How To Spend 3-5 Days in Siargao: Ultimate DIY Itinerary

Are you planning a visit to Siargao? Or are you debating adding the island to your Philippines itinerary?

This Siargao DIY Itinerary details everything you need to know for 3, 4, or 5 amazing days in this tropical paradise, 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’s laidback surfers’ vibe has been capitavating all types of travelers.

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, stunning white-sand beaches, buzzing nightlife, and a vibrant food scene, all with a sprinkle of coconut trees.

Siargao was my favourite island in the Philippines. Even though I stayed over a week, I left kicking myself that I didn’t plan to stay longer.

Whether you’ve got a couple of days to spare or benefit from more time, these Siargao itineraries include the main highlights, as well as some more hidden gems.

They also include restaurant, cafe, and nightlife recommendations. Whilst this is a Siargao DIY itinerary, I have also noted the popular tours for those who prefer to book in advance.

This post details exactly how to spend 3, 4, or 5 days of Siargao travel.

1-3 Days in Siargao: Itinerary Overview

If you’re traveling to Siargao but haven’t got time to read the whole article, you can check out what to do in Siargao for 3, 4, and 5 days below –

• DAY 1 (DIY Land Tour) – Magpupungko Rock Pools, Tayangban Cave, Maasin River, Coconut Road & Viewdeck
• DAY 2 (DIY Sugba Lagoon) – Cloud 9 Boardwalk for sunrise, Sugba Lagoon, Pamomoan Beach & Kawhagan Sandbar
• DAY 3 (Surf Lesson & Beach Bumming) – Surf lesson at Secret Beach, browse shops, Doot Beach
• DAY 4 (Island Hopping) – island hopping to Guyam, Naked & Daku islands
• DAY 5 (Northern Beaches / Sohoton Cove) – Alegria Beach, Pacifico Beach, Tak Tak Falls / Sohoton Cove Trip

Related: ULTIMATE SIARGAO TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Budget & Itinerary

Where is Siargao located?

Siargao is a teardrop-shaped island located in the northeast of Mindanao, in the province of Surigao del Norte.

How to go to Siargao

Siargao Island can be accessed by either flight or ferry, depending on your budget and the level of comfort you’re after.

As Siargao has its own airport, the easiest way to get there is by direct flight from Cebu or Manila.

Alternatively, for those on a tighter budget, you can take a ferry from Cebu City to Surigao (book here). From Surigao, you then take another ferry across to Siargao (book here).

For step-by-step instructions from all popular destinations, you can read my How To Get To Siargao Island Guide here.

How to get around Siargao

The best way to get around Siargao is with a scooter. This will set you back roughly 300 PHP ($5) per day.

This gives you so much freedom to explore the whole island on DIY tours.

Alternatively, if you decide to go on an organised tour, then this will have transport included.

Siargao Itinerary: 3 Days

If you’re traveling to Siargao but are short of time, then perhaps a 3-day Siargao itinerary is your best option.

If you plan accordingly, during this time, you can explore the main Siargao tourist spots but also have some time to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

The days will be action-packed but perfect for those wondering what to do in Siargao for 3 days.

DAY 1 – Morning

• Breakfast at White Beard Coffee
• Magpupungko Rock Pools
• Tayangban Cave (optional)

For the first day of your itinerary, we will embark on a DIY Land Tour in Siargao.

This is a great way to experience the main Siargao land highlights at your own pace and get a feel for the island.

If you prefer to book an organised tour in advance, this Siargao Land Tour has the best reviews.

Start your morning with a proper coffee and hearty breakfast from White Beach Coffee, before making the 50-minute drive from General Luna to Magpupungko Rock Pools.

These crystal-clear rock pools are a true natural wonder and the perfect way to kick off your day. They are located the furthest so we will be working our way back as the day progresses.

Tip: the rock pools are only exposed during low tide. Check the tide times in advance here.

The next stop is Tayangban Cave, roughly 20 minutes from the rock pools. This partially submerged cenote surrounded by mangroves and vines is perfect for adventure lovers.

