Siargao has become one of the most loved tropical islands in the Philippines, known for its surf culture, palm tree landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and laid-back island life. If you’re searching for the best places to visit in Siargao, this guide covers everything from famous surf spots and island hopping destinations to hidden beaches, waterfalls, natural springs, and unique local experiences.
To make planning easier, this guide groups the best places to visit in Siargao by area so you can explore the island efficiently without spending hours on the road.
General Luna: Best Places to Visit in Siargao for Surf, Cafes & Island Life
Most travelers stay in General Luna because it’s close to many famous surf breaks, restaurants, and island hopping tours. General Luna is the main tourist hub of Siargao. It’s where you’ll find surf schools, smoothie bowls, beach bars, and boutique accommodations.
What to expect: Surf culture, cafes, yoga studios, restaurants, and lively sunset spots.
Why go: It’s the perfect base to explore many of the best places to visit in Siargao.
Getting around: Rent a scooter for around 350–500 PHP per day or use tuk tuks for short trips.
Cloud 9
Cloud 9 is the most famous surf break in the Philippines and easily one of the best places to visit in Siargao. Even if you don’t surf, the wooden boardwalk and viewing tower are worth visiting for sunrise or sunset.
What to expect: Professional surfers, big waves, surf competitions, and beautiful ocean views.
Entrance fee: Around 100 PHP to access the boardwalk.
Why go: One of the most iconic surf spots in Asia.
Tip: Visit early morning when the light is soft and the crowds are smaller.
Ocean 9
Located not too far away from Cloud 9 (approx 15 minute drive), Ocean 9 is a popular spot for a beach break. It’s a great spot for both beginners and advanced surfers, as it has smaller waves at the front, and at the back out of the way you can find much bigger swells.
What to expect: Beach bar, infinity pool views, sunset cocktails, and a great spot to watch surfers ride waves.
Why go: It’s one of the best sunset viewpoints near General Luna, it’s great for surfing, the beach is beautiful, and there’s a fun vibe!
Entrance fee: 100 PHP to enter. This does include a WIFI password (there’s no 5G here) and also a locker to store your belongings while you go for a surf.
Tip: You can use the pool if you buy drinks or food.
Among this list of best places to visit in Siargao, are a handful of fun activities too:
Doot (Surfskate Lane)
Doot is a scenic road leading to a peaceful beach area south of General Luna. The road itself has become famous for surfskaters riding along the palm-lined stretch. Around golden hour, 100’s of people gather here to surfskate on the road (it’s free). There is usually someone playing music, and sometimes you can find people selling cookies, drinks and homemade crafts along the road too.
What to expect: Coconut trees, quiet beaches, and a peaceful vibe away from the main town.
Why go: One of the most scenic drives and hidden best places to visit in Siargao.
Tip: Go at sunset for golden light over the palms.
Wakepark Siargao
Siargao Wakepark is perfect if you want to try wakeboarding in a tropical setting. On a Sunday, they have a fun event where, when you buy a drink (can be anything) it includes one round on the wakeboard for free. Of course, it gets busy so you have to wait a while for your turn, but it’s a cool crowd and you can make friends with the people in line.
What to expect: Cable wakeboarding over a freshwater lagoon surrounded by palm trees.
Price: Around 500–700 PHP depending on session length.
Why go: Fun activity if you want a break from surfing / exploring beaches.
Padel Courts
Padel has recently become popular in Siargao and there are several courts around General Luna where visitors can play.
What to expect: Social games, tropical outdoor courts, and a fun community vibe.
Why go: Great way to meet travelers and locals while staying active.
Tip: You can find people to play with in the Whatsapp / Facebook communities. You type in your level and the time you are free, and find other people to join you! It’s a lot of fun.
Siargao Island Hopping: Best Places to Visit in Siargao by Boat
Island hopping is one of the most popular activities and easily includes some of the best places to visit in Siargao. Most tours depart from General Luna and visit three beautiful islands. To get to these islands, the typical method is to book on to a 3-island hopping boat tour. The other option (the one we chose) is to walk down to the harbour and make a deal with a local fisherman. It works out cheaper for you, and you get to support the locals directly.
Guyam Island
Guyam Island is a tiny tropical island surrounded by crystal clear water and white sand. It was my FAVOURITE place in Siargao. The island is small, and secluded yet there is a snack bar where you can buy some refreshments and snacks. There was also a basketball court in the middle surrounded by palm trees.
