Siargao also has excellent hiking spots to offer. If things go well, the livelihood project and SEAM the brand can power this growing group and continue making environmental projects on the island. 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 . In the recent staging of Shore It Up in July, the program conducted its educational component, the Junior Environmental Scouts (JES) for 80 school children to heighten public opinion against illegal marine activities. The town of General Luna has the most number of commercial establishments on the island resorts, restaurants, cafs, and bars. 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. Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve Explore pristine mangrove forest and visit the salt water crocodile project. The Sea of Palms viewpoint is a great place to come for either sunrise or sunset. About 1 hour from gen. Luna. Experience the ultimate island life in Palawan, the Last Frontier of the Philippines. It is a wonderful place to shop for handcrafted and all-natural products as well. There is also the Siargao Blue resort lounge, great music and drinks. 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. As this is a very popular tourist stop, you can expect some crowds, but the pools are large enough to comfortably accommodate many people. Your guide will tell you where it is safe to land. The accommodation is nice and is air-conditioned, you can choose what cottage you will get because they have a cottage for small family and bigger family that could accommodate up to 15 pax. Coconut is practically a ubiquitous sight in this island. The pair share the goal of transforming the tourism sector into a digital-savvy industry that empowers not only travelers, but also local businesses, communities, and environmental conservationists. The island is small enough to traverse in only one day on a motorcycle by following the Siargao Circumferential Road. Once you're there, don't let the opportunity to feel like Tarzan pass. SEA Movement - Home - Facebook I have been backpacking, rock climbing, bouldering, and surfing around the Philippines with that principle since I was in college. No wonder that this teardrop-shaped island is widely regarded as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. Environmental Groups in Siargao That Take in Volunteers 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. Photos by Gallery by Chele (left) and Lore Manila (right) If you want to experience the local culture in the Philippines, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in it is to try different kinds of f Best Palawan Guide: Top Tours, Where to Stay, How to Get Around, 20 Most Beautiful Sandbars in the Philippines: White Sand, Longest, Vanishing, 15 Best Tropical Bali-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Siargao, Cebu, Bohol, 10 Best Treehouse Resorts in the Philippines for a Scenic Getaway at Mountains, Beaches & Rivers, 11 Best Santorini-Like Resorts in the Philippines: Near Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Vigan, Top 18 Tourist Spots in Siargao Island: Surfing, Beaches, Islands, Lagoons, Top 10 Marinduque Tourist Spots: Beaches, Islands, Caves, Nature Parks, Must-Try Tasting Menu in Manila & Nearby: Degustation Restaurants, Siargao travel guide for COVID-19 travel requirements, See our popular Siargao Vacation Packages, See our popular Siargao Island Hopping Tours, Siargao package deals with hotel and airfare. You can go on a day trip with friends to Corregidor and bond over activities such as picnic by the beach, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. It is actually one of the most well-known surfing spots in the entire Philippines, as the right-breaking reef creates a barrelling wave known for its thick, hollow tubes. More Activities. The negatives are actually also good. You can also beat much of the crowds if you come earlier in the day. If you're planning to visit the island soon, remember that Siargao is more than just a place for island-hopping excursions. Most group tours also include a stop at Sugba Lagoon, which is located on another island so a boat transfer is added. What I really wanted in the beginning was just a public library for kids to go to and develop a love for reading and learning. The top diving spot in Siargao, however, is the blue Cathedral. Visitors can kayak to the area and gently touch the adorable gelatinous residents of Bucas Grande. A visit to this enchanting lagoon indeed wouldn't be complete without jumping from its famed diving board. The warm and friendly locals inhabiting the island are on a mission to preserve the magic of Siargao's natural beauty. If you want to make sure you have the swing all to yourself to take some epic pictures as you swing into the river, try to come as early in the morning as possible. A beautiful island with only a few isla.ders who just fish and grow there own food. 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. The half-submerged cave is full of shimmering stalagmites and stalactites, making for a magical entryway to the lagoon beyond. When I went back to Siargao for a visit, I met my current partner, James, and he offered me a job at Kudo Surf. You start by entering a dark cave and wading through chest-deep water. When the sun goes down, the nightlife starts to kick in. The most popular of which is the world-renowned Cloud 9where even the Red Hot Chili Peppers' frontman Anthony Kiedis once surfed. Here is the list of Siargaos surf breaks: Note: The annual Cloud 9 Surfing Cup usually happens in late September or early October, so expect huge crowds during this time. Siargao island has many other activites and attractions to offer. At frontline of S.E.A Movement is Marja Abad, who traces her environmentalism from her elementary and high school education in Miriam College. It's a short day trip from General Luna and is typically combined with other tourist spots in a Siargao all-in package tour. It is my place to go to shed close to the beach and have nice ocean cold breeze and have a cold drink. 