siargao cloud 9
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Siargao Travel Guide

Eight years ago, I remember becoming curious about Siargao after seeing a surge of social media posts about the island. Back then, Siargao was touted as the next tourist destination to watch out for. I finally gave in to my curiosity and booked a solo trip in 2017. Since then, I’ve returned to the island twice, including my most recent trip this year. If you’re thinking of visiting, here’s my Siargao travel guide.

Where is Siargao Island located?

Siargao is a tear-drop-shaped island in the province of Surigao del Norte, in the northeastern part of Mindanao, Philippines. It’s famous for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and world-class surfing spots, especially the legendary Cloud 9.

So if you’re wondering what Siargao is known for, it’s surfing, yes, but also lagoons, caves, rock pools, and warm Filipino hospitality that draws you back again and again.

When to Visit Siargao?

Dry season runs from March to October, which means clear skies and sunny days, perfect for island hopping and beach time.

If you’re a surfer, the best waves come between August and November. This is when international surfing competitions usually happen.

I personally prefer the shoulder months—May or September—because it’s not as crowded but still has great weather.

How to Reach Siargao?

Siargao is accessible via Sayak Airport (IAO) in Del Carmen. Major airlines operating flights to Siargao include Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Sunlight Air. These airlines offer direct flights from Manila and Clark, as well as connecting flights from other cities.​

Manila to Siargao

Travelers can fly directly from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila to Sayak Airport (IAO) in Siargao. Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific operate direct and indirect flights on this route, with an average flight time of approximately 2 hours. Flight prices vary. Please note that some flights from Manila have transits to Cebu City.

Clark to Siargao

For those near Clark, direct flights to Siargao are available from Clark International Airport (CRK). Philippine Airlines and Sunlight Air operate these flights, with travel times averaging around 2 hours.

If you’re coming from Manila, you can reach Clark via the P2P (Point-to-Point) bus service. Buses depart from NAIA Terminal 3 and Trinoma Mall, with fares around ₱450 (approximately $8).

Getting Around Siargao

Once on the island, getting around is straightforward:​

  • Motorbike Rentals: Available for ₱350–₱500 per day (approximately $6–$9).​
  • Tricycles/Tuk-tuks:
    • Special Ride: ₱50 (approximately $0.90) for a private ride.
    • Shared Ride: ₱30 (approximately $0.50) per person.​

Siargao Hotels

If you’re wondering where to stay in Siargao, here are my personal recommendations based on where I’ve stayed. Each one offers something different, depending on your travel style and budget.

Bravo Beach Resort

Bravo Beach Resort was established in 2015 and is one of the most popular hotels on the island. It’s a beachfront property that offers dorm rooms and private rooms. The in-house restaurant is a favorite, and the outdoor pool is a nice touch. It’s located in General Luna, so you’re close to the action.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, Poblacion 5, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
💰 Room rates: ₱5,800-18,000 (approximately $102-317)

Vedya Hostel

Vedya Hostel is a cozy, eco-friendly hostel perfect for solo travelers and digital nomads. The vibe is chill, the place is clean, and they serve great food at the attached Vedya Cafe. It’s also close to Cloud 9, so you’re never too far from the surf.

They have a kitchen equipped with cooking utensils that guests are free to use. WiFi is available but not in the rooms.

📍 Address: Sta. Ines, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
💰 Room rates: ₱980-4,100 (approximately $17-72) [Book Vedya Hostel]

Little Nap Inn

Out of all the hotels I stayed in, Little Nap Inn was my favorite, mainly because I had a solo room, which is rare at this price point. The room is small but has everything you need: a private shower and toilet, a closet to store your clothes, and air-conditioning.

You can choose between a road-view room or a sea-view room. I went for the sea-view, which costs a bit more, but waking up to that view? Totally worth it. It’s located along Tourism Road, close to bars and other key spots, so it’s super accessible.

That said, it’s not ideal for light sleepers or anyone who wants to sleep early, as the music from nearby bars can go on all night. The building itself looks like a trailer, which gives it a unique charm. They have reliable WiFi and someone at the reception 24/7, so it still felt secure and convenient.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, General Luna, Surigao del Norte
💰 Room rates: ₱1,500-2500 (approximately $26-44)

Yellow Banana Hostel

Yellow Banana Hostel is ideal for budget travelers looking to meet people. It has a communal atmosphere, clean dorms, and a good location near local eateries and cafes. I stayed here on one of my solo trips and met a bunch of fellow travelers.

