While Siargao is world-renowned as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” you don’t need to touch a surfboard to fall in love with this teardrop-shaped island. Beyond the legendary swell of Cloud 9, Siargao offers a laid-back tropical lifestyle, crystal-clear lagoons, and one of the most vibrant social scenes in Southeast Asia.

Best island hopping experiences in the Philippines, our recommendations >>

The Land of Palms and Inland Wonders

If you aren’t planning to surf, heading into the heart of the island is the best way to see the “Isle of Palms.” The landscape changes beautifully as you leave the coast and enter a world of millions of coconut trees. To see these sights at your own pace, you can easily rent a motorbike or hire a local tricycle driver to take you on a scenic trip north from General

• The Coconut Road: Cruise down the Siargao Mountain View, a straight stretch of highway flanked by thousands of palm trees. It’s the ultimate spot for that iconic “sea of coconuts” photo.

• Maasin River: Stop by this peaceful waterway to try the famous bent-palm tree swing. Local guides can help you climb the tree for a thrilling jump into the cool river water.

• Sugba Lagoon: Located in the town of Del Carmen, this vast network of turquoise waterways is surrounded by limestone mountains. It is a playground for non-surfers, you can rent a paddleboard, go kayaking, or test your courage on the famous wooden diving board.

• Magpupungko Rock Pools: During low tide, the receding ocean reveals natural tidal pools that are as clear as glass. It’s a natural infinity pool perfect for a relaxing swim.

The Social Hub: General Luna

General Luna is the heartbeat of the island, where the “island vibe” meets modern comfort.

• The Cafe Scene: Siargao has evolved into a legitimate foodie destination. Spend your afternoons café-hopping—you’ll find everything from world-class shaka bowls and artisanal coffee to authentic Italian gelato.

• Sunset Rituals: You don’t have to surf to enjoy Cloud 9. Walk the iconic wooden boardwalk during sunset to watch the pros catch waves as the sky turns shades of pink and orange.

• Nightlife and Community: As the sun sets, the island transitions into a hub of live music, art pop-ups, and beachfront dinners. The community here is incredibly welcoming, making it easy for solo travelers to make friends over a local craft beer.

Read our guide on solo female travel in the Philippines >>

Explore the Outlying Islands

While the mainland of Siargao is famous for its palm trees and lagoons, the best way to experience the “hidden” side of the region is by boat. Just a short ride from the shores of General Luna lies a collection of small islands, each offering a different slice of paradise. From wide-open sandbars to lush, palm-covered hideaways, these islands are where you will find the most pristine white sands and the clearest turquoise waters in the Philippines.

Hopping between these islands is the quintessential Siargao experience for non-surfers. It’s less about chasing waves and more about embracing the slow, sun-drenched pace of island life.

Naked Island

Don’t let the name surprise you—Naked Island is named for its simplicity. It is a completely bare, white sandbar that disappears and reappears with the tide. There are no trees, no buildings, and no places to hide from the sun, making it a minimalist’s dream. It is the perfect spot for travelers who want to feel completely immersed in the ocean. The water here is shallow and incredibly clear, allowing you to walk far out into the reef or take panoramic photos with nothing but the blue horizon behind you.

Daku Island

Daku is the largest of the three islands and usually the favorite for many travelers. Unlike the others, it is home to a small, welcoming fishing community. “Daku” means “big” in the local dialect, and the island lives up to its name with a long stretch of beach lined with towering coconut trees and cozy wooden huts.

This is where the social magic happens. Because of its size and shade, it serves as the perfect midday stop. You can spend your time swimming in the gentle waves, playing a game of beach volleyball with the locals, or simply exploring the village paths. It offers a wonderful balance of natural beauty and local culture.

Guyam Island

Guyam Island is a tiny, circular oasis that looks like something straight out of a movie. It is small enough that you can walk around the entire island in just a few minutes, yet it is packed with tropical charm. Covered in a dense cluster of coconut palms and surrounded by a coral reef, it offers plenty of shade and quiet corners.

It is the ultimate place to unwind at the end of the day. You’ll find hammocks swung between trees and beach chairs scattered along the sand. There is even a small shack where you can grab a fresh fruit shake or a cold drink, making it the perfect spot to sit back and appreciate the silence of the sea.

Explore the Islands with Us

If you want to see all three of these spots without the hassle of negotiating with boatmen or organizing your own food, our Siargao Island Hopping: Tri-Island Tour is the perfect solution. We’ve designed this tour specifically for travelers who want a relaxing, high-quality day on the water.

• Door-to-Door Service: We take the stress out of logistics by providing convenient pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in General Luna.

• The “Boodle Fight” Experience: On Daku Island, we host a traditional Filipino Boodle Fight lunch. This is a communal feast where fresh seafood, grilled meats, rice, and tropical fruits are served on long banana leaves, it’s the most authentic way to eat in the Philippines!

• All-Inclusive Comfort: We provide the boat, the guide, and the gear so you can focus entirely on the scenery.

Learn more and book your Siargao Tri-Island Tour here >>

 

FAQ

Is it easy to get around Siargao if I don’t ride a motorbike?

Yes, it is. While motorbikes are popular, you can easily find “tricycles” (local motorized rickshaws) in General Luna that can take you to most tourist spots. For longer day trips to the north, you can also hire a private car with a driver if you prefer more comfort and air conditioning.

When is the best time to visit Siargao for non-surfers?

The best time for calm waters and sunny skies is during the dry season, from March to September. This is when the lagoons and rock pools are at their clearest. If you visit during the peak surfing months (August to November), you can still enjoy the island, but expect more wind and occasional rain.

What should I bring for a day of island hopping?

Since Naked Island offers no shade, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and a rash guard are essential. We also recommend bringing a dry bag for your phone and camera, as well as snorkeling gear if you want to explore the reefs around Guyam and Daku.

Are there ATMs in General Luna?

There are several ATMs in General Luna now, but they can sometimes run out of cash or go offline. It is always a good idea to bring enough Philippine Pesos from the mainland or Cebu/Manila to cover your small daily expenses and tips.