ULTIMATE SIARGAO TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Budget & Itinerary
Are you planning a trip to the tropical paradise Siargao? Or are you debating adding the island to your Philippines itinerary?
This Siargao Island DIY Travel Guide will tell you everything you need to know, including a suggested budget and itinerary, updated for 2024.
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Siargao Island is widely known as the surfing capital of the Philippines and its breathtaking waves attract surfers from all over the world.
In recent years though, Siargao has been working its way into travellers’ hearts. It has turned into a must-visit tropical destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, party animals, and beach bums alike.
If you’re debating adding Siargao to your Philippines itinerary, then it’s a no-brainer.
Untamed natural beauty, pristine white-sand beaches, buzzing nightlife, and a vibrant food scene, all with a sprinkle of coconut trees.
Whilst Siargao is rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination, it still possesses a rustic laidback surfers’ vibe and a slower pace of life hard to come by in the modern world.
Including the top tourist spots, best beaches, how to get there, accommodation, where to eat, where to party, and a recommended Siargao budget and itinerary, this Siargao Travel Guide will leave no stone unturned.
This post will let you know everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to Siargao Island.
Siargao tourist spots and things to do
First up in this Siargao Island Travel Guide are the main tourist spots. Most are free or pretty inexpensive, so perfect for any Siargao budget.
Siargao Island is certainly not short of activities and things to do. This tropical island is an adventure lover’s playground and a beach bum’s paradise.
From white sand, coconut-fringed shorelines, and breathtaking waves, to mangrove kayaking, cliff jumping, and hidden caves, there is something for every type of traveler.
Whether you plan on staying for a few months or simply want to know what to do in Siargao for 3 days, these are the top tourist spots to add to your Siargao itinerary.
Maasin River
A quaint little river in the town of Maasin has become a must-visit tourist destination in recent years due to the iconic images of the bent palm tree.
The Tarzan rope swing has been replaced by a jumping platform for those in search of a bit of adrenaline-fueled fun and a cooling dip.
Full Post: Maasin River Siargao: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
I would highly recommend taking a canoe tour up the river with one of the locals to the Secret Lagoon. This is a great outdoor activity to explore the island further by land.
Take a surf lesson
As the surfing capital of the Philippines, catching some waves is a must-do water activity in Siargao.
If you’re interested in surfing in Siargao, you can head to Cloud 9 and instructors will approach you.
However, the locals advise against surf lessons at Cloud 9, as the rocks can be sharp and the waves more suited to advanced-level surfers.
Here are some better spots depending on your level –
- Secret Spot Beach for beginner lessons. Located 30 minutes from General Luna, the waves are super mellow and the beach is totally secluded. This means you won’t have to share the water with many people.
- Pacifico Beach for advanced-level surfers. Located 1.5 hours northeast of General Luna, this beach has a sleepy surf town vibe and does not attract many tourists.
We paid 1000 PHP ($18) for a 2-hour beginner surf lesson at Secret Spot Beach, booked through Jing’s Homestay.
Coconut Viewdeck
When people say that Siargao is covered in palm trees, this is the best spot to truly appreciate what they mean.
You are likely to drive past Coconut Viewdeck, also known as Coconut Mountain View, when visiting other parts of the island. It can therefore be easily added to any Siargao itinerary.
You will see people stopped on the side of the road about 20 minutes from General Luna.
There are thousands of coconut trees as far as the eye can see. I would recommend visiting for sunrise or sunset for beautiful lighting.
Full Post: The BEST Guide To Coconut Road & Coconut Mountain View
Magpupungko Rock Pools
Visiting these crystal-clear rock pools is one of the best things to do in Siargao. The beauty of this natural wonder will be sure to take your breath away.
These pools are only exposed during low tide, so be sure to check out the tide times in advance here.
The Magpupungko Rock Pools are also perfect for those seeking adventure activities in Siargao. At 3 meters deep, they are perfect for cliff jumping and exploring the hidden caves.