By the way, they hold free dinners for all guests twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays.

📍 Address: Purok 5, General Luna, 8417 Surigao del Norte
💰 Room rates: ₱600-2500 (approximately $10-44) [Book Yellow Banana Hostel]

Palaka Resort

Palaka Resort was where I unexpectedly got stuck for a few days after Typhoon Odette. The resort has a peaceful ambiance with a minimalist aesthetic. It’s walking distance to some restaurants and bars, and the rooms are simple but comfortable.

📍 Address: Siargao Island, Purok 5 Tourism Rd, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
💰 Room rates: ₱5,800-6,800 (approximately $103-120) [Book Palaka Resort]

Tropical Temple Siargao Resort

Tropical Temple Siargao Resort is where I was staying when Typhoon Odette struck. The staff handled everything with grace during such a difficult time. The resort has beautiful native-style huts, a lush garden, and a serene vibe, great if you’re looking for a quiet stay.

📍 Address: R525+G8 General Luna, Surigao del Norte
💰 Room rates: ₱1,600-6,700 (approximately $28-118) [Book Tropical Temple Siargao Resort]

 

Siargao Tourist Spots

Siargao isn’t just about surfing. The island is packed with caves, coves, lagoons, and scenic spots that will make you want to stay longer than planned. Here’s a list of tourist spots I’ve personally visited and recommend.

Cloud 9

bridge-cloud 9-siargao

Probably the most famous spot in Siargao. Even if you don’t surf, this place is worth a visit. The boardwalk and viewing deck offer a perfect view of the waves and surfers in action. There’s a ₱50 (around $0.90) environmental fee. Come during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting.

Magpupungko Rock Pool

Only visible during low tide, these natural tidal pools are crystal clear and perfect for swimming. There’s an environmental fee of ₱50 (around $0.90). Coming here requires great timing as the tide pools only appear when it’s low tide, so go around 10 AM.

Sohoton Cove

You need to book a tour for this one; it’s in Bucas Grande, about 1.5 to 2 hours away by boat. The journey is long, but totally worth it. You’ll explore caves, lagoons, and swim in waters surrounded by limestone cliffs. Prepare for entrance and guide fees depending on the attractions you want to enter.

Hagukan Cave (a.k.a. Luminescent Cave)

Inside Sohoton Cove, this cave glows when you make a splash inside, hence the nickname “luminescent cave.” You’ll need to swim underwater to enter, but guides are there to help. It’s an unforgettable experience.

Magkukuob Cave

Also inside Sohoton, this cave ends in a cliff-diving platform. It’s around 15 feet high; not extreme, but enough to get your adrenaline up.

By the way, once you climb up the diving platform, the only way out is by jumping into the water. It took me a while to muster some courage, but I did jump.

Jellyfish Sanctuary

A peaceful lagoon where you can swim with stingless jellyfish. I only saw moon jellyfish when I went, but they were magical up close. Go during the right season; guides will let you know if the jellyfish are in season.

Sohoton Nakiauit Resort

This is usually the lunch stop during the Sohoton tour. The food is simple but filling, and it gives you a chance to relax before heading back. The view from the dining area is beautiful, and you can also go swimming on the beach before heading back.

Mountain View

This spot gives you one of the most iconic views in Siargao, a vast sea of coconut trees as far as your eyes can see. It’s along the main road between General Luna and the northern towns, so you’ll pass by it on your way to other attractions.

This is also where you’ll find the famous “human drone” operators who shoot viral spinning videos of tourists using a long selfie stick. It’s fun, very touristy, but worth it for the view alone. Just prepare to pay a tip or fee for the video.

Catagnan Bridge (AFAM Bridge)

Locally dubbed the “AFAM Bridge” because, well, let’s just say it’s a favorite hangout spot for foreigners and locals alike. Every day, around 5 PM, there are sidewalk vendors who start setting up their kiosks. There you can buy street food, such as kwek kwek, sweet corn, etc., and even souvenir items, such as magnets, shirts, among others.