What to expect: Palm trees, a small beach bar, and turquoise lagoons.
Entrance fee: Around 20–50 PHP.
Why go: One of the most photogenic and relaxing places to visit in Siargao! It’s also good for snorkelling, and there’s a fun swing in the ocean.
Tip: Walk around the entire island it only takes about 5 minutes.
Daku Island
Daku Island is the largest island on the typical island hopping tour and a great place to relax for lunch. There are a bunch of restaurant and bars, and also a LOT of dogs! We were followed by a pack of 20 dogs on our walk around the island – it was very bizzare.
What to expect: White sand beaches, coconut palms, and traditional Filipino meals prepared by locals.
Entrance fee: Around 100 PHP.
Why go: Calm swimming water and beautiful tropical scenery.
Tip: If you do organise your own private tour with a fisherman, ask them if you can surf at Daku island (only if you are experienced as the waves are in the middle of the ocean and get quite big). It’s a beautiful wave and the background is beautiful with the palm trees and white sand!
Bonus tip: The third island included in this island hopping tour is Naked Island. It’s a small stretch of sand in the middle of the ocean. It’s cool to see, but adds another 40-60 minutes onto your boat trip. If you organise with a local fisherman, I recommend skipping this and spending more time between Guyam island and Daku island.
Northern Siargao: Best Places to Visit in Siargao
The north of Siargao feels much more remote and is home to some of the most peaceful best places to visit in Siargao. Expect fewer tourists, beautiful beaches, and natural pools.
Alegria Beach
Alegria Beach is one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches on the island. It’s very remote, sitting at the top of Siargao.
What to expect: Long stretches of white sand, clear water, and very few crowds.
Entrance fee: Around 50 PHP (unless you stay at one of the resorts on the beach, in which case it is free entry)
Why go: One of the most peaceful beaches in Siargao, if you want to escape the busy areas.
Tip: Bring snacks and water because there are limited facilities. You can choose to dine in one of the resorts restaurants if you like. We stayed at 3B for a few nights and the food there was good, and not too overpriced considering its location.
Tangbo Beach
Tangbo Beach is a quieter beach that many travelers miss. It is also a good surf spot in the north of Siargao.
What to expect: Palm lined shores, soft sand, and peaceful ocean views.
Why go: One of the more hidden best places to visit in Siargao.
Tip: Bring a hammock and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
Magpupungko Rock Pools
Magpupungko Rock Pools are one of the most famous natural attractions and definitely among the best places to visit in Siargao. During low tide, crystal clear pools form between large rock formations. It gets VERY busy, so you need to prepare to share these pools among the crowds. There is another pool behind the big rock, and if you walk around it, you’ll find it is much less crowded. Either way, it’s still worth a visit – the colour of the water here is insane! There is a guide included in the entrance ticket which is obligatory. Personally I don’t think it’s necessary, but it gives more people work, plus they also take pictures of you in the pool which is a nice touch.
What to expect: Natural tidal pools, cliff jumping, and clear blue water.
Entrance fee: Around 100 PHP per person total, including parking and a guide.
Important tip: Visit during low tide or the pools disappear! We went 30-45 minutes BEFORE low tide and it was much quieter! I highly recommend doing this too.
Coconut Road
Coconut Road is one of the most photographed roads in the Philippines and a highlight among the best places to visit in Siargao. Thousands of coconut trees line the road creating an endless tropical landscape. It’s a stunning place to visit, but please be careful. This is a road, and there are constantly cars, tuktuks and scooters driving up and down. Respect them!
Why go: Incredible and scenic scooter rides.
Tip: Visit early morning or sunset for the best lighting.
Coconut Viewpoint
Near Coconut Road is a viewpoint overlooking a valley full of coconut trees stretching to the ocean.
What to expect: Panoramic island views and photo opportunities.
Entrance fee: Free.
Why go: One of the most iconic landscapes in Siargao.
Natural Springs and Waterfalls: Best Places to Visit in Siargao
Siargao isn’t just about beaches. Some of the best places to visit in Siargao are its refreshing waterfalls and natural springs.
Taktak Falls
Taktak Falls is the only waterfall on Siargao.
What to expect: Jungle surroundings, a wide waterfall, and a swimming area below.
