Most prominent among the three famous islands in Siargao, Daku Island, is also the most breathtaking one. Aside from the fruit smoothie bowls, they offer a wide selection of filling fruit shakes and other vegan snacks. The half-submerged cave is full of shimmering stalagmites and stalactites, making for a magical entryway to the lagoon beyond. 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. 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. The classes are tailored towards both beginners and seasoned yogis, depending on the composition of the class. It is ideal to go here during sunrise to get a jaw-dropping view of the sunrise-kissed mountains. 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. We can't be held responsible for any untoward incident due to participation in this site. The surf line is well offshore and you can walk in the shallows between the surf and the beach. Even better, take out your camera and take photographs of the palm tree-lined street against a pastel blue sky. You need to know how to swim and should be comfortable taking risks. There are many ways you can get around the island of Siargao van, tricycle, habal-habal, motorcycle, and bicycle. Have you ever gone to a place and felt like you're in a scene of a movie? Theres a rope attached to the tree where you can swing back and forth from and, maybe, let go and plunge into the river. Watch the stunning waves touch the shore in all its glory. With the popularity comes several threats to its natural environment, evident in the increasing volume of litter. If you are a newbie surfer, this is also the best place to learn as seasoned surfers double as instructors. Others offer fantastic opportunities for cliff jumping. Taktak Falls tour. Also known among the locals as Casolian Island, Corregidor Island dishes a double dose of great outdoor fun: swimming and hiking. You also dont need to worry about the other fees because these are part of what you paid for. Any of these may not be reproduced on another blog/website without the author's expressed written consent. 4,921.77. The most popular attraction on Siargao Island is the Cloud 9 surfing area in General Luna. It is my place to go to shed close to the beach and have nice ocean cold breeze and have a cold drink. While a lot of surfers flock here, the beach usually isnt very crowded, and youll easily be able to claim your own spot in the sand. Feel free to bring your food, or better yet, buy fresh seafood in the main island of Siargao and have locals cook them for you at Daku Island. Siargao Tours and Activities - Guide to the Philippines Photos by The Forest Camp Resort/Nay Palad Hideaway IMPORTANT:Theresorts featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. The north end of Siargao Island is quieter than the busy tourist areas around General Luna, but there is plenty to see here as well. Reef Beach Resort 9. First, Siargao perennially has water shortages. 2,547.82. This palm-covered oasis is so small that you can walk to the other side of the island in about 50 steps. Located in Bucas Grande Island and only a one-hour boat trip from Dapa port in Siargao, this place is truly a hidden paradise. I have been coming to the island since 2006 and Ive seen the drastic changes. There is a cost of 100 pesos to enter the cave, and it includes a mandatory guide. 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. Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve Explore pristine mangrove forest and visit the salt water crocodile project. check it out early in the morning. Experience the ultimate island life in Palawan, the Last Frontier of the Philippines. Loved swimming and sunbathing in the turquoise waters. By simply bringing your own refillable water bottles, eco-bags, and throwing your trash properly, you are already making a huge difference. A large part of Siargao, despite the many developments happening in some areas, is still undisturbed and unspoiled. Heading to the northern portion of the island, you will arrive at a very conspicuous red bridge. #SeatizenSunday: Marja Abad, Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement, Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. They can also tag SEAM in their social media posts @s.e.a.movement and use the hashtag. One such activity is island hopping; Daku Island is the biggest in the trio which includes Guyam and Naked Islands. The water in the pools is bright blue and incredibly clear, making it a popular spot to take a swim and go snorkeling. 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. You can make a lot of memories in Alegria Beach. There are a lot of independent retailers on the island selling a variety of clothing, jewelry, swimwear, surf gear, and even skincare products. 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. 10. For the best inland adventure on Siargao Island, head to the Tayangban Cave Pool near the small village of Pilar. There is even a jellyfish sanctuary where visitors can jump into the water and swim with these unique creatures. 