Maasin River

This river is iconic thanks to the bent coconut tree where you can swing into the water. The fee is ₱230 (around $4), which includes the boat ride to the river. At the end of the short river journey, you’ll reach a swimming area with clear water, perfect for a dip after your ride. It’s a chill activity if you’re not into strenuous tours.

Tayangban Cave

Prepare to get wet. You’ll walk, swim, and squeeze through narrow cave passages with a guide. The entrance fee is ₱100 (around $1.75). It’s one of the more adventurous spots in Siargao, combining darkness, water, and limestone formations into one unique experience.

Out of all the places where I did spelunking, this was my favorite. The water inside the cave can get deep, that’s why they provide life vests to the tourists. At the end of the cave is a cliff diving platform where you can jump into the water (I skipped jumping on this one).

Pacifico Beach

If you want a quieter beach away from the crowd, head here. It’s also a surf spot, but much less crowded than Cloud 9. Bring food and water since there aren’t many stores nearby.

Hawaii

Not the U.S. state, this is a beach in Siargao named “Hawaii” by locals. It’s secluded, quiet, and great for photos. You’ll need a local guide or a motorbike to reach it easily.

Siargao Surfing Spots

Siargao earned its name as the surfing capital of the Philippines for a reason. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone chasing barrels, there’s a wave for you. Here’s a quick rundown of the top spots:

I didn’t take surfing lessons myself (still on my “maybe next time” list), but I did get to observe the vibe and watch surfers do their thing at different spots.

Cloud 9

The most iconic surf break on the island, Cloud 9, is known for its heavy, hollow right-hand waves and wooden boardwalk. It’s best for experienced surfers, especially during surf season (August to November). Beginners can still enjoy the area, but it’s more of a spot to watch the action than jump in blindly.

Jacking Horse

Right next to Cloud 9, Jacking Horse is a favorite among beginners. The waves here are more forgiving, and you’ll find lots of surf schools offering lessons. If it’s your first time, this is where you’ll likely start.

Quicksilver

Located near Cloud 9 as well, Quicksilver offers smaller waves, perfect for practicing your balance and pop-ups. It’s often used by instructors when Jacking Horse gets crowded.

Stimpys

This left-hand break is located on a reef, so it’s better suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. It works best on mid- to high tide and needs a boat ride to get there.

Rock Island

Just a short boat ride from General Luna, Rock Island is a beautiful surf spot with consistent waves. It’s best surfed during mid-tide. Not as crowded as Cloud 9, so it’s a good choice if you want to avoid the crowds.

Pacifico

Located in the northern part of Siargao, Pacifico is known for its long and powerful waves. It’s suited for advanced surfers and is less touristy. The area is quieter and more raw, so bring your own gear and snacks if you plan to surf here.

Siargao Cafes

Siargao has no shortage of aesthetic cafes, some Bali-inspired, some proudly Filipino. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a digital nomad, or someone who just wants a quiet place to chill, here are my top picks.

Vedya Cafe

This plant-based cafe closes early, so come in the morning if you want to catch them open. It’s quiet, cozy, and offers a solid oat latte; the best one I had on the island. It’s also connected to Vedya Hostel, making it super convenient if you’re staying there.

📍 Address: Sta. Ines, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7:30 AM–3 PM

The Cat and Gun

Out of all the cafés I visited, this one closely resembles the cafes I’ve seen in Ubud. It has an open-air layout with high ceilings, but it can get really hot during the day since the ceiling has no insulation. The coffee is good; creamy but slightly sour. Their specialty is homemade bagels (which I regret not trying). I did have the chicken gyro, though, and it was really satisfying.

📍 Address: General Luna, Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–10 PM

Spotted Pig Cafe

This place is always packed. It’s tough to find a seat during peak hours, but that’s because the food and coffee are consistently good. The interiors are clean and stylish; it’s worth the wait if you can hang around.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–6 PM

White Beard

Located within a residential area, White Beard feels more local than most cafes. It’s frequented by people living on the island, not just tourists. The coffee is decent, and the vibe is more low-key and homey.

