SURIGAO DEL NORTE
Surigao del Norte is the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines”, a vibrant province composed of tropical islands and coastal towns. It is a world-class destination, home to the iconic Cloud 9 and the spectacular deep-sea mystery of Hinatuan’s Blue Lagoon.
This spectacular region is an adventurer’s dream, offering an unparalleled blend of island hopping, exhilarating water sports, and mystical natural wonders. It is where the raw power of the Pacific Ocean meets the serene beauty of the Mindanao countryside.
Most Popular Attractions
Siargao Island Core & Coastal Sites:
Cloud 9: A globally famous reef break known for its thick, hollow tubes, attracting surfers from around the world.
General Luna: The main tourist hub of Siargao, a lively town with resorts, restaurants, and a bustling night scene.
Jacking Horse: A less intense, but still popular, surf spot near Cloud 9, ideal for intermediate surfers.
Guiuan: A quiet coastal area in General Luna known for its picturesque coconut tree-lined roads and scenic views.
Pillar Rock Resort: A unique rock formation and tide pool area on the western side of Siargao, perfect for photography.
Dapa Port: The main gateway to Siargao, a bustling transport hub that connects the island to the mainland.
Island Hopping & Beach Wonders:
Naked Island: A completely bare, white-sand island that emerges during low tide, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Daku Island: The largest of the three popular islands, featuring a pristine beach and a small village where visitors can have lunch.
Guyam Island: A tiny, idyllic teardrop-shaped island crowned with a handful of coconut trees, perfect for relaxation.
Sugba Lagoon (Caub): A breathtaking lagoon with clear, turquoise waters surrounded by a vast mangrove forest, excellent for paddleboarding.
Corregidor Island: A beautiful island with rolling hills and a long stretch of white beach, great for trekking and beach relaxation.
Alegria Beach: A long, unspoiled stretch of white sand on the northern coast of Siargao, known for its tranquil atmosphere.
Inland & Natural Attractions:
Magpupungko Rock Pool: A stunning natural tidal pool that appears during low tide, surrounded by unique limestone rock formations.
Tayangban Cave Pool: An adventurous spot involving a short, dark swim through a cave that opens up into a jungle pool.
Taktak Falls: The only waterfall on Siargao Island, offering a refreshing freshwater swim amidst lush greenery.
Coconut Mountain View (Maasin River): A famous roadside spot offering a panoramic view of endless palm trees, perfect for pictures.
Maasin River: Known for its iconic bending palm tree swing, a peaceful river for bamboo rafting and swimming.
Mainland Surigao del Norte & Enchanted River:
Hinatuan Enchanted River: A mystical, deep-spring river in Hinatuan (Surigao del Sur, but closely linked for this guide) with incredibly clear blue water and an unknown source.
Sohoton Cove National Park (Bucas Grande): A stunning natural park known for its maze of limestone cliffs, lagoons, and the famous non-sting jellyfish sanctuary.
Tinuy-an Falls: A multi-tiered waterfall often dubbed the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines” (also in Surigao del Sur, but a regional highlight).
Lake Mainit: The fourth largest lake in the Philippines, a key biodiversity area shared between Surigao del Norte and Agusan del Norte.
Activities & Experiences
Witness the Fish Feeding at Enchanted River: Arrive before noon to observe the unique and mesmerizing daily fish feeding ritual, where a massive school of fish mysteriously appears. ($1 Entrance, $2 Cottage rental, $0.30 Life vest rental)
Go Island Hopping in Siargao’s Tri-Islands: Charter a boat for a day trip to explore the stunning beaches of Naked Island (a pure sandbar), Guyam Island (a tiny, picturesque islet), and Daku Island (the largest with a local community).
Surf the Legendary Cloud 9: Visit the famous Cloud 9 in Siargao, the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines.” Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you can rent a board and catch a wave, or simply watch the experts from the viewing deck.
