SIARGAO ISLAND
Siargao is the tear-drop-shaped paradise of the Philippines, celebrated globally as the country’s surfing capital. It seamlessly blends world-class waves with stunning natural beauty and a captivating, bohemian atmosphere.
This island offers adventures beyond the famed surf breaks. It is a land of turquoise lagoons, dense palm forests, pristine sandbars, and vibrant local cuisine, centered around the laid-back tourist hub of General Luna.
Most Popular Attractions
World-Class Surf Spots & Boardwalk:
Cloud 9: The most famous surf spot, renowned for its barreling right-hand reef break, attracting professional surfers from around the globe.
Cloud 9 Boardwalk and Viewing Deck: An iconic wooden structure providing an excellent vantage point to watch surfers, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Jacking Horse: A consistent, high-tide-dependent wave break near Cloud 9, popular with intermediate surfers.
Stimpys: A fun left-hander wave, offering another quality surf break for short-boarders.
General Luna Beach: The main tourist hub area with accessible shorelines for beginners and lessons.
Island Hopping & Beaches:
Daku Island: The largest of the tri-island hopping tour, famous for its long stretch of white sand, clear waters, and traditional boodle fight lunches.
Naked Island: A completely bare, 200-meter sandbar with no trees or shade, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the pristine waters.
Guyam Island: A tiny, picturesque islet covered in a cluster of palm trees, offering a tranquil, small-scale paradise.
Secret Beach (Guiwan Beach): A tucked-away slice of paradise with soft white sand, calm waters, and a tranquil ambiance for unwinding.
Pacifico Beach: A long stretch of white sand and powerful waves in the northern part of the island, less crowded than Cloud 9.
Alegria Beach: Located in the north, known for its quiet, sweeping white sands and crystal-clear waters, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Lagoons, Caves, and Natural Pools:
Sugba Lagoon: A spectacular turquoise-green lagoon surrounded by lush limestone cliffs and mangrove forests, accessed via Del Carmen. Ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Magpupungko Rock Pools: Natural tidal pools and rock formations in Pilar, only accessible and exposed during low tide, offering stunning natural swimming spots.
Tayangban Cave Pool: A unique, dark underground cave system where visitors swim through the passage leading to a clear, cool pool.
Sohoton Cove National Park: Located on the nearby Bucas Grande Island (a common day trip), this hidden gem features a maze of lagoons, caves (like Hagukan and Magkukuob Cave), and a jellyfish sanctuary.
Taktak Falls: The only waterfall on Siargao Island, located in the far north in Santa Monica, a peaceful spot for cooling off.
Inland and Scenic Spots:
Maasin River: Famous for the iconic leaning coconut tree with a rope swing, offering a quintessential Siargao photo opportunity.
Coconut Tree Road: The famous stretch of road with a seemingly endless, majestic view of thousands of coconut palm trees on either side.
Palm Tree Viewpoint (Sea of Palms): A high point overlooking a vast canopy of coconut trees, especially popular for sunrise viewing.
General Luna Tourism Road: The main strip in the tourist center, lined with trendy cafes, restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops, reflecting the island’s bohemian nightlife.
Catangnan-Cabitoonan Bridge (Sunset Bridge): A long bridge near General Luna popular for viewing the spectacular Siargao sunset.
Siargao Wakepark: A modern facility offering wakeboarding and water skiing, providing an alternative adventure sport to surfing.
Activities & Experiences
Learn to Surf at Cloud 9 (or Jacking Horse): Take a lesson or rent a board and try riding the iconic waves. Cloud 9 is for advanced surfers, but beginners can find lessons at calmer spots like Jacking Horse or Guiuan.
Go Island Hopping to Guyam, Daku, and Naked Islands: Hire a local boat (a bangka) for the famous ‘tri-island tour.’ Enjoy the pristine, palm-fringed beaches and clear water of these three distinct islands.
Visit the Sugba Lagoon: Take a scenic boat trip through a mangrove forest to a stunning, enclosed lagoon where you can swim, kayak, and paddleboard. Don’t miss jumping off the famous bamboo diving platform.
Swim in the Magpupungko Rock Pools: Plan your visit around low tide to access these natural tidal pools in the limestone shore, perfect for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear water.
Cliff Jump at Taktak Falls: Drive to the north of the island to the only major waterfall on Siargao. It’s a small but picturesque spot, and you can jump from the rocks into the cool water.
Explore the Tayangban Cave Pool: Go on an adventure through a dark, underground cave where you’ll wade and swim through cool, waist-deep water before emerging into an open pool.
