended to check out these spectacular spots and tours to experience for yourself why it has becomea beloved travel destination in the world. Imagine turquoise blue seawater that gives you front seat view to plenty of fish and colorful coral reefs. It is best to come to Doot Beach at high tide. Siargao's Environmental Issues (The Philippines' Best Island) Siargao Island Villas 6. 7. from. Palafox disclosed that their firm has recently secured the . Take this tour and see for yourself what these islands have to offer. When the sun goes down, the nightlife starts to kick in. from. Seven large islands belong to the Visayan Islands. Just a 13-minute drive east from General Luna, Doot Beach is an easy and very worthwhile trip from town. Another popular activity at Naked Island is snorkeling. Take advantage of the seclusion to commune with nature, feel the powdery white sand on your feet, and take tons of photographs without worrying about photobombers. There is even a jellyfish sanctuary where visitors can jump into the water and swim with these unique creatures. Some roads cut across this coco paradise, which creates a scenic view. Siargao Island is a tropical paradise located in the Surigao del Norte province of the Philippines. Located in Bucas Grande Island and only a one-hour boat trip from Dapa port in Siargao, this place is truly a hidden paradise. 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. It offers technical surf breaks for advanced surfers and is perfect for people who want to veer away from the crowded Cloud 9. After 15 minutes, the cave opens up to the sunlight. Part of the Sohoton National Park, Sohoton Cove is located in Bucas Grande Island. The tree bends out over a river, and the locals have attached a swing to it that you can jump from into the water below. All applicable laws apply and will be enforced. One such activity is island hopping; Daku Island is the biggest in the trio which includes Guyam and Naked Islands. You can also watch the seasoned surfers dance with the roaring waves from the three-story view deck at the end of the boardwalk. Frequently Asked Questions about Siargao Island. The 10 Best Things To Do In Provo | Visit Utah It is one of the most extreme of the Siargao tourist spots, and it is also not as well known among tourists. Thats your landmark for the bent coconut tree. Tucked in the forest of Pilar in the center of Siargao island is the Tayangban Cave Pools. Others offer fantastic opportunities for cliff jumping. This is a very relaxed and picturesque spot where you are likely to meet a lot of the friendly locals. 14. The drive will take you about 45 minutes from General Luna. Mountaineers, which taught me the Leave No Trace Principle. About 1 hour from gen. Luna. The location is a 45-minute drive from General Luna. I'd go as far to say this was one of my favourite island hopping tours and experiences in all of the Philippines. DENR orders 49 Siargao businesses to address environmental - RAPPLER Don't be afraid to get lost under the coconut palms as you roam around the island. Concealed by the stunning islets scattered off the coast of Del Carmen in Siargao, is a gem of a nature spot whereone would enjoy spending a few hours of unperturbed nature-tripping. Joining an island-hopping escapadein Siargao should be on top of your list. I love my job, but not all jobs are perfect. There are some right-hand breaks great for longboarding here, or you can simply relax in the sand. 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. Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa 10. The beach is dotted with palm trees, and there are many great spots to go swimming. Most Philippine tour packages in Siargao range from 3 to 5 days, complete with flights, accommodations, and free Siargao private tours or shared tours. I have been backpacking, rock climbing, bouldering, and surfing around the Philippines with that principle since I was in college. Shaka is also a very vegan-friendly joint. GENERAL LUNA, SIARGAO (MindaNews / 07 January) The mayor of the country's surfing capital has ordered the temporary closure of Mad Monkey Siargao, operated by Asia's largest hostel chain, Mad Monkey, for alleged deliberate and gross violation of environmental laws. #SeatizenSunday: Marja Abad, Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement For more information about this campaign, visit www.juaneffect.com. Explore the Enchanting Sohoton Cove National Park, 6. If you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance, you certainly can. With a name like Secret Beach, this is a sandy strip you know you have to come and experience. It is located off the coast of Siargao Island and about a 45-minute boat ride from General Luna, past Daku Island. The Siargao Circumferential Road will treat you to a very picturesque drive, leading you to different tourist sites on the island. The surf line is well offshore and you can walk in the shallows between the surf and the beach. 