Siargao is famous for its surfing, but there’s so much more to this beautiful island than just Cloud 9! By supporting local businesses, you’re helping the community thrive and experiencing the authentic charm of Siargao. This article highlights some awesome local spots, from cozy cafes to unique shops, that deserve your attention.
Where to Eat and Drink: Siargao’s Tasty Treats
Let’s start with the most important thing: food! Siargao has a growing food scene with many locally owned restaurants and cafes. When you eat at these places, you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal; you’re also supporting families and helping local farmers.
Mama’s Grill: This is a Siargao institution! If you ask anyone where to get the best grilled food, they’ll probably point you to Mama’s. It’s simple, affordable, and incredibly tasty. You pick your meat or seafood, they grill it up, and you enjoy it with rice and some dipping sauce. It’s perfect for a laid-back dinner.
Kermit Siargao: While often known for its Italian dishes and surf camp, Kermit Siargao also supports local fishermen. They source their fresh seafood locally, contributing to the livelihood of the island’s fishing community. So when you order that amazing seafood pasta, you’re helping more than just the restaurant itself!
Harana Surf Resort: Besides offering comfortable accommodations and surf lessons, Harana has a fantastic restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients where possible. They often have live music, which adds to the relaxed, Siargao vibe. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of surfing or exploring.
Shaka Siargao: If you’re looking for healthy and delicious breakfast or lunch options, Shaka is the place to go. They specialize in smoothie bowls, which are loaded with fresh fruit, granola, and other goodies. It’s a great way to start your day or refuel after a surf session. They have locations around the Philippines but started right here in Siargao!
Bravo Restaurant: Located in Siargao Island Villas, Bravo provides diverse Spanish cuisine. By employing local chefs and staff, Bravo helps boost the island’s economy.
CEV: For Ceviche lovers, CEV offers fresh and custom-made seafood dishes. They also support local fishermen by buying their daily catch to ensure the freshness of their dishes.
Where to Stay: Cozy and Local Accommodations
Forget big hotel chains! Siargao has plenty of charming, locally owned guesthouses and resorts. Staying at these places gives you a more authentic experience and directly benefits the community.
Harana Surf Resort: Okay, we mentioned their restaurant already, but their resort is also worth highlighting! Harana offers a range of accommodations, from private rooms to dorms, all with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. They support local artists by showcasing their work and often host events that bring the community together.
Kawayan Siargao Resort: This cozy retreat is known for its personalized service and beautiful surroundings. It’s conveniently located close to Cloud 9. Kawayan employs local staff and is actively involved in community projects. The resort emphasizes sustainable tourism practices.
Patrick’s on the Beach Resort: For an ocean-front experience, Patrick’s on the Beach offers stunning views and comfortable accommodations. The resort is family-owned and operated and dedicates itself to supporting the local community by sourcing services locally.
When booking accommodations, it’s always a good idea to check reviews and see if the resort or guesthouse has any initiatives to support the local community. Look for places that hire local staff, use locally sourced products, and participate in environmental conservation efforts.
Shopping Local: Unique Finds and Supporting Artisans
Skip the tourist traps and explore the local shops in Siargao. You’ll find unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and support local artisans at the same time.
Siargao Market (Dapa Public Market): This is the heart of Siargao! If you want to experience the real Siargao, visit the Dapa Public Market. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and seafood to local snacks and handicrafts. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and support local farmers and vendors. Be prepared for a sensory overload – it’s busy, noisy, and full of life!
Island Wanderer: This shop features a curated collection of clothing, accessories, and homewares, all made by local artisans. You’ll find unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else, and you’ll be supporting the local economy.
Many small sari-sari stores (variety stores) sell local snacks, drinks, and everyday essentials. Stopping and buying from these tiny establishments instead of larger retailers directly supports families. Also often, buying at these small stores means encountering the genuine friendliness of the store owners. It’s a great way to contribute directly to the local economy.
Activities and Experiences: Exploring Siargao with Locals
Instead of booking tours with big companies, consider hiring local guides or participating in community-based tourism activities. This way, you’re ensuring that your money stays within the community and you’re getting a more authentic experience.
Surfing Lessons with Local Instructors: Siargao is, of course, famous for surfing. Instead of going with a big surf school, seek out local instructors. Not only will you be supporting their livelihood, but they’ll also be able to share their knowledge of the waves and the local surf culture.
Island Hopping Tours with Local Boatmen: Explore the surrounding islands with a local boatman. They know the best spots for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. They can also share stories about the islands and the local culture.
Sugba Lagoon Tours (book from local vendors): Sugba Lagoon is a must-see in Siargao. Again, make sure to book your tour from a locally owned tour operator instead of a big company. This ensures that the money goes directly to the community.
Remember to be respectful of the local culture and environment when participating in these activities. Ask your guide about local customs and traditions, and avoid littering or damaging the natural environment. Sustainable tourism is vital for the long-term well-being of Siargao.
Responsible Travel: Making a Positive Impact
Beyond choosing local businesses, there are other ways you can support Siargao and its community. Here are a few tips for responsible travel:
Reduce your plastic consumption: Bring your own reusable water bottle, shopping bags, and utensils. Avoid buying single-use plastics whenever possible. Many local businesses are also making an effort to reduce their plastic use, so support them!
Respect the environment: Don’t litter, and be mindful of your impact on the natural environment. Use reef-safe sunscreen when swimming or snorkeling to protect the coral reefs.