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. Either way, the long drive will be worth it. I'd go as far to say this was one of my favourite island hopping tours and experiences in all of the Philippines. Whats even better is that you dont have to go far to get there! Palafox disclosed that their firm has recently secured the . Points of Interest & Landmarks Lookouts, Bring your own food and take your rubbish back with you to keep it pristine. If you need more excitement after caving, cliff-jumping will provide it. 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! Truly, Shaka is the perfect place to get your smoothie bowls to fix throughout the day. Joining an island-hopping escapadein Siargao should be on top of your list. Things to Do in Siargao Island, Philippines | Top Activities & Attractions 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. The 10 Best Things To Do In Provo | Visit Utah There is something here for every kind of traveler, whether you are looking for excitement or relaxation. There are many ways you can explore the lagoon by renting canoes, bamboo rafts, and paddleboards and by snorkeling. Other activities here include a spelunking tour of one of the caves and cliff diving. A surfing competition sponsored by the government of Surigao del Norte is held here every year. Other than surfing, the island boasts other attractions like coconut-lined roads and rivers, pristine beaches, caves, lagoons, and food! You can follow the dirt path on the right side of the bridge, and it will lead you to the bent coconut tree. 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. Some of the most favored restaurants are Harana Surf Resort & Restaurant, Kermit Surf Resort & Restaurant, Buddhas Surf Resort, Mamas Grill, Shaka Siargao, and Aventinos Pizzeria. Theres a two-layer docking area or rest area where you can also rent a table for P50. We are excited to team up with nonprofit, faith, and government organizations nationwide to share volunteer needs and opportunities to serve. The travel time from the port to the lagoon is approximately one hour. Sohoton Cove National Park has secluded gems that will fascinate and surprise you. The tour is also accompanied by a satisfying lunch banquet. 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. Best of all, though there will likely be other tourists there, it isnt usually overly crowded, and the lagoon is plenty big enough to enjoy your own private corner of it. Aside from surfing, you can swim in warm blue water of Pacifico Beach or witness the stunning Siargao sunset by its shores. It is located on the northwestern portion of the island. 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. 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. It is an experience that will guarantee heightened adrenaline, maximum thrills and satisfy everyones appetite for adventure. However, always prioritize safety! This locally-owned and family-operated joint serve one of the best barbecue in Siargao. You can go 2 hours before the low tide to avoid the crowds. As the name suggests, Naked Island is, well, naked! Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection. Soak up the sun and get that perfect tan. It is covered in a thick stand of trees and surrounded by a big, shallow reef. And should you visit at the right season, you will be able to encounter the stingless jellyfish at Sohoton Cove. There are also private properties along the beach. Although Taktak may not be as grand as other waterfalls the likes of Cebu's Kawasan Falls, Taktak is still a pretty sight. Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa 10. Just be sure to ask them where the safe spots are to make the jump. Smart supports Siargao Island's bid to protect the environment 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. The tide-dependent natural pool screams of an idyllic spot to also do a sundry of activities such as swimming and cliff jumping. Siargao's Environmental Issues (The Philippines' Best Island) Movement. It is also just a half-hour drive from Pacifico Beach. It is highly recommended that you spend some time exploring the palm forest and even try to climb some of the trees! Well try to get back to you soonest. Pacifico Beach is about an hour's motorbike drive from General Luna. This leaves poor residents particularly affected, as well as those living in remote areas. Once at the lagoon, you will be taken to a large floating pontoon house located right in the middle of it. As the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao is home to more than 15 surfing breaks. Cottage rental: P300 To reach Tayangban Cave Pool, simply head north about half an hour from General Luna. Just a 50-minute drive from General Luna, Magpupungko Rock Pools is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Siargao Island. There is also the Siargao Blue resort lounge, great music and drinks. Explore the Magpupungko Beach if you want to feel some sand beneath your feet or do cliff-jumping but be extra careful because the rocks are sharp; it would be better to wear protective footwear or aqua shoes. Siargao is an island that is almost completely covered in coconut palm trees and surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it a hard-to-beat tropical destination. A red bridge at Maasin Village indicates the amazing wonders that lie secreted by the coconut forest ahead. Each has its unique feature, so the experience wont seem redundant. Visiting the rock pool requires a small entrance fee of just 50 pesos. If you're planning to visit other areas in the country, check out our list of accommodations in the Philippines. Relocation not the only solution for Siargao coastal residents, gov't Being an outdoor adventurer and surfer also molded me to become environmentally conscious. 