Siargao Travel Guide: Complete Island Itinerary, Map & Budget Tips {The Philippines}
- Kate Colliety
- Mar 28
- 15 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
Siargao Island, Philippines is quickly becoming the most desired destination for nomads & backpackers. Due to the celebrated surf, laid-back island vibes and stunning green palm trees we can see why! In fact we fell in love with Siargao Island almost instantly.
Throughout this Siargao Travel Guide we will share with you why it stole our hearts along with the top tourist spots in Siargao and best accommodation.
As fellow backpackers this is a budget travel blog, sharing how you can visit Siargao Island without breaking the bank and still immerse yourself in everything the island has to offer, whether you’re a nomad looking for a CrossFit class or traveller wanting to find the secret beaches of Siargao, Philippines.
One of the main reasons we love Siargao is the vibe, as cringeworthy as this may sound! In fact, it’s hard not to be swept up into excitement in the busy streets of General Luna, where scooters are adorned with surfboard racks and trikes weave through as flashes of colour.
One of our favourite memories of the island is Mike’s fishing trip where he swapped half his catch for surf lessons, more on this later!
I hope I've caught your attention, as Siargao Island really shouldn’t be left off your backpacking trip. Don't miss a single Siargao secret and scroll down as below we share with you: how to get to Siargao, best time to visit Siargao where to stay plus a Siargao Map Guide that shows the best things to do on the island.
Contents
Ultimate Siargao Itineraries
Before we get into the day by day itineraries for Siargao it’s important to note there’s lots to do on the island and we recommend we use these itinerary breakdowns as a guide to adapt to your own preference.
Some people will come to Siargao exclusively for surfing and drinking while others, like us, want to explore all it has to offer. We have included our top things to do in Siargao below so you can build your own itinerary perfect for your trip!
One thing we do want to mention though is 3 days doesn’t feel like enough time to experience what Siargao offers, you’ve paid for the flight so make it worth it and stay a couple of extra days!
Siargao Itinerary 3 Days
Day 1: Arrival & Sunset At Cantigan Bridge
Arrive in General Luna and head straight to Cloud 9, walk the boardwalk and watch the professional surfers. At sunset head over to Cantigan Bridge to experience a vibrant street market and a gathering of local people. We recommend eating at Derecho for a local experience, plus you’re likely to meet lots of travellers here.
Day 2: Surf & Scenic Views
Spend the day Surfing or having a lesson. In the afternoon, take a scooter to Coconut Tree Viewpoint, the views are great at sunset, but remember you’ll have to drive home in the dark.
Day 3: Rock Pools & Hidden Gems
Hire a scooter and drive up to Magpupungko Rock Pools, make sure you go at low tide, then on the way back visit Pacifico Beach or Tayangban Cave. If you have extra time, visit Beto and Bugak cold springs to cool off.
Siargao Itinerary 5 Days
Day 1: General Luna & Cloud 9
Settle into General Luna and island life by exploring Cloud 9 and catching sunset at Cantigan Bridge’s night market.
Day 2: Surfing
Start the morning with surf lessons or explore other surf spots around Siargao. Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of Sairgao’s beachfront bars, we recommend White Banana Beach Club.
Day 3: Land Tour or DIY Adventure
Rent a scooter to explore Magpupungko Rock Pools, Pacifico Beach, and Tayangban Cave or, if you don’t want to drive a scooter, book the Siargao Land Tour, the island’s most popular day trip.
Day 4: Island Hopping
Embark on the Siargao Island Hopping Boat Tour. This is a popular day trip where you’ll get to visit Daku, Naked and Guyam Island.
Day 5: Relax
Spend your last day surfing or hop back on the scooter to visit Bugak and Beto Cold Springs and Maasin River.
Option: Change one day out for Sohoton Cove. A 2-hour boat ride from Siargao will take you to a jellyfish sanctuary where you can swim surrounded by stingless jellyfish. Other stops on this tour include Hagukan Cave and Magkuku-ob Cave.
Siargao Itinerary 1 Week
Day 1: Arrival and General Luna
Arrive in General Luna and explore Cloud 9. At sunset head over to Cantigan Bridge to experience a vibrant street market and a gathering of local people.
Day 2: Inland Exploration
Hire a scooter and drive up to Magpupungko Rock Pools, make sure you go at low tide, then on the way back visit Pacifico Beach or Tayangban Cave. If you don’t want to hire a scooter we recommend going on the Siargao Land Tour, the most booked tour on the island!
Day 3: Surfing
If you’re wanting to catch your first wave take surf Lessons in the morning or if you’re already confident head out to explore some of the popular surf spots around Siargao.
Day 4: Island Hopping
Siargao Island Hopping Boat Tour. This is a popular day trip where you’ll get to visit Daku, Naked and Guyam Island.
