Island Life Travel Guide: Siargao Trip Essentials
August 29, 2024 – by: Gracey Generale, Founder & Travel Consultant – Tita of Ubec Island Life Travel & Tours
Planning Your Trip to Siargao?
You’re in for a treat! Siargao is an island paradise known for its world-famous surf spot-Cloud 9, pristine natural beauty, white sand beaches, vibrant surf culture, and welcoming locals. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone looking to unwind, Siargao has something for everyone! Here’s everything you need to know to make your Siargao trip smooth and unforgettable.
Getting There: Air or Sea?
There are two main ways to reach Siargao from Cebu: by air or by ferry.Flying is the quickest option, with daily flights departing from Mactan-Cebu International Airport. In just an hour, you’ll land at Del Carmen Airport in Siargao, ready to explore the island’s beauty. Flights typically range from $50 to $200, depending on when you book.
Check Flight Details here:
1. 12go.asia
2. Select Sunlight Air, Philippine Airlines or Cebu Paciic.
Note:
From Siargao’s Del Carmen Airport, you can take a shared minivan to General Luna, the main tourist area, for around ₱300-400 ($5-7). For a more traditional experience, a tricycle (Tuktuk Cab) will cost around ₱500-600 ($8-10).
Ferry travel offers a more scenic and budget-friendly alternative. The journey is longer, but if you’re up for an adventure, it’s worth it. I personally took this option. Here’s how you can go about it:
1. Cebu to Surigao
Two ferry companies operate this route—Starlite Ferries and Cokaliong. I chose Starlite Ferries, departing at 9:00 PM and arriving in Surigao at 7:00 AM the next day. The fare was ₱1,200 ($21-22) for a reclining seat. The journey was comfortable, with air-conditioned reclining chairs, a canteen onboard, and calm seas.
Steps:
- Book your ticket online via 12go.asia or Chelsea Travel, or visit their office near Pier 4, Cebu Port.
- Arrive at Pier 3, Cebu Sea Port 1-2 hours ahead for check-in and to pay the terminal fee of ₱25 ($0.44).
- Note: Bring your printed ticket, ID, and cash (for the terminal fee & onboard purchases).
- Boarding typically starts around 7:40 PM, with a free shuttle taking you to the ferry.
2. Surigao to Siargao (Dapa Port):
Once you arrive in Surigao, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the Globalport Terminal to purchase a ferry ticket & pay the terminal fee ₱30. The ferry to Dapa Siargao costs ₱400 ($7-8) and takes about two hours. I opted for the 8:30 AM ferry and arrived in Siargao by late morning, ready to soak in the island vibes.
Cebu to Surigao Ferry Schedule and Rates:
- Starlite Ferries – ₱1400 ($24) Daily (Monday to Sunday), 9:00 PM 10 hours
- Cokaliong – ₱2700 ($47) Monday to Saturday, 7:00 PM 8 hours
Note: Both ferries go to Surigao. From Surigao, take another ferry to Dapa (Siargao’s port).
Accommodation in General Luna
Siargao offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. In General Luna, the heart of the island’s tourist scene, you’ll find everything from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts.
Budget-Friendly:
- Katana Siargao – Address: Purok 5, General Luna. Rates: ₱800-₱1,500/night ($14-26)
Click the link below to book: https://www.booking.com/Share-X6W7a1
Siargao offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget. In General Luna, the heart of the island’s tourist scene, you’ll find everything from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts.
Budget-Friendly:
- Katana Siargao – Address: Purok 5, General Luna. Rates: ₱800-₱1,500/night ($14-26)
- Malinao Homestay – Address: Malinao Road, General Luna. Rates: ₱1,000-₱1,500/night ($18-27)
- Yes Surf Siargao – Address: Purok 2, General Luna. Rates: ₱900-₱1,200/night ($16-21)
- Goodlife Siargao – Address: Catangnan, General Luna. Rates: ₱1,200-₱1,800/night ($21-32)
- Happiness Hostel – Address: Tourism Road, General Luna. Rates: ₱600-₱1,000/night ($11-18)
- Pore’s Homestay – Address: Purok 3, General Luna. Rates: ₱800-₱1,300/night ($14-23)
Mid-Range:
- Latitude 10 Siargao – Address: Malinao Road, General Luna. Rates: ₱3,500-₱5,000/night ($63-90)
- Ohana Resort – Address: Catangnan, General Luna. Rates: ₱3,000-₱4,500/night ($54-81)
- Soultribe Beach Retreat – Address: Malinao, General Luna. Rates: ₱4,000-₱6,000/night ($72-108)
- Ocean9 Villas & Cabanas – Address: Cloud 9, General Luna. Rates: ₱3,800-₱5,500/night ($68-99)
High-End/Luxury:
- Nay Palad Hideaway – Address: Malinao, General Luna. Rates: ₱30,000-₱50,000/night ($540-900)
- Kaimana Resort – Address: Tuason Point, General Luna. Rates: ₱15,000-₱25,000/night ($270-450)
- Maison Bukana – Address: Pilar, Siargao. Rates: ₱20,000-₱35,000/night ($360-630)
- Daluyong Beach Resort – Address: Malinao, General Luna. Rates: ₱10,000-₱20,000/night ($180-360)
Pro Tip:
-
These places are in high demand, so it’s best to book in advance for the best prices and availability.