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. Just be prepared to wait for at least 30 minutes since the restaurant tends to be jam-packed during peak hours. 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. Extending far into the sea, the boardwalk leads to a three-story viewing platform where you can watch the surfers. Follow us on Instagram! Even if you don't plan to surf, Secret Beach is still an excellent getaway. Continue your off-island adventures and lagoon explorations by booking a tour to Sohoton Cove. 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. Paddle board through Siargao's lush mangroves or through islands's protected inner reef and enjoy the many stunning views of the island. The water is about 6-foot deep. When we went to have a beach vacation at Siargao, it was indeed a relaxing vacation. So, timing is everything. Try to visit the place early in the morning so you can have the place to yourself. If you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance, you certainly can. Communities lead the way in creating a more resilient Siargao Island It is suitable for both beginners and intermediates and can include tailored Yoga classes to better condition the body for movement. Nothing commercial here just heavenly peace and quiet. It is a popular spot for cliff-jumping, tree-jumping, or for just taking some nice photographs. If you're the adventurous type, you can try cliff-jumping with the local kids. It is primarily a fishing village with cottages lined up along the coast. Very few tourists venture here, but those who do are rewarded generously by this serene patch of tropical paradise. The beach is dotted with palm trees, and there are many great spots to go swimming. THE 10 BEST Outdoor Activities in Siargao Island - Tripadvisor Activity 1: Construct a planning and management measure chart by Ltd. All Rights Reserved 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. Secret Beach has knee and shoulder high swells that are the perfect place for beginners to start. Fringed by towering trees, the cool but swimmable Maasin River is highlighted by a slanting lone palm tree that appears to be crossing over the river. Despite a disappointing first look and an overcrowded entrance, the rock pools were wide and varied. Th 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, Best Tagaytay Tourist Spots: Taal Lake View, Picnic Grove, & Sky Ranch, 5-Day Bohol to Dumaguete Itinerary: Chocolate Hills, Island Hopping, Apo Island, 15 Must-Visit Visayas Tourist Spots: Boracay White Beach, Cebu Diving, Bohol Countryside, 4. To cope with this, we hired an executive assistant and interns (BS Environmental Science graduates) who are helping me with my SEAM projects. Imagine turquoise blue seawater that gives you front seat view to plenty of fish and colorful coral reefs. The water is also deep enough to allow for cliff jumping off the surrounding rock formations. Copyright 2022 The Poor Traveler Itinerary Blog. Siargao is a motorcycle- and bicycle-friendly island. Learn about its top destinations. After you milk the Zen-ambiance of the place, flex your adventurous spirit by jumping into the water from an adjacent cliff. Just 20 minutes from Naked Island lies one of the most beautiful locales you will likely visit during your travels. You forgot to add the Siargao wake park, it was so much fun! Another great palm attraction in Siargao is the viewpoint. These are some of the reasons why you must add Siargao tours toyour bucket list. The ride to Magpupungko takes only around 45 minutes from General Luna, but you can rent a van to take you there if you travel as a group. I love everything Im doing for S.E.A. Don't be afraid to get lost under the coconut palms as you roam around the island. It can be a long ride but savor the moment. When it comes to holding its own when pitted against the other popular islands in the world, Siargao more than stands out on its own by the merits of its endless charms and bounteous wonderful natural landscape. What are the best day trips from Siargao Island? 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. The scenic drive will take you inland through the mountains and down to the coast again. 