If you’re tired of the crowds in General Luna, Siargao, and are looking for a more laid-back surf experience, Samal Island might just be the perfect getaway for you. This island is not known for the big, intense waves that you find at Siargao, but it has its unique charm, offering a quieter and more relaxing atmosphere. Samal is ideal for intermediate surfers who prefer more gentle waves and for advanced surfers who want to take it easy without sacrificing their love for surfing. In this guide, I’ll provide you with all the essential tips and details you need to ensure your trip to Samal Island for surfing goes smoothly.
Getting to Samal Island
Getting to Samal Island from Siargao is pretty easy. Start your journey at the Dapa Public Market, which is the main hub for transportation. From General Luna, you have a couple of options: you can either ride a tricycle or rent a motorbike. Taking a tricycle will cost around PHP 300-400 (USD 5-7), while renting a motorbike for the day usually ranges from PHP 350-500 (USD 6-9). Don’t forget to negotiate the price and confirm it before you go. The ride will take about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you arrive at Dapa Port, you’ll need to catch a ferry that will take you to Santa Monica, the main town on Samal Island.
The ferry runs about every hour, but it’s always best to check the latest schedule at the port before you go. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the surrounding islands, so have your camera ready! The boat fee is very affordable at PHP 30 (USD 0.50) per person, and if you’re bringing a motorbike, there’s an extra charge of PHP 50 (USD 0.90). The ferry ride should take approximately 30-40 minutes.
The Surf Spot: Santa Monica Pier
When you get to Santa Monica, you’ll find that the surf spot is quite close to the pier. You can grab a motorbike taxi, commonly known as habal-habal, for a quick ride down to the pier where the surf break is located. The ride only takes about 5 to 10 minutes, and it won’t cost you more than PHP 50 (USD 0.90). If you’re one of the many travelers who rented a motorbike in General Luna, you’ll have the advantage of exploring more of what Samal Island has to offer.
For aspiring surfers, the waves in Samal are generally well-suited for longboards and malibus. The best wave conditions usually occur during mid to high tide. The surf break here is quite mellow, making it perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. Waves at this spot break left and right, so there’s room for newcomers to practice their skills. It’s a reef break, so wearing reef booties is a good idea to protect your feet. While it’s possible to surf without them, you should be cautious if you choose to do so. Unlike the famous Cloud 9, the waves at Samal are all about having a fun and relaxed session.
A Day on Samal Island: What to Expect
If you want a productive day of surfing on Samal, it’s best to start your day early. Try to catch one of the first ferries from Dapa to make the most of your time. After reaching Santa Monica and the surf spot, you can spend a few hours enjoying the waves. Just a heads-up, there are no surf schools or board rentals available directly at the surf break, so make sure to bring your own board or rent one in General Luna. Rental costs in General Luna typically run about PHP 500 (USD 9) per day if you plan to take it outside Siargao, while sticking to Siargao for surfing will only cost you about PHP 200-300 (USD 4-6) a day.
Once you’re done surfing and feel a bit hungry around noon, there are a few local eateries called carinderias in Santa Monica where you can grab a bite. Meals at these places are super affordable, typically costing between PHP 100-200 (USD 2-4) for a hearty plate of rice, either meat or fish, and some vegetables. The food might be simple, but it’s filling and will give you the energy you need for another round of surfing in the afternoon.
After lunch, depending on the tide and how you’re feeling, you can either head back to the surf or take some time to explore other interesting parts of Samal Island.
Where to Eat: Bayatakan Restaurant
If you’re craving something a little more upscale on Samal Island, you should definitely check out Bayatakan Restaurant. It’s one of those local gems where you can enjoy a range of Filipino dishes, along with delicious seafood. While it’s still fairly reasonable, you can expect to spend a bit more here compared to the local carinderias. A meal here might start at around PHP 300-500 (USD 6-9), depending on your order.
Other Things to Do on Samal Island (Besides Surfing)
While surfing is the main attraction for many visitors to Samal, there’s plenty more you can do if you find some extra time. Here are some enjoyable activities:
- Explore Santa Monica town: Take a leisurely walk around the town. Interact with the friendly locals and soak in the island’s relaxed atmosphere.
- Relax on the beach: Near Santa Monica Pier, there’s a small beach that’s perfect for unwinding and enjoying the nice scenery.
- Visit the Santa Monica Church: Don’t miss the fantastic views from the church’s balcony that overlooks the entire island—great for some stunning photos!
