10 Things You Can’t Miss In Siargao, Philippines

I never expected to fall so hard for Siargao.

But from the moment I arrived, something felt different. The air smelled of salt and coconuts, motorbikes rumbled down dirt roads lined with endless palm trees, and the whole island had this laid-back energy that made time feel slower.

Siargao is best known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, but there’s so much more to it.

Yes, Cloud 9 has world-class waves, but even if you don’t surf (or, in my case, wipe out spectacularly every time you try), there’s a whole other side of the island to discover. I spent my days hopping between turquoise lagoons, hidden caves, and deserted islands where the sand was so soft it felt unreal.

But I must admit, Siargao isn’t perfect – brownouts are common, WiFi is slow, and sometimes you’ll be ankle-deep in mud after a sudden rainstorm. But that’s the charm of it.

Getting here is easy, whether you’re flying from Cebu to Siargao for a quick island escape or making your way from Davao, which has regular connections.

If you’re planning a longer island-hopping adventure, it’s worth pairing Siargao with Bohol. Just a short ferry from Cebu, Bohol is a beautiful contrast – think chocolate hills stretching across the horizon, quiet rivers lined with fireflies, and snorkelling in coral gardens off Balicasag Island.  

If you’re island-hopping through the Philippines, you might also want to check out Coron before heading to Siargao. The contrast between Coron’s dramatic limestone cliffs and Siargao’s laid-back surf culture makes for a unique trip.

However you arrive, one thing’s for sure – Siargao has a way of making you never want to leave.

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10 Things To Do In Siargao, Philippines

1. Watch the Surfers (or Try Surfing) at Cloud 9 – General Luna

If there’s one thing you can’t miss in Siargao, it’s Cloud 9. I’ll admit, I went there just to watch the pros at first, and it was a show.

Watching them battle it out on the waves is something I’ve never seen before, and if you’re lucky, you might even see a competition going on (the Siargao Cup is held here annually, usually around September).

To get there, head to General Luna (about a 30-minute drive from the island’s main port, Dapa). From there, it’s a short ride to the Cloud 9 viewing deck or the famous boardwalk.

If you want to try surfing, plenty of surf schools line the beach, offering lessons starting at PHP 500 (roughly USD 10) for a beginner session.

Best Time: Early mornings (before 8 AM) for calmer waves and fewer crowds. If you’re a beginner, mid-morning or early afternoon works too, as surf schools are actively teaching at those times.

BOOK YOUR SURF LESSON HERE

2. Cliff Jump into a Hidden Lagoon – Tayangban Cave Pools

Location

This was hands-down one of the coolest and most exhilarating experiences of my trip. Tayangban Cave Pools is a hidden gem, far away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist spots.

It’s a short 30-minute drive from General Luna (rent a motorbike for easy access), and the entrance is marked by a small sign near a dirt road (ask a local if you’re unsure). The lagoon itself is stunning, with clear waters surrounded by steep cliffs.

Once you arrive, the adventure really begins. You’ll swim through a dark cave with nothing but a flashlight to guide you, and trust me, it’s way more fun than it sounds. But be warned, the jump is higher than it looks, and I almost chickened out at first!

Best Time: Morning to early afternoon, as the water is clearer, and you won’t have to fight for space with other tourists.

Tip: Wear water shoes – some areas can be rocky and slippery, and the cave can get a little muddy.

3. Get Lost in the Coconut Maze – Near Dapa

I stumbled upon this hidden gem when I was riding around Dapa, just north of General Luna. It’s easy to miss, as there’s no sign marking the entrance – just an open dirt road leading into endless coconut groves.

And let me tell you, Siargao’s coconut groves are something else.

Driving through Siargao’s palm tree-covered roads is one thing, but have you ever walked through them?

I simply parked my bike, followed the paths, and got lost for an hour or so. It was a peaceful escape, with no tourists around and just the sound of rustling palms. Some locals even waved as they climbed trees to pick coconuts.

As I walked deeper into the coconut groves, I realised I was in what felt like a real-life maze.

It was incredibly peaceful and, honestly, a perfect way to escape the touristy areas for a while.

Best Time: Early morning, just after sunrise, when the weather is cooler, and the groves are empty. It’s the best time for some alone time with nature.

BOOK A PRIVATE TOUR TO SIARGAO HERE

4. Go Crabbing with Locals at Night – Del Carmen Mangroves

One of my most memorable experiences in Siargao was going crabbing at night with a local family in Del Carmen.

To get there, take a motorbike from General Luna (about a 30-minute ride).

Once in Del Carmen, find a local fisherman (I asked around) who’s willing to take you on a crabbing trip. The best time to go is around 8 PM, as the crabs are more active then.