These rock pools are a great addition to any DIY land tour in Siargao.
Cloud 9 Boardwalk
Known for being one of the best surf spots in the Philippines, any Siargao Travel Guide would be incomplete without a walk out onto the iconic wooden pier to marvel at the surfers.
If you don’t fancy picking up a board, this is one of the best things to do for non-surfers. I would recommend coming for either sunrise or sunset for the best views.
Full Post: 17 Unique Things To Do In Siargao For Non-Surfers
Tak Tak Falls
Located about 1.5 hours northeast of General Luna, Tak Tak Falls is the only waterfall in Siargao and a great water activity.
It is not the grandest waterfall in the world, but refreshing for a cooling dip. Tak Tak Falls is worth a visit if you are exploring the nearby Alegria or Pacifico Beach.
Biking down Coconut Road
Whilst there are many aesthetically pleasing roads on Siargao Island, Coconut Road is the most iconic.
You will likely drive through this coconut-lined road on your way to other tourist attractions in Siargao. If you’re lucky to drive down it alone, it is a true main character moment.
One of the best outdoor activities in Siargao is to get out of the main tourist hub and go for scenic drives around the island to appreciate the untamed beauty.
Full Post: The BEST Guide To Coconut Road & Coconut Mountain Viewdeck
Tayangban Cave
A unique thing to do for those interested in water activities in Siargao is a trip to Tayangban Cave.
After wading through chest-height water in a dark cave for about 10 minutes, the beauty of the cenote will appear. You can spend your time jumping off the cliffs and swinging on the vines.
This is a great spot to add to your Siargao itinerary if you’re a lover of adventure.
Visit the main Siargao highlights including the Maasin River, Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools, and Coconut Viewdeck.
All entrance fees, a private guide, and roundtrip transport to your accommodation included.
Siargao Travel Guide: Best beaches in Siargao
Whilst the surrounding islands boast some of the most pristine beaches in the Philippines, there are many stunning white-sand beaches you can visit without leaving Siargao Island.
Whether you’re interested in catching some waves or simply topping up your tan, these are the best beaches in Siargao –
- Secret Spot Beach – great for beginner-level surfers, mellow waves, 30 minutes from General Luna. Stunning secluded coconut-fringed beach.
- Cloud 9 Beach – a great spot in General Luna to watch the surfers and top up your tan. The rocks can be sharp but the water is fine for a paddle. 100 PHP ($0.88) entrance fee for sunbathers and surfers alike.
Full Post: Top 7 MOST BEAUTIFUL Beaches in Siargao
- Alegria Beach – crystal-clear water and white sand 1.5 hours northeast of General Luna. Tranquil beach with postcard views and very few tourists. Great spot for swimming.
- Doot Beach – laidback atmosphere and few tourists. Only 15 minutes from General Luna. Soft white sand surrounded by mangrove forest. A great sunset spot. Mangrove kayaking and bio-luminescent plankton.
- Pacifico Beach – sleepy surf town with an authentic laidback vibe. One of the best surfing beaches with waves better suited to advanced-level surfers. 1.5 hours northeast of General Luna, so very peaceful with few tourists.
Full Post: Doot Beach: The COMPLETE Guide To Siargao’s Hidden Gem
Best day trips from Siargao
Day trips are next up in this Siargao Island Travel Guide.
The area around Siargao is littered with mini paradisical white sand islands, emerald-green lagoons, and dense mangrove forests.
Whether you opt for an organised tour or a DIY tour, these are the very best day trips from Siargao Island.
Sugba Lagoon, Pamomoan Beach & Kawhagan Sandbar
Sugba Lagoon, Pamomoan Beach & Kawhagan Sandbar are all located on Caob Island, about a 30-minute boat ride from Del Carmen.
Visiting all three tourist spots is a fantastic day trip from Siargao.
The unique rolling hills and emerald-green waters of Sugba Lagoon are typically visited as part of the Siargao Land Tour. However, this tour does not include Pamomoan Beach or Kawhagan Sandbar.
