Siargao is a compact island in Surigao del Norte that made its name on the Cloud 9 surf break — one of the most powerful right-hand reef waves on the planet. But there is far more to it than surfing. Tidal rock pools that vanish underwater at high tide, an emerald mangrove lagoon, a stingless jellyfish cove, and quiet sandbars all sit within easy reach of the main traveler hub at General Luna.
#1 Cloud 9 Surf Break
Cloud 9 is the most powerful right-hand reef break in the Philippines — waves reach up to 3.5 metres at peak swell and have attracted world-class surfers since the early 1990s. Even if you do not surf, you can walk out on the free wooden boardwalk viewpoint and watch riders from above, especially at sunrise. Waves are at their strongest from August to November.
- Beginners should not paddle out at Cloud 9 directly — warm up at nearby Jacking Horse or Quicksilver first.
- The wooden boardwalk viewpoint is free and produces excellent photos in the morning light.
- The Siargao Cup (September-October) draws international competitors — the atmosphere alone is worth being on island for.
#2 Magpupungko Rock Pools
These natural pools are carved into ancient coral rock thousands of years old and are only swimmable at low tide. The water is clear to the bottom, refreshingly cool, and framed by reddish-brown boulders against open sky. Some pools run deep enough to jump into. Checking the tide chart before you go is not optional — the pools disappear completely at high tide.
- Checking the low-tide schedule before you go is essential — the pools are underwater at high tide.
- Wear rubber-soled shoes; the rocks are slippery throughout.
- Entry is ₱100-150 and there are lockers and a small food stall at the entrance.
#3 Sugba Lagoon
Sugba Lagoon is a stretch of emerald-to-turquoise water enclosed by mangrove forest and grey limestone hills — often called the blue lagoon of Siargao. The water is calm and remarkably clear, making it suitable for all ages. Popular activities include stand-up paddleboarding, jumping from the wooden diving platform, and kayaking through the surrounding scenery.
- Join the earliest tour departure to beat the crowds — it gets busy by mid-morning.
- Kayak or SUP board rental runs ₱300-500.
- Combined tours with Maasin River are available and save travel time.
#4 Island Hopping: Naked, Daku & Guyam Islands
The classic Siargao day trip covers 3 islands in a single run: Naked Island — a bare white sandbar with no shade and no structures; Guyam Island — a small, photogenic islet ringed by palm trees and coral reef; and Daku Island — the largest of the three, home to a fishing community and a fresh seafood lunch. The full loop takes one full day.
- Shared boat tours start from ₱600-800 per person including lunch.
- Hit Naked Island first thing — it is still uncrowded in the early morning.
- Sun exposure is intense on open sandbars — pack SPF 50+ sunscreen.
#5 Sohoton Cove, Bucas Grande
Sohoton Cove is a natural park on Bucas Grande island, reachable as a day trip from Siargao. The centrepiece is Tojoman Lagoon, where thousands of stingless jellyfish drift through clear water alongside caves and sculpted rock arches. Entry is only possible at low tide, when boats pass through a natural stone arch. There is nowhere else quite like it.
- You can only enter at low tide — tours depart early morning because the crossing takes 1.5-2 hours.
- Stingless jellyfish are most visible from March to October.
- A local guide is mandatory. Do not attempt to enter without one.
#6 Coconut Trees View Deck
A free roadside stop on Siargao's circumferential road. From a small rise, you look out over an unbroken valley of coconut palms that glow copper-red in the late afternoon sun. There is no entry fee. The spot is typically paired with a Maasin River visit on the same land tour route.
- Arrive during golden hour (4:30-6:00 PM) for the best light — it reliably produces striking shots.
- No toilets on site — sort that out before leaving General Luna.
- Included in most land tours priced at ₱400-600 per person.
#7 Maasin River
A clear emerald river running through coconut groves and mangrove forest. The leaning palm tree that once made this spot famous was felled by Typhoon Odette; in its place, jumping platforms at several heights have been installed. The main draws now are kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming in a genuinely peaceful natural setting.
- Kayak rental runs ₱200-300 per hour; SUP boards are ₱250-350 per hour.
- Higher water levels make the river deeper and more fun — come at high tide if you can.
- Easily combined in the same land tour as Sugba Lagoon and the Coconut View Deck.
#8 Siargao Island Circumferential Road Ride
The most independent and cost-effective way to see Siargao is to rent a motorbike or scooter and follow the island ring road through fishing villages, coconut plantations, and quiet beaches that never appear in tour brochures. Half a day covers the highlights; a full day lets you stop wherever you like. It is also the best way to get a genuine sense of how local people live on the island.
- Motorbike rental is ₱400-600 per day — check the tyres and fuel before leaving General Luna.
- Stop at the morning market in Dapa village for local food at around ₱50-80 per meal.
- Some road sections are rough — ride slowly and take extra care after rain.
Where to stay in Siargao for this trip
A well-located hotel means less commuting and more sightseeing. Here are real, top-rated stays in Siargao — compare Agoda · Booking · Trip.com in one click.
Nay Palad Hideaway
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Details
Kalinaw Resort
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Details
Harana Surf Resort
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Details
Buddha Resort (Buddha's Surf Resort)
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Details
Tours, tickets & activities in Siargao
Day tours, attraction tickets and travel essentials for Siargao — book ahead on Klook with mobile e-tickets.
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Before You Pack
Siargao works for competitive surfers chasing Cloud 9 and for travelers who simply want to float in clear water under an open sky. Plan a trip that covers both land and sea and you will leave with a set of memories that are hard to replicate anywhere else in Southeast Asia.