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What to Do in Siargao: Lagoons, Beaches, Surf, and Island Hopping

  • Writer: Itallo Olimpio
    Itallo Olimpio
  • 4 days ago
  • 6 min read

Siargao is one of those places that looks effortless on Instagram but feels very different once you’re actually there. Not better or worse, just more real. It is laid-back, tropical, chaotic at times, social without being overwhelming, and still rough around the edges in a way that reminds you this is an island first and a destination second. I stayed in General Luna, which is where most people end up anyway, and honestly it makes sense. Everything kind of radiates from there. Cafés, beaches, restaurants, nightlife, coworking spots, surf breaks, all stitched together by one main road and a lot of motorbikes.


This is not a place you rush through. Even if you only have a few days, Siargao works best when you slow your pace mentally. Things take time. Power goes out. ATMs stop working. Rain shows up uninvited. And yet, that is part of the charm. You adapt fast or you get frustrated fast. The people who love Siargao are usually the ones who choose the first option.

What to do in Siargao Cloud 9

Where to Base Yourself in Siargao

General Luna is the heart of Siargao. If it is your first time, staying here just makes life easier. You are close to Cloud 9, restaurants, bars, cafés, and most tours start from this area. I stayed at Triangle Palms Siargao, which sits slightly away from the noise but still close enough to everything. That balance matters here. Too central and you hear everything. Too far and you spend too much time riding back and forth on dark roads at night.


Choosing your accommodation location is probably the most important decision you will make on the island. Infrastructure is limited, roads are not great, and moving around late at night or during heavy rain is not always fun. Mid-range places in General Luna offer the best overall experience for most travelers, with prices that still feel reasonable compared to other island destinations in Southeast Asia. Budget options exist, but comfort drops quickly, especially when it comes to electricity, water pressure, and internet.


Beaches and Coastal Spots You Should Not Skip

Cloud 9 is the most famous spot on the island and yes, it is touristy, but it is still worth going. Not necessarily to spend hours, but to see it, walk the boardwalk, and understand why Siargao became what it is today. Early morning or late afternoon is best. Midday heat here is no joke.


Secret Beach is a very different vibe. Quieter, more relaxed, and ideal if you want something that feels less curated. Getting there usually involves a short ride and some walking, but nothing complicated. This is the kind of place where you bring a towel, sit down, and lose track of time without doing much at all.


Catangnan Bridge is not a beach, but it is one of those places people naturally end up at sunset. Locals, travelers, photographers, kids jumping into the water. It feels spontaneous and very Siargao. No planning needed. Just show up.


Beyond that, Siargao is full of small, unnamed stretches of coast that you will probably stumble upon if you rent a bike and explore. That freedom is part of the experience. Roads are rough, but distances are short.



Lagoons and Nature Around the Island

The lagoons around Siargao are often mentioned together, and for good reason. Sugba Lagoon is the most famous and usually visited on a day tour. Even if you do not do island hopping, this is one of the places that truly shows the island’s natural beauty. Calm water, lush surroundings, and that unreal shade of blue that never looks edited, even in real life.


There are also smaller lagoons and inland spots that are easier to access independently if you ask around once you are there. This is where talking to locals or long-term expats helps. Not everything is well-marketed online.


Nature in Siargao is not polished. It feels raw and sometimes unpredictable, especially during rainy season. Weather matters here more than people think. Checking forecasts before booking your trip is not optional. Typhoons are rare but not impossible, and heavy rain can affect your entire experience.


Surf Culture Without the Pressure

You do not need to surf to enjoy Siargao, but surf culture is everywhere. Boards strapped to bikes, sunrise sessions, conversations about swell and tides at breakfast. Even if you never touch a board, it adds to the island’s identity.


For those who do surf, Siargao is one of the best places in the Philippines, especially for beginners and intermediate levels depending on the spot and season. Lessons are easy to arrange, and the vibe is generally welcoming rather than competitive.


If you are not surfing, Cloud 9 is still worth visiting just to watch. Sunrise there feels almost ceremonial.


Island Hopping, Even If You Keep It Light

Island hopping is one of the most popular activities in Siargao, usually including Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. It is a classic day tour, very social, very scenic, and well-organized by local operators. Even if you prefer staying on land most days, doing one island hopping trip gives you a broader perspective of the region.


Tours are easy to book once you arrive, and prices are fairly standard. No need to overthink this part.


Food Scene in Siargao

The food scene in Siargao is surprisingly strong for an island with limited infrastructure. General Luna is full of places that mix international flavors with local ingredients, and you can eat very well without spending a fortune.


Cloud 9 has more than just the boardwalk. The surrounding area is full of cafés and casual spots. SBC is a classic stop and works well at any time of day. Lamari is a solid choice if you want something a bit more refined without losing the island feel. Bravo Restaurant is popular for a reason and consistently delivers.


For something more casual, El Lobo Siargao and Two Brown Boys are easy favorites. Happiness Café is well-known and tends to be busy, but still worth it. Bamboo Padel Café & Pizzeria is great when you want something familiar and relaxed. Wild Siargao Restaurant and Tiki Hut Siargao are also reliable choices, especially if you are staying around General Luna.

Local eateries are everywhere, often simple, affordable, and very good. Sometimes the best meals come from places with no social media presence at all.



Getting Around the Island

Renting a bike is the easiest and cheapest way to move around. Roads are uneven, sometimes muddy, and lighting is minimal at night, so caution matters. Helmets are not optional, even if many people treat them that way.


Distances are short, but weather can slow everything down. Rain changes plans quickly here.

Cash is essential. ATMs are unreliable and often run out of money. Bring more cash than you think you will need, and do not assume you can withdraw whenever you want. Power banks are also not optional. Blackouts happen and usually without warning.


Digital Nomads and Long-Term Stays

Siargao has quietly become a digital nomad hub, especially in General Luna. Internet quality varies wildly depending on where you stay, so do not assume fast Wi-Fi just because a place advertises it. Cafés with coworking vibes exist, but power cuts affect everyone equally.


If you plan to work remotely, flexibility is key. This is not Bali. Things break. Connections drop. You adapt or you move on.


Practical Tips That Matter More Than You Think

Weather should influence your entire planning process. Do your research and avoid peak typhoon periods if possible. Infrastructure is improving, but slowly. Expect imperfections.


Choose your accommodation location wisely. Bring cash. Bring a power bank. Rent a bike. Do not overplan. Siargao works best when you allow space for things to go wrong without ruining your mood.


Who Siargao Is Really For

Siargao works for many types of travelers, but especially those who value atmosphere over efficiency. It is relaxed, social, naturally beautiful, and still imperfect. Surfers love it, but non-surfers do too. It can be quiet or lively depending on where you go and when.


If you come expecting luxury or seamless logistics, you will struggle. If you come open-minded and prepared, Siargao has a way of pulling you in.


It is not a destination you consume quickly. It is one you settle into, even if only for a few days.



Extra: my personal must-have travel gear (prices as of Dec 2025)




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