Full Post: Pamomoan Beach & Sugba Lagoon: DIY Guide Siargao
Pamomoan Beach and Kawhagan Sandbar boast soft white sand, calm crystal-clear water, and countless coconut trees.
These spots attract fewer tourists, meaning they are totally pristine and unspoiled.
Visit these three spectacular spots on this day trip from Siarago. Coconut Road & Coconut Viewdeck are also included.
Including roundtrip transport, a private guide, entrance fees, and lunch.
Whilst you can book this tour online, a DIY tour is very straightforward and significantly cheaper (we paid $20 each). You can organise a boat to visit all three spots from Del Carmen Port.
For all of the details, including how to get there and the total cost, you can check out my full Pamomoan Beach & Sugba Lagoon DIY Guide.
Island Hopping
Island Hopping to the nearby Daku, Naked, and Guyam Islands is one of the best things to do in Siargao for those in search of pristine and unspoiled beaches.
Spend the day relaxing, working on your tan, and admiring the beauty of the turquoise waters on this stunning day trip from Siargao.
Explore some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines with this full-day tour from Siargao.
Visit nearby Guyam, Daku, and Naked Island with lunch included.
Sohoton Cove
A trip to Sohoton Cove to swim with the stingless jellyfish is one of the best day trips from Siargao and such a unique experience.
A day trip to Sohoton Cove National Park includes cliff jumping, hidden limestone caves, crystal-clear lagoons, and of course, a visit to the jellyfish sanctuary.
Visit the incredible Sohoton Cove as part of this day trip from Siargao.
Including Hagukan Cove, Tiktikan Island, Magkokoob Cove, cliff jumping, and swimming with stingless jellyfish.
Siargao Travel Guide: How to get to Siargao
Whilst Siargao is not the easiest island to reach in the world, the journey is fairly straightforward. Next in this Siargao Travel Guide, we will cover exactly how to get there.
You can reach Siargao island either by flight or ferry, depending on the level of comfort you’re after and your Siargao budget.
From Manila
Getting to Siargao from Manila is pretty simple. There are a few airlines that fly from Manila to Siargao direct-
The journey time is roughly 2 hours. Flights can cost anywhere between $40 – $150.
You will fly into Sayak Airport located in Del Carmen, about 45 minutes from General Luna.
Note: Sometimes it is cheaper to fly from Manila to Surigao, and then take the ferry across to Siargao.
From Cebu
Another way to get to Siargao Island is from Cebu. You can either fly or take a ferry. If you choose to fly, the following airlines offer direct flights from Cebu –
The journey time is approximately 1 hour. These flights can be pretty inexpensive, anywhere between $20 – $100.
Full Post: How To Get To Siargao Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide
Another way to reach Siargao from Cebu is by ferry. The ferry docks in Dapa, about 20 minutes from General Luna.
Starlite Ferries runs a direct ferry from Cebu to Surigao every day except Saturday.
The ferry departs at 9:00 PM and takes about 10 hours, arriving at Surigao at roughly 7:00 AM.
You will then have to take a ferry from Surigao to Siargao Island.
Overnight ferry from Cebu City to Surigao with Starlite Ferries
Every day except Saturday @ 21:00
Surigao to Siargao
Evaristo and Sons run a ferry from Surigao to Siargao every day. This takes about 2 hours.
The ferry departs from Surigao to Siargao at the following times –
- 6:00 AM
- 10:00 AM
- 3:00 PM
Ferry from Surigao to Siargao with Evaristo & Sons
Everyday @ 4:00 | 6:00 | 10.00 | 15:30
Getting to General Luna
Whether you arrive at Siargao Island by flight or ferry, you will need to get from the airport/ferry port to General Luna.
Arriving at Sayak Airport is super straightforward. You will be approached by drivers outside the airport offering rides to your accommodation in General Luna by van. It is kind of like a shuttle service.
- Price: 300 PHP ($5.30)
- Time: 45 minutes
If returning to the airport, talk to your accommodation and they will be able to book the return van journey in advance for you.
