Let’s talk about Tuason Point, an amazing surfing spot located in Siargao, Philippines. Unlike the busy Cloud 9, Tuason Point provides a more relaxed atmosphere and excellent wave conditions. If you’re searching for a unique surfing experience away from tourist crowds, Tuason Point may just be your ideal spot to ride some waves.
How to Get to Tuason Point
Reaching Tuason Point is quite simple. Start from General Luna, which serves as the main tourist hub in Siargao. The most convenient option is to rent a motorbike, the preferred mode of transport for many in Siargao. Renting a motorbike usually costs between PHP 350-500 (around USD 7-10) per day, depending on the rental shop and the type of bike. Feel free to negotiate the price a bit! The journey takes roughly 30-45 minutes from General Luna, taking the main road toward Pilar. As you get closer to Pilar, look for signs directing you to Tuason Point, or just ask the friendly locals for directions. They’re usually more than happy to help. You will need to turn left off the main road at an unmarked spot and follow a dirt track path that leads you directly to Tuason Point.
The Surfing Adventure at Tuason Point
Tuason Point offers a range of waves suitable for surfers who are intermediate to advanced. The waves are primarily long, mellow rights, which are wonderful for practicing turns and carving skills. While these waves might not be as intense as those found at Cloud 9, Tuason Point’s waves tend to be more forgiving, making it an ideal spot to enhance your surfing abilities. The prime time to surf here is during the southwest monsoon season (known as Habagat), which typically spans from April to October. During this time, the swells arrive consistently, and the wind conditions are most favorable. Even outside this season, you can still find good waves, but they may be less frequent.
What’s more delightful about Tuason Point is that it usually has fewer surfers, particularly on weekdays. This means you can enjoy more space in the line-up and not have to compete for every wave. The vibe at Tuason is casual and laid-back, fostering a strong sense of community among local surfers. Make sure to follow the surf etiquette: wait for your turn, avoid dropping in on others, and remain mindful of your surroundings to keep everyone safe and happy.
What to Expect at Tuason Point
Tuason Point is a bit more rustic when compared to the more polished tourist areas around General Luna. Do not expect any extravagant restaurants or beach clubs here. Instead, look for small local eateries, commonly called “carinderias,” where you can find simple yet delicious Filipino dishes. A standard meal, often consisting of rice with meat or vegetables, typically costs around PHP 100-200 (USD 2-4). There are also a few small shops where you can purchase drinks and snacks. If you plan on spending the entire day at Tuason Point, remember to bring your own water and sunscreen, as these conveniences are quite limited.
The beach itself features a mixture of sand and coral, so wearing reef shoes is recommended to protect your feet. There are a few shaded areas, but they might be scarce, making it difficult to find a place to escape the sun. Bringing an umbrella or a beach towel for shade could be very helpful. Additionally, there aren’t any public restrooms or showers at Tuason Point, so you’ll have to plan ahead for that. If you need to use a facility, you might be able to ask at nearby houses or small businesses.
Where to Stay Near Tuason Point
While Tuason Point itself doesn’t have many lodging options directly on-site, you can find several guesthouses and homestays a little farther away in the nearby village of Pilar. These accommodations are usually more affordable compared to the hotels available in General Luna, with typical prices ranging from PHP 800-1500 (approximately USD 16-30) per night for a basic room. Staying in Pilar lets you experience a more genuine side of Siargao, far removed from the typical tourist crowds. However, if you prefer a greater choice of accommodation options along with additional amenities, it may be better to stay in General Luna and enjoy day trips out to Tuason Point.
In General Luna, you can find a wide range of accommodation choices, from budget-friendly hostels to more luxurious resorts. Prices can vary largely based on the type of lodging and the season. During peak tourist times, you might see a significant price increase. Some well-regarded places to stay include Harana Surf Resort, known for its surf camp ambiance, and Greenhouse, which offers a terrific eco-friendly setting. Staying in General Luna also provides easy access to various surf spots, restaurants, and nightlife options.
