Siargao Island, in Surigao del Norte in the southern Philippines, is best known internationally as a surfing destination, but it has grown into a broader travel destination with beaches, island-hopping, lagoons, and a laid-back local pace that draws visitors well beyond the surf community.
Getting there
Most travelers reach Siargao either by flying into Sayak Airport near Dapa, or by taking a ferry from Surigao City to Dapa Port if arriving from the mainland by land or sea. If you are coming from Surigao City, you can book your ferry ticket online in advance, check the ferry schedule, and get an instant e-ticket rather than waiting in a walk-in queue at the port.
Where to base yourself
General Luna is the island's main tourist hub, home to Cloud 9 and the greatest concentration of accommodation, restaurants, and tour operators. Most first-time visitors base themselves here for convenience, then take day trips out to quieter parts of the island. Dapa, where the port is located, is more of a transit town than a place to stay.
What to do
The classic Siargao activities are surfing at Cloud 9 and nearby breaks, island-hopping to Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island, and visiting Magpupungko Rock Pools on the eastern side of the island, best seen at low tide. Longer day trips include Sugba Lagoon and Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande, both requiring a boat trip and typically booked as a guided tour. You can browse and book island tours online rather than arranging everything in person once you arrive.
Practical things to know
Bring cash — many smaller establishments, beach entrance fees, and tour add-ons are cash-only or cash-preferred, and ATMs are limited outside General Luna. Tides matter more than most first-time visitors expect: several beaches and rock pools are only accessible or swimmable at certain tide levels, so it is worth checking a tide table for anything tide-dependent before heading out. If you plan to explore independently, scooter rental is the most common way to get around the island.
Getting home
Book your return ferry or flight in advance where possible, especially if traveling during a weekend or peak season, so you are not left arranging last-minute transport on your final day.