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. Have you ever gone to a place and felt like you're in a scene of a movie? The interior of Corregidor Island features rolling grassy hills. Asta is the Managing Editor at PhilippineBeaches.org and a regular contributor to The Poor Traveler. 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. Please be extra careful especially if you are just new to surfing. Each year, professional surfers from around the world compete against each other on the barreling right-hand wave. It gives me hope. Her natural ability to explain surf basics, theories, and technicals make it easier for someone like me who loves to surf and only gets 3 to 4 surf breaks a year. The restaurants on Siargao Island are also known for offering a lot of fresh and healthy food options made with local ingredients, as well as tasty dishes for vegans and vegetarians. The water in the pools is bright blue and incredibly clear, making it a popular spot to take a swim and go snorkeling. One of the islets you shouldn't miss out on is anescapade in Naked Island. Even before reaching your destination, the ride itself is already an attraction. A large part of Siargao, despite the many developments happening in some areas, is still undisturbed and unspoiled. Located in Bucas Grande Island and only a one-hour boat trip from Dapa port in Siargao, this place is truly a hidden paradise. 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. Yearning for adventure, the locals tied a rope over it and the result is a perfect spot to master that Tarzan swing before diving into the clear waters of the river. What is your why - why you do what you do? Here are the Details. 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. The food choices cater to both locals and foreign visitors. If you rented a boat, lunch is not covered. Taste the Best Barbecue at Mamas Grill, 12. Though it's a small island, it's packed with awide variety of activities and attractions to enjoy along with itslaidback island vibe. There is even a jellyfish sanctuary where visitors can jump into the water and swim with these unique creatures. 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. This small sandbar surrounded by ocean isnt home to any trees or really any life at all, making it quite a unique place to visit. The Visayas Island group is located in the central area of the Philippine archipelago. There are some right-hand breaks great for longboarding here, or you can simply relax in the sand. And should you visit at the right season, you will be able to encounter the stingless jellyfish at Sohoton Cove. Drive Along to Siargaos Palm-lined Road, top tourist destinations in the Philippines, Siargao package deals with accommodation andairfare, See our popular Siargao Vacation Packages, cave, beach, and tidal pool experience in Siargao, See our popular Siargao Island Hopping Tours. Other than surfing, the island boasts other attractions like coconut-lined roads and rivers, pristine beaches, caves, lagoons, and food! Here are some spots that deserve a place on your itinerary. 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. Have lunch here on your island tour of siargao. Activities here include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, platform diving, snorkeling, or just lounging under the sun. The streaming waters of Taktak Falls provide a wonderful prelude to experiencing the bounteous nature of Siargao. An hour away from the surfing haven of General Luna, it situates at the end of a snaking road fringed with Intagrammable palm trees. We visited the main town of General Luna when we were in Siargao. Local surfers though know more of several secret spots. Find volunteer opportunities on: JustServe.org. Have lunch here on your island tour of siargao. Aside from just surfing. Copyright 2022 The Poor Traveler Itinerary Blog. With warm sunlight, gentle waves beneath your feet, and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, Siargao has an inexplicable charm that will surely win your heart. Nice small village between Magpupungko Lagoons and Rock Formations and Pacifico surfing beaches. You can also bring food and drinks at Naked Island for a quick island snack, just be mindful to leave nothing but footprints. What are the best outdoor activities in Siargao Island? Watch the stunning waves touch the shore in all its glory. 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. Subscribe on Youtube! 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. The most popular attraction on Siargao Island is the Cloud 9 surfing area in General Luna. Instead, guides will bring you to the lagoon on a small dinghy where you can watch the jellyfish merrily swimming around your boat. There are many ways you can get around the island of Siargao van, tricycle, habal-habal, motorcycle, and bicycle. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Maasin River is a 30-minute drive from General Luna. Here are 18 activities waiting for you thedream tropical and surfing destination that isSiargao. Pacifico Beach is the sweetest escape you can have far away from the crowded tourist spots of General Luna. Soak up the sun and get that perfect tan. On weekdays, Im usually in the office 9:30am-4pm for my day job at Kudo. While waiting, follow us on these channels. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Siargao Island. The ideal surfing season usually starts in the latter part of August and lasts till Decemberbut generally, surfing can be experienced on the island all year long. per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island. Shaka Cafe in Siargao is the go-to place for instagrammable healthy food choices such as fruit bowls and cold-pressed juices. 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. But fresh fish and other seafood are available and you can have the locals cook for you. Siargao Island : Challenging ecotourism in the Philippines Another great palm attraction in Siargao is the viewpoint. DENR: 49 establishments in Siargao violated environmental laws Because of the abundance of coconuts on this island, it's an excellent spot to sip on buko juice (coconut juice]. Activity 1: Construct a planning and management measure chart by It's a part of acave, beach, and tidal pool experience in Siargao. More than its famous surf breaks, the island has its unique laidback charm that attracts and excites the wanderlust in every traveler who stumbles upon it even if it doesn't have many5-star hotels in the Philippines like in other famous islands. 