Discovering The Hidden Gems Of Siargao

Written by Dezza, 21 January 2023.

Im not much of a surfer but I’m often asked by my followers where the best places in the Philippines are to surf? In previous blogs, I have covered some of the Philippines’ more renowned surf places such as Baler and La Union. However, there is another place not many international visitors are familiar with and that is the tiny island of Siargao.

Siargao Island is a hidden gem that offers much more than just the world-class surfing it is famous for. Known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines”, Siargao is an obvious slice of paradise for surfers. However, aside from surfing, it also boasts secluded and peaceful beaches, sensational local cuisine and a variety of outdoor activities.

This small island is located just off the tip of Northeast Mindanao and is the perfect destination whether you’re a surfer, beach lover, or just looking for a unique vacation experience. With a laid-back island vibe that you will fall in love with, you won’t ever want to leave!

With all that in mind, we’ll be sharing the hidden gems of Siargao, beyond the world-class surf spots. So please keep reading to learn more today!

Let’s Talk Surfing!

First and foremost, let’s talk about surfing. The surfing experience in Siargao is unique, as the island has a variety of surf spots that offer different levels of difficulty and excitement. Some of the most popular surf spots include Cloud 9, which is considered one of the best surf spots in the world, and Jacking Horse, which is ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers.

A couple of kids trying to conquer the waves at Cloud 9

The waves in Siargao can range from gentle rollers to powerful barrels. The best time to surf is from September to December when the waves are the biggest. Located along the Philippine Trench, the waves in Siargao are consistent, which makes it an ideal destination for surfers who want to catch a lot of waves in a single session.

For those that don’t know about the Philippines Trench, I’ll give a quick geological lesson. The Philippine Trench is a deep oceanic trench that runs parallel to Siargao. The Philippine Trench is one of the deepest parts of the ocean in the world, reaching a depth of over 10 kilometres in some areas.

For surfers, the Philippine Trench is particularly important because it helps to create powerful ocean currents and waves that are ideal for surfing. Some surfers believe that the waves in Siargao are affected by the Philippine Trench, as the deep ocean currents create a specific set of conditions that are ideal for surfing.

More Than Just Surfing

Despite Siargao being popular for surfing, there are plenty of other things to see and do beyond this. The most obvious attraction is the numerous beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing. One of the must-see beaches on the island is Naked Island, a small uninhabited island with crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches.

Coral reefs surround the island, making it a great spot for snorkelling and diving. Another must-see beach is Daku Island, a small island with a beautiful white sandy beach and crystal clear waters. The island is also home to a small local community, where you can experience the local culture and try delicious local cuisine.

Naked Island is just a sandbar with nothing on it, hence the name

Another must-try in Siargao is the island’s delicious local cuisine. The island is known for its seafood, particularly its fresh tuna. You can find a variety of seafood dishes at local restaurants, including tuna sashimi, tuna kinilaw (a local dish similar to ceviche), and grilled tuna. The island is also known for its delicious lechon (roast pig) and coconut-based dishes.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, Siargao also offers a variety of outdoor activities. There are a lot of hiking trails, including the Magpupungko Rock Pools and the Tak Tak Falls for you to explore and enjoy. The island is also home to numerous mangrove forests, where you can take a kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour.

Siargao is also a great destination for those looking for a more laid-back and relaxed holiday. The island has a laid-back island vibe and is home to a number of yoga and wellness retreats, resorts and villas, where you can relax and unwind in a peaceful and secluded environment.

Sugba lagoon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Siargao

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Siargao is a hidden gem in the Philippines that offers much more than just surfing. The island has beautiful beaches, delicious local cuisine, a variety of outdoor activities, and a laid-back island vibe that will make you never want to leave. Whether you’re a surfer, beach lover, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Siargao has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head to Siargao for an unforgettable holiday.

Please like and share this article with friends and family or if you want to leave any comments or share your experiences, please leave your comments below. And please don’t forget to check out my related articles and videos below.

Is Philippines Tourism Recovering After COVID-19?

15 Best Summer Destinations In The Philippines

The 20 Best Places to Visit in The Philippines