Take a Day Trip to Sohoton Cove National Park: Though requiring a slightly longer boat ride (often from Dapa or General Luna), this is a must-see for its stingless jellyfish, enchanting lagoons, and limestone caves.
Go Deep Sea Fishing or Sunset Cruise: Arrange a trip with a local fisherman to try your hand at catching dinner, or enjoy a relaxing cruise along the coast as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Cycle Through the Coconut Tree Forest: Rent a bicycle or motorcycle and drive through the famous stretch of road near Dapa and General Luna where thousands of coconut palms create a stunning canopy tunnel.
Relax and Unwind with Yoga or Meditation: Join one of the many wellness studios in General Luna that offer daily yoga classes, catering to all levels, often with ocean views.
Enjoy the Nightlife in General Luna: Hop between the popular bars and restaurants that host themed nights, live music, or fire dancer shows, especially on weekends.
Local Tips & Transport
Renting a Scooter is Essential: The primary mode of transport is the scooter or motorcycle (motor). Rentals are widely available in General Luna for about $7–$10 per day. It’s the best way to explore the entire island at your own pace. Ensure you have an international driving permit.
Tricycles and Habal-Habal: For those who don’t want to drive, tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) or habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are everywhere. Fares are negotiable; always agree on the price before getting in. A ride within General Luna usually costs about $0.50–$1.50 per person.
Vans and Private Cars: For longer trips or for groups, private vans can be hired, especially for airport transfers (Dapa Airport – $5–$6 per person for a shared van) or day tours to Sugba Lagoon or Magpupungko.
Boats for Island Hopping: For the tri-island tour or Sohoton Cove, you can hire a private bangka (outrigger boat) or join a group tour. Private boat hire is better for flexibility and usually costs around $30–$50 for a full day (depending on size and destination).
The “Siargao Slow” Vibe: Siargao has a famously laid-back, provincial vibe. Embrace the slower pace of life. Things may not run exactly on time, but the warmth of the locals and the beautiful scenery make up for it.
Surfing Etiquette: If you paddle out at a popular spot like Cloud 9, be aware of surfing etiquette. Respect the lineup, wait your turn, and never “drop in” (take a wave when someone else is already on it). If you are a beginner, stick to the less crowded, designated beginner spots.
The Importance of Sun Protection: The tropical sun is intense. Always use high-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen, especially before swimming. Also, pack a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, a hat, and sunglasses.
Dining Times: Lunch is usually around 12 PM and dinner between 6 PM and 8 PM. General Luna has many international food options, but try the local Filipino food (Kinilaw or grilled seafood).
The Boodle Fight: This is a traditional Filipino military-style meal where food is laid out on banana leaves and eaten with bare hands (wash them first!). It’s a fun, communal experience offered by some local restaurants.
Hidden Gems:
- The Palm Tree Lookout: A viewpoint on the main road (usually near the turn-off to the Coconut Tree Forest) that provides a breathtaking, panoramic view of the thousands of palm trees covering the island.
- Cloud 9 Boardwalk at Sunrise: Skip the main surfing crowd and visit the boardwalk early in the morning for a spectacular sunrise view over the Pacific Ocean.
- The Market in Dapa: While General Luna is the tourist hub, Dapa is the main port and the island’s commercial center. Visiting the wet market offers a great opportunity to see local life and buy incredibly fresh seafood.
Water and Power: Always drink bottled water. Power outages (brownouts) are common but usually short, especially in the more remote areas. Most accommodations will have backup generators.
Currency and Payment: The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP), but prices are easily converted to USD. While General Luna has a few ATMs, they can sometimes run out of cash. Carry enough cash for smaller businesses and remote areas, as credit cards are not widely accepted outside of major hotels.
Top Restaurants
Mama’s Grill [$5-$15] – A highly popular, no-frills, open-air eatery famous for its delicious and cheap Filipino BBQ skewers, especially the spicy pork, chicken, and isaw (chicken intestines).
Kurvada [$5-$15] – A “carinderia deluxe” spot known for its turo-turo (point-point) style service, offering a rotating variety of affordable and hearty Filipino dishes, including vegan options.
Catangnan BBQ (Margo’s Barbecue House) [$5-$15] – A local favorite near Catangnan Bridge known for its authentic Filipino grilled meats, often saturated with a signature sweet sauce, perfect for a casual, local dinner.
JT’s Manukan Grills [$5-$15] – Part of a well-known Filipino food chain, this restaurant specializes in Inasal (marinated and grilled chicken) and various Filipino sizzlers in a casual setting.
Catangnan Pares [$5-$15] – A small, local eatery near Kanaway Surf Shop serving traditional Filipino Pares (braised beef stew with garlic rice and soup), a comforting and filling meal.
