Introduction
Siargao Island is the "surfing capital of the Philippines." This tear-shaped island is the top destination in the Province of Surigao del Norte. It is indeed a surfer's paradise because of the gigantic waves. However, if you're not into surfing, like me, you can still enjoy the pristine beaches, explorable caves, fresh surroundings, and unique island lifestyle. With time pressure from the province of Dinagat Islands, I travelled here to discover its beauty.
How to Get to Surigao del Norte:
- By Air: Book a flight from Manila to Sayak Airport, commonly known as Siargao Airport. Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have regular flights to IAO. Or, you can fly MNL to Surigao (SUG).
- At the airport, take a ride to Boulevard, the port area of Surigao City.
- Ride on a fast craft ferry to the Siargao Islands.
Surigao del Norte Tourist Spots:
- Siargao Island
- Antiques of Brgy. Panhutongan
- Amoslog Archaeological Excavations
- Caves of Tinago Island
- Mapaso Hotsprings
- Cagbantoy Beach
- Bucas Grande Islands
- Songkoy Spring
Stunning Attractions to Visit in Siargao Island:
- Cloud 9 Boardwalk
- The Secret Beach (Guiwan Beach)
- Coconut View Deck
- The Pacifico
- Magpupungko Rock Pools
- Guyam Island
- Naked and Daku Islands
- Sugba Lagoon
- Sohoton Cove National Park
- Daku Island
- Corregidor Island
- Tayangban Cave Pool
- Alegria Beach
- Taktak Falls
- Blue Cathedral Diving Site
- Maasin River
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| Photo: Cloud 9 Boardwalk, Siargao. |
9 Days Solo-Backpacking in Mindanao
After my backpacking in the Province of Dinagat, I headed back to Surigao City. Had breakfast at Boulevard and rode on a ferry to Dapa Port in Siargao. Travel time was 1.5 hours. What's remarkable about this trip was the gigantic waves. Upon arrival, I met my guide/driver and headed to HappyNest, the place I checked in. Then, we started our motorcycle tour in Siargao.
Our first destination was the Cloud 9 Boardwalk and View deck - one of the most visited spots on the island. Entrance Fee: 50 pesos. The waves here are surfing-friendly, with a fresh sea breeze. Afraid of the waves? That's okay, you can just walk on the boardwalk and do an amazing photo shoot. This spot is picture-perfect in the afternoon because of the golden skyline with the surfers standing on their boards on top of the rolling waves.
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| Photo taken at Secret Beach, Siargao. |
Our second destination was the Secret Beach or Guiwan Beach. This spot has an amazing and relaxing ambience because it is landscaped with palm and talisay trees, with green grass on the ground. Guiwan Beach is surrounded by cool and crystal waters, perfect for sunbathing.
While were were en route to Pacifico, we passed by the roads decorated with draft live mango trees and tall coconut trees present on both sides, such a gorgeous landscape. Then, we also passed by the coconut plantation, another top destination. On this spot, the sea breeze is cool and fresh, with a wide view of the countless coconut trees and mountain slopes.
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| Photo taken at Pacifico Beach, Siargao. |
Our last destination was the famous Pacifico, the biggest surfing spot in Siargao. Very self-explanatory, its name is given because it is facing the Pacific Ocean; having said that, the waves here are for expert surfers. The gigantic waves are powerful and can easily wipe out someone. We stayed there for an hour. Had some cold drinks, and we headed back to HappyNest while the sun was setting. Though my journey here lasted overnight, I was able to grasp what the island can offer to tourists and visitors. I was able to see the lifestyle of the smallest locals to the most expensive hotels and resorts. I know and will definitely be back here for a longer stay.
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| Photo: Simple accommodation at HappyNest. |
Siargao Backpacking Expenses:
- Total: 2,790 Pesos
- Habal with driver: 1,500 pesos
- Accommodation: 350 Pesos
- Gas: 280 pesos
- Bread: 60 pesos
- Ferry, Surigao City to Dapa Port: 300 Pesos
- Ferry, Dapa Port to Surigao City: 300 Pesos