Explore the Sohoton Cove National Park: Take a boat tour through the stunning limestone cliffs, caves, and lagoons of Bucas Grande Islands. Time your visit for low tide to enter the majestic Hagukan Cave.
Swim with the Stingless Jellyfish: Within Sohoton Cove, kayak or paddle into the protected sanctuary to swim alongside thousands of harmless, non-stinging jellyfish (seasonal).
Visit the Majestic Tinuy-an Falls: Often called the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines,” this wide, multi-tiered waterfall in Bislig is a spectacular sight and offers river rafting experiences.
Discover the Tayangban Cave Pool: Go caving in Siargao; navigate through a dark, underground cavern leading to a hidden pool where you can take a refreshing dip.
Paddle the Maasin River’s Bent Palm Tree: Rent a paddleboard or kayak on the Maasin River to reach the famous bent coconut tree, from which you can swing and jump into the river.
Take a Side Trip to Britania Group of Islands: Explore the 24 pristine, white-sand islands and islets in the municipality of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, known for their unique shapes and quiet atmosphere.
Hike to Magpupungko Rock Pool: Visit the natural tide pool on Siargao’s coast, which is only visible and safe for swimming during low tide, offering dramatic views and crystal-clear water.
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life around Siargao, particularly near General Luna, which is known for excellent dive spots.
Local Tips & Transport
Main Hubs: The main entry point for the region is generally Surigao City (Surigao del Norte) or Butuan City Airport (BXU), followed by a bus or van ride to the respective provinces. For Siargao, fly directly to Sayak Airport (IAO).
Inter-Province Travel (Land):
Bus/Van: Long-distance buses and vans are the primary mode of transport connecting Surigao City, Butuan, and the towns near Enchanted River (Hinatuan). The bus ride from Butuan to Hinatuan can take 5-7 hours (approx. $4-$6 USD).
Car Rental: Renting a car gives the most flexibility, especially for visiting attractions like Enchanted River and Tinuy-an Falls, which are far from the main towns.
Local Transport:
Habal-Habal (Motorcycle Taxi): The most common and flexible way to get to remote spots like the Enchanted River from Hinatuan town proper, or around Siargao Island. Negotiate the roundtrip fare with the driver before riding. A round trip from Hinatuan terminal to Enchanted River is approximately $5-$7.
Tricycle: Used for short-distance travel within towns and cities like General Luna (Siargao) and Surigao City. Fares are usually fixed per trip (approx. $0.40-$1 USD).
Island Transport:
Ferries and RORO: Regular ferry services connect Surigao City to Siargao Island (Dapa Port) and the Dinagat Islands. Travel time to Siargao is typically 3-4 hours.
Respect the Spirits: The Enchanted River is a protected area steeped in local folklore, believed to be guarded by nature spirits. Show respect by strictly following all rules, especially during the daily noon feeding ritual when all swimming must stop. This is a time of cultural reverence.
The Surigaonon Language: The local dialect is Surigaonon, which is distinct but heavily influenced by Cebuano and Boholano. While English is spoken in tourist areas, a simple “Marajaw Karajaw” (Hello/Good Day) will be warmly appreciated.
When to Visit:
Surfing Peak: For serious surfers, the best waves in Siargao (Cloud 9) are typically from September to November.
Dry Season: The drier months of March to May offer the clearest waters for island hopping and river activities, though the region is generally suitable for travel year-round.
Local Delicacies:
Kinilaw: Don’t leave without trying the local version of this raw fish salad, marinated in vinegar, chilies, onions, and sometimes ginger—a Filipino classic.
Sayongsong: A popular local kakanin (sweet delicacy) made of glutinous rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar, wrapped in banana leaves.
Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences:
Magpupungko Timing: Plan your visit to the Magpupungko Rock Pool around the precise low tide schedule, as it is completely submerged and inaccessible during high tide.
Mamanwa Tribe: The province is home to the Mamanwa, one of the oldest indigenous groups in the Philippines. Their culture and traditions are an important part of the region’s heritage.