Entrance fee: Around 100 PHP.
Tip: Best visited after rainfall when the waterfall is stronger. However, if there is TOO much rainfall, it is not recommended to go, as the falls collect dirt and bacteria.
Beto Cold Spring
Beto Cold Spring is a refreshing natural spring surrounded by forest. It’s located in the centre of the island and is a fun place to spend a few hours. Here many locals also hang out, and there were a few birthday parties happening with food and drinks. There are also people jumping off the platforms into the water, and you can rent kayaks for an hour too.
What to expect: Clear cold water, bamboo diving platforms, kayak rental and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Entrance fee: Around 30-50 PHP (very cheap!)
Why go: Perfect place to cool off after exploring nearby areas / driving around the island.
Magda Spring Pool
Magda Spring Pool is a popular local swimming spot with bright turquoise water. The water did have a bit of a strange smell when we were there, but perhaps it was because we went in rainy season and it rained A LOT! It was also very muddy to get to, but made the experience fun.
What to expect: Rope swings, clear water, and a social atmosphere.
Entrance fee: Around 50 PHP.
Tip: Visit in the afternoon when locals gather and the vibe becomes lively.
Hidden Nature Spots: Best Places to Visit in Siargao
Siargao Mangroves
Siargao’s mangrove forests are among the largest in the Philippines and are important for the island’s ecosystem. There are many animals living within the Mangroves, including monkeys, crocodiles, many species of birds, etc. It is very hard to spot them though!
What to expect: Wooden walkways through dense mangroves and peaceful nature views.
Entrance fee: Free.
Why go: A quieter nature experience compared to the beaches, and gives you something different to do.
Tropical Academy Cooking Class Experience
The Tropical Academy cooking class is one of the most fun and interactive experiences on the island. his hands-on cooking class teaches you how to prepare traditional Filipino dishes using fresh local ingredients, many of which are grown on the island. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, making it a great way to meet other travelers while learning about local culture. Classes typically last around 3–4 hours and cost roughly 2,000–3,000 PHP per person, depending on the menu and group size. You MUST book in advance online, and pay a deposit.
What to expect: Learn to cook traditional Filipino dishes using fresh local ingredients.
Price: Around 2,000–3,000 PHP depending on the class. (quite pricey, but a fun experience, and this also includes a HUGE lunch of dishes prepared for you, plus the ones you cook).
Why go: A great way to connect with local culture and learn new recipes.
Helpful Travel Tips for Visiting the Best Places to Visit in Siargao
+ Rent a scooter. The easiest way to explore the best places to visit in Siargao is by scooter.
+ Check tides. Natural attractions like Magpupungko Rock Pools depend on low tide.
+ Bring cash. Many smaller locations do not accept cards. You need cash on a daily basis! The ATM machines often run out too, so go early morning.
+ Start your day trips early. Popular spots can get crowded by midday.
+ Stay flexible. Siargao island life moves slowly, enjoy the relaxed pace.
Siargao is more than just a surf island. From island hopping and waterfalls to quiet beaches and coconut palm roads, the best places to visit in Siargao offer a mix of adventure, nature, and laid-back tropical living. Whether you’re here to surf Cloud 9, explore hidden springs, or relax on remote beaches, this blog post will help you experience the island at its best!
If you’re really short for time, considering doing this full day (intense!) tour of Siargao island.
FAQ Section
How many days do you need in Siargao?
Most travelers spend at least 7 days exploring the best places to visit in Siargao. I would recommend staying 10-14 if you plan to explore the whole island. This gives you enough time to visit the famous surf spots, take an island hopping tour, explore the northern beaches and rock pools, and enjoy waterfalls and natural springs.
What is Siargao best known for?
Siargao is best known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, especially for the famous Cloud 9 surf break. However, many of the best places to visit in Siargao also include island hopping destinations, natural tidal pools, coconut palm landscapes, and peaceful tropical beaches.
Is Siargao worth visiting?
Yes, Siargao is absolutely worth visiting. The island offers surf culture, tropical scenery, island hopping, and a relaxed atmosphere away from busy city destinations.
When is the best time to visit Siargao?
The best time to explore Siargao island is between March and October when the weather is generally sunny and calm. The surf season peaks between August and November, which is ideal if you want to watch or try surfing at Cloud 9.
