The Ultimate Siargao Travel Guide

Welcome to our Ultimate Siargao Travel Guide! If you’re planning a trip to this stunning island in the Philippines, you’re in for a treat. Siargao is known for its world-class surfing spots, crystal-clear waters, and pristine beaches, making it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Siargao.

From where to stay to the best restaurants and attractions, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Siargao. Let’s dive in!

Best Time to Visit Siargao

The best time to visit the Philippines is between November to April. The Philippines experiences two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to April, ideal for clear skies and outdoor activities, and a wet monsoon season from May to October, which can offer budget-friendly travel opportunities due to fewer tourists.

Pre-Arrival Checklist

What do I need to bring to Siargao?

Before you set foot in Siargao, we’ve put together a pre-checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for your upcoming journey.

SIM Card

When traveling to Bohol we do recommend purchasing a SIM card if you don’t have a roam-like home service with your cellular plan. To ensure we had reliable connectivity during our Bohol trip we purchased a reliable SIM card and picked it up in Cebu where we were flying.

Where to Purchase a SIM Card In the Philippines

The best place to purchase a SIM card in the Philippines depends on your preference. You can get them at malls, electronic stores, or vendors in popular tourist hubs. For the ultimate convenience, we recommend Pre-booking in advance, the booths are easy to find once you arrive in the international terminals of Manila and Cebu.

Entry Requirements

Upon arrival in the Philippines, you are granted a free 30-day visa, which can be extended for an additional 30 days online for approximately ₱3,030 or around $54 USD. Proof of vaccination or a test result is not required for entry.

Travel Vaccines

We always recommend seeking advice for vaccinations for Indonesia on the CDC website, and visiting a travel medical clinic before traveling to a destination.

Disclaimer: The information shared regarding travel vaccines is based on our experiences and research and should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. For personalized vaccine information and guidance, please consult with a medical expert such as a travel clinic.

Outlet Plugs & Adapters

The power plugs in the Philippines typically have Type A or Type B sockets, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 60Hz. It’s also recommended to carry a universal adapter when traveling internationally with many types of plug variations.

Travel Insurance

Before traveling, it’s crucial to have travel & medical insurance coverage whenever you’re traveling abroad to another country. We always recommend checking your credit card’s insurance policies to understand the coverage and duration of your insurance. Most travel credit cards have coverage between 14-30 days on the high-end. Therefore, depending on the coverage type and duration of your trip, purchasing travel insurance that supplements these policies, is recommended to provide you with peace of mind and financial security, to ensure your trip is worry-free.

What to Bring

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, we’ve handpicked a selection of must-have travel items that will make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable. From packing hacks to smart gadgets, these essential travel items have helped us organize better and maintain a stress-free travel experience while saving us time!

Where to Stay in Siargao

The tropical paradise of Siargao, where pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibes bring in travelers from all corners of the globe. We’ll be your guide to finding the perfect stay, from vibrant beachfront areas to serene countryside escapes. Whether you seek the luxury of upscale resorts, the comfort of mid-range accommodations, or the charm of budget-friendly options, we’ve got you covered.

General Luna

General Luna is the bustling heart of Siargao’s tourism, known for its vibrant atmosphere, surf breaks, and abundant accommodations. It’s a top choice for surf enthusiasts and offers a lively nightlife scene, making it the hub of activity on the island.

Budget: White Banana Beach Club

This beach club has budget-friendly accommodations in a beachfront setting. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, social events, and affordable dormitory-style rooms and private cottages.

Mid-tier: Isla Cabana Resort

This Resort is a highly-rated mid-tier option, offering a beachfront experience with comfortable rooms, a serene atmosphere, and a range of amenities.

Luxury: Nay Palad Hideaway

This hideaway stands out as the top-rated luxury hotel in the General Luna area. This upscale resort offers luxurious villas, a private beach, fine dining, and top-notch amenities. It provides an indulgent and secluded experience for travelers.

Cloud 9

Cloud 9, located within General Luna, is a famous surf spot and a must-visit destination for surfers from around the world. It’s renowned for its iconic Cloud 9 boardwalk and tower, where visitors can watch spectacular surfing performances.

Budget: Ocean 101 Beach Resort

This budget-friendly accommodation with a beachfront location. It has a relaxed vibe and close proximity to Cloud 9 surf break, making it a popular choice for surf enthusiasts.

Mid-tier: Bravo Beach Resort

This resort is a highly-rated mid-tier option that provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities. It’s conveniently located near Cloud 9 and offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for both surfers and travelers seeking relaxation.

Luxury: Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa

This Resort and Spa is a top-rated luxury resort located in the Cloud 9 area. It offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and excellent dining options. This beachfront resort provides a lavish and serene escape for those seeking more of an upscale accommodation.

Getting Around Siargao

Getting around Siargao is an essential aspect of your trip. Are you going to join a tour or do your own self guided itinerary with a scooter rental? Once you arrive in Siargao how are you going to get to your hotel? We have the answers here!