We waded through the shallow mangrove waters, using just flashlights to spot the crabs. It was messy and hilarious (I fell in a few times), but in the end, we grilled the crabs right on the beach. It was hands-down the freshest crab I’ve ever tasted.

Tip: Bring a towel and an extra change of clothes because you will get wet. Also, make sure to wear sturdy footwear to avoid sharp rocks. And don’t be afraid to ask the locals—they’re more than happy to share their traditions.

5. Visit Siargao’s Only ‘Farm-to-Table’ Restaurant – LOKAL

Tucked away in a quiet corner of General Luna, LOKAL is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves food grown entirely on Siargao.

It’s a complete departure from the typical tourist spots, and I loved that it highlighted local ingredients in every dish.

The owner, who’s also the chef, greeted me like a long-lost friend, and I could tell that they truly care about the food they serve.

The menu is fresh and constantly changing based on what’s available, but my personal favourite was the coconut pancake. It’s made from coconut flour and milk (from the coconuts grown just a few hundred meters away), and it tasted as if the tree next to me had just provided the ingredients.

Every bite was a burst of freshness, and the homemade honey drizzled on top? I’ve never tasted anything like it before (in a good way).

Best Time: Lunchtime or dinner, but definitely make a reservation ahead, especially during the high season.

Tip: Don’t miss out on fresh fruit juices or house-made coconut yoghurt. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

6. Swim in the Blueest Lagoon You’ve Never Heard Of – Kangkangon Island

Location

Island hopping usually means Naked, Daku, and Guyam, but trust me, take a boat to Kangkangon instead.

If you’re like me and love getting away from the crowds, Kangkangon Island is a secret you need to know. The water is ridiculously clear, and it feels like you’ve stumbled upon your own private paradise.

Getting there is a bit of a mission – it’s about a 45-minute boat ride from General Luna—but when you see that lagoon, you’ll know it was worth it.

I spent hours just floating in the lagoon, with only the sound of the waves around me. It felt so peaceful, and honestly, like something straight out of a dream.

But I won’t lie – the boat ride can be a little bumpy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, pop some motion-sickness tablets before you go.

Also, the water’s entry can be rocky, so make sure you wear water shoes. I didn’t, and I definitely paid for it when I scraped my foot on a rock getting out!

Tip: Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro. This place is straight-up Instagram material, and you’ll want to capture the moment.

7. Camp Under the Stars on Alegria Beach

Location

Most people stick to General Luna, but if you really want to experience Siargao in all its natural glory, spend the night camping at Alegria Beach.

It’s only about a 30-minute drive from General Luna, and it’s about as far from the crowds as you can get. There are no big resorts, no party spots – just you, the sand, a bonfire, and the sound of the ocean lulling you to sleep.

I’ve always wanted to try camping on the beach, and I finally did it here. Setting up the tent was easy enough, but getting the bonfire started? Not so much.

My friends and I ended up using an entire pack of matches before finally getting it going (pro tip: bring fire starters!). But once we had the fire roaring and the stars came out, it was all worth it. Watching the night sky without light pollution is incredible. A bit of sand got into everything, and

I’ll be honest – it was harder to sleep than I expected, but the experience was unforgettable.

Tip: Arrive early to set up your camp, and make sure to pack plenty of snacks (because you’re going to get hungry!). If you’re not an expert camper, ask the locals for help – they’re super friendly and know the best spots.

8. Try a Traditional Carabao Milk Ice Cream

You’ve probably heard of coconut ice cream, but let me tell you, carabao milk ice cream will blow your mind. Made from water buffalo milk, it’s incredibly creamy, and the flavor is just rich enough without being overwhelming.

The stall is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM, but I’d recommend going early to beat the crowds. The price is affordable, usually around 40-60 PHP/ USD 0.7-1 per scoop, depending on the size. A small price for a big treat, if you ask me!

I first tried it on a whim after hearing about it from a local, and wow – it was so much better than I imagined. It’s this perfect balance of creamy and sweet, but not in that overly sugary way. I ended up going back 3 times (yes, I had it that many times in one trip).

The only downside? The stall is small, so it can get crowded around peak hours, and finding it can be a bit tricky if you’re not familiar with the area.

You’ll find this hidden ice cream spot at a small stall near the Dapa Market, a local hub in the heart of Siargao. It’s about a 15-20 minute drive from General Luna, and you can easily rent a motorbike or grab a tricycle to get there. Just ask anyone in the area for directions to Dapa Market, and they’ll point you in the right direction!

9. Explore the Secret Waterfall in San Isidro

If you’re looking to escape the usual tourist crowds and get off the beaten path, the hidden waterfall in San Isidro is the perfect spot.

Located just a short ride from General Luna (about 20 minutes by motorbike or tricycle), this waterfall is tucked away in the jungle and offers a peaceful, serene retreat. The hike to get there is straightforward – although it can get a little bumpy, so take your time and be mindful of your footing.

