Siargao. Just hearing the name brings thoughts of incredible surf, lush palm trees, and a relaxed island atmosphere. While many flock to Cloud 9, let’s take a detour and uncover a lesser-known paradise: Malinao Beach. Located on the southern side of the island, Malinao Beach serves as a tranquil getaway featuring its soft white sands, clear turquoise waters, and an abundance of peace. Are you ready to dive into this beautiful escape?
Why Malinao Beach is Special
Malinao isn’t a typical beach filled with non-stop action, and that’s exactly what makes it special. Think of it as Siargao’s secret oasis – a perfect spot to decompress, reconnect with nature, and appreciate the simple joys of island living. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Powder-soft Sand: The sand here is incredibly soft and fine. It’s ideal for smooth barefoot walks and creating the best sandcastles!
- Crystal-Clear Water: The water is so clear that you can see colorful fish swimming around your feet! It feels like swimming in a natural aquarium.
- Calm and Shallow Waters: Malinao is family-friendly, with calm, shallow waters making it safe for kids to swim and paddle.
- Laid-Back Atmosphere: Forget the busyness of life. Malinao is all about chilling out, with hammocks, gentle sea breezes, and the soothing sound of waves.
- Beautiful Sunsets: Watching the sunset at Malinao is a magical experience. Picture the sky filled with brilliant colors as the sun sinks below the horizon!
- Proximity to Other Attractions: Although Malinao is serene, you’re just a short drive away from Siargao’s more famous spots.
Getting There
Getting to Malinao Beach is pretty easy. If you start from General Luna, the main tourist town, you have several choices:
- Motorbike: This is the most popular and arguably the most fun way to explore Siargao. Renting a motorbike costs about PHP 350-500 per day (around $7-$10 USD). The journey to Malinao takes roughly 30-45 minutes.
- Tricycle: If you prefer a more comfortable ride, a tricycle is a good option, although it might be more expensive. Expect to pay around PHP 500-800 (about $10-$16 USD) for a one-way trip from General Luna. It’s smart to negotiate the fare beforehand.
- Private Car/Van: Traveling with a group or want more comfort? Hire a private car or van. Prices vary based on the vehicle and your haggling skills, but you might pay between PHP 1500-2500 (around $30 – $50 USD) for a round trip.
The road to Malinao is mostly in good condition, but do watch out for potholes and other vehicles. And don’t forget to wear your helmet when riding a motorbike!
Things to Do at Malinao Beach
Malinao is more about relaxation rather than thrill-seeking activities, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be bored. Here are some fun things to do:
- Swimming and Sunbathing: A no-brainer! Dive into the calm, shallow waters for a refreshing swim. Just remember to lather on that sunscreen!
- Snorkeling: Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater world. Just a short swim from the shore, colorful fish and coral reefs await your visit.
- Picnicking: Pack a tasty lunch and enjoy a picnic while lounging under the palm trees. There are a couple of local shops nearby to grab snacks and drinks.
- Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard from local vendors and enjoy paddling along the beautiful coastline at your leisure.
- Sunset Watching: As mentioned, the sunsets here are stunning. Choose a comfy spot on the beach and soak in the colorful sky.
- Visit Nearby Taktak Falls: Just a short motorbike ride from Malinao, Taktak Falls offers a lovely waterfall where you can take a dip. Entrance fees are about PHP 25 (around $0.50 USD).
- Explore Tayangban Cave Pool: For a unique adventure, check out the Tayangban Cave Pool nearby. You will trek through a cave stream leading to a swimming pool. Entry is usually around PHP 100 (approximately $2 USD).
Where to Eat Near Malinao Beach
While Malinao Beach doesn’t feature many high-end restaurants, you can find various local eateries (called “carenderias”) serving delicious and budget-friendly Filipino food.
- Local Carenderias: These simple diners offer tasty dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and grilled fish. Meals generally cost around PHP 100-200 (about $2-$4 USD). Look for the places where locals eat – it’s usually a good indicator of quality!
For an expanded choice, you can head back to General Luna, which has many restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
Where to Stay Near Malinao Beach
While staying directly at Malinao Beach gives you amazing peace, many visitors opt for General Luna for a wider range of accommodations. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, General Luna has it all. However, if tranquility is your goal, there is a lovely resort close to Malinao Beach worth considering.
- Malinao View Beach Resort: If you want to be right on the beach, this is one of your best options. Room prices range from PHP 2,500 to PHP 4,000 (approximately $50 USD to $80 USD).
Tips for Visiting Malinao Beach
To help enhance your experience at Malinao Beach, consider these helpful tips:
- Bring Cash: Many businesses in Siargao don’t accept credit cards, so having cash handy is always smart.
- Wear Sunscreen: The sun in the Philippines can be very strong, so make sure to protect your skin with high-SPF sunscreen.
- Bring Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be bothersome, especially in the evening, so budget some repellent.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep refreshed by drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Respect the Environment: Dispose of your trash correctly and refrain from disturbing natural habitats.
- Learn a Few Basic Tagalog Phrases: Saying a few simple phrases like “Magandang araw” (Good day) and “Salamat” (Thank you) will charm the locals.
- Practice Safe Motorbiking: Always wear your helmet, drive carefully, and stay alert.
Call to Action
Malinao Beach offers a quiet alternative to the bustling surf culture of General Luna. It’s your perfect spot to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the essentials of island life. Whether you find joy in swimming in crystal-clear waters, soaking up stunning sunsets, or lounging in a hammock, Malinao Beach will surely rejuvenate and inspire you. So, when you plan your next trip to Siargao, don’t forget to add Malinao Beach to your itinerary – you’ll be thrilled you did!