Other Activities Near Tuason Point
Outside of surfing, there are plenty of other activities available near Tuason Point. You can take a trip to the Magpupungko Rock Pools, a stunning natural tidal pool that’s perfect for swimming and exploration during low tide. The entrance fee is just PHP 50 (about USD 1). Magpupungko is roughly a 30-minute drive away from Tuason Point. Another option is to explore the neighboring villages for a glimpse of local life. The area is dotted with breathtaking beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. A day trip to Pacifico Beach is also worth considering; it’s known for its strong waves and chilled atmosphere.
If island hopping excites you, consider booking a tour from General Luna, which takes you to nearby islands like Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. These beautiful destinations flaunt pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and amazing snorkeling opportunities. The typical cost for an island-hopping tour ranges from PHP 1,500-2,000 (USD 30-40) per person, which usually includes lunch and transportation.
A Day at Tuason: My Experience
I had a fantastic time at Tuason Point during my visit. I kicked off my day early in the morning, rented a motorbike in General Luna (costing me PHP 400), and made my way up to Pilar. On the way, I stopped at a local bakery to grab some pandesal (delicious Filipino bread rolls) and coffee. After that, I continued down the dirt road leading to the beach. The waves were just right for practicing my turns, and there was hardly anyone around. I spent a solid couple of hours riding waves, followed by some relaxation on the beach with a fresh coconut that I bought from a nearby vendor for PHP 50. For lunch, I savored adobo (a traditional Filipino dish made of braised meat in soy sauce and vinegar) with rice at a small carinderia for PHP 150. The overall atmosphere was beautifully chill and inviting. I highly recommend Tuason Point to anyone seeking a less crowded and more genuine surfing experience in Siargao.
Essential Things to Bring
Before heading out to Tuason Point, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen – the sun in Siargao can be quite strong! A rash guard is also a good idea to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent chafing from your surfboard. Reef shoes are key for navigating the coral beach safely. Don’t forget to bring your water and snacks, as the options for food and drink are limited at Tuason Point. A towel is helpful for drying off after surfing or swimming, and of course, remember your camera to capture the stunning scenery around you!
FAQ About Tuason Point
What is the best time of year to surf at Tuason Point?
The prime time to surf at Tuason Point is during the southwestern monsoon season, known as Habagat, which runs typically from April to October. During this period, the swells come in steadily, and the winds are favorable for surfing.
Is Tuason Point suitable for beginner surfers?
Generally, Tuason Point caters more to intermediate and advanced surfers due to the power of the waves. However, beginners can enjoy the beach and the relaxed vibe, and there are some smaller waves closer to the shore that may be suitable for practice.
How much does it cost to rent a surfboard at Tuason Point?
Surfboard rentals are available in General Luna, and some shops even offer delivery of boards to Tuason Point itself. You can expect to pay around PHP 300-500 (USD 6-10) for a surfboard rental per day.
Are there any restaurants or shops at Tuason Point?
A few small local eateries (carinderias) serve simple Filipino food, along with some shops that sell drinks and snacks. However, since options are limited, it’s a good practice to bring your own water and sunscreen.
Is there accommodation available at Tuason Point?
Accommodation options at Tuason Point itself are limited, but you can find a few guesthouses and homestays in the nearby village of Pilar. Alternatively, staying in General Luna with day trips to Tuason Point is a good option.
How far is Tuason Point from General Luna?
Tuason Point is located about 30-45 minutes away from General Luna by motorbike.
Is it safe to swim at Tuason Point?
You can swim at Tuason Point; however, it is advisable to exercise caution due to the waves and the presence of coral reefs. Always be aware of the currents and swim in designated areas when possible.
Are there any ATMs near Tuason Point?
There are no ATMs available directly at Tuason Point or in Pilar. The nearest ATMs can be found in General Luna, so it’s vital to bring enough cash for your visit.