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It is also best to come at mid to high tide, as low tide exposes most of the reef. Spread all over the islands are charming seaside towns adjacent to picturesque beaches where one can quench their thirst for a beach fix. Beginners surfing lesson starts at P1000 for two hours. Surrounded by limestone hills, Sugba boasts a 87 hectar area and maintains one of the largest mangrove forests in the Philippines. per adult (price varies by group size) Quality Surfing Lessons in Siargao Island. 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. AirSWIFT Now Flies to ROMBLON! As of this writing, there are no helmets or life jackets provided when canyoneering in Tayangban. Arts & Culture Museums. Renting a motorcycle or a bicycle for a day or more is a popular transportation option among tourists. Thirty minutes away from General Luna is the magnificent views overlooking the unbelievably beautiful scene of an endless sea of palm trees. The enclosed lagoon is a maze of blue water pools and limestone rock formations thickly covered in trees. Photos by Vitalis Villas/Balesin Island Club IMPORTANT:The properties featured in this article may have COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements. If you dont know how to ride the waves, there are numerous surf lessons offered at the surf break sites. Dive into the worlds of classical art, modern . Daku Island is a truly gorgeous sight, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and full of palms. Surrounded by fine greens of trees and other shrubberies, the calm waters in Sugba Lagoon instantly projects a charming secluded setting. Aptive Environmental, Llc is incorporated in Florida and the latest report filing was done in 2020. I dont want to destroy my playground. Siargao is famous, locally and internationally, for the cloud 9 waves; however, for those who don't surf or are done surfing, there are other things to do. Here are 18 activities waiting for you thedream tropical and surfing destination that isSiargao. Island Hopping: Naked Island, Daku Island & Guyam Island. You can also wait for the sunrise here as surfers catch the early morning swells and/or savor the moment as you think of nothing else but the beautiful spectacle that is sunset. If you're not sure about it, just watch the local kids how they do it. Activities here include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, platform diving, snorkeling, or just lounging under the sun. You just have to be ready with the mosquitos at night when you go out on the Island. 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. Both jobs are making me very busy, checking emails, leading the team, planning and executing projects. SMART MOVE. Siargao has been making waves through headlines and increasing tourist arrivals. Naked Island is a sandbar that is the usual stop on the way back to the main island. The pier extends far over the ocean water below and, as it faces west, it is an amazing place from where to watch the sun dip below the horizon in the evening. It is best to allot one whole day for an island-hopping tour that will take you to Siargao's so-called the big three: Daku, Naked, and Guyam. Despite its popularity in the global surfing scene, Siargaohas a lot more to offer. If you feel like ramping up your adventures in Siargao, then you must experience the Tayangban Cave Pool tour. Santa Monica Pier is a roughly hour-and-twenty-minute drive from General Luna. Together with the support of a friendly coach to help you get the most out of your time here on the island. 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. Daku Island, Siargao: Important Travel Tips Siargao is alsopopular for island hopping in the Philippines. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Don't leave the place without jumping into the waters from the wooden platform built beside the pontoon houses they say in Sugba Lagoon, one must take a dive of faith into the "perfectly splendid" turquoise waters of the lagoon to complete a memorable experience. We visited the main town of General Luna when we were in Siargao. Learn about its top destinations. Here are some spots that deserve a place on your itinerary. SEA Movement currently runs three major initiatives, all of which could use your help: Her Planet Earth for the Women of Siargao, which trains women from the communities to make bags and other items from recyclable materials gathered from the sea; Plastic Battle Campaign, a campaign to convince business owners to shun plastic water bottles and You can also beat much of the crowds if you come earlier in the day. 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. 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. Its a good idea to rent a table for 50 pesos so that you can have a place to leave your belongings while you head out to explore. The waves can become gnarly from September to November. There are some right-hand breaks great for longboarding here, or you can simply relax in the sand. It is also a fantastic spot to go snorkeling, and there is a diving platform as well. Data from the DENR-Caraga showed that out of 148 businesses in Siargao island, 49 establishments were found violating environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act or the Environmental Impact Statement System.