Must-Do Activities
Once you’re settled in, it’s time to explore. Here are some must-do activities in Siargao:
- 1. Island Hopping: Visit Daku Island, Guyam Island, and Naked Island + Snorkeling on Secret Island.
Rate: ₱1,299/head ($23-24)- Siargao Island Hopping
- Guyam Island
- Daku Island
- Naked Island
- Secret Island
- Daku Island
- Daku Island
- PHP 1299/head (23-24 USD) – BOOK NOW! (Rate exclusive for Tita of Ubec- Island Life Travel & Tours)
- Inclusion:
- Free Drone Shot (Island Tour/ Land Tour)
- Boodle Fight Lunch
- Admission Fees Paid
- Entrances
- Docking Fee
- Tour guide Fee
- Boat Fee
- Free pick up and drop off to Hotel
- Inclusion:
- 2. Sohoton Cove Tour: Explore the enchanting caves and lagoons. Rate: ₱2,699/head ($48-50)
- Sohoton Tour:
- Sohoton Cave
- Jellyfish sanctuary
- Magkukuob Cave Diving
- Hagucan Cave
- Dagatan Bay Resort
- Cliff Diving
- 2,699/head (Promo Rate exclusive for Tita of Ubec- Island Life Travel & Tours)
- Sohoton Tour:
- 3. Land Tours: Check out Maasin River, Coconut View Deck, Magpupungko Rockpool, and Sugba Lagoon.
Rate: ₱1,799/head ($32-34)- Land Tour:
- Secret Beach
- Coconut MountainView
- Maasin River
- Sugba Lagoon
- Magpupungko
- 1799/head (Promo Rate exclusive for Tita of Ubec- Island Life Travel & Tours)
- Land Tour:
- 4. Surfing: Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Siargao’s surf spots like Cloud 9, Guiuan, Ocean9, Pacifico and Tuason’s Point won’t disappoint.
Note: We have surfing instructors available for bookings.
- 5. Sunset Chill: Head to Afam Bridge for a laid-back sunset experience and mingle with tourists and locals.
- Food & Nightlife: You can find local and international cuisines in General Luna. For budget-friendly meals, try Kurvada or Derecho. Don’t miss the party scene at spots like Siargao Beach Club (SBC), Harana, and Happiness Bar.
- 8. Siargao Wakeboarding: If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, wakeboarding in Siargao is a must-try! The island’s calm lagoons and stunning scenery make it the perfect backdrop for this thrilling water sport.
Head over to Siargao Wakepark in General Luna, where both beginners and seasoned wakeboarders can enjoy gliding across the water. The park offers top-notch facilities, including cable systems for all skill levels, rental equipment, and expert instructors to guide you. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or perfecting your tricks, wakeboarding in Siargao is a fantastic way to experience the island’s adventurous side.
- Location: Siargao Wakepark, General Luna
- Rates: ₱1,000 ($18) for a 2-hour session, including equipment rental.
- Tip: The best time to go is early morning or late afternoon when the water is calm, and the lighting is perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots!
- 9. Yoga & Fitness: Find your zen in General Luna at places like Tawhay Siargao.
- 10. Vibe with Locals! One of the best ways to truly experience Siargao is by connecting with the island’s warm and welcoming locals. Siargao has a vibrant community known for its laid-back lifestyle and strong sense of camaraderie.
Here are a few ways to immerse yourself in the local culture:
Visit Local Markets: Head to General Luna Public Market or the smaller neighborhood markets to explore local produce, fresh seafood, and artisanal products. It’s a great place to practice a few phrases in the local dialect, Surigaonon, and engage in friendly conversations with vendors.
- Attend a Local Festival: If your visit coincides with a local festival like the Siargao Surfing Festival or the Siargao It Up cultural event, don’t miss the chance to join the festivities. These events are filled with music, dance, and traditional rituals that showcase the island’s rich heritage.
- Join a Community Event: Many hostels and resorts organize beach clean-ups, tree-planting activities, and other community-driven events where you can volunteer and meet locals who are passionate about preserving Siargao’s natural beauty.
Additional Tips: How to Spend Smart in Siargao
- Affordable Homestay or Rooms: You can find many options in General Luna. Connect with us for bookings.
- Cheaper Tour Offers: Direct booking with us ensures you get the best deals and trusted guides.
- Rent a Motorbike: Costs ₱300-400 ($5-7) for 24 hours. Book with us!
- Rent a Tuktuk: Perfect for families; costs ₱1,000-1,500 ($18-27) per day. Book with us!
- Pack Your Essentials: Be prepared for adventure with essentials like sunglasses, oils & sunscreen, flip-flops, and swimming gear.
Siargao is a place where time slows down, and every moment is an opportunity to connect with nature, new friends, and yourself. Whether you’re surfing the waves, exploring hidden gems, or simply soaking in the island vibes, Siargao is a destination that will capture your heart and soul. Looking forward to hearing about your unforgettable Siargao adventure!
Looking forward to hearing about your unforgettable Siargao adventure!
To book your Cebu to Siargao tour packages, contact us at:
Tita of Ubec – Island Life Travel & Tours
📞 +63 96 6065 8861 (WhatsApp) / +63 96 2746 3660
📧 Email: info@titaofubec.com | travel@titaofubec.com
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