If arriving by ferry, you will dock at Dapa Port. The best way to get from Dapa Port to General Luna is by tricycle. Try and find some people going in the same direction to split the fare with.
- Price: 400 PHP ($7) split between 3 people
- Time: 20 minutes
Note: apparently there is a bus/jeepney from Dapa Port to General Luna which runs every day until 5:00 PM. Unfortunately, we arrived too late, but it is worth asking at the port.
Where to stay in Siargao
Any Siargao Travel Guide would be incomplete without accommodation.
When visiting Siargao, the majority of travellers tend to stay in the tourist hub General Luna. This is where you will find most of the main bars, restaurants, surfing and nightlife.
However, if you’re looking to get more off the beaten path, other popular areas to stay on Siargao Island are –
- Pacifico (sleepy beach town)
- Del Carmen (for Sugba Lagoon)
- Dapa
- Socorro (for Sohoton Cove)
Whether you’re a luxury beach resort kind of traveller or a broke backpacker, these are the best accommodation options for every kind of budget in General Luna –
Luxury accommodation in Siargao
Nay Pad Hideaway – nestled between the mangrove forest and a private beach, this is one of the most luxurious accommodations in the Philippines.
You will be treated like royalty with absolutely everything included in the price.
From refreshing drinks and delicious food to massages, yoga, and spa days, to water activities and island hopping. You will not pay a penny more.
The hideaway features an infinity pool, an outdoor cinema, a games room, a children’s play area, an iPad in each room, and plenty of outdoor lounging areas.
If money is not a problem, then this is really a must-stay property and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Villas start at $3000 per night.
Isla Cabana Resort – indulge in luxury in one of the best beachfront resorts in Siargao.
Isla Cabana Resort boasts a private beach, an infinity pool, a spa, a gym, and a pool table. There is also a beach bar and restaurant, as well as activities such as kayaking.
Choose between a hotel-like room, cabana, or villa. Prices range from $150 – $400 per night. The most expensive premier option includes sunrise views over the ocean and a private pool.
Medium-budget accommodation in Siargao
Happiness Beach Resort and Hostel – depending on your budget, you have the choice between staying in a private room in the Happiness Beach Resort, or in a shared dorm in the Happiness Hostel.
The beachfront resort offers private rooms with a balcony. The prices range from $100 – $130 per night.
The cheaper option would be to stay in a mixed dormitory in the Happiness Hostel.
The rooms are modern, with personal plug sockets, hangers, and lockers, as well as an en suite. Prices start from $23.00 per night.
In both, you can enjoy either the outdoor or indoor pool. Happiness also has a delicious Indian-Meditarrean restaurant and beachfront bar.
Mao Mao Surf Hostel – is a great option for couples and offers a laidback surfing vibe. The private cabins are rustic and have an authentic island feel, with an outdoor bamboo shower.
There is a beautiful garden with hammocks to lounge around and soak up the tranquility. Mao Mao can help you organise tours, surf lessons, scooter rental, and more.
Prices for a private room start at $50.00 per night.
Cheap accommodation in Siargao
Jings Place Homestay – experience Philippines culture and become part of the family. With a choice between a private room or a shared dorm, Jing’s is one of the best-value accommodations in Siargao.
This homestay has a great social atmosphere and features a pool table in the common area.
Jing is a local surfing superhero and offers lessons to help you avoid crowds and maximise your surfing experience.
If you’re looking for fancy and frills, then maybe this isn’t the place for you. The rooms are rustic native style, giving an authentic feel of island life.
Shared dorm prices are $6.00 per night and private rooms start from $10.00 per night.
Hiraya Surf Hostel – situated near Cloud 9, this hostel has a great atmosphere and is great for socialising and meeting other travellers. Hiraya also has an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and plenty of seating areas.
The mixed dormitory rooms are basic but spacious and clean. Prices start from $11.00 per night.