📍 Address: Siargao Island, Poblacion 1, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 6 AM–5 PM

Siargao Corner Cafe

An open-air cafe with a balcony on the second floor, perfect for people-watching. It’s one of the few spots where I felt like I could just sit and not feel rushed. Grab a cold drink and enjoy the view from above.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, General Luna, Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 6 AM–11 PM

Cabuntog Surf Shop & Cafe

At first, I didn’t even realize this was a cafe as there was no sign above it. But yes, it’s a cafe, a bar, and a surf shop rolled into one. The second floor has a balcony overlooking the street. What stood out most is that it’s one of the few cafes with Filipino design elements, unlike the many Bali-style cafes that popped up on the island.

📍 Address: General Luna, Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 6:30 AM–10 PM

Taw Hay Cafe

Located inside Taw Hay Fitness Studio, this plant-based cafe is great for a post-workout bite. The space is calming, and the menu is light and healthy.

📍 Address: Tawhay, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–7 PM

Coffee Stroll Siargao

This cafe looks like a house turned into a coffee shop, giving it a relaxed and homey vibe. Their specialty is pour-over espresso, and they use a lever espresso machine. Because they use manual brewing methods, your coffee won’t be ready right away. But if you don’t mind the wait, it’s worth it.

📍 Address: Tourism Road, General Luna, Siargao Island, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 8 AM–5:30 PM

Big Mama Laundry Cafe

This is the most artistic cafe I’ve seen on the island. It’s a creative space that combines a coffee shop, laundry service, and boutique all in one. They sell clothes, surfing gear, and souvenir items.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, Poblacion 3, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Tues to Sun, 9 AM–5 PM | Closed on Mondays

Coastal Grounds Coffee Siargao

My go-to spot when I want peace and quiet. I was able to write here for hours without distraction. I found out they also have a branch in Quezon City, which I haven’t visited yet, but I’d love to.

📍 Address: Pops District Cloud Nine Dr., General Luna, Surigao del Norte, Pilar, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sat, 7 AM–5 PM | Closed on Sundays

Cafe Kokomo

This cafe has the best view of Cloud 9. It’s literally right by the beach. Sip your coffee while watching the waves, or surfers do their thing. Perfect for lazy afternoons.

📍 Address: Jacking Horse Homestay, Siargao, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–7 PM

Gwapitos

Known for their coco latte, which surprised me because I usually don’t like coconut milk in coffee. But this one? A must-try. They also sell clothing, so it’s a cafe and shop in one space.

📍 Address: Main Tourism Rd, Purok 5, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–10 PM

Siargao Restaurants

Siargao has a solid mix of places to eat, offering local and international cuisines. I didn’t hold back and tried different restaurants during my recent vacation, and here’s the list of my personal recommendations.

Bravo Restaurant

My favorite restaurant on the island. It’s beachfront, so you can literally take a swim after your meal. The food is consistently good, and they also offer coffee drinks; try the Smoked Oak Latte. My top picks on the menu are Peri-Peri Chicken and Catch of the Day. It’s also one of the few spots that accept credit cards.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, Barangay 5, General Luna, 8420 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–11 PM

Warung Siargao Indonesian Restaurant

There aren’t many Indonesian restaurants in the Philippines, which is a shame, as their food is one of the best that I’ve had. So I was happy to find Warung Siargao, the in-house restaurant of Siargao Island Villas. It serves authentic Indonesian food with just the right spice and depth. It’s a chill place to eat, not overly crowded, with a view of the sea.

📍 Address: Q5W6+C9C, Tourism Rd, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–9 PM

Cumin

A great spot if you’re looking for Middle Eastern and Indian-inspired dishes. Portions are generous and flavorful. It’s best to go here during dinner when the vibe is livelier.

