What if I tell you there’s another Bali right in the neighboring country of the Philippines?
Meet Siargao Island, Philippines.
Nestled off the coast of Surigao del Norte, Siargao has won the hearts of many travelers worldwide with its crystal clear blue waters, slow island tropical living, and fresh local cuisines.
Siargao boasts of having one of the best surf breaks in the world, sought after by both amateur and professional surfers all year round. However, this Surfing Capital has more to offer than its phenomenal waves. It is home to many beautiful resort accommodations in the country, spectacular sunsets, and breathtaking island hopping.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a chill beach bum, there’s something for you in Siargao.
Read on why you should visit Siargao – the Bali of the Philippines.
Why Siargao?
- A Perfect Escape from the Buzzing City Life
Bali is known for island living, and so is Siargao. No way can you expect beeping cars 24/7. Get ready to go around the island on motorcycles, tricycles, or even your own two feet! Listen to the peaceful swaying of coconut trees, and stare at the rich greeneries around the island.
Siargao is unique because many resorts in the area capture the natively Filipino touch but with a modern twist. Get the charm of the local Bahay Kubo, with modern amenities and architecture.
For example, Camp Catangnan – an up-and-coming destination in General Luna – has accommodations, shops, eateries, and convenience stores, in a single laidback setting. The whole island experience in a charming district![HO1]
- Laidback Beach and Surfing Culture
Just like in Bali, the waves rule Siargao. Many surfers flock to its beaches to catch the best waves. Everyone is constantly beaming with post-surf endorphins.
But even if you’re not surfing, the laidback vibe of the island is contagious. Walk along the Cloud 9 Boardwalk, and you often see groups of sunkissed friends sitting on the sand, laughing and chatting while waiting for the stunning sunset to come down.
The bottom line is: Siargao is heaven for beach bums.
- Abundant Nature Reserves
Instead of concrete jungles, expect literal jungles. Siargao’s natural reserves are as rich as that of the Island of the Gods (what Bali is sometimes called). Siargao has many ravishing lagoons and caves.
The most famous one is Sohoton Cove National Park. Located on Bucas Grande Island, be mesmerized by this hidden paradise with its majestic Blue Lagoon, stingless jellyfish sanctuary, and limestone formations.
If Sohoton’s natural tranquility is not enough to satisfy you, get ready to explore the Hagukan and Magkukuob Cave, also located in Bucas Grande. These luminescent spectacles contain glistening waters and enclosed pathways leaving you in awe. In Magkukuob cave, there’s a 5-meter high cliff where you and you’re friends can enjoy a thrilling diving adventure!
Outside of Bucas Grande, Siargao also has Sugba Lagoon – the country’s second-biggest mangrove forest. Aside from swimming in its jade-clear waters, enjoy other water activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddle boarding.
You can never go wrong with Siargao when genuinely reconnecting with Mother Nature.
Top Things to Do in Siargao
Image by Dan Thomas Noel Amahan from Pixabay
- Surf Cloud 9’s World-Renowned Waves
Another Bali parallelism? Siargao is every surfer’s dream destination whether you’re a beginner or a professional surfer.
Tucked in the town of General Luna, Cloud 9 is the Island’s most famous surfing destination. Its quick-barreling right-hand waves and thick, hollow tubes are coveted by advanced surfers worldwide.
If that wasn’t enough, Cloud 9 is also popular for being surfing-friendly all year round. It hosts many local and international surfing competitions every year.
Nonetheless, surf breaks can be found anywhere in Siargao, so expect to surf wherever on this island!
- Escape on a one-of-a-kind Tri-Island Hopping
Tourists turn to Bali for an amazing and diverse island-hopping experience in Lombok, Lembongan, and Nusa Penida. In Siargao, get ready for a similar adventure!
Hop on a Tri-Island tour and discover white sand beaches and blue waters like you never had before. You get to explore three islands: Daku Island, Guyam Island, and Naked Island.
At Daku Island, be amazed at the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. At Guyam Island, play your hearts out beach volleyball, tree swing, and (mini) basketball! At Naked Island, enjoy the 200-meter-long strip of fine white sand in the middle of the Pacific.
After a day at these three spectacular islands, beaching will never be the same again.
- Party the Night Away at General Luna
There’s no better mix than beach and party. Like Bali, Siargao has tons of them!
After a day at the beach, immerse yourself in Siargao’s vibrant nightlife. From live music and performances to affordable drinks, get ready to party the night away the tropical way.
General Luna has many bars and restos tourists often visit and have a good time. One famous chill spot is BARREL: Beachfront Sports Bar. Enjoy your ice-cold beer or cocktail in front of the beach under the moonlight sky.
How to Get to Siargao?
You can get direct flights to Siargao from Cebu or Manila via Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific. Flight tickets can range from Php 2000-3000 per one-way ticket.
You can also travel to Siargao via ferry. Arrive at Surigao Port (in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte) and catch a RoRo/fast craft ship bound for Dapa port in Siargao. The travel time ranges from 1.5 – 3 hours. Check out this source to know more about the ferry schedules and other details.
Unlike other tropical destinations like Boracay and Panglao, Siargao is not as heavily commercialized. The real estate market in Siargao is brimming with investment potential. There are still many picturesque beachfront properties for sale or lease.
Ready to build your dream beach house/resort at Siargao? Or how about just a quaint bar or coffee shop by the beach? Paradise Siargao has many gorgeous beachfront properties for sale or lease. Talk to us, and together, let’s find the perfect spot for your tropical paradise at Siargao!
Many people flock to Bali to find solace. In Siargao, you’ll find that too, and more. With its unspoiled natural wonders and relaxed vibes, Siargao will melt away your stress from city life. So get your bags (don’t forget your sunblock!), and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime at Siargao!
For more information, message us at info@paradisesiargao.com
