Only got one day to spend in Siargao? Don’t fret! You can enjoy the essence of the island, experiencing its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling activities. This carefully crafted itinerary will ensure that you make the most of your short time, taking you from surfing to scenic lagoons. So, let’s dive in and start your fun-filled day!
Morning: Surfing at Cloud 9
We’re kicking off your day with a bucket-list activity: surfing at Cloud 9! This spot is famous worldwide, and even if you can’t ride the waves like a pro, it’s a great experience for everyone. Aim to arrive around 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM to catch the morning surf, which tends to be less crowded and more exciting. When you get there, look for local surf instructors hanging out near the Cloud 9 boardwalk. They’re generally friendly and eager to help beginners learn the ropes of surfing.
The cost for a one-hour lesson includes board rental and typically ranges from PHP 500-800, which is about USD 10-16. Don’t worry if you fall a few times; it’s part of learning! After your lesson, take a moment to soak in the atmosphere on the boardwalk. It’s a fantastic place to relax and observe seasoned surfers battle the waves. There are wonderful photo ops everywhere, and you can enjoy the ocean view whether you surf or not. Plan to be at Cloud 9 for about 2-3 hours, including your lesson and some chill time.
Mid-day: Island Hopping to Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island
Next up, it’s time for some island hopping! After you’ve had your fill of surfing, make your way to General Luna, where you can find boats ready for an exciting tour to Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. These tours usually start around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM, and the typical price for a boat that can hold around 6-8 people is PHP 1,500 – PHP 2,000, or around USD 30-40. Don’t hesitate to negotiate with the boat operators to get a better price!
Your first stop will be Naked Island, an enchanting little spot consisting of just a bare strip of sand. There’s nothing here except for sun, sand, and sea—a perfect photo backdrop! Remember to apply sunscreen generously, as there is no shade. You’ll want to spend about 20-30 minutes here soaking in the view and snapping pictures before moving on.
Next, venture to Daku Island, the largest of the trio and a fantastic retreat. Here, you can kick back on the beach, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, or indulge in a delightful lunch. Many boat tours include a tasty grilled meal on Daku Island, featuring fresh seafood and grilled meats. If it’s not part of your tour, don’t worry! Numerous small restaurants dot the island where you can grab a bite. Expect to pay around PHP 300-500 (approximately USD 6-10) for a good meal. Renting a cottage for PHP 300-500 (about USD 6-10) provides a nice shaded area to enhance your dining experience while escaping the sun’s heat. You’ll want to spend around 2-3 hours enjoying Daku Island.
Lastly, let’s explore Guyam Island, a picturesque little paradise adorned with swaying palm trees. Relaxation is the order of the day here! Feel free to wander the small island, capture some more photos, or enjoy a drink at the tiny bar that serves refreshments and snacks. Guyam is compact, so you’ll only need about 30 minutes to soak in its beauty. Note that there’s a small entrance fee of PHP 20 (under USD 1) to enjoy the island.
The complete island-hopping adventure will typically last around 4-5 hours. Returning to General Luna by about 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM gives you ample time for your next adventure!
Afternoon: Magpupungko Rock Pools
Feeling refreshed and ready for more? After your island-hopping experience, it’s time to head over to the Magpupungko Rock Pools! These beautiful tidal pools are one of Siargao’s hidden gems, but the key is to visit during low tide to fully enjoy them. You can get there by renting a motorbike; it’s about a one-hour drive from General Luna. Motorbike rentals typically cost around PHP 300-500 (approximately USD 6-10) per day. Alternatively, you could hire a tricycle for a round trip at around PHP 800-1000 (approximately USD 16-20).
There’s an entrance fee of PHP 50 (about USD 1) for Magpupungko Rock Pools. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by stunning rock formations with sparkling, clear water, making it feel like you’ve found paradise! The best time to enjoy Magpupungko is generally from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, but definitely check the tide schedule online ahead of time to ensure you arrive at low tide. Where you can splash around, explore the rocks, and take breathtaking photos. Plan to spend around 2-3 hours enjoying the sights before heading back to General Luna.
Evening: Dinner and Drinks at General Luna
After an amazing day of exploration, it’s time to wind down and experience the vibrant nightlife of General Luna. You’ll find numerous restaurants and bars that offer a range of tasty meals. For dinner, one must-try place is Kermit Siargao, where you can savor delicious Italian dishes amid a lively setting. Expect to budget around PHP 500-1000 (roughly USD 10-20) for a satisfying meal.
After dinner, kick back with some drinks and enjoy the live music scene. Bravo Restaurant features a delightful Spanish-influenced menu and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Another popular spot is Harana Surf Resort, where you might catch a band or a DJ spinning tunes. Drinks are usually priced between PHP 100-300 (roughly USD 2-6) per beverage, making it easy to enjoy a few without breaking the bank.
FAQ
What should I bring on my day trip to Siargao?
Be sure to pack sunscreen (preferably reef-safe), a comfortable hat, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, comfy shoes or sandals, a waterproof bag for your belongings, and cash because not all places accept credit cards. It’s also smart to have a camera or smartphone ready to capture all those beautiful moments!
How do I get around Siargao?
The most popular ways to navigate Siargao are through motorbike rentals, tricycle hires, or joining guided tours. If you’re comfortable riding, renting a motorbike can be the most convenient and cost-effective choice. Tricycles are readily found in General Luna, though they may be pricier for longer trips. If you’d prefer not to drive, guided tours can help you see more while also providing information on the island.
Is it safe to swim in the Magpupungko Rock Pools?
Swimming in the Magpupungko Rock Pools is generally safe during low tide, but caution is key. Watch out for slippery rocks and any sharp edges. Water shoes can come in handy. Also, keep an eye on the tides, especially when swimming near the reef’s edge. Accessing the pools during big waves is not recommended for safety.
What is the best time of year to visit Siargao?
The ideal time for a Siargao visit is between March and November, during the dry season. This period usually boasts sunny and dry weather, making it perfect for surfing and exploration. The peak surfing season falls around July to September.
How much money should I budget for a day trip in Siargao?
Below is a rough budget to help you plan your day trip in Siargao, given in Philippine Pesos (PHP) and US Dollars (USD). Keep in mind, this is only a guideline and might vary depending on your choices:
Surfing Lesson: PHP 500-800 (USD 10-16)
Island Hopping Tour: PHP 1,500-2,000 (USD 30-40) per group
Lunch on Daku Island: PHP 300-500 (USD 6-10)
Motorbike Rental: PHP 300-500 (USD 6-10)
Magpupungko Entrance Fee: PHP 50 (USD 1)
Dinner: PHP 500-1,000 (USD 10-20)
Drinks: PHP 200-600 (USD 4-12)
Total Estimated Cost: PHP 3,350 – PHP 5,450 (approximately USD 67-109), although this can fluctuate based on your choices and group arrangements for island hopping and bike rentals.
Are there ATMs in Siargao?
Yes! There are ATMs located in General Luna, but take note that they can run out of cash occasionally, especially during the busy period. To avoid dilemmas, it’s wise to withdraw enough cash before arriving in Siargao or right when you reach General Luna. Bringing a credit card as a backup is also advisable, though not every establishment accepts them.
Is Siargao a good place for solo travelers?
Absolutely! Siargao is known for being friendly and welcoming to solo travelers. Meetup opportunities abound, especially if you stay in hostels or engage in group activities like surfing lessons and island tours. The locals are typically kind and supportive, and it is generally safe to explore the island on your own.
