A Complete Guide To Secret Beach (Guiwan Beach) in Siargao

Are you heading to Siargao Island?

Whether you’re a sunbather or surfer, this post details everything you need to know about Secret Beach in Siargao.

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Secret Beach, also known as Guiwan Beach, is one of the most scenic beaches in Siargao.

Located close to General Luna, it offers gentle waves, fewer crowds, and a scenic, coconut-lined shore.

If you’re in Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines, you’ve got to give surfing a go right?

Cloud 9 is the most iconic surf spot on the island. Many first-time surfers head here for a beginner’s surf lesson.

However, the locals actually advise against it, as Cloud 9 is better suited to advanced surfers.

So, where do you take your beginner’s surf lesson?

Guiwan Beach is ideal for a relaxed surf lesson or for those simply looking to sunbathe and soak up the beautiful surroundings.

I visited Guiwan Beach twice myself, once simply to sunbathe and once for my beginner surf lesson.

It is not the easiest beach to find, but worry not, this post has you covered.

This post details everything you need to know about Secret Beach Siargao, including how to get there and how to book your beginner surf lesson.

How to get to Secret Beach Siargao

As a more off-the-beaten-path spot, Secret Beach in Siargao can be a little tricky to find.

It is located off the main road heading towards Dapa, about 20 minutes from the tourist hub General Luna.

Tip: this is not the same as the main road you may have taken when arriving at Dapa Port and heading to General Luna. It is the coastal road instead.

I can confirm that the below Google Maps location ‘Secret Spot – Paradise Surfing’ location is correct.

Heading south from General Luna towards Dapa on Union Road, after about 20 minutes you should see some scooters parked up on the left side.

Apart from a tiny sign on a tree, Secret Beach is pretty unassuming and would be easily missed by those not looking for it.

From the main road, there is a beautiful 10-minute walk through the palm trees before reaching the shoreline. Scooters are not allowed down here, so leave your bike and continue on foot.

Note: Secret Beach should not be confused with Doot Beach. Doot Beach is located about 10 minutes from General Luna, you can read my full guide here.

How to get around Siargao

The best way to reach Secret Beach and get around the island would be by hiring a scooter.

This will set you back between 200-400 PHP ($3 – $7) per day.

The roads are very well maintained and driving through the countless coconut trees is an experience in itself and one of the best things to do on Siargao Island.

Pre-order your bike from a trusted merchant here.

What to expect from Secret Beach

Secret Beach is one of the most scenic beaches in Siargao.

The rustic coconut-fringed shoreline contrasted with the vibrant turquoise water is a true sight to behold. The fact that Secret Beach doesn’t attract flocks of tourists makes it even better.

Secret Beach feels like a secluded paradise worlds away from the hustle and bustle of General Luna.

On both occasions that we visited, once in the morning and once in the afternoon, there were only a handful of other people there.

The lack of tourists, breathtaking tropical scenery, and mellow waves make Secret Beach the perfect spot for sunbathers and beginner-level surfers alike.

As Secret Beach in Siargao is totally tucked away, there are no restaurants or shops along the beach. You will need to bring any water or snacks with you.

Tip: there are a couple of restaurants where you park your scooter. If you’re coming on an empty stomach, I would recommend grabbing a bite to eat here and supporting the local community.

When to visit Guiwan Beach?

Like all the beaches in Siargao, Guiwan Beach is tidal.

To make the most of your experience, be sure to check out the tide times in advance here.

For those hoping to soak up the sun and relax, I would recommend coming later in the afternoon during low tide. When the tide is out, the sand is exposed for sunbathing.

If you’re hoping to surf, then I would recommend the opposite.

Come early in the morning during high tide when the water is deeper.

NEED SOMEWHERE TO STAY?

Jing’s Place Homestay – cheapest place to stay for budget backpackers (from $6)

Mao Mao Suf Camp – rustic private bungalows great for couples or small groups (from $50)

Isla Cabanas Resort – best luxury accommodation with infinity pool & private beach (from $150)

All accommodation options >>

Surfing in Siargao for beginners

As well as being one of the most picturesque beaches, Secret Beach is also a great spot for surfing in Siargao for beginners.

As Secret Beach is south-facing, it is protected from the offshore winds coming east from the Pacific Ocean. This means the waves are much more mellow.

During the winter months, Secret Beach does not experience large swells like those over at Cloud 9. It is one of the few beginner-level surf spots that can be surfed nearly all year round.

Secret Beach Siargao. Guiwan Beach Siargao

However, in the summer months of June, July, and August, the waves are typically too flat for any surfing at all.

Compared to Cloud 9, there are fewer sharp rocks and coral in the water. However, Secret Beach is still very shallow, so take care when getting off your board.

Secret Beach Siargao Surf Lesson

Secret Beach is where I took my beginner surf lesson and I could not recommend it enough.

We booked our beginner surf lesson through Jings Place Homestay in General Luna.

Jing is a local surfing superhero who wants to help you maximize your surfing experience by avoiding crowds.

SHORT ON TIME?