How to get around Siargao
Getting around is a necessary part of any Siargao Island Travel Guide. Fortunately, most organised tours include transport.
However, if you’re planning on taking DIY tours in Siargao, you’ll need your own way of getting around.
Scooter
The best way to get around Siargao is with a scooter. This gives you so much freedom to explore the whole island.
A scooter will set you back roughly 300 PHP ($5) per day. This is what we paid for one week.
You should be able to find a scooter rental easily by walking down Tourism Road in General Luna or asking your accommodation for help.
The price ultimately depends on your bargaining skills and how long you would like to rent for – the longer you want the bike for the cheaper it will be.
Petrol is about 70 PHP ($1.20) per liter. There are two petrol stations on the main road coming out of General Luna heading towards Dapa.
The roads in Siargao are very well-maintained and you can access all the main tourist spots by following the Siargao Circumferential Road around the island.
Travel around Siargao like a local and get your bike from a trusted merchant.
Reliable service, a choice of well-maintained bikes, and optional delivery to your accommodation.
Tricycle
If you’re not so keen on a scooter, you can get about the island by tricycle. Tricycles can fit 2 -4 passengers.
You can hail a tricycle for a simple one-way journey or discuss a ‘special trip’.
A special trip is when a driver takes you to some of the main tourist spots for the day. This will require some negotiating.
Siargao Travel Guide: Where to eat in Siargao
Siargao arguably has some of the best food in the Philippines. The mixture of local and foreign restaurants creates a harmonious blend of food and cultures and is any foodie’s idea of heaven.
Whether you’re on a tight budget or have a bit more money to spend, there is something for everyone, with heaps of plant-based options too.
Full Post: Where To Eat in Siargao: Top 9 BEST Restaurants
Although only 5 barely scratch the surface, here are my must-visit restaurants in Siargao –
- Derecho – a buffet-style restaurant where you only pay for what you eat. Serving delicious homemade Filipino favourites at a super affordable price, this was our favourite restaurant in Siargao.
- Barrel Beachfront Sports Bar – a beachfront restaurant with ocean views and super reasonable food and drinks. Expect live music, quiz nights, sports screenings, and pool tables.
- Kermit – specialising in authentic homemade Italian food, here you will find the best pizza in Siargao. A little pricey but worth the money.
- CEV: Ceviche and Kinilaw Shack – the best seafood on Siargao Island and beautiful presentation.
- Shaka Cafe – this is the best breakfast spot for those craving healthy and refreshing bites. This plant-based cafe offers some of the most aesthetically pleasing smoothie bowls I have ever seen.
Full Post: The Top 5 BEST Breakfast Spots in Siargao
Where to party in Siargao
Siargao boasts one of the most vibrant and unique nightlife scenes in the Philippines. Scheduling time to party and a hangover the next day is a must on any Siargao itinerary.
As well as heaps of bars and live music, there is a party every night of the week. The day determines the genre of music and venue.
Whether you prefer sipping on cocktails to live music or doing tequila shots until the early hours, it is worth checking out the Siargao party schedule in advance.
Full Post: Siargao Nightlife: Top 9 BEST Bars & Party Schedule
Below are my top 5 best bars on Siargao Island –
- Happiness – a restaurant and beachfront bar, swing by to enjoy some cocktails and ocean views. Do not miss the Sunday night market and beach party.
- Sidargo – this bar hosts legendary ‘Tuesday Thing’ parties each week, with mainstream music.
- Bed and Brew – offering live music and a great selection of cocktails and craft beers.
- Mama Coco – Monday is Retro Night, with funky beats and 80s tunes. Fridays are for House and Techno lovers.
- Barrel Beachfront Sports Bar – with the most affordable drinks in General Luna, Barrel is pre-game heaven. Barrel hosts a quiz night every Tuesday at 7 PM.
Recommended Siargao Itinerary (7 days)
Next up on this Siargao Travel Guide is a recommended itinerary for one week.
Siargao has so many activities on offer, from beaches to inland exploration. It is easy to get wrapped up and try to tick off as many things as possible.