📍 Address: Q5R6+2QH, Tourism Rd, General Luna, Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7:30 AM–11 PM

Bebie’s Barbecue

Most restaurants in Siargao are pricey, so if you’re looking for an affordable option, Bebie’s Barbecue is a good choice. This one’s a local favorite; not fancy, but the barbecue is flavorful and cheap. There were two Bebie’s branches sitting right across from each other along Tourism Road. I ended up going here a few times; it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

📍 Address: Right Chicken Depot, Siargao Island, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Wed, Fri to Sat, 11 AM–9 PM | Thu, 12 AM–9 PM, Sun, 4–9 PM

La Carinderia

Don’t let the name fool you, this place isn’t your usual turo-turo. They serve Italian-Filipino fusion dishes with a rustic, home-cooked vibe. One of their bestsellers is Mama’s Lasagna, which was delicious and quite filling. The place is small and cozy, so come early if you don’t want to wait for a table.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, Siargao, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 8 AM–10:30 PM

Brunch Spot

If you love all-day breakfasts and brunch food, this place has you covered. Pancakes, smoothie bowls, and good coffee, it’s a solid start to a slow island day.

📍 Address: Barangay 5, Poblacion, General Luna, Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–6 PM

Isla Cusina

A casual spot with a laid-back vibe. They offer Filipino dishes and some Western options. Good if you’re traveling with people who want variety.

📍 Address: General Luna, Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 6 AM–11 PM

Munchies

Munchies is located near Cloud 9 and offers a chill place to eat with a view of the sea. I recommend the fish sisig; it’s unique and surprisingly good. Come during sunset if you can.

📍 Address: Jacking horse Trail, Luna, Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon & Tue, closed | Wed to Sun, 8 AM–5 PM

Kurvada

Kurvada looks like an elevated turo-turo. The dishes are displayed behind a glass counter, just like in your neighborhood carinderia, but with a more polished setup. You tell the staff which dishes you want, they plate it for you, and then you take a photo of your plate before digging in.

Here’s the twist: there are no visible prices. After you eat, you show the photo to the cashier, and that’s when they tell you how much to pay. It’s a unique dining experience, and the food is solid. I enjoyed the buffalo chicken and egg noodles.

📍 Address: Q5Q6+4WR, General Luna, Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sat, 10:30 AM–8 PM | Closed on Sundays

Sanabowl Superfood Cafe

Popular with foreigners and always packed. They serve smoothie bowls, wraps, and other healthy eats. Great if you’re looking for something light but filling.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, Purok 5, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–11 PM

Isla Turon Deluxe Siargao

Not exactly a restaurant, but I had to include this. It’s a humble food stall that sells reimagined turon (banana fritters). Don’t leave without trying one; it’s one of the best snacks I’ve had on the island.

📍 Address: Purok 3 Tourism Rd, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 2–11 PM

Siargao Fitness Studios

If you’re like me and don’t want to break your workout streak while traveling, you’ll be glad to know that Siargao has some solid fitness spots. These are the studios I personally tried during my stay:

Prime Fit

This gym is well-equipped and great for strength training. One-day gym access costs. What stood out was the attached café that offers protein-rich drinks—perfect for post-workout fuel. The space is clean, the vibe is focused, and it’s not overly crowded. They offer one-day, weekly, and monthly gym access.

📍 Address: Tourism Rd, purok 3, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–10 PM
💰 Rate: ₱300 (approximately $5)

Eskapo Fitness

Eskapo is an open-air gym with a relaxed, tropical vibe. It’s not as crowded as Prime Fit, but it attracts a similar crowd, mostly foreigners who want to stay active while on the island. The setup is clean and aesthetic, with greenery surrounding the space.

They don’t have a cafe, but they do sell protein-rich drinks you can grab after your workout. If you’re looking for a quieter gym with solid equipment and a good atmosphere, this is a great option.

📍 Address: General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Fri, 6:30 AM–9 PM | Weekends, 8:30 AM–5 PM
💰 Rate: ₱350 (approximately $6)

Taw Hay Fitness

Located in the same compound as Taw Hay Cafe, this studio offers a mix of yoga, mobility, and strength classes. I joined an Aerial Flow session here, which was both challenging and fun, even for beginners like me. It’s a great place if you want something different from traditional gym routines.

📍 Address: Tawhay, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 7 AM–7 PM
💰 Rate: ₱700 (approximately $12)

Buddha Wellness

A calm, open-air studio for yoga and mindfulness. I did a Yin and Yang Yoga, and let me tell you it was intense. It’s a good place to reset, especially if you’ve been running around the island all day.