From General Luna, you can rent a motorbike or hire a tricycle to take you to San Isidro. Once in the area, ask locals for directions to the waterfall – it’s not well-signposted, but locals are super friendly and happy to help. You might need to walk a little from where your vehicle drops you off, so be ready for a bit of adventure.

The waterfall is best visited early in the morning, before the midday heat hits and when you’re more likely to have the place to yourself. If you’re hoping to swim in the cool pool beneath the waterfall, this is the best time to do it, as the water is refreshing and not too crowded. Keep in mind that during rainy season (June to November), the trail can become slippery and muddy, so visit when the weather is dry.

Tip: Wear proper shoes—flip-flops won’t cut it. You’ll definitely want something sturdy for the hike.

BOOK YOUR GUIDED TOUR HERE

10. Discover Siargao’s Underground River – Liog-Liog River

Liog-Liog River is one of those places that no one tells you about until you’re already there, and that’s what makes it so special. The river runs underground through lush jungle, and you’ll need a guide (which I’d highly recommend) to really explore it properly.

To reach Liog-Liog River, you’ll first need to head towards the town of Dapa. From there, you can hire a local guide who can take you to the river’s entrance. The river is located in a remote area, and the paths can be tricky to navigate on your own, so going with a guide is essential.

The trip to the river can take around 30-40 minutes from General Luna, and once you arrive, a short hike through the jungle leads you to the river entrance.

The best time to visit Liog-Liog is during the dry season (March to May) when the weather is ideal for exploring. The underground river is best experienced in the cooler hours of the morning, before it gets too hot and humid, which can make the hike a bit more intense.

I’ve never personally been, but I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews from fellow travellers who’ve explored this underground wonder. The caves are cool and eerie, with water that flows beneath them, creating a magical atmosphere.

The highlight is definitely the boat ride through the caves, where you’ll be surrounded by pitch-black darkness except for the glow of the lantern. Some passages can be narrow, so be prepared for tight spaces, but if you’re up for it, it’s an unforgettable experience.

The only downside I’ve heard is that the caves can get a little claustrophobic, but for anyone who loves off-the-beaten-path adventures, it’s an absolute must.

Tip: Don’t skip the guide – it’s crucial for navigating the river safely, and they’ll make sure you don’t miss any of the cool cave spots. Make sure to bring a good pair of shoes for the jungle hike and something for your camera (you’ll want to capture this one, trust me).

Getting to Siargao, Philippines

Siargao’s main gateway is Sayak Airport (also known as Siargao Airport), located about 30 minutes north of General Luna, the island’s main tourist hub.

There are direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities, so getting here is relatively easy.

I flew in from Manila, and while it’s a short flight, be prepared for the possibility of delays (the island’s airport is small, and weather conditions can sometimes affect flight schedules).

Getting Around Siargao, Philippines

Siargao is small, but the roads can be bumpy, especially during the rainy season. Here’s what you need to know about getting around:

Motorbike Rentals

By far the most popular mode of transport. Renting a motorbike is easy (around PHP 300-500/ USD 5.20-8.66 per day), and it’s the best way to explore the island.

If you’ve never ridden a motorbike before, it might take a little getting used to, but it’s totally manageable. The roads around General Luna and the rest of the island are relatively quiet, though some can get slippery when it rains.

Tricycles

If you’re not comfortable with motorbikes, you can hire a tricycle. They’re everywhere, and you can negotiate fares for short trips. Expect to pay around PHP 50-150/ USD 0.8-2.6 per ride, depending on the distance.

Walking & Cycling

General Luna is small, so you can easily walk or rent a bicycle for a more eco-friendly option.

Tip: If you’re planning on renting a motorbike, always check the brakes and tyres first—some bikes on Siargao are a little old and might need some TLC.

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Siargao is one of those places that’s hard to put into words. I didn’t expect to fall in love with it the way I did, but it just clicks.

The locals? So chill and welcoming, always up for a chat or giving you the best advice on where to go. One even told me a simple but solid travel tip: “Forget the map – just ride and explore. The best spots aren’t always the ones on Google.” And he was right. Some of my favourite memories came from just following winding roads with no real plan, stumbling upon hidden beaches, roadside coconut stands, and tiny eateries serving the freshest seafood.

Whether you’re into surfing, hiking, or just enjoying a quiet sunset, it’s all there waiting for you.

And if you’re exploring beyond Siargao, don’t skip Cebu. There are so many things to do in Cebu, from chasing waterfalls in Kawasan to diving with sardine runs in Moalboal. It’s the perfect stop before or after your Siargao adventure.

Honestly, I could talk about it forever, but there’s nothing like experiencing it for yourself. If you go, I hope it surprises you in the best way, just like it did for me.