Whilst you could visit all the main attractions in a matter of days, this would not give you an authentic experience.
The best thing about Siargao is its laidback and chilled vibe, which is increasingly harder to come by in the modern world. Therefore allow time to appreciate this slower pace of life.
Be sure to leave time to chat with the locals and go for scenic drives away from the main tourist spots. Try all the amazing food, party the night away, and sweat out the hangover on the beach the next day.
If you benefit from time, then staying for a minimum of one week is ideal. The following 7-day itinerary runs from Saturday – Saturday.
Saturday – DAY 1
- Depending on what time you arrive, I would use your first day in Siargao to explore General Luna and get a feel for the place.
- If you’re not too tired, you can swing by Hang Loose Hostel for their rooftop party in the evening.
Sunday – DAY 2
- Morning – Cloud 9 Boardwalk for sunrise and to watch the surfers, enjoy a smoothie bowl at Shaka Cafe. Use the morning to organise scooter rental.
- Afternoon – check out Big Belly Burgers for lunch. Then, head to Doot Beach to relax on the white sand or go kayaking around the surrounding mangrove forest. This is a great spot to stay for sunset too.
- Evening – head to Happiness for their pop-up night market, from artwork to tattoos to delicious bites to eat. Stick around after for techno beats until midnight at the beachfront bar.
Monday – DAY 3
- Morning – DIY tour to Sugba Lagoon, Pamomoan Beach, & Kawhagan Sandbar. Drive 50 minutes to Del Carmen Port and organise a boat there to visit all 3 spots.
- Afternoon – spend the afternoon marvelling at the emerald-green waters of Sugba Lagoon and relaxing on the pristine unspoiled Pamomoan Beach.
- Evening – if you’re into seafood, then grab dinner at CEV: Ceviche and Kinilaw. Spend the evening sipping on cocktails, bar hopping, and listening to live music. If you’re in the mood to party, El Lobo is buzzing on Mondays.
Tuesday – DAY 4
- Morning – wake up early for a surf lesson. I would recommend booking your 2-hour surf lesson through Jing’s Homestay and asking to have it at Secret Spot Beach, about 20 minutes from General Luna.
- Afternoon – head back to General Luna for brunch. I would check out either Derecho or Kurvada for that post-surfing refuel. Spend the afternoon browsing around the shops. Could head to Cloud 9 Beach to top up your tan and have a paddle.
- Evening – dinner and Tuesday Trivia night at Barrel Beachfront Bar. This pub quiz is super fun and a great place to meet new people. Head to Sidargo after for their legendary Tuesday night party.
Wednesday – DAY 5
- Morning – head to White Beard Coffee for a proper coffee and hearty breakfast. Embark on a DIY Land Tour of the Magpupungko Rock Pools, Coconut Viewdeck, Coconut Road, and the Maasin River. Make sure to check the tide times in advance.
- Afternoon – spend the afternoon enjoying the rock pools and cliff jumping. Then head to the Maasin River for the jumping platform and a canoe tour to the Secret Lagoon. Drive through Coconut Road on your way back and stop off at Coconut Viewdeck for sunset.
- Evening – check out Kermit if you’re in the mood for authentic Italian pasta and pizza. Enjoy some cocktails and head to Goodies for house beats if you’re feeling up to it.
Thursday – DAY 6
- Morning – explore the beaches in the northeastern part of the island and stop off at other tourist attractions on the way.
- Afternoon – visit either Alegria Beach, Pacifico Beach, or both. If you like adventure activities, then do not miss the beautiful cenote that is Tayangban Cave. Tak Tak Falls are also nearby for a refreshing dip.
- Evening – check out Las Barricas if you want to taste the best tapas and Spanish food Siargao has to offer. Spend the evening sipping on sangria and swing by Bed and Brew if you’re in the mood to party.
Friday – DAY 7
- On your last day in Siargao, you could take an Island Hopping Tour to nearby Guyam, Naked, and Daku Islands. Or, you could swim with stingless jellyfish on a day trip to Sohoton Cove.