Please note that Tayangban Cave is not included in the Siargao Land Tour and can only be visited DIY.

DAY 1 – Afternoon

• Maasin River/Kayak to Secret Lagoon
• Coconut Road
• Coconut Viewdeck

A further 10-minute drive and you will reach the town of Maasin. If you’re feeling hungry, this would be a great time to stop for some lunch in one of the local restaurants.

Visiting the Maasin River and the iconic bent palm tree is a must on any Siargao itinerary.

Full Post: Maasin River Siargao: EVERYTHING You Need To Know

As well as cooling off in the river, there is a jumping platform for those searching for a bit of adrenaline-fuelled fun. I would also highly recommend taking a kayak up the river to the Secret Lagoon.

On your way to Coconut Viewdeck, the final stop of the day, you will drive down the famed Coconut Road. This palm-lined road is one of the most aesthetic in Siargao.

BOOK YOUR SIARGAO LAND TOUR IN ADVANCE HERE

Tip: if you’re worried you won’t recognise the road, it is called ‘Coconut View v1′ on Google Maps.

You will end your DIY land tour in Siargao at Coconut Viewdeck. When they say Siargao is covered in coconut trees, this is the best spot to truly appreciate what they mean.

The views are breathtaking and even more beautiful around dusk. Try to plan your day accordingly to catch this spot as the sun is setting.

Full Post: The BEST Guide To Coconut Road & Viewdeck Siargao

DAY 1 – Evening

• Dinner at Derecho or Kurvada
• Beachfront cocktails at Happiness Bar

For dinner, I would recommend checking out either Derecho or Kurvada.

Tip: both restaurants have the same owners and are equally as fantastic. However, I much prefer Derecho as it does not get as busy.

Not only is the food absolutely delicious and super affordable, these authentic canteen-style restaurants perfectly epitomise Siargao’s laidback vibe.

Must Read: Where To Eat in Siargao: Top 9 BEST Restaurants

If you’ve got any fuel left in the tank, check out Happiness Beachfront Bar for cocktails. This is the perfect way to end the first day on your Siargao itinerary.

P.S. Happiness hosts a pop-up market and beach party every Sunday evening.

Related: Siargao Nightlife: Top 9 BEST Bars & Party Schedule

DAY 2 – Morning

• Cloud 9 Boardwalk for sunrise
• Breakfast at Shaka Cafe
• Drive to Del Carmen Port

For the second day of your Siargao travel, we will visit Cloud 9 in the morning and then embark on a DIY tour of Sugba Lagoon in the afternoon.

Known as one of the best surf spots in the world, any Siargao itinerary would be incomplete without strolling out onto the iconic Cloud 9 Boardwalk.

Marveling at the surfers at Cloud 9 is one of the best things to do in Siargao. As Cloud 9 is east-facing, I would recommend coming for sunrise.

Related: 17 Unique Things To Do in Siargao For Non-Surfers

Head to Shaka Cafe after for a refreshing smoothie bowl to kick off your day.

Full Post: Top 5 BEST Breakfast Spots in Siargao

After breakfast, it’s time to drive roughly 50 minutes to Del Carmen Port. This is the jump-off point for Sugba Lagoon, Pamomoan Beach & Kawhagan Sandbar.

Note: if you’re only spending 3 days in Siargao and you visited Sugba Lagoon the day before as part of the organised land tour, I would suggest Island Hopping for your second day instead.

DAY 2 – Afternoon

• Sugba Lagoon, Pamomoan Beach & Kawhagan Sandbar

The emerald-green waters of Sugba Lagoo are widely known to travelers when visiting Siargao. However, lesser known is that Pamomoan Beach & Kawhagan Sandbar are located nearby.

Pamomoan Beach & Kawhagan Sandbar boast soft white sand, calm crystal-clear water, and countless coconut trees. They attract few tourists meaning that they are totally pristine and unspoiled.

Must Read: Pamomoan Beach, Sugba Lagoon & Kawhagan Sandbar: DIY Siargao Guide

I would recommend visiting all three of these spots without a tour. Simply turning up at Del Carmen port and organising a boat is the most affordable way to visit these Siargao tourist spots.