Bonok-Bonok Maradjao Karadjao Festival: If your visit aligns with September 9th (Surigao City’s Patron Saint Fiesta), try to witness this vibrant thanksgiving festival featuring street dancing.
Top Restaurants
Kurvada [$5-$15] – A classic, highly-recommended carinderia-style eatery in General Luna known for its high-quality, pre-cooked Filipino dishes, offering great value and a truly local experience.
Kanin Baboy [$5-$15] – A local favorite on the island, this simple spot is famous for its namesake dish, a flavorful, savory pork and rice meal that locals swear by.
Bebie’s BBQ With Sweet Sauce [$5-$15] – A popular, no-frills roadside BBQ stand in General Luna, well-loved for its classic Filipino-style grilled skewers with a signature sweet marinade.
Mama’s Grill [$5-$15] – A highly-regarded and long-standing grill in General Luna offering charcoal-grilled Filipino favorites, including fish, pork belly, and chicken, with a casual, local atmosphere.
Sabeth Barbecue [$5-$15] – Starting as a humble stall, this spot in Surigao City has grown into a local favorite, known for its deliciously marinated and flavorful grilled barbecue, perfect for a budget-friendly meal.
Catagnan Fried Chicken (CFC) [$10-$20] – An old-school Siargao staple located in Catagnan village, famous for its simple but delicious fried chicken and various chicken burgers, predating the island’s major tourist boom.
Annattos Barbecue [$10-$20] – A small BBQ shop on Tourism Road known for avoiding overly sweet sauces, offering excellent pork ribs, chicken, and traditional Filipino sides like Kinilaw (ceviche).
Turo Turo Eatery [$5-$10] – A quintessential Filipino eatery experience where you literally ‘point-point’ at the ready-cooked dishes, offering a quick, cheap, and authentic local meal.
General Luna Public Market Eateries [$5-$15] – The market itself hosts numerous small, unnamed food stalls that serve the freshest catch of the day, often prepared Sutukil style (sugba/grilled, tula/soup, kilaw/ceviche) at local prices.
Kalye Artisano (Pop-ups) [$10-$25] – While not a single restaurant, this area often features various local food vendors and pop-ups in the evenings, offering a rotating and authentic taste of local entrepreneurship.
Coco Cabin BBQ Garden [$10-$20] – A laid-back spot in Surigao City offering barbecued items in a relaxing garden setting, popular with locals for casual dining.
Cev Siargao [$15-$30] – Widely considered one of the best seafood restaurants on the island, specializing in Kinilaw (Filipino ceviche) and other fresh, citrusy seafood dishes in an effortlessly cool island setting.
Warung Siargao [$15-$30] – Located inside Siargao Island Villas, this restaurant is a go-to for authentic Southeast Asian and Indonesian fare, with the Nasi Bugkus platter being a must-try.
Harana Surf Restaurant [$15-$30] – The in-house restaurant of Harana Surf Resort, known for its Filipino fusion food with a twist, such as the healthier, fruit-filled Harana Halo-Halo served inside a fresh coconut.
White Banana Beach Club Bar & Restaurant [$15-$30] – A popular beachfront spot known for its lively sunset sessions and a strictly pescatarian menu that uses fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients, avoiding most meats.
Siargao Hawker [$15-$25] – A popular spot for Southeast Asian street food favorites, specializing in dishes like Laksa and Rendang, offering a flavorful taste of the region.
Spotted Pig Siargao [$15-$30] – A known spot for modern, comfort food dishes often incorporating fresh local ingredients with an international flair.
Bravo Restaurant Siargao [$20-$40] – Offers authentic Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine right by the beach, known for its relaxed ambiance and specialties like seafood paella.
The Catangnan Corner [$15-$25] – A popular, casual spot often praised for its fresh, simple, and affordable meals, especially popular with the surfing crowd near Cloud 9.