- Go Snorkeling: If snorkeling sounds fun, you can rent snorkeling gear near the pier for only about PHP 150 (USD 3) for the whole day!
Returning to Siargao
When it’s time to go back to Siargao, you’ll need to catch another ferry back to Dapa. Be sure to double-check the ferry schedule ahead of time since the last ferry usually leaves in the late afternoon or early evening. Once you’re back at Dapa, you can hire another tricycle for your return journey to General Luna. Just a tip—avoid driving your motorbike at night for safety reasons, as it can get quite dark and challenging to navigate.
Estimated Budget for a Samal Island Surf Trip (Per Person)
Here’s a rough breakdown of the costs you can expect during a day trip to Samal Island for surfing:
- Tricycle/Motorbike to Dapa: PHP 150-250 (USD 3-5) (consider splitting the fare if you’re with a buddy)
- Ferry to Santa Monica: PHP 30 (USD 0.50)
- Motorbike taxi to Pier: PHP 50 (USD 0.90)
- Lunch: PHP 100-200 (USD 2-4)
- Ferry back to Dapa: PHP 30 (USD 0.50)
- Tricycle/Motorbike back to General Luna: PHP 150-250 (USD 3-5) (again, consider sharing the cost)
- Total: Approximately PHP 510 – 810 (USD 9.90 – 15.80)
This cost estimate doesn’t include any surfboard rental fees from Siargao, which can be around PHP 200-500 (USD 4-9) per day, nor does it account for drinking water (PHP 20 / USD 0.40) or other incidental expenses you might incur.
Things to Bring
To ensure your day at Samal Island is a success, be sure to pack these essential items:
- Surfboard: If you own a surfboard, bring it along! If not, make sure to rent one in General Luna to take with you.
- Reef booties: These are recommended to protect your feet from the reef rocks.
- Sunscreen: The sun can be intense in Siargao, so apply sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Water: It’s wise to bring a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated throughout the day.
- Snacks: If you prefer to munch on something between surf sessions, pack some snacks to keep your energy up.
- Cash: While some places may accept cards, it’s better to have cash for smaller transactions and local purchases.
- Towel: An essential item for drying off after your surf sessions.
- Dry Bag: Useful for keeping your valuables safe and dry while you’re at the beach.
FAQ
Here are some popular questions about surfing in Samal:
Is Samal surf spot suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The surf spot at Samal is quite forgiving and friendly for beginners, especially when the swells are smaller. Waves break both left and right, making it an excellent place to practice your skills.
Are there surfboard rentals available on Samal Island?
Unfortunately, there aren’t any surfboard rentals at the surf spot itself. You’ll have to rent a board in General Luna, Siargao, and take it with you.
What’s the best time to surf in Samal?
The ideal time to hit the waves in Samal is generally during mid to high tide. As conditions change often, it’s a good practice to check the surf forecast before heading over.
Are there any restaurants or stores near the surf spot?
Yes, there are a few local eateries (carinderias) close to where you’ll be surfing, where you can grab a simple meal. It’s best to carry your own water and snacks, just in case. There are also some stores nearby that sell necessities.
How long does it take to get to Samal Island from Siargao?
The journey includes a 30-45 minute ride from General Luna to Dapa, a 30-40 minute ferry ride to Santa Monica, and a quick motorbike ride to the surf spot. In total, you should allow for about 1.5 to 2 hours for the entire trip.
Is it safe to surf in Samal?
Yes, Samal is generally safe for surfers. However, like any surf spot, it’s good to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on the reef, especially during low tide, and always stay within your surfing abilities. Locals are often happy to share information about current conditions.
What is the cost of surf lessons in Samal?
Currently, there are no surf instructors available on Samal Island. It’s a good idea to take lessons in Siargao first if you’re new to surfing, and you could bring your instructor along to Samal for a special trip if you want.
Can I stay overnight in Samal Island?
You absolutely can! There are several places to stay on Samal Island, ranging from guesthouses to small resorts. If you want to explore more of the island, consider staying overnight, but make sure to book in advance, especially on weekends.
What is the electricity source in Samal Island?
Samal Island relies on the same electrical grid as Siargao, so you might experience occasional power outages, particularly during storms or maintenance work. It’s advisable to keep your electronics charged and bring power banks just in case.
Is there mobile signal in Samal Island?
Yes, you can find mobile signal on Samal Island, though it might vary depending on where you are. The Smart network is usually the best option if you need reliable coverage for browsing and other activities.
Make the most of your surf trip to Samal Island, enjoy the beautiful waves, friendly locals, and the peaceful island atmosphere!