Arriving to Siargao by Plane or Boat

If you arrive at Siargao by plane, you’ll land at Sayak Airport, which is located about 30 minutes away from the main tourist areas of General Luna and Cloud 9. To get from the airport to your accommodation, you can pre-book tickets for a shared or private van in advance of your arrival or pay cash once you arrive. It’s recommended to bring enough cash for your trip as ATMs on the island can be unreliable. The cost for a van transfer is typically around PHP 300-400 per person. Tricycle can cost around PHP 300-500.

If you’re arriving by boat, you’ll likely dock at the Dapa Port, which is about 30-45 minutes away from General Luna and Cloud 9. From there, you can take a van or tricycle to your accommodation.

Public Transit & Tricycles

Public transportation in Siargao is limited, but there are still some options available for getting around. The most common mode of transportation is the tricycle, which is a motorized three-wheeled vehicle that can carry up to four passengers. Tricycles can be found throughout the island and are a relatively inexpensive way to get around. Fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but you can expect to pay around PHP 50-100 per person for short trips depending on your bargaining skills.

Taxi & Scooter Rentals

Taxis are not as common in Siargao as they are in other parts of the Philippines, but there are still some options available for those who prefer this mode of transportation.

For flexible transportation, consider renting a scooter (PHP 350-500/day). Most rentals need a valid driver’s license and a deposit. Inspect the vehicle for damage, understand rental terms and restrictions, and wear a helmet when riding due to challenging road conditions.

Travel Itineraries for Philippines

Discover an array of captivating Philippines travel itineraries on our blog, providing you with diverse options and expert tips to enhance your journey.

Siargao Travel Guide Collage showcasing Siargao's wonders: Swimming with stingless jellyfish at Sohoton Cove, island tour, surfing at Cloud 9, and exploring the coconut forest.

Bohol Travel Guide Collage showcasing Bohol's attractions: Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and waterfalls, inviting travelers to explore the wonders of the Philippines.

Top Attractions in Siargao

Siargao is a tropical paradise filled with breathtaking scenery and endless adventures. Whether you’re a surfer looking to catch the perfect wave or a nature lover in search of hidden lagoons and waterfalls, there’s something for everyone on this stunning island.

Here we’ve rounded up some of the top attractions in Siargao, including the world-famous Cloud 9 surf spot, and the enchanting Sohoton Cove. We will uncover the most underrated tour in Siarago that blew us away! Here is The Most Underrated Tour in Siargao.

Best Restaurant & Eats in Siargao

Siargao is not only known for its stunning beaches and world-class surf spots, but also for its delicious and diverse food scene. From fresh seafood caught daily to local delicacies and international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate on this tropical island. We will round up the best restaurants and eateries in Siargao, where you can indulge in mouth-watering dishes made with the freshest ingredients and enjoy the laid-back island vibe.

Experiencing my first Carinderia in Siargao was nothing short of epic. The abundance of food and the unique ordering system made it a memorable experience. If you find yourself in Siargao, trying a Carinderia is an absolute must. Dive into my video on TikTok to witness the adventure for yourself!

Siargao’s viral boodle fight is a must-experience culinary marvel. With a colorful spread of fresh seafood and local delicacies laid out on banana leaves, this communal feast offers a unique hands-on dining adventure. The buzz around it, amplified through social media, has made it a global sensation, attracting food enthusiasts from all corners.

It’s so viral even I got over a million views on my first Boodle Fight experience in Siargao.

Our Thoughts on Siargao

Siargao has to be one of our favorite islands in the Philippines. There are so many fun daily excursions from incredible land tours to island tours that literally took our breath away. Staying between 4-5 nights should allow you enough time to experience this island to the fullest. You also have the opportunity to learn how to surf at one of the famous surfing areas in the Philippines, Cloud 9.

While Siargao is undoubtedly a tropical paradise with its pristine beaches and friendly locals, we want to be candid. There are restaurants on the island that do accept credit cards however, most are on a cash-only basis. We ran into some trouble with the ATMs on the island, and we just had enough cash to last us our stay in Siargao. Therefore, I would recommend outlining all your expenses for your trip while pre-booking as many excursions online using credit cards as you can, and preserving your cash for things like water, convenience stores, street food, and restaurants.

Now before we end things off, we want to reiterate the importance of our favorite tour. We didn’t even have the Sohoton Bucas Grande Tour on our list before arriving in Siargao until a local mentioned it to us a couple of days before we had to leave the island. This was one of the most incredible tours we both have been on, swimming with a rare orange sting-less jellyfish was a dream come true.

There are only a couple of places in the world you can do this. Siargao provided the perfect balance of land & water activities, great food options, culture, and relaxation, we will be back!

Andrew & Melissa

@HungryPursuit

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A lot of time and effort is put into these blog posts. There are some affiliate links throughout where we may make a small commission if you use them. There is no additional cost to you to use the links.

Love, Andy & Mel

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