Kermit Siargao [$20-$40] – Although part of a surf resort, its Italian restaurant is highly acclaimed, serving authentic, homemade pasta and what many consider the best pizza on the island.
La Carinderia Siargao [$20-$40] – A rustic-chic Italian restaurant that focuses on delicious, hand-made pasta dishes and fresh seafood hotpot in a classy yet relaxed atmosphere.
Las Barricas [$15-$30] – A great place for Spanish-inspired tapas and good sangria, offering a change of pace from the local fare.
Rolf’s Place [$15-$30] – Known for serving up hearty German and European dishes, a great alternative for those craving a taste of home amidst the tropical setting.
Barrel Siargao [$20-$40] – A well-regarded spot for elevated international comfort food, known for its creative menu and laid-back vibe.
Viking Tavern Siargao [$15-$30] – Offers a hearty selection of Scandinavian and European dishes, a unique international option on the island.
CEV by Chef W [$20-$40] – A sister establishment to Cev, offering a more refined take on the kinilaw and raw bar concept, celebrating fresh seafood.
Roots Siargao (Tasting Menu) [$50-$80] – A culinary gem offering a multi-course tasting menu that showcases Filipino ingredients and fusion techniques, aiming for a farm-to-table experience (reservations usually required).
Karagomoy Siargao [$30-$60] – Known for its focus on modern Filipino cuisine and fresh seafood in an elevated island setting.
Perro Siargao [$30-$50] – A contemporary bistro with a creative menu that often features international dishes with a local twist, attracting a younger, more modern crowd.
I Love Siargao Restaurant [$25-$45] – Offers a more upscale take on Filipino and international favorites, often utilizing fresh seafood and premium ingredients.
Hotel Tavern Surigao Dining [$20-$40] – The in-house restaurant of a popular Surigao City hotel, offering a reliable selection of local and international dishes in a comfortable setting.
Kalye Artisanos (Fine Dining) [$40-$70] – While a hub for casual eats, some establishments within Kalye Artisanos, such as specific themed pop-ups, offer a more sophisticated dining experience and atmosphere.
Salty Jack’s [$30-$50] – A favorite for its high-quality steak and meat dishes, a good alternative if you’re looking for something other than seafood.
The Siargao Gallery and Restaurant [$25-$45] – Offers a unique ambiance by combining art and dining, serving up creative and visually appealing dishes.
Harana Surf Resort Dining (Special Events) [$30-$50] – Aside from their standard menu, they often host special dinner events that offer a more refined and communal dining experience.
Sibadan Fish Cage and Sand Bars Resort [$15-$30] – A unique floating restaurant experience accessible by boat from Port Lamon (Hinatuan). You can order fresh seafood cooked Sutukil (Sugba/Grilled, Tula/Soup, Kilaw/Ceviche) style right from the cage beneath the cottage.
Hinatuan Market Grill Services [$10-$25] – In the nearby town of Hinatuan, you can buy fresh fish and seafood from the public market and have one of the local carinderias or grilling stalls cook it for a very low fee.
Ocean View Park Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located in Bislig City (near Hinatuan), this restaurant is situated on a hilltop, offering stunning views over the bay along with its international and local menu.
Eateries at Enchanted River Site [$10-$25] – There is a designated area with small eateries and food stalls near the Enchanted River’s entrance. They offer simple Filipino meals and freshly-cooked seafood for visitors.
Enchanted River Rock Island Resort Dining [$15-$30] – Offers a basic selection of Filipino dishes for guests and visitors, often featuring local staples and fresh ingredients.
Fika House (Bislig) [$5-$15] – A cozy spot in nearby Bislig, known for its coffee and baked goods like banana cake, a good option for a casual break.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Barbosa Siargao: Located in General Luna, this popular spot hosts a vibrant atmosphere with excellent cocktails and often features DJ sets like “Disco Tropico,” particularly on Tuesday nights.
The Ext Siargao: Found along General Luna’s Tourism Road, this bar is known for its frequent live bands, offering a great selection of beers and cocktails starting in the early evening.