Explore the main Siargao highlights with one of these top-rated tours –

Siargao Land Tour – visit the Maasin River, Magpupungko Rock Pools, Sugba Lagoon, and Coconut Viewdeck ($30)

Tri Island Tour – enjoy a day of island hopping and visit Naked, Guyam, and Daku Island ($25)

Sohoton Cove Tour – swim with stingless jellyfish and explore Sohoton Cove National Park ($48)

More popular tours >>

We booked the night before by simply heading to the hostel and booking. We met at Secret Beach the next morning at about 9:00 AM.

There was nobody else there and we did not have to share the water with any other surfers. This is a total contrast to the packed waters of Cloud 9.

The instructors were knowledgeable and patient. Everything, including board rental, was organized for us and included in the price. All we had to do was turn up.

Note: if you do not have anything suitable to wear, worry not. They provided me with a surfing top.

The patience of the instructors combined with the tranquil atmosphere of the secluded beach created the perfect atmosphere for learning the basics and building confidence.

Note: there is a small surf shack located on Secret Beach. I had read online that you could simply turn up and book your lesson here, however, on both times we visited it was closed.

How much is surfing in Siargao?

We paid 1000 PHP ($18) for a 2-hour beginner surf lesson. This price included board rental.

Depending on the surf school and location, a Siargao surf lesson can range anywhere from 500 PHP – 1000 PHP ($9-$18) for an hour.

Surfing in Siargao FAQs

If you’re planning on surfing in Siargao for beginners, there are a few things to know in advance to make the most of your experience.

When is surfing season in Siargao?

Surfing season in Siargao runs from September – November, during the island’s wet ‘winter’ season.

During this time, there are consistent swells from the Pacific Ocean and incredible waves. This is the best time for advanced surfers.

If you’re a beginner surfer, you are (nearly always) guaranteed mellow waves great for grasping the basics anytime throughout the year.

However, I would try to avoid the summer months of June, July, or August if you can.

Can beginners surf in Siargao?

Absolutely! If you’re a beginner hoping to surf in Siargao, there are a couple of things to keep in mind –

Opt for a south-facing beach which has more mellow waves
Try surfing in the summer season and avoid the winter months of September – November.
Get an instructor – pretty self-explanatory but essential for first-timers. Do not take to the waves alone with no experience.
Avoid Cloud 9 which is more suited to advanced surfers

Need a SIM? When traveling the WiFi can be a little patchy and unreliable. For a stress-free trip, I would recommend getting an Airalo eSIM in advance.

Why does Siargao have big waves?

Located in the southeast of the Philippines, Siargao is one of the first islands to feel the swell from the Pacific Ocean.

The seabed off the shore of Siargao is incredibly deep as a result of the collision of two tectonic plates. During the wet season, typhoons and storms bring big waves from the deep water.

Is Siargao good for swimming?

Siargao is a great island for swimming and many beaches are absent of rocks and coral. The beaches are perfect for a paddle any time of day.

Some beaches can be rocky and too shallow at times, so knowing the tide schedule and pre-planning is imperative.

You can check out the tide schedule here.

As well as swimming and topping up that tan, Siargao beaches offer many other activities – not just surfing, but mangrove kayaking, cave exploring, and cliff jumping!

Where do people surf in Siargao?

Below are some other popular Siargao surf spots, for all levels –

Jacking Horse – right next to Cloud 9 (beginner-intermediate)
Cloud 9 – home to the International Surfing Cup (advanced)
Pacifico Beach – a quaint surf town not yet overrun by tourism (beginner-intermediate)

For a detailed list of the best beaches in Siargao, including the best surfing spots, you can read my full post 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, activities, 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.

CHECK PRICES

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.

CHECK PRICES

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.

CHECK PRICES

How to get to Siargao Island

You can get to Siargao either by flight or ferry, depending on your budget.

There are flights from all popular destinations to Siargao, with a change in either Manila or Cebu City. You will arrive at Sayak Airport.

If you prefer to take a ferry, first you will have to take a ferry from Cebu City to Surigao (book here).

Then, you will have to take another ferry from Surigao to Siargao (book here).

Full Post: How To Get To Siargao Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide

How many days should you stay in Siargao?

I would recommend at least 4 days in Siargao.

Siargao is such a diverse island, with many beach and land activities. There are also many incredible day trips –

If you are not short of time, the best amount of time in Siargao would be a week.

This would give you time for activities but also for enjoying the laid-back vibe and exploring the many delicious Siargao restaurants and cafes.

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

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.

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What is Siargao known for?

Siargao is widely known as the surfing capital of the Philippines and its epic waves attract surfers from all over the world.

However, in recent years, Siargao has transformed into a must-visit tropical destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, party animals, and beach bums alike.

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.

This post has detailed everything you need to know about Secret Beach (Guiwan Beach) in Siargao, for sunbathers and surfing in Siargao for beginners.

If you have visited Secret Beach Siargao, I would love to hear from you – reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!

If you liked this post and you’ll be spending some time in Siargao, feel free to check out my other handy guides –