- However, if you’re like us, you might want to take it slow on your last day in Siargao and soak up the atmosphere.
- If you haven’t already, then I would swing by Mama Coco for a fun end to your Siargao itinerary.
Example Siargao Budget
Important in any Siargao Travel Guide is an estimated budget.
If you’re wondering how much to budget for a Siargao trip, this is completely dependent on the type of traveler you are.
We stayed in basic accommodation, ate in the most affordable restaurants, and did all our tours DIY.
Our budget was about $30 per day, including everything. We also went out partying most nights, so this is included in the price too.
For the average traveler, I would recommend a Siargao budget between $30 – $50 per day.
Example daily expenses
- Accommodation – 350 PHP – 1000 PHP ($6-$17)
- Beer – 100 PHP ($1.70)
- Scooter Rental – 300 PHP ($5)
- Lunch – 300 PHP ($5)
- Access to Cloud 9 Beach and Boardwalk – 100 PHP ($1.70)
- 2-hour surf lesson – 1000 PHP ($17)
- Entrance to Magpupungko Rock Pools – 50 PHP ($0.80)
- Coffee – 120 PHP ($2)
- 1-hour surfboard rental – 300 PHP ($5)
- DIY Sugba Lagoon Tour – 1090 PHP ($19)
Siargao Travel Guide: Siargao travel tips
Philippines Essentials Packing List
- You may need to lower your standards a little. Come with an open mind and enjoy the back-to-basics feel of the island.
- The weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for the rain and make sure you have a raincoat or umbrella with you.
- Many of the beaches are much nicer to visit when the tide is out. Check out the tide times in advance here.
- Most restaurants and cafes welcome digital nomads. Whilst Starlink has improved the wifi on the island, I would still recommend getting a SIM with a data plan just in case.
- The locals advise against Cloud 9 for beginner surf lessons.
- Cash is king in Siargao. Whilst some places are starting to accept cards, this usually incurs an extra fee.
- The island is easily accessible by scooter. Most tours can be done DIY for a fraction of the price with your own scooter.
Full Post: The 10 BEST Travel Tips For Siargao Island
FAQs
What month is best to visit Siargao?
The best time to visit Siargao is in the dry season, from March to October.
This is peak season in Siargao and you are (almost always) guaranteed a lively atmosphere and beautiful weather.
Whilst Siargao is hot all year round, the rainiest months are December and January. The peak surfing season runs from August – November, with August as the driest month.
Remember that Siargao is a tropical island so always expect the unexpected. I visited in April and we had a few days of heavy rain.
How many days is enough for Siargao?
Siargao is not an island to be rushed and you will need more than a couple of days. I would recommend staying for at least a week, to enjoy not just all the activities, but the slower pace of life too.
Is Siargao worth going to?
Siargao was my favourite island in the Philippines. Although it is a little out of the way, the island’s laidback vibe and raw unspoiled nature will be sure to captivate you and leave you wanting more.
Great for adventure seekers, nature lovers, party animals, and beach bums, there is something for every type of traveller and budget.
Whilst Siargao is becoming a number-one tourist destination in the Philippines, it still possesses a rustic charm and a slower pace of life. If you’re planning your Philippines itinerary, you cannot miss this tropical paradise.
Is Siargao expensive?
Siargao is not an expensive destination for backpackers to visit and can be done on a budget.
Whilst at first the prices of accommodation and restaurants can seem a little higher than other islands in the Philippines, Siargao has so many options for affordable restaurants and hostels, if you know where to look.
Eating and drinking out is relatively cheap and many of the main tourist attractions are free. The tours are the most expensive however many can be done DIY with a scooter to save you some pennies.
Well, there you have it! This post has detailed everything you need to know in this Siargao Travel Guide, including a recommended budget and itinerary.
If you liked this post and you’re gonna be sticking around in Siargao for a while, then feel free to check out my other handy guides –