Mama Coco Siargao: Situated in General Luna, this establishment is a popular stop for evening drinks, offering a cheerful atmosphere and happy hour specials before transforming into a lively club with themed nights.
Siargao Bed and Brew: Located centrally in General Luna, this cozy spot is perfect for enjoying local beers and cocktails in a relaxed setting before the music starts up in the late evening.
Happiness Siargao: Part of a beachfront resort in General Luna, this venue hosts a lively weekly night market and is a great spot for enjoying refreshing drinks, food, and dancing in a festive atmosphere.
Bravo Restaurant: A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in General Luna that also features a bar, offering a selection of drinks to complement its fresh seafood dishes.
Bliss Restaurant: Located in General Luna, this spot focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients for its food, and also offers a bar selection for an upscale, relaxed evening.
CEV: Ceviche & Kinilaw Shack: While known for its Filipino-style ceviche in General Luna, this spot also serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, making it a great pre-dinner or early evening stop.
Sibol Siargao: A great spot in General Luna for nightly socializing, music, and enjoying drinks in a relaxed island setting.
Bulan Villas: This boutique resort, conveniently located in General Luna on Tourism Road, offers a tranquil respite with a bar area for peaceful evening cocktails away from the main party crowds.
Harana Surf Resort: Located in General Luna, this resort’s bar area offers a laid-back setting for drinks before it becomes a prime spot for its famous “Sabado Nights” party.
Club Tara Resort Poolside Bar: Situated on Bucas Grande Island in Socorro, Surigao del Norte, away from Siargao’s main hub, this bar offers a beautiful, more exclusive setting for enjoying a variety of drinks by the pool with a sea view.
La Fuga Siargao: Found in General Luna, this property likely includes a bar or lounge area given its focus on accommodation, offering a place to relax and enjoy a drink on the island.
Reef Beach Resort: Located in General Luna, this resort has commendable amenities, including a restaurant and bar area for evening drinks by the beach.
Casa Basa Siargao: A resort in General Luna with a quiet and cozy location, perfect for a peaceful drink at the end of the day.
Siargao Beach Club & Restobar: Located on Tourism Road in General Luna, this is a top nightlife destination on the island, boasting a large dance floor, live DJ performances, and famous foam parties set against the stunning coastline.
Goodies Siargao: Found in General Luna, this venue is known for its vibrant atmosphere and funky beats, where local and international DJs bring the party several nights a week.
Mama Coco Siargao (Reggaeton Nights/House/Techno): Located in General Luna, this venue transforms into a club on specific nights, hosting high-energy Reggaeton, House, or Techno parties starting late.
El Lobo: Situated in General Luna, this popular club keeps the party going late into the night, with DJs spinning the latest hits.
Harana Surf Resort (“Sabado Nights”): Found in General Luna, this resort is famous for its Saturday night parties, featuring live music and unique acts that draw a large crowd for an unforgettable experience.
Siargao Beach Club (Fire Dance Events): In addition to its foam parties, this club on Tourism Road in General Luna regularly hosts spectacular fire dancing events, creating a lively and unforgettable beachfront party atmosphere.
Siargao Beach Club (OPM Nights): Located in General Luna, this club often dedicates nights to Original Pilipino Music (OPM), appealing to both locals and travelers looking for a unique Filipino party experience.
Barbosa Siargao (Melodic and Acid House): While starting as a bar, on certain nights, this spot in General Luna becomes a club focusing on electronic music genres, appealing to a diverse crowd.
Siargao Bed and Brew (Late Night Dancing): While a great spot for pre-drinks, the music often ramps up later in the evening, transforming the space into a casual dance floor in General Luna.
General Luna Street Party Scene: The entire Tourism Road in General Luna often acts as a communal party zone, with the bars and clubs spilling out onto the street and the energy flowing between venues, offering a unique, mobile nightlife experience.