IF YOU PREFER TO BOOK ONLINE, I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS TOUR

DAY 1 – Evening

• Dinner at CEV
• Drinks and live music at Bed & Brew

If you’re a fan of seafood, I would recommend swinging by CEV: Ceviche & Kinilaw Shack for dinner. This is one of the best restaurants in Siargao offering fresh and unique dishes.

Head to Bed & Brew after for craft beers, cocktails, and live music.

Tip: Bed & Brew hosts Acoustic Jam sessions on Mondays and Thursdays.

DAY 3 – Morning

• Breakfast at Lunares
• Surf lesson at Secret Beach

The third day of your Siargao itinerary is all about giving surfing a try and beach bumming. If this is your last day, then this is a great opportunity to soak up the atmosphere.

Head to Lunares for a hearty breakfast, before driving about 20 minutes to Secret Beach.

Full Post: Secret Beach Siargao: The Best Surf Spot For Beginners

As the surfing capital of the Philippines, any Siargao itinerary would be incomplete without giving surfing a try. If you’re a beginner, then Secret Beach is the spot for you.

Not only is this one of the most scenic beaches in Siargao, but the mellow waves are perfectly suited to beginner-level surfers. If you’re an advanced surfer, instead I would check out Cloud 9 instead.

Tip: we booked our 2-hour surf lesson through Jing’s Place Homestay in General Luna for 1000 PHP ($18)

DAY 3 – Afternoon

• Lunch at Big Belly Burgers
• Browse shops
• Relax at Doot Beach – mangrove kayaking

For lunch, I would recommend Big Belly Burgers for that post-surfing refuel. After lunch, spend the afternoon browsing the shops and gift shopping.

Later in the afternoon, I would suggest driving 10 minutes to Doot Beach. This stunning beach surrounded by mangroves is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Must Read: Doot Beach: The Complete Guide To Siargao’s Hidden Gem

If you want to explore further, you can go mangrove kayaking around the beach. I also recommend staying for sunset.

DAY 3 – Evening

• Dinner at La Carinderia
• Party at El Lobo/Mama Cooc

Check out La Carinderia for dinner, for a delicious fusion of Italian and Filipino cuisine.

If this is the last evening of your Siargao travel, this is a great opportunity to appreciate Siargao’s vibrant nightlife scene. I would recommend checking out either El Lobo or Mama Coco.

Tip: if you visit on a Tuesday, Barrel Sportsbar hosts an amazing quiz night. This is followed by Sidargo’s weekly ‘Tuesday Thing’ party. Click here for the updated party schedule.

Siargao Itinerary: 4 Days

If you benefit from 4 days in Siargao, you absolutely cannot miss Island Hopping.

An additional day of your Siargao itinerary also gives you more time to check out Siargao’s delicious restaurants and cafes, as well as enjoy the buzzing nightlife scene.

Related: Siargao Nightlife: Top 9 BEST Bars & Party Schedule

DAY 4 – Morning / Afternoon

• Breakfast at Spotted Pig Cafe
• Siargao Island Hopping Tour

Let’s start the day with breakfast at the Spotted Pig Cafe, before embarking on your full-day Siargao Island Hopping Tour.

Related: Top 5 BEST Breakfast Spots in Siargao

Explore nearby the paradisical islands of Guyam, Daku, and Naked Island on this extraordinary Siargao day trip. For the best price with lunch included, I recommend booking in advance here.

Spend the day relaxing, working on your tan, and appreciating some of the most secluded and stunning beaches in the Philippines.

BOOK YOUR SIARGAO TRI ISLAND TOUR HERE

DAY 4 – Evening

• Dinner at Kermit or Las Barricas

If you’re a fan of authentic Italian cuisine, I would recommend checking out Kermit for dinner. Alternatively, for some of the best Spanish food in the Philippines, check out Las Barricas.

Must Read: Where To Eat in Siargao: Top 9 BEST Restaurants

Siargao Itinerary: 5 Days

A 5-day Siargao itinerary is what I would recommend to most travelers.