Pare’s Paresan [$5-$15] – Known for its classic Filipino Pares, this spot is recommended for its delicious braised beef and the option to add a side of roasted bone marrow.
Dadang & William Eatery [$5-$15] – A simple, non-touristy local eatery offering authentic and very affordable Filipino dishes, a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Pangpang Sizzling House [$5-$15] – A humble local spot specializing in Filipino sizzling dishes, offering a hearty and satisfying dining experience away from the main General Luna strip.
Andok’s [$5-$10] – A nationwide Filipino chain that serves excellent Litson Manok (charcoal-roasted rotisserie chicken), a quick and reliable option for a delicious local meal.
Siomai near MJ’s Tapsilogan [$3-$7] – A popular, non-descript stall or small eatery, often mentioned by locals, for a satisfying late-night snack of Filipino steamed dumplings (siomai).
Tapsilog sa Tourism Road [$5-$10] – A local go-to spot on the main road, known for serving classic Filipino breakfast/all-day meals like Tapsilog (cured beef, fried rice, and egg).
Emelia’s Restobar & Seafoods Paluto [$10-$30] – A great local option for Paluto (you choose fresh seafood, and they cook it to your preference), offering genuine local flavors and preparations.
Bayani Restaurant (at Harana Surf Resort) [$15-$30] – A relaxed, open-air eatery serving excellent and authentic Filipino dishes, often cited as one of the best for elevated local cuisine.
Nattribu [$10-$20] – A local find recommended for its large portion of Sinigang (sour and savory Filipino soup), perfect for sharing among a group.
La Mesa [$10-$25] – While offering Asian cuisine, this spot is a local favorite for its delicious Pad Thai variations and excellent Filipino desserts like Mango Sticky Rice and Mango Float.
Siargao Corner Café [$10-$20] – A local café offering affordable breakfast options and good coffee, a simpler alternative to the more famous brunch spots.
Food Lab [$5-$15] – A simple, affordable food stall concept that focuses on quality, fresh, and cheap meals, popular among long-term visitors and locals.
The Hub by Lokal Lab [$5-$15] – A community-focused café/restaurant that supports local livelihood by sourcing ingredients from local farmers, offering affordable and fresh dishes like Adobo Flakes Wrap and Coconut Ice Cream.
Roots Siargao [$40-$80] – The island’s only tasting menu experience, offering an innovative, high-quality, and modern take on Filipino and international cuisine, led by experienced chefs.
Lyma Siargao Restaurant [$30-$60] – Offers an elevated dining experience, blending French techniques, Spanish influences, and Filipino ingredients into a refined, international à la carte menu.
Wild Siargao [$25-$45] – Known for its modern and creative menu that often features unexpected flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients, a favorite for a contemporary dining experience.
Alma Siargao [$30-$50] – Offers high-quality, comforting international cuisine with a modern touch in a stylish setting, known for its focus on good quality and value for money.
CEV: Ceviche & Kinilaw Shack [$15-$30] – A unique concept specializing in creative variations of Kinilaw (Filipino ceviche) and Peruvian-style ceviche, known for fresh fish and balanced flavors.
La Carinderia [$15-$30] – An Italian-Filipino fusion restaurant that serves authentic Italian dishes (fresh pasta, pizza) alongside local-inspired fare, a perfect blend of two beloved cuisines.
Bravo Restaurant [$20-$40] – A popular beachfront spot offering Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine (including paella and tapas) with an easy, relaxed ambiance and good quality food.
NĀGA Siargao [$20-$40] – A modern spot with a diverse menu that covers staples from pasta and salads to grills and burgers, making it a great option for a group with varied preferences.
The Smoking Joint BBQ Siargao [$15-$30] – An American-style BBQ smokehouse that is highly praised for its authentic smoked meats, especially the brisket, and a chill-out atmosphere.
Goodies – Cafe, Restaurant Bar & Eco Shop [$15-$30] – A multifaceted establishment offering healthy, fresh Mediterranean cuisine, snacks, and a relaxing, eco-friendly vibe.
Ver De Siargao [$15-$30] – A celebrated plant-based restaurant co-owned by a celebrity, offering creative and satisfying vegan dishes and desserts.
Cosmic Siargao – A Vegan Restaurant & Cafe [$10-$25] – A vibrant spot offering a diverse menu of delicious, sustainable, and entirely plant-based cuisine, from burgers to Filipino classics.
Shaka Cafe [$8-$18] – Famous for its visually stunning and healthy smoothie bowls, vegan fare, and great views, a perfect choice for a fresh and wholesome breakfast or snack.
