Siargao Travel Guide for both Surfers and Non-Surfers - Isla Story

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Thursday, June 20, 2019

Siargao Travel Guide for both Surfers and Non-Surfers


Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol, these are only some of the destinations in the Philippines most tourists venture out to and can be found mostly in the Luzon and Visayas region. Ever wondered what's waiting for you down south?
Located off the northeastern part of Mindanao region lies this tear-drop shaped paradise also known as Siargao. This small island is comprised of nine municipalities namely Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, General Luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, Santa Monica, and Socorro. There are also other smaller islands around the mainland which are considered to be part of the Siargao Group.
Now, this little and unassuming island is known for having barreling waves that attracts millions of visitors from all around the world. In fact, numerous international competitions are held here in the past years! But Siargao is more than just the waves; it's a virgin paradise that captured the heart of many because of its simplicity and laidback aura.
Wanna visit but not sure when? Well, the best time to visit Siargao is usually during the months of March to November where the season is dry, perfect to go out and explore other destinations on the island. However, if you'll be visiting the island solely for surfing, then seasons won't matter at all. All-year-round, Siargao's waves are strong especially from September to November!

If you thought that Siargao is only enjoyed by surfers, then you got it all wrong! Surfer or non-surfer below is your ideal guide when visiting the little tropical paradise of Siargao!

Getting to Siargao
There are two (2) ways of getting to Siargao:

BY AIR
Located at the municipality of Del Carmen, Sayak Airport (IAO) also known as Siargao airport is a small domestic airport serving the general area of Siargao.

Travel time to Siargao from Clark (CRK) takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes fly time with two (2) flights daily. To maximize your time, we recommended flying with Philippines Airlines (PAL) with flight details:
VIA PAL MNL-IAO 1015H – 1220H
VIA PAL IAO-MNL 1635H – 1730H
The earlier you arrive the more leisure time you around your accommodation. You can even also have a quick stroll around the town and beach area, right? And if you're into inter-island adventure, Sayak Airport is accessible with direct flights from Cebu via Philippine Airlines daily.

Ready to book? Check the flight availability here: Rakso Travel Airline Ticket Reservation

BY SEA
Siargao can also be reached via Roll-on, Roll-off (RoRo) Ferries. You can take a direct flight via Philippine Airlines going to Surigao City, capital of Surigao Del Norte then ride a multicab or tricycle going to the port. From there, hop on a RoRo ferry where you'll be dropped off to Dapa Port of Siargao dock. Upon arrival, you can take a tricycle or habal-habal ride going to General Luna where most accommodations are. This option may be a little cheaper than taking a direct flight Siargao Island but it's kinda tiring.

Recommended Hotel
Here are our suggested hotels or resort to stay in to match your style.
Backpackers:                     Apsaras Tribe Siargao
Family:                                Ocean 101 Beach Resort
Luxury:                                 Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa
              Private:                                Nay Palad Hideaway

Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival

As soon as you arrive at Sayak Airport, our friendly representative will pick you up and transfer you to General Luna where your resort/hotel will be. Now that it's your free time, you can idly rest at the comforts of your room and prepare for tomorrow's adventure.
But if you’re more of a free spirit and still got some energy after a long trip, then go on food tripping in the town! Grab a healthy shake at Shaka Siargao, munch on some grilled delights at Mama’s Grill, or enjoy a cozy dinner at Harana Surf Resort and Restaurant. 
Siargao is literally dark at night, but that doesn’t mean that they got no night life. *winks* Just ask the locals which bar is scheduled for the day and you free to go there!

Day 2: Trio Island, the Better!  

Most of the time, you'll be visiting around 4-5 islands during your island hopping tour, right? But here in Siargao, you only need three (3) to complete your day!
After a short boat ride from General Luna, you'll be visiting Naked Island first. No, it's not what you think! This isn't a skinny dipping island. 
This sandbar-like island earned its name from not having anything aside from sands - no huts, no trees, nothing. Only now it has a few small bushes growing but it still won't give you shade. Thinking of getting a nice tan? Then take your time in here!
Next is to Daku Island, the largest of the three islands. Here you can enjoy your lunch inside the lined up cottages along the coast while admiring the tropical scenery.
Then lastly head to Guyam Island, a circular islet that'll make you feel like you're in a castaway setting! It has two contrasting sides: one is the sandy part where you can go snorkeling while the other one is a bit rocky and have some strong currents.
But that's not all! After your island hopping tour, you'll be spending the rest of your day at the world-famous Cloud 9. Interestingly enough, its name is the same as a local chocolate snack in the Philippines. (We didn't make that one up!)
You can find local surf instructors here that will teach you how to surf enthusiastically or you can simply catch the sunset at the Cloud 9 Boardwalk. It's a three-story wooden structure that provides a stunning view of the waves, the beach, and the Pacific Ocean!

 Day 3: Enjoy Lagoons  and Chase Tidal Pools

Your first day may be a blast, but trust us, Siargao has more to offer!
Hours away from General Luna, check out one of the most photographed places in the island – Sugba Lagoon! This gem is like a labyrinth as it is comprised of several lagoons. 
No need to worry about being lost 'cause the locals here have their way of marking each place. Inside the main lagoon, you'll find a two-story pontoon house, lush mountains still water perfect for paddle boarding or kayaking, and a wooden diving board where you can take cool jump shots!
After, head to the fascinating Magpupungko Rock Pool. This natural wonder boasts tidal pools that are best visited during low tide. If you're into cliff diving, then this place is for you! Jump the way you like and you'll end up splashing down in crystal clear waters!
On your way to Magpupungko Rock Pool, you'll pass the Top of the Road and Maasin Coconut Palm Forest. What's so special around here? This road is surrounded by over thousands of coconut palm trees which is surely a sight to see!

Day 4: Departure

During your last day, it’s wise that you just spend the rest of your time prepping for your departure. You don’t want to ruin it with a hectic schedule by cramping tours in it, right?
Just simply stay idly at the resort/hotel, roam more around Siargao, try more restaurants, or do a little souvenir shopping to take home a piece of Siargao’s crafts and delicacies.

Surfer or not, there's no reason not to include Siargao on your must-visit places list. A four days vacation may not be enough but there are lots of ways for it to be worth it. We hope our guide ease you’re planning process and gave you an idea for the perfect travel!

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Was our recommendation helpful enough? Let us know by commenting below or send us an email at tours.ph@raksotravel.comIf you'd rather talk to one of our travel representatives call us at +63 (2) 8651-9000.

For other tours and travel needs, check out our website at www.islastory.com.

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