Whilst you can see all the main Siargao highlights in a couple of days, this would not give you an authentic feel of island life.

The best thing about Siargao is its slower pace of life, which is increasingly hard to come by in the modern world.

As well as the main Siargao tourist spots, 5 days allows you to spend more time beach bumming, surfing, partying, chatting with locals, and soaking up the culture.

Related: 10 BEST Travel Tips For Siargao Island

DAY 5 – Morning

• Breakfast at Barrel Beachfront Bar

For the final day of your Siargao itinerary, I would recommend having a slower morning and appreciating your surroundings.

Nothing beats sipping your morning coffee to the view of the ocean, so I would suggest Barrel Beachfront Bar for breakfast and coffee.

DAY 4 – Afternoon

How you spend your final afternoon of Siargao travel is totally up to you.

If you’re like me, then I would recommend relaxing and taking things slow on your final day. Go for one last scenic drive, chat with the locals, and appreciate the laid-back vibes before departing.

For those still feeling adventurous, you could check out Alegria Beach and Pacifico Beach.

These two breathtaking beaches in the northeast of Siargao are tropical paradises and totally absent of tourists.

You could also swing by nearby Tak Tak Falls for a refreshing dip.

Alternatively, you could also take a tour to Sohoton Cove to swim with the stingless jellyfish on the final day of your Siargao itinerary. This is another one of the best tours in Siargao.

BOOK YOUR SOHOTON COVE TOUR IN ADVANCE HERE

Where to stay in Siargao

The best area to stay in Siargao is General Luna. This is where you will find all of the main restaurants, surfing, and buzzing nightlife.

Jing’s Place Homestay

The best place to stay in Siargao for solo backpackers and travelers on a budget.

With a choice between a private room or a shared dorm, Jing’s is one of the best-value accommodations in Siargao.

With a large common area and a pool table, Jing’s has a great social atmosphere and is a great spot to meet other travelers.

Located in the heart of General Luna, the rustic native-style rooms give an authentic feel of island life. We also booked our fantastic surf lesson with Jing’s.

Shared dorm prices are $6.00 per night and private rooms start from $10.00 per night.

Mao Mao Surf Camp

A great place to stay in Siargao for couples or small groups.

This hostel offers a laidback surfing vibe and rustic private bungalows in the heart of General Luna at a medium-range budget.

Embrace the tropical island vibes and live in the jungle, with an outdoor bamboo shower, hammocks, and an amazing surf school.

Prices for a private room start at $50.00 per night.

Isla Cabana Resort

One of the best luxury resorts in Siargao.

This beachfront 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. The most expensive premier option includes sunrise views over the ocean and a private pool.

Prices range from $150 – $400 per night.

How many days in Siargao is enough?

I would recommend at least 4 days in Siargao.

Siargao is such a diverse island, with many beach and land activities, including Sugba Lagoon, Coconut Road, and the Maasin River.

There are also some fantastic day trips from Siargao, such as Island Hopping and Sohoton Cove.

To get an authentic experience of Siargao, you cannot rush it. Try not to get caught up in ticking things off the list, but instead, allow time to appreciate the laid-back vibes and slower pace of life.

What month is good to go to 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.

If you are a keen surfer, then the best time to visit would be August- November, which is peak surfing season.

Whilst Siargao is hot all year round, the rainiest months are December and January.

However, this is a tropical island so always expect the unexpected. I visited in April and we had a few days of heavy rain.

Well, there you have it! This post has detailed 3, 4, or 5-day Siargao itineraries for an unforgettable few days.

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 –

• ULTIMATE SIARGAO TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Budget & Itinerary
• 17 Unique Things To Do in Siargao for Non-Surfers
• How To Get To Siargao Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide
• The Top 5 Breakfast Spots in Siargao
• Where To Eat in Siargao: The Top 9 Best Restaurants
• The Top 7 Most Beautiful Beaches in Siargao
• Siargao Nightlife: The 9 Best Bars and Party Schedule 2024