Day 5: Maasin River and Cold Springs
Spend the day surfing or hop back on the scooter to visit Bugak and Beto Cold Springs and Maasin River.
Day 6: Sohoton Cave
Head to Sohoton Cave. A 2-hour boat ride from Siargao will take you to a jellyfish sanctuary where you can swim surrounded by stingless jellyfish. Other stops on this tour include Hagukan Cave and Magkuku-ob Cave.
Day 7: Relax and Departure
Enjoy your final morning in General Luna before heading to the airport.
Planning To Stay More Than A Week?
There’s so much more to do in Siargao. If you have longer we definitely recommend having a scooter, this will allow you to explore the northern part of the island which includes Alegria Beach and Tak Tak falls.
For digital nomads, Siargao offers a great work-life balance. Stay active with CrossFit Siargao, stock up on essentials at Puregold, and settle in with your laptop at Amon Cafe, a cosy spot with strong WiFi and great coffee.
Discover The Top Things To Do In Siargao!
Alongside the itineraries, we created a Google Pinned Map with all the places we visited in Siargao. Grab your Pinned Map today and start planning your adventure! Don’t miss out...click here to view for free!
Getting To Siargao Island Philippines: How To Get To Siargao Island
The easiest way to travel to Siargao from Manila is via a direct flight. Lots of airlines such as Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines operate this route however we still recommend you book in advance as this is a popular flight that gets booked up quickly plus the prices vary massively.
The easiest way to get from Cebu to Siargao is by direct flight. These flights can fill up quickly, so booking in advance helps secure a seat and the best price. This was the route we took, and the journey was smooth.
Arriving at Siargao’s tiny airport, it took only a few minutes to collect our checked-in bag. However, as budget backpackers, we would have opted for the ferry to save money…if only we had known about it!
Backpackers on a budget however might want to explore the more adventurous overnight ferry to Surigao City, then get the connecting ferry to Dapa Port, Siargao. Find out more about the ferry to Siargao here.
How to Get to Siargao from Surigao
The most convenient way to get from Surigao to Siargao is via ferry, you want to go from Surigao to Dapa which is Siargao’s Port; this will take around 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Evaristo & Sons run the ferry at 6:00, 10:00 & 15:00, we recommend booking in advance on 12Go especially in the high season (November - April).
Still unsure on how to get to Siargao Island? Check out our complete guide on how to get to Siargao that covers routes from Manila, Cebu, Surigao, Bohol & Palawan.
Siargao Airport To General Luna
Once you arrive at Sayak airport you will need to make your way to your accommodation. Most people stay in General Luna around 40 minutes away. As a solo traveller the best option is a shared van for ₱375, this will drop you off on the main road where most accommodation is located.
Alternatively, for small groups a tricycle is the cheapest option costing roughly ₱600 which works out cheaper when split between 2 or 3 people.
For families or if you’re staying elsewhere on the island, we recommend a private taxi which should be the fastest and most comfortable option however expect to pay around ₱2k.
Best Time To Visit Siargao
The best time to visit Siargao is during the dry season, November to May, this means you’ll have good weather plus as this is a destination with good surf all year round you’ll be able to catch some waves. If you solely want the best time to go to Siargao for surfing, consider visiting from September to November to get the best barrels.
Temperatures typically range from 24-30°C (75-85°F) year-round, with slightly cooler temperatures during December-February.
For us, the best time to visit Siargao was during the shoulder season, when accommodation was more affordable, prices soar during peak season! We visited in May and, aside from a few afternoon downpours, had bright sunny weather.
If you’re into fishing, Pacifico holds the Siargao International Game Fishing Tournament which is typically held in April and lasts 3-4 days.
Cloud 9 is a famous beach, surfspot and boardwalk. The surf spot has beginner and intermediate sections making it the perfect space to come down and enjoy an evening. We loved watching the pros surf at sunset, a perfect end to the day.
Magpupungko Rock Pools was one of our favourite places on the island, however it can get crowded. You need to visit at low tide when the pools will be visible. Spend your time cliff jumping, swimming and exploring what creatures have been left behind from the tide.
Island Hopping Tour: Guyam, Daku, and Naked Island
Join an island hopping tour around some of the best islands surrounding Siargao. Visit Guyam, Daku & Nakad Islands for only $15-20.
With a guide you will make your way through Tayangban Cave to a hidden pool with a 7m cliff jump and rope swing. The cave itself is a short walk where you can see rock formations, mineral deposits and bats. This is one of the top things to do in Siargao, if you want to do it on a budget we recommend joining other travellers as you pay per guide not per person. In the end we paid ₱200 each.
Pacifico beach is beautiful and one of the top surf spots for beginners and intermediate surfers. The town of Pacifico is up and coming with more tourists opting to stay here. Pacifico is quieter than General Luna and well worth the drive to visit and catch some waves.