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. Other activities here include a spelunking tour of one of the caves and cliff diving. For about $7-8 per day you can rent a moped or motorbike and gas/petrol is only a few dollars to fill up your bike. I teamed up with Cebu Pacific for their. Siargao, The Philippines - The Escapist 2019 - Magazine - Monocle 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. Sustaining Siargao - GRID Magazine A red bridge at Maasin Village indicates the amazing wonders that lie secreted by the coconut forest ahead. Local surfers though know more of several secret spots. Heading to the northern portion of the island, you will arrive at a very conspicuous red bridge. per adult. #SeatizenSunday: Marja Abad, Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement, Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. Although Taktak may not be as grand as other waterfalls the likes of Cebu's Kawasan Falls, Taktak is still a pretty sight. If you happen to be in Siargao around the time of the surfing . Shaka Cafe in Siargao is the go-to place for instagrammable healthy food choices such as fruit bowls and cold-pressed juices. Another remarkable natural attraction in Sohoton Cove is the lagoon filled with thousands of stingless jellyfish. The half-submerged cave is full of shimmering stalagmites and stalactites, making for a magical entryway to the lagoon beyond. Siargao has put a lot of money into their infrastructure and the roads around the island are great although in General Luna they are bumpy and dirt. More Activities. But it was hard to get a land and build something, so I just started beach clean-ups with kids, then my friends saw it, so they [started doing] their [own] bit in other ways. The best time to come is around sunrise or sunset. Which is perhaps why it is also called the Secret Beach. Corregidor Island, also known as Casolian Island, is sometimes included as a fourth island in the popular tour of Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. It is also just a half-hour drive from Pacifico Beach. Relocation not the only solution for Siargao coastal residents, gov't If things go well, the livelihood project and SEAM the brand can power this growing group and continue making environmental projects on the island. If youre on a group tour, lunch is usually served as part of the package. It may look rickety, but this diving board is strong enough to support tourist after tourist. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Siargao Island. SEA movement organises beach clean up on a regular basis, inviting locals as well as tourists to participate. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The streaming waters of Taktak Falls provide a wonderful prelude to experiencing the bounteous nature of Siargao. The beach is wide enough for activities such as beach volleyball and . Extending far into the sea, the boardwalk leads to a three-story viewing platform where you can watch the surfers. It's often combined with a tour in Naked Island in this Siargao day adventure. There are also Siargao tour packages with airfare from Manila available on an online travel agency like Guide to the Philippines. Sugba Lagoon is a gem tucked away in the quiet town of Del Carmen in Siargao. Siargao island has many other activites and attractions to offer. Guyam Island is a place you will never want to leave. With the popularity comes several threats to its natural environment, evident in the increasing volume of litter. Location: Siargao Circumferential Rd, Dapa, Surigao del Norte how to get around, and the best things to see and do there in this article. Locals that we met very friendly. Cloud 9 is one of the popular surf breaks in General Luna, but if you are not that into balancing yourself on a surfboard and be wiped out several times, you can just relax and chill strolling down the iconic long boardwalk. Guyam Island is another tiny island that you can easily walk from one side to the other of in a matter of minutes. Movement on Facebook and follow them on Instagram at @s.e.a.movement. It is also best to come at mid to high tide, as low tide exposes most of the reef. I spend one weekday and Saturdays for S.E.A. Siargao Island Hopping 2 Day Trips from $58.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island 7 from $45.00 per adult Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour Full-day Tours from $85.00 per adult Sugba Lagoon Tour and Magpupungko Rock Pools Full-day Tours from $60.00 per adult Kawili Resort 5. Jellyfish sanctuary and Sohoton cove Full-Day Tour. It is probably the second-best Siargao Island surf spot after Cloud 9, with fantastic reef breaks just a quick paddle away from shore and a choice of both right-hand and left-hand waves.