Paradise Found in Siargao, Philippines

Get a surf lesson

Obviously this is a surfer paradise for a reason and there are waves ranging from beginner to advanced. They even host a surf competition here in September when the waves are huge. But for us beginners, me included, you can rent a board and a surf instructor on Cloud 9 beach for $10 for an hour. There are literally dozens of locals walking the beach offering lessons and rentals, so you just need to get to Cloud 9 beach and you’ll be all set!

Rent a motorbike and do a loop around the island

The best motorbike rental on the island is through Lola's Rentals. Once you've rented from them, this three-hour(ish) loop, Bikemap is a great way to see the island. Start in General Luna and head to Pacifico where you can have lunch and hop in the water. If you continue along the loop on the northern island you’ll pass through stretches of road with palm trees flanking all sides and stay along the coastline that we thought resembled Hawaii. Plus you’ll pass through local villages of curious and friendly kids!

Beach hop

Instead of regurgitating everything, you can follow this guide that Johnny Melon put together for the best beaches on Siargao that we used. Just remember to check the tide charts to make sure it’s high tide when you go!

Swim with hundreds of jellyfish

Two hours off the coast of Siargao is a jellyfish sanctuary, one of the only places in the world where you can swim with and hold hundreds of non-stinging jellyfish. On the tour you also get to visit a few other caves, do some cliff jumping and explore the beauty of the Philippines islands.

Maasin Bridge River Swing

One of the activities that put Siargao on the map a few years ago is an iconic palm tree rope swing that became a must for insta photos. It’s now very touristy but it’s still something you can visit and some love to see while on the island.

Shopping in General Luna

The heart and soul of Siargao has streets lined with swimwear, cute t-shirts, dresses, surfboards, etc. I bought a couple of necklaces with natural sea pearls grown right off the coast of the Philippines for a very good price. There are lots of gems to find when walking around the town.

Sunset drinks at Pop Up Bar Siargao

This is the best spot to chill and watch the sunset with some cocktails, a fresh coconut or a San Mig beer.

Watch the sunset at Sunset Bridge

Aptly named, this is a bridge at the edge of General Luna that has an excellent sunset view. While the sun is descending, vendors set up snack carts and pop up bars and tourists and locals alike take up residence on the sides of the bridge while longboarders skate down the middle. It’s a great energy at the best time of day!

• Las Barricas - The tacos are great, and we loved the stuffed peppers so much that we ordered them twice. Plus, the staff is super kind and asked for every guest's name and remembered them the entire time we were eating there and even made connections between guests. Overall amazing experience!

• Cumin Siargao - Yummy Mediterranean food. The salad and skewers were delicious.

• Goodies: Cafe, Restaurant & Gift Shop - All healthy items like salads, wraps, sandwiches and bowls. Plus, you can order tacos from the truck next door

• Spotted Pig Cafe - Great for breakfast / brunch items. They’re known for their egg's benedict, but I went rogue and ordered a tuna sandwich and it was delish!

• Shaka Cafe- Famous for smoothie bowls. You’ll find half the island eating here around 10 am post surf or sea dip.

• Zicatela Siargao - Another great one for tacos (we were really enjoying the great Mexican food here). You can tell that these people have actually been to Mexico and know what Mexican food should taste like

• Munchies @ Jacking Horse - Right on Cloud 9 beach. Fresh seafood with huge portions. Have the fish sigsig which is a Filipino dish with chopped up fish, peppers, onions and other delicious things!