If you’re searching for a quiet beach, Alegria is perfect. With a long strip of white sand, crystal clear water and a palm tree fringe it is the perfect place to relax.
Maasin River used to be famous for the bent palm tree that pretty much went viral on social media due to the picturesque photos. Sadly, the palm tree fell in a monsoon and no longer looms over the river. Instead locals have built a jumping platform where you can enjoy plunging into the river below. There are also traditional boats that will take you on a river tour.
We recommend hiring a scooter or private driver for at least a day to explore Siargao. Coconut Tree Viewpoint overlooks thousands of coconut trees, blanketing the floor right up to the towering mountains as far as the eye can see. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to see the golden hour light bounce off of the sea of green leaves. This was one of our favourite things to do in Siargao.
In the middle of Siargao’s mangrove forest, sits two cold springs nestled in nature. You can hire a kayak, go for a swim or sit in the shade from the trees above at both Bugak and Beto Cold Springs, unlike a lot of the tourist spots in this list, here you can take the time to relax. This is one of the lesser known things to do in Siargao.
Sohoton Cave
This place doesn’t even look real! Take a day trip to the Sohoton Cove or spend a few nights there and explore the surrounding caves and lagoons. The vibrant blue water in contrast with the bright green mangrove islands make for some epic drone shots, a truly epic tourist spot in Siargao. Although this may seem out of the way it truly is magical making it one of the top things to do in Siargao.
CrossFit Siargao
If you’re a digital nomad looking to stay longer or want to keep your fitness up while travelling CrossFit Siargao is a great place to workout. The gym offers a welcoming community, high-energy classes, and expert coaching to keep you fit while enjoying island life.
Siargao Map Guide
Below we have created a few visual maps to help you plan your Siargao itinerary, showing key attractions, beaches, surf spots, and accommodation areas across the island.
Siargao Tourist Spots Map
Siargao is known as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines because you can find somewhere to surf in Siargao all year round.
When To Surf In Siargao
For intermediate and advanced surfers, the waves are best around General Luna from September-March, which coincides with the rainy season that sometimes brings monsoons from July to November. The early summer months are good for beginners and intermediates, bringing manageable swells.
Surf Lessons Siargao
Siargao is the perfect place to learn to surf. There are lots of different surf camps and shops that offer lessons in Pacifico and General Luna, in General Luna most people learn to surf at Jacking Horse.
Surfboard rental prices in Siargao typically range from about 300-500 PHP (£4.20-£7.50) per hour or around 800-1,500 (£11- £20) PHP for a full day.
Siargao isn't called the Surfing Capital of the Philippines for no reason! Book your Surf Lessons Here.
Siargao Surf Spots Map
Best Surf Spots in Siargao for Beginners
Jacking Horse
G1
Quicksilver
Best Surf Spots in Siargao for Intermediate Surfers
Daku Island Reef
Cemetery
Bumee
Pilar
Salvacion
Best Surf Spots in Siargao for Advanced Surfers
Quicksilver
Stimpy’s
Cloud 9
Pacifico
Tuason’s Point
Rock Island
To find out more in depth information for each surf spot mentioned above we have created a complete Siargao Surf Spot Blog where we share a detailed breakdown of each location.
Siargao has some great game fishing. Home to some of the hardest fighting pelagic species in the Pacific Ocean: marlin, GTs, wahoo, sailfish and more. Whether you’re looking for a charter boat for deep sea or trolling, or looking to do some shore fishing, Siargao has amazing opportunities.
Mike went out on a local boat and caught a sailfish, half the fish went to the boat captain and half we swapped for surf lessons with a local guy, plus we had two steaks to fry up in the evening! A great day and a great story!
If you’re interested in fishing head over to our detailed guide on Siargao Fishing which shares everything you need to know about fishing on the island.
Siargao has lots of accommodation whether you’re looking for a surf school, a luxury resort or a budget hostel you’ll be able to find somewhere.
We recommend staying in the main hub of General Luna as this is where most of the restaurants are located, as well as easy access to most of Siargao's best tourist attractions. If you want to get away from the crowds you could head up north and stay in Pacifico, which is the northern hub of the island best known for being home to some of Siargao's best surf spots.
Hotels Near Cloud 9 & General Luna
Hiraya Surf Hostel: Backpacker, Solo Travellers $
This is one of the best cheap accommodations in Siargao. With access to an outdoor pool, garden and shared lounge the environment is relaxing and comfortable. The dormitory style rooms all come with air-con and the hostel throws events to create a community feel.
Tropical Temple - Luxury on a Budget for Couples and Backpackers $$
Tropical Temple Resort has double rooms for couples and a dormitory for backpackers and solo travellers. The dorm is reasonably priced making this an affordable hotel in Siargao while you’re still getting a touch of luxury. The resort has an outdoor swimming pool and an aesthetically pleasing design to make you feel like you’ve splashed out on an expensive resort.
