6 days in Siargao
On the South East of the Philippines you will find an island FULL of palm trees called Siargao. No joke, it feels like there is a permanent family reunion of palm trees from all around the world. But it is not the only reunion the island hosts; Every year it is home to the international surfing cup at Cloud9 in General Luna so you can expect a surfer’s paradise! If you are not too much into surfing, Siargao Island still has a lot to offer.
Things to consider BEFORE going:
You’ll need cash, as most places don’t accept cards. There are several ATMs but they do not seem to accept Revolut. There is one BDO but you will get charged 250 PHP per withdrawal.
Consider renting a scooter. I really recommend you rent a scooter. I understand that some people may be scared, or don’t have a driving’s license, but if you can you should definitely rent a scooter, it is so convenient.
Vegan and vegetarian friendly island
How to get to Siargao:
Propeller plane: As the runway is very small, only propeller planes land on the island. You can use this link to reserve your flight :) https://prf.hn/l/n0wXXJb
You will find shared shuttle buses waiting for you at the arrivals. It is 300 PHP per person and the driver will drive you to your hostel.
By boat: From Surigao to Dapa
Where to stay in Siargao:
Finding the perfect place is always a bit tricky, especially when a lot of them seem the perfect match for you, so let me help you. You MUST GO to:
Vedya boutique hostel Siargao: This boutique hostel has been so good to me. I made friends since S1 (first second I’ve arrived). It is definitely not a party hostel, more like a family hostel where everyone hangs out together. You can find privates and dorms. The beds are very comfortable (several pillows, a folding table for your computer, a lamp, curtains, a locker, and you even have a little basket for your products). You have a massive common area and kitchen with everything you need as well as a breakfast place open from 7:30 to 3:30pm which serves delicious and healthy superfoods and home made pastries. If you want to stay close to General Luna but not right in the middle of it, book this place. Bonus: They have adorable dogs, rooftop with yoga mats and scooters to rent.
If you feel like another hostel, you can book via this link :) https://prf.hn/l/2Mj2JAw
Top food, drinks, and coffee spots in Siargao:
Where to eat in Siargao:
Vedya (Vegetarian - Smoothie bowls - yummy toasts), JM Carenderia (local Filipino food), Shanti Shanty (Toast with home made bread - home made pastries), BS or Brunch Spot (Typical food revisited), My Greek Taverna (for some spanakopita, Gyros, and fresh salads!), Goodies on Fridays for their Israeli buffet (600 PHP), Cosmic (vegan food)
Best coffee spots in Siargao: Saint Thomas, Spotted Pig
Sports and activities on Siargao:
Take a surf class: Whether you want a one time lesson or several classes, you will find many surf instructors. I recommend you ask around you if anyone has a good recommendation, or simply go to Cloud9.
👉🏼 Contact me on instagram for my teacher’s instagram. A lesson is 500PHP/hour for the instructor + surfboard
Cloud9 surf spot: This is where the international cup happens every year and where everyone goes for surfing or relax on the beach. If you are a beginner you will start on the right side of Cloud9 at Jacking horse. If you are an intermediate you will go to Quicksilver.
N.B. *There are many other places worth checking out depending on your level. Your instructor will tell you which place is the best depending on the wind - Pacifico, Alegria, Salvacion, …*
Doot beach/secret beach: This beach is better to visit in the mornings as it is less crowded and it is low tide. It is a perfect spot to meditate or read a nice book.
Catangnan bridge: This bridge is best known for two reasons. You either jump from it, or you go there for the sunset. You will find some street food there too.
Get a massage: Hands of Gold is the place you need to go to for a massage. Ask for Jenlyn.
Cost: 600 PHP and IT IS SO WORTH IT
Coconut view deck: You will need to ride for about 35 minutes from General Luna to arrive at the coconut view deck. From there you will see millions of palm trees. It is a very nice view and nice break from the beach vibes.
Maasin Bridge: A bit after the coconut view deck there is the Maasin Bridge. There you can jump from a wooden infrastructure into the river. It is nice and refreshing after nearly an hour driving!
Entrance fee: 20 PHP
Sohoton cove + private boat: I highly recommend you book a private boat for this escape! You will take half the time a normal boat takes to arrive to Sohoton cove, and you will stop at beaches where you’ll find no one else but you and beautifully shapes seashells.
Cost: 2500 PHP + 500 PHP for the Sohoton cove entrance
Write a postcard: You can pay 40 PHP for certain places to send your postcard. Vedya does it, but also any other shop that sells the postcards.
Gym - Where to work out in Siargao:
Eskapo - An outdoor gym with everything that you need. Its 250 PHP per session but there is also a monthly rate if you stay longer.