Learn a few basic phrases in Tagalog or Surigaonon: Even just saying “Magandang Adlaw” (Good day) or “Salamat” (Thank you) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
Be mindful of local customs: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and be respectful of local traditions. Ask before taking photos of people.
Supporting local businesses isn’t just about spending money. It’s about building relationships, learning about the local culture, and making a positive impact on the community. By being a responsible and conscious traveler, you can help ensure that Siargao remains a beautiful and vibrant place for years to come.
The Ripple Effect: Why Supporting Local Matters
You might be wondering, “Why does it even matter if I choose a local business over a big chain?” The answer is simple: it creates a ripple effect of positive change in the community.
Boosting the Local Economy: When you spend your money at a local business, a larger portion of that money stays within the community. Local businesses are more likely to source their supplies and services from other local businesses, creating a cycle of economic growth. This means more jobs, better infrastructure, and a higher quality of life for everyone.
Preserving Local Culture: Local businesses are often deeply rooted in the local culture. They sell traditional products, serve local cuisine, and celebrate local traditions. By supporting these businesses, you’re helping to preserve the unique identity of Siargao.
Creating a More Vibrant Community: Local businesses contribute to the vibrancy of a community. They sponsor local events, support local charities, and create a sense of community pride. When local businesses thrive, the entire community benefits.
Providing Unique Experiences: Let’s face it, generic global chains are pretty much the same wherever you go. Local businesses offer unique, authentic experiences that you can’t find anywhere else. They’re run by passionate people who are proud of their products and services, and they’re eager to share their love of Siargao with you.
Examples of Local Initiatives and Organizations
Several organizations exist in Siargao that dedicate themselves to sustainability. If you wish to extend support to the local community, consider exploring the following initiatives:
Siargao Environmental Awareness (SEA) Movement: SEA Movement actively organizes cleanup drives, promote sustainable tourism initiatives, and conduct environmental education programs on the island. Participating in their events or donating to their cause can directly support Siargao’s environmental sustainability.
Local Schools and Educational Programs: Support local schools by donating supplies or volunteering time. Education is the foundation of a thriving community, and your contribution can make a big difference in the lives of children in Siargao.
Challenges Faced by Local Businesses
Being a local business owner in Siargao isn’t always easy. They face several challenges that big corporations often don’t have to worry about.
Limited Resources: Many local businesses lack the financial resources to compete with larger companies. They may have difficulty accessing loans, marketing their products, or upgrading their facilities.
Infrastructure Challenges: Siargao is still a developing island, and the infrastructure can be unreliable. Power outages, limited internet access, and poor road conditions can all make it difficult for businesses to operate.
Competition from Larger Businesses: As Siargao becomes more popular, more and more big businesses are moving in. This can make it difficult for local businesses to compete, especially if they don’t have the same marketing budget or resources.
Natural Disasters: The Philippines is prone to typhoons and other natural disasters, which can have a devastating impact on local businesses. When disaster strikes, it’s important to support local businesses as they rebuild and recover. (e.g., Typhoon Odette in 2021 badly hit Siargao.)
FAQ
Why is supporting local businesses in Siargao important? Supporting local businesses helps boost the island’s economy, preserve its unique culture, and create a more vibrant community. It ensures that your money stays within the community and directly benefits the families and individuals who live there.
How can I identify local businesses in Siargao? Look for small, independently owned shops, restaurants, and accommodations. Ask locals for recommendations, and read reviews online to see if a business is locally owned and operated. Avoid big chain stores and restaurants whenever possible.
What are some ways to support local businesses besides spending money? You can also support local businesses by writing positive reviews online, recommending them to friends and family, and sharing their social media posts. You can also volunteer your time or donate to local charities and organizations.
Is it more expensive to support local businesses? Not always! While some local businesses may have slightly higher prices due to smaller-scale operations, the value you receive in terms of unique experiences, personalized service, and positive community impact is often worth the extra cost. Plus, you’re directly contributing to the well-being of the island.
What if I’m on a tight budget? Can I still support local businesses? Absolutely! Even small purchases from local vendors can make a difference. Consider buying your snacks and drinks from sari-sari stores, eating at local carinderias (small eateries), and opting for affordable accommodations like guesthouses. Every little bit helps!
How can I be a responsible tourist in Siargao? Reduce your plastic consumption, respect the environment, learn a few basic phrases in the local language, be mindful of local customs, and support local businesses. By being a conscious and responsible traveler, you can help ensure that Siargao remains a beautiful and vibrant place for years to come.
Are there organizations that promote responsible tourism in Siargao? Yes, organizations like the Siargao Environmental Awareness (SEA) Movement actively promote responsible tourism and environmental conservation on the island. You can support their work by participating in their events or donating to their cause.
References
Siargao Environmental Awareness (SEA) Movement
Official Gazette of the Philippines
Department of Tourism, Philippines
The local businesses and vendors of Siargao
Various tourism blogs and travel websites
And more.
Siargao is more than just a destination; it’s a community brimming with warmth, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Every time you choose to dine at a local carinderia, purchase a souvenir from a local artisan, or book a tour with a local guide, you’re not just making a transaction – you’re weaving yourself into the fabric of Siargao’s story. So, on your next trip (or even if it’s from afar now), make a conscious effort to support the businesses that make Siargao unique. Share this guide, spread the word, and let’s help these amazing locals thrive. Let’s make every visit an opportunity to give back and ensure that the magic of Siargao continues to shine for generations to come.