Spotted Pig Cafe [$10-$25] – A charming eatery offering a diverse menu of comfort food and hearty meals in a delightful, inviting setting.
Noods Wok Bar [$10-$20] – A casual spot specializing in stir-fried noodle dishes, allowing for customization of base, protein, and sauce.
Siago [$15-$30] – Offers unique and flavorful food with Central and South American influences, a great spot for brunch with a twist.
Kermit Surf Resort and Restaurant [$15-$30] – Hugely popular and often cited as the best Italian in Siargao, famous for its fresh homemade pasta and high-quality wood-fired pizza.
Las Barricas Siargao [$15-$30] – A great spot for Mexican food, specifically known for its delectable tacos and Spanish tapas, offering a vibrant and authentic taste of Mexico.
Warung Siargao Indonesian Restaurant [$10-$25] – Offers an authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine with a selection of classic and delicious dishes.
Cumin Siargao [$15-$30] – A popular restaurant specializing in flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine, often recommended for its grilled chicken (Al Fahm) and kebabs.
My Greek Taverna [$15-$30] – Offers authentic Mediterranean Greek cuisine with classic dishes and a welcoming, warm atmosphere.
Hakata Ramen [$10-$20] – Known for its rich, creamy pork bone marrow broth ramen, a comforting option, despite the tropical heat.
Thai Foon [$15-$30] – Offers authentic Thai cuisine, a great option for those craving Southeast Asian flavors like curries and pad thai.
Siargao Little Rotti [$8-$18] – A great spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, specializing in delicious Indian food, including favorites like Chicken Tandoori wings.
Lunares Cafe [$8-$18] – A popular café owned by a Filipino-Italian couple, known for being one of the best places for breakfast and brunch, offering a mix of Filipino and Italian specialties.
Amore [$15-$30] – A dedicated Italian restaurant offering classic dishes and known for its pleasant dining atmosphere.
L’Osteria Ristorante – Luxe B&B [$20-$40] – Located near Tuason Beach, this spot offers exquisite Italian cuisine in a more upscale B&B setting.
White Beard Coffee [$5-$15] – A charming and popular coffee shop in General Luna, known for its quality coffee and affordable breakfast options.
Outer Cafe [$8-$18] – Offers quality breakfast options, including an American breakfast with coffee, at a reasonable price point.
Big Belly Siargao [$10-$25] – A fast-casual spot known for satisfying wagyu beef burgers, with non-beef and vegan options available.
Barrel Sports Bar Siargao [$10-$20] – A good local spot for affordable, satisfying, and quality bar food.
Backside Diner [$10-$25] – Known for serving good comfort food, though some dishes might be on the richer side.
BEBIE’S BBQ SIARGAO [$5-$15] – A simple, local-style BBQ spot offering authentic and well-priced barbecue delights.
Sidlakan [$5-$15] – A local eatery offering affordable and good food, a true local find away from the main tourist area.
Kawayan Bakery [$3-$7] – A popular local bakery known for its fresh Filipino bread, including the must-try Pan de Coco (sweet coconut bread).
Trogon’s Perch [$10-$25] – Located in Pacifico, this restaurant is a great find outside the main General Luna area, known for its quality.
Pacigao [$10-$20] – Another notable restaurant in the Pacifico area, offering good food and a quieter, local vibe.
Lebron James & Dwyane Wade Restaurant/Tapsihan [$5-$15] – An unusual but highly local-recommended spot in Pacifico for Tapsihan (a place specializing in Tapsilog and similar meals).
Last Chance Bar [$5-$15] – While primarily a bar, it’s a non-touristy local institution known for cheap drinks and often simple, local eats.
Manu Siargao [$15-$35] – While known as a cocktail bar, it also offers specialty food items that pair well with their well-crafted drinks.
Secreto Restaurant & Cocktails Siargao [$20-$40] – A spot that offers a mix of refined food and cocktails, less central and therefore less overrun.
Hapag Siargao [$15-$30] – Known for its commitment to authentic Filipino cuisine and a menu that tells a story of local flavors.
Dao Chow Siargao [$10-$25] – Offers fresh local cuisine with Chinese influences in a pleasant setting.
Isla Cabana Seafood Restaurant [$20-$40] – A resort restaurant that has managed to gain a reputation for serving excellent fresh seafood.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Manu Siargao: A sophisticated and unique Tiki-Filipino cocktail bar located centrally in General Luna, known for its expertly crafted, locally inspired cocktails in a stylish tropical setting.