Accommodation In Pacifico
Katre Siargao: Backpackers, Solo Travellers $
On the Pacifico Beachfront you can find the budget hostel Katre Siargao which is one of the most affordable hostels in Pacifico Beach. The rooms have air-con and Wifi, there is also a shared kitchen you can use. This is one of the best hostels in the northern part of the island.
Best Resorts In Siargao
Kawili Siargao: Best Budget Resort In Siargao $$
Just a few steps away from the beach Kawili is a great beachfront resort on a budget. You still get the facilities of an outdoor swimming pool, prime location and an ocean view roof deck but all at the fraction of the price of some more well known luxurious resorts. This is the best resort in Siargao for people on a budget.
Romantic Beach Villas: Beachfront Resort $$$
With a large infinity pool and terrace facing the Pacific Ocean this is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. The Villas all have air-con, TV and private bathrooms. On site guests have access to two swimming pools, massage services and water sports including a speedboat, wakeboarding, surfing and kayaking.
It is important to note that while most accommodation has WiFi the island has frequent blackouts. Therefore we recommend getting an Airalo's e-SIM to make sure you always have data!
Best Restaurants In Siargao
If you’re looking for the best food in Siargao we highly recommend Derecho for traditional Filipino food. It is a home style buffet where you choose your food and sit on a shared bench with fellow travellers. The food is super affordable and delicious!
We also tried Dao Chow Siargao which had some of the best orange chicken we’ve ever had!
Now for the real star and the best food in Siargao, head to Ging’s Cafe, a small restaurant on the way to Pacifico. Not only is Ging the nicest, she helped us when we got a flat tire, she makes the best squid adobo!
Siargao Restaurant Prices:
$5 for a budget meal
$10-15 for a meal and drink
$20+ for luxury meals and drinks
If you’re a digital nomad in Siargao then there are a few supermarkets in General Luna but for more choice and better prices we recommend heading out of town to Puregold.
Siargao Budget Travel Blog
We meticulously wrote down everything we spent during our time in the Philippines so we could show other travellers it can be done on a budget. Now Siargao is one of the more expensive islands to visit due to the flights (we wish we'd known about the ferry) but we still think we managed it without breaking the bank. Here’s our Siargao Budget Breakdown:
We spent 7 nights in Siargao and our daily average was £28.44 per person.
Here’s what you can expect:
Siargao Restaurant Prices:
$5 for a budget meal
$10-15 for a meal and drink
$20+ for luxury meals and drinks
Accommodation:
Hostel dorm beds: $5-10 per night
Budget guesthouses: $15-30 per night
Mid-range hotels: $40-80 per night
Luxury resorts: $100+ per night
Transport Costs:
Scooter rental: $8–$15 per day.
Tricycles: $1–$3 per trip.
Island hopping tours: $15 - $20
Activities:
Surfing lessons: $20–$40 per session.
Island hopping tours: $25–$50 per person.
CrossFit Siargao: $10–$20 for a single class, or a monthly membership at $100+.
Total Daily Budget:
Budget traveller: $30–$50 per day.
Mid-range traveller: $60–$100 per day.
Luxury traveller: $150+ per day
Discover The Top Things To Do In Siargao!
Alongside the itineraries, we created a Google Pinned Map with all the places we visited in Siargao. Grab your Pinned Map today and start planning your adventure! Don’t miss out...click here to view for free!
Best Siargao Tours
Don't miss this amazing Island Hopping Tour in Siargao, exploring Daku, Naked and Guyam Islands' pristine sandy beaches.
Siargao isn't called the Surfing Capital of the Philippines for no reason! Book your Surf Lessons Here
This day trip to Sohoton Cove with Stingless Jellyfish is one to remember!
Tips For Travelling Siargao
If you’re visiting Siargao here’s our top travel tips:
Stay in the General Luna and Cloud 9 area to be amongst the beautiful chaos and be in walkable distance from the best bars & restaurants.
There’s lots to do for non-surfers on the island, don't forget to try out the Siargao Wake Park!
When getting around the Philippines in a tuk-tuk, tricycle or taxi, agree on a price upfront and try to have the right change handy.
Use an E-sim like Airalo to stay connected and remove the hassle of a physical SIM, don’t rely on Wi-Fi as the island has frequent blackouts.
Go on the 3 island tour to see the true beauty Siargao has to offer, it’s not all about surfing after all…
For the surfers, hire a scooter with a surf rack and visit Siargao’s best surf spots
Travel Tools To Help You Plan
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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Philippine adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
For our Filipino friends: Maraming salamat sa pag babasa, hangang sa susunod nating pag kikita, mamimiss namin kayo, mabuhay ang pilipinas! Salamat
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