📍 Address: Buddha Resort, General Luna, 8419 Surigao del Norte
🕖 Business Hours: Mon to Sun, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM
💰 Rate: ₱500 (approximately $8)

Siargao FAQ

Planning a trip to Siargao for the first time comes with lots of questions. Here are some quick answers to help you out.

What Type of Plug Is Used in the Philippines?

Photo by Clint Patterson on Unsplash

The Philippines uses Type A, B, and C plugs. Voltage is 220V and the standard frequency is 60Hz. If you’re coming from the U.S. or Europe, you might need an adapter for your devices.

Siargao vs Boracay

Siargao and Boracay offer completely different experiences. Boracay is more developed, crowded, and geared toward luxury travelers. Siargao is more laid-back and rustic, popular among surfers, backpackers, and those looking for a slower pace. If you prefer raw nature and a more local vibe, Siargao is for you.

Siargao Payment Options

Photo by Mari Gimenez on Unsplash

Like most islands in the Philippines, cash is the preferred mode of payment in Siargao. While cashless payments are available, they are mostly through digital wallets or mobile app payments, such as GCash and Maya.

Only a few establishments, such as Bravo Restaurant, accept credit card payments.

ATMs in Siargao

There are several ATMs in General Luna, Siargao, so you don’t have to worry about running out of cash. I spotted several Euronet ATMs and a few BDO ATMs. Here are some of the ATMs that I spotted:

BDO Unibank

BDO Unibank

  • 📍 Address: Q5P4+49W, Dapa – General Luna Rd, General Luna, Surigao del Norte (see above photo)
  • 📍 Address: Q5P6+8JF, General Luna, Surigao del Norte (beside Little Nap Inn)

Euronet

Siargao with Kids

Siargao can be kid-friendly if you plan properly. Many resorts offer family rooms, and places like Maasin River, Magpupungko Rock Pools, and Pacifico Beach are safe for kids to swim and explore. Just keep an eye out, there aren’t many formal lifeguards around.

What to Wear in Siargao

Keep it simple: breathable clothes, swimsuits, slippers, and maybe a rash guard if you plan to surf. A light jacket is useful too, especially during the rainy season. Comfort beats fashion on the island.

Is Siargao like Bali?

Siargao has some Bali vibes; think cafes, yoga studios, and surf culture, but it’s less polished and much quieter. If you’re looking for a place that still feels wild and local, Siargao wins. Bali is beautiful too, but it’s far more developed and commercialized.

Siargao WiFi

Compared to a few years ago, WiFi access in Siargao has improved a lot. Many establishments now offer WiFi, and most of them are subscribed to Starlink, which makes the connection faster and more reliable. That said, there are still a few places without WiFi, or spots where the network can be spotty, especially outside General Luna. If you really need to stay connected, having a backup mobile data plan (Globe or Smart) is still a smart move. You can easily buy a SIM card from the local stores for ₱50 ($0.89).

Siargao Nightlife

Nightlife is very much alive in Siargao, especially around Tourism Road. Bars like Mama Coco, Loose Keys, and Harana are popular for partying. Take note that bars are only allowed to operate until midnight. Although I’ve heard of underground partying that goes beyond 12AM, I wasn’t able to try it, so I can’t say much about it.

Siargao Laundry Services

If you’re staying for a while, laundry won’t be a problem. Some of them even offer same-day delivery. The minimum rate for laundry is about ₱250 ($4) per kilo.

Ann’s Laundry Shop

Located in the Backroad area, Ann’s Laundry offers fast and affordable laundry service. I was able to get my laundry the same day I sent it to them.

HardWash

They have several branches around General Luna, including one along Tourism Road. Fast service, reasonable prices.

Siargao Pharmacy

If you need basic meds or toiletries, there’s now a Watsons along Tourism Road. It just opened recently, so finding essentials is easier than ever.



From stunning surf spots and scenic views to cozy cafes and fitness studios, Siargao has something for every kind of traveler. This island holds a special place in my heart, and I’m glad I finally got to share my personal experiences and tips with you. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning to return, I hope this Siargao travel guide helps you make the most out of your trip.

If there’s anything you feel I missed in this Siargao travel guide, feel free to drop a comment. I’d love to hear from you.

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