6 talking about this. Name of the Coastal Area: El Nido, For those on a honeymoon that can last a week or two, there are . Those photos won't just look great on your social media feed; it will also be one of your treasured memories. Long winding roads lined up with verdant palm tree forests will lead you to Pacifico Beach. The other two islands are Daku Island and Guyam Island, which along with Naked Island, make up the highly-recommended island hopping tour in Siargao. You will be able to see the iconic tree from the bridge. The most popular attraction on Siargao Island is the Cloud 9 surfing area in General Luna. They are all just a quick boat ride from General Luna, where your trip will begin. 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. Both jobs are making me very busy, checking emails, leading the team, planning and executing projects. This locally-owned and family-operated joint serve one of the best barbecue in Siargao. 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. One of the highlights here is jumping off the diving platform into the clear turquoise (sometimes emerald) waters. Shaka Cafe is most famous for its signature smoothie bowls that are as vibrant as Siargao Island itself. You can follow the dirt path on the right side of the bridge, and it will lead you to the bent coconut tree. It is highly recommended that you spend some time exploring the palm forest and even try to climb some of the trees! Siargao Environmental Awareness (SEA) Movement is our local community's efforts in taking care of our seas. On the way to attractions like Pacifico Beach, Magpupungko Rock Pool, and Tayangbang Cave Pool, you'll drive by a picturesque road lined with elegant and tall coconut trees. 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. Cottage rental: P250. Siargao isn't only for avid surfers, it is also for beach lovers who have no qualms of getting baked and achieving golden skin under the sun. The Philippines is a nature lovers haven with its countless breathtaking beaches, beautiful countryside attractions, and incredible diving spots scattered across the 7,000+ islands in the country. I have been coming to the island since 2006 and Ive seen the drastic changes. Describing it already sounds fantastic but wait untilyou experience the actual tour. Located in the town of Soccoro in Surigao del Norte, Bucas Grande is a separate group of islands from Siargao. Bring your own food and take your rubbish back with you to keep it pristine. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Another remarkable natural attraction in Sohoton Cove is the lagoon filled with thousands of stingless jellyfish. 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. People who live here locals and foreigners alike are living their life stories in this paradise. 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. 3,818.62. Surf School Whether you are a total beginner, We stayed in a resort nearby where the beach was 50 meters away. They also serve sumptuous all-day breakfast and specialty coffee. Youve probably seen photos of the bent coconut tree sticking out over the river. Most prominent among the three famous islands in Siargao, Daku Island, is also the most breathtaking one. 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. Note: Always check the tide schedule as it changes daily. Guyam Island is a small island distinctly appearing with a patch of small forest on the middle. I'd go as far to say this was one of my favourite island hopping tours and experiences in all of the Philippines. Going here is fun and I personally enjoy our experience here. Whats even better is that you dont have to go far to get there! See all tours. SIARGAO ITINERARY: 13 Best 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. Aside from the fruit smoothie bowls, they offer a wide selection of filling fruit shakes and other vegan snacks. Aside from its world-class swells, Cloud 9 attracts crowds as it is easily accessible and has a beautiful, picturesque boardwalk. per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island. It's along the Maasin Enchanted River in Brgy. Your day will begin with either an hour and a half boat ride from General Luna or an hour boat ride from Del Carmen, depending on where you chose to depart from. Imagine turquoise blue seawater that gives you front seat view to plenty of fish and colorful coral reefs. Cloud 9 Siargao originally gained popularity due to the surf but it has become a mainstream tourist attraction for people who aren't surfers. The enclosed lagoon is a maze of blue water pools and limestone rock formations thickly covered in trees. Palafox disclosed that their firm has recently secured the . Visitors come from all over the Philippines and across the globe to experience the world-class surf, white sand beaches, beautiful sunsets, natural rock and cave pools, and smaller neighboring islands. Sculpted by the waves of the Pacific Ocean for thousands of years, this wonder of a place exposes itself with a window of time that can last a couple of hours or more, therefore giving visitors ample time to frolic and enjoy its calming cool waters. 3,283.86. As a new day dawns, three boys playing in the port of Dapa skim along the water's edge on makeshift wooden surfboards. I was a member of the U.P. Other activities here include a spelunking tour of one of the caves and cliff diving. Caves like Hagukan Cave and Magkuku-ob Cave will also offer you exciting experiences. If you happen to be in Siargao around the time of the surfing . The normal boat rate is P1600 for six people. For the best inland adventure on Siargao Island, head to the Tayangban Cave Pool near the small village of Pilar. Aside from surfing, you can swim in warm blue water of Pacifico Beach or witness the stunning Siargao sunset by its shores. FIND & BOOK A HOTEL IN SIARGO ISLAND TODAY. Reef Beach Resort 9. 