Travel in Siargao
Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines, with the world-famous Cloud 9 surf break at the heart of its surf scene. But you don't need to ride a surfboard to experience the best that Siargao has to offer. You can also go island hopping, explore caves, paddle through mangroves, or just enjoy its nightlife.
How to Get to Siargao
Siargao is accessible by air and sea. The island’s main entry point is Siargao Airport, which has regular flights from Manila and Cebu. If you prefer to travel by sea, you can take a ferry from Cebu to Surigao City, and then another ferry to Dapa in Siargao.
Best Time to Visit Siargao
The best months to visit Siargao are from March to October, which is the island’s dry season. It’s the opposite of the typical weather pattern in the rest of the Philippines.
If you’re a surfer, September to November is Siargao’s prime surfing season, when the waves are at their best. This period is highlighted by the Siargao International Surfing Cup, a week-long event that kicks off in October and attracts surfers from around the world.
Where to Stay in Siargao
Choosing where to stay in Siargao is pretty straightforward. General Luna is the island’s main tourism hub. Most of the accommodations, restaurants, and shops are located in General Luna, and it’s also where all the tours and activities depart from. If you want to be close to everything, General Luna is the place to be.
Here are our recommendations on where to stay in Siargao:
- Luxury: If you're looking for the best place to stay in Siargao, Las Palmas Villas is hard to beat. It has everything you would expect from a resort, including a swimming pool, a garden, and a full-service restaurant and bar.
- Mid-range: Big Waves Boutique Hotel is located right in the heart of General Luna, in a local neighborhood. The rooms are clean and all have their own private bathrooms and AC.
- Budget: We enjoyed our stay at Hostel Bajala so much that we ended up extending it a few times. The place is clean, cozy, and comfortable. We couldn't ask for more.
If you prefer to find your own place to stay, you can visit Booking.com to explore all your accommodation options in Siargao.
How to Get Around Siargao
Renting a motorbike is the best way to explore Siargao. You can rent a motorbike for 300 to 500 pesos per day, giving you the freedom to visit the island's attractions at your own pace.
Alternatively, tricycles and tuk-tuks hang out in all the island's tourist spots, so it's not hard to find a ride if you're not comfortable riding a motorbike.
What to Pack for Siargao
Here are some of our must-have items you might not have thought of when packing for a trip to Siargao.
- Crocs: During our time in Siargao, I was so glad to have Crocs to protect my feet when exploring caves and islands. They are the ultimate shoe in the Philippines for a reason – many Filipinos wear them too!
- Earplugs: If you're planning to do any island hopping while in Siargao, I recommend bringing a set of earplugs for the boat rides. Most boats in Siargao have super loud diesel engines that will make your ears ring!
- Sunscreen: For some reason, sunscreen is expensive in the Philippines and I've even encountered places selling fake sunscreen that doesn't work! So I recommend bringing your own sunscreen to Siargao.
- Dry Bag: With all the sand, salt, and water flying everywhere during our adventures out to Siargao's islands, I was so glad to have a dry bag to keep all my things safe from the elements!
- Travel Towel: In my opinion, a travel towel like this one is super necessary for a trip to Siargao! It packs down nicely and was there for me anytime I went swimming, or just needed to brush sand or dirt off.
Where to Party in Siargao: Siargao Party Schedule
The clubs in General Luna have a neat system, each night of the week is dedicated to a different club, so you can easily find a party no matter when you go out.
- Mondays: Mama Coco
- Tuesdays: Sidargo
- Wednesdays: Goodies
- Thursdays: Bed and Brew
- Fridays: Barbosa
- Saturdays: Harana
- Sundays: Happiness
- Every night: El Lobo, Siargao Beach Club
Our Siargao Google Maps Locations
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