The Last Chance: Tucked away in General Luna, this is an excellent cocktail bar that surprisingly offers a sleek, non-island-themed, proper cocktail bar ambiance, focusing on consistency and classic American-style service.
Paraluman Gin Parlour: A hidden speakeasy tucked away within the Harana Surf Beachfront Resort complex, offering an intimate and cool atmosphere with a focus on amazing gin-based cocktails.
Bed and Brew: Found on Tourism Road in General Luna, this establishment is popular for its craft beers and cocktails, often hosting lively events and acoustic jam sessions, particularly on its main Thursday night.
Secreto Siargao: An upscale bar and restaurant near Kermit in General Luna, known for its Spanish-inspired cuisine and great selection of cocktails, popular for a slightly more sophisticated pre-party vibe.
Happiness Beach Bar: Located right on the beach in General Luna, this spot is a favorite for sunset drinks and has a laid-back setup, becoming one of the main party destinations on Sunday nights.
Barbosa Siargao: Situated along the main stretch in General Luna, this spot is known for its lively, energetic atmosphere with DJs playing and great cocktails, serving as an excellent pre-game or full party venue.
The Greenroom Siargao: A charming cocktail bar in General Luna, offering expertly crafted tropical drinks in a relaxed setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of surfing.
Sibol Siargao: A frequently mentioned spot in General Luna for socializing and enjoying music, offering solid drinks and a good atmosphere for meeting other travelers and locals.
Naga Siargao: Featured in bar crawls and located in the GL area, this bar offers a range of drinks and contributes to the vibrant General Luna nightlife scene.
Barrel: Beachfront Sports Bar: Located on the beachfront in General Luna, this spot is perfect for unwinding and catching sports games almost 24/7, offering a great atmosphere with drinks and a beach view.
Fayeyeh Bar: Situated in General Luna, this bar provides a lively atmosphere and delicious cocktails, making it a favorite for travelers seeking a vibrant night out.
The Ext Siargao (Extension): A cute, friendly neighborhood bar in General Luna, known for its live bands, beers, and cocktails, especially popular for their Monday night events.
Driftwood Resto Bar: Located in General Luna, this spot offers local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere, often mentioned as a good place for pre-drinks and food in a tropical setting.
The Rooftop: Offers stunning views and refreshing cocktails from an elevated position in General Luna, making it an ideal spot for sunset drinks and a relaxed start to the evening.
Siargao Beach Club (SBC): The central and largest “after-hours” hub in General Luna, where the crowd gathers after midnight. It is known for its high-energy atmosphere, often hosting massive themed parties like foam parties.
Mama Coco Siargao: A central and extremely popular bar/club on Tourism Road in General Luna, famous for its themed nights (like Retro Monday and Reggaeton Wednesday), making it a high-energy pre-party or main party spot before the late-night clubs.
El Lobo Siargao: A lively bar and club conveniently located on Tourism Road in General Luna, offering the latest hits and a great place to dance, often listed as a major party destination for various nights of the week.
Harana Surf Resort: Known for hosting the legendary “Sabado Nights” (Saturday Nights) in General Luna, this venue transforms into a major club with live music, unique acts, and a large crowd, offering both a main stage and sometimes an underground stage.
Sidargo (Explorers’ Bar): A popular General Luna spot, famous for its energetic “Tuesday Thing” party, featuring chart-toppers and R&B music, and functioning as a full-on club night.
Goodies Siargao: This General Luna venue turns into a lively party hub on Wednesday nights, with local and international DJs spinning Tech/House music, catering to electronic music enthusiasts.
Two Brown Boys: A well-known after-hours spot in General Luna where the party continues after the main venues wind down, ensuring the music and socializing lasts late into the night.
POP UP BAR SIARGAO: A lively beachfront bar in General Luna that offers a proper party vibe, known for its cocktails and being a great place to dance with the ocean view as a backdrop.
Banhaw Siargao: Offers a vibrant culinary and nightlife experience in General Luna, often featuring lively entertainment and a party atmosphere.
Suok Cinco: A tropical bar and club in General Luna that provides an energetic atmosphere with great drinks, contributing to the island’s diverse nightlife options.
North Point Siargao: Known as a premier live music bar and club in General Luna, offering vibrant entertainment and a fantastic alternative to strictly DJ-focused venues.
Boom’s Siargao: A popular sports bar in General Luna that also offers a lively nightlife experience, appealing to those looking for a casual but energetic party.
CHEERS N’ SHOTS ISLAND RESTOBAR: Located in Dapa (outside the main General Luna strip but still on Siargao), this spot provides a local club and restobar atmosphere with a lively vibe and music.