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. 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. The 10 Best Things To Do In Provo | Visit Utah I teamed up with Cebu Pacific for their. One of the leading causes of global warming is cow fart. Enjoy your barbecue with a generous serving of rice and an ice-cold beer to have that full Siargao Island experience. However, always prioritize safety! EIN for organizations is sometimes also referred to as taxpayer identification number (TIN) or FEIN or simply IRS Number. If you are a newbie surfer, this is also the best place to learn as seasoned surfers double as instructors. Because there isnt much here, not even trees, the activities are limited. 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. It is a quintessential tropical paradise that inspires you to sit back for a minute and enjoy some refreshing coconut water. Photos by Vitalis Villas/Balesin Island Club IMPORTANT:The properties featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. From September 25 to 28, Globe held Siargao Sustainability Week, where they launched several initiatives as part of their collaboration with DOT. You just have to be ready with the mosquitos at night when you go out on the Island. The lengthy shore of Pacifico dishes a peaceful vibe with swells that can grow to surfer-friendly breaks. You can spot stalactites formations as you explore the inner cave. Not a real snorkeling or swimming area. A huge part of why only a few travelers visit Alegria Beach is that it is approximately an hour's drive from General Luna. Spread all over the islands are charming seaside towns adjacent to picturesque beaches where one can quench their thirst for a beach fix. There is a hidden blue lagoon down the Maasin River. Each island offers something unique and seeing them one after another is a wonderful experience. Discover all the adventures you can experience in the Philippines. Continue your off-island adventures and lagoon explorations by booking a tour to Sohoton Cove. All Rights Reserved. There is something here for every kind of traveler, whether you are looking for excitement or relaxation. Thats how S.E.A. The exhilarating experience will be one for the books! When you're in Siargao, you certainly shouldn't miss this quintessential island experience. It can be a long ride but savor the moment. This must-do day trip in Siargao is a 40-minute drive to Del Carmen from General Luna, and another hour and a half journey by boat. Not too far before Maasin Village, when coming from General Luna, you will find the Sea of Palms, an elevated viewpoint that looks out over a veritable sea of coconut trees. Siargao Island is usually accessed through Sayak Airport, which is about a 10-minute drive from the municipality of Del Carmen and a 40-minute drive from the main tourist town of General Luna. Join a group tour or charter your own boat to Bucas Grande. Many years later, shes still answering that question through her actions. You can also mingle and share stories with the friendly locals as they are very accommodating in suggesting other activities worth trying while in Siargao. A beach tour in Siargao will take you to several of its must-see beaches such as Pacifico Beach. The trail starts beside the main highway of Guiwan; follow the way it will guide you to the palm-fringed shores and white sands of Secret Beach. The beach is wide enough for activities such as beach volleyball and . Well try to get back to you soonest. That particular shot of a strip flanked by coconut trees is a strong contender for the title of most photographed (or Instagrammable) spot in Siargao. A short, 10-minute drive past Santa Monica Pier, youll find Taktak Falls, the only waterfall on Siargao Island. Places to Visit in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor Tucked away in the north-eastern coastline of Siargao, it is approximately a 1-hour drive away from the center. Each has its unique feature, so the experience wont seem redundant. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey great post and very informative. But you can always take lots of photos. You forgot to add the Siargao wake park, it was so much fun! Guyam Island is a small, circular island, usually your first stop for the three-island tour. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Highly appreciate Coach Ana for being so warm, friendly, and patient. Don't be fooled by its size though, Guyam Island may be small, but you'll soon find yourself charmed by its azure waters, powdery sand, and reefs. As the Managing Director of the company, Im leading the direction of the brand to do two things: to protect the ocean and to surf epic waves. If youre on a group tour, lunch is usually served as part of the package. Daku Island, Siargao: Important Travel Tips The last quarter of the year is the busiest surfing season; surfers and tourists from all over the world seek to experience the best swells. The scenic drive will take you inland through the mountains and down to the coast again. Thirty minutes away from General Luna is the magnificent views overlooking the unbelievably beautiful scene of an endless sea of palm trees. the breeze is quite nice. Siargao's Environmental Issues (The Philippines' Best Island) Entrance fee: P100 per boat Sohoton Cove is only accessible at low tide through the Sohoton Cave. Top Things to Do in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor 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 Its Blue Lagoon is often compared to some of the lagoons in El Nido, Palawan. This humble eatery has a very casual street vibe, so don't expect a posh set-up. Location: Siargao Circumferential Rd, Dapa, Surigao del Norte We can't be held responsible for any untoward incident due to participation in this site. With the popularity comes several threats to its natural environment, evident in the increasing volume of litter. By working with the local community, they bring awareness and aim to stop plastic pollution in Siargao.