Siargao is known as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, but the island is so much more than its waves. Beyond Cloud 9’s adrenaline-filled lineup, Siargao is a place where lagoons shimmer in emerald green, palm trees sway endlessly on the horizon, and island vibes slow everything down to a pace your heart can finally keep up with. Whether you’re visiting for relaxation, nightlife, nature, or pure adventure, the island has a way of pulling you in and making you fall in love.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the Top 20 Things to Do in Siargao (Besides Surfing) — all crafted to help you experience the island like a true local.
1. Explore Sugba Lagoon
Sugba Lagoon feels like stepping into a world untouched by time. Enclosed by towering limestone cliffs and bordered by thick mangroves, the place radiates serenity from the moment your boat glides into its still waters. It’s the kind of spot where the silence is so calming, you can hear the soft dip of your paddle echoing across the lagoon.
Here, you can paddleboard, kayak, or dive from wooden platforms into cool emerald waters. Many visitors end up spending hours just laying on a board, drifting gently as the sun warms their skin. The lagoon doesn’t push you to rush—its charm lies in inspiring you to slow down and enjoy every second.
2. Go Island Hopping (Naked, Daku & Guyam Island)
No trip to Siargao is complete without the iconic island-hopping trio. Naked Island, a pure sandbar surrounded by impossibly blue waters, is simple yet striking—it’s the kind of beauty that makes you say, “Wow” without thinking. You’ll probably take a hundred photos and still feel like none of them do it justice.
Daku Island offers a more local vibe. Fishermen prepare fresh seafood, kids play along the shore, and long wooden tables wait under the shade for your boodle fight lunch. Guyam Island, meanwhile, is tiny and charming, dotted with coconut trees and surrounded by shallow waters made for long swims. Each island has its own personality, but together, they paint the perfect picture of Siargao’s island life.
3. Swim in Magpupungko Rock Pools
Magpupungko’s natural rock pools appear at low tide like a hidden treasure revealed only for a few hours each day. The water inside the pools is unbelievably clear—you can see the ripples of sand and smooth stones beneath your feet. The sunlight reflects off the surface in a way that makes everything sparkle, almost like floating in a giant natural crystal bowl.
Many travelers come for the thrill of cliff-jumping from the nearby rock formations, while others simply enjoy soaking in the cool water. What makes this place truly unforgettable is how untouched it feels. No photo can ever fully capture the experience of being there at the perfect moment, when the tides give you a glimpse of nature’s artistry.
4. Explore Sohoton Cove (Bucas Grande)
Sohoton Cove is one of the most enchanting places in Siargao. It is located at Bucas Grande Island, Socorro. Entering the cove feels like stepping into a magical world—the water turns a deep turquoise, limestone formations surround you like guardians, and the atmosphere becomes quiet and mystical. It’s the kind of place that makes you whisper without knowing why.
Inside the cove, you’ll explore lagoons, caves, and narrow passages that open up to stunning views. One of the highlights is meeting the stingless jellyfish—gentle, otherworldly creatures you can swim with safely. A day trip here doesn’t just show you beautiful scenery; it gives you an unforgettable experience that feels almost dreamlike.
5. Visit Maasin River & Its Iconic Bent Palm Tree
Maasin River’s bent coconut tree has become one of Siargao’s most photographed spots—and for good reason. Its gentle curve forms the perfect natural swing over calm, green water. It’s impossible not to feel like a kid again as you grab the rope, take a deep breath, and swing into the refreshing river.
Beyond the famous tree, the river itself is peaceful and lined with thick vegetation that almost feels like a scene from a fairytale. Renting a paddleboard or taking a small boat ride lets you explore further into the river’s winding path. The deeper you go, the quieter it becomes, as if the world outside the water doesn’t exist.
6. Bask in the Beauty of Coconut Road
Coconut Road is one of the island’s most iconic views—stretching endlessly through thousands of palm trees, all reaching upward in perfect symmetry. Riding a motorbike down this road is more than just sightseeing; it’s a moment of pure freedom where the wind hits your face, the sun warms your shoulders, and you feel entirely present.
Travelers often stop along the road for photos, and every spot looks like it belongs on a postcard. But the best part is simply taking in the scenery without rushing. In a world full of noise, Coconut Road offers a rare space where everything feels beautifully simple.
7. Chill at Pacifico Beach
If General Luna is the lively heart of Siargao, Pacifico is its peaceful soul. The beach here is wide, quiet, and framed by tall coconut trees swaying gently with the ocean breeze. It’s the kind of place where you can lay your towel down, read a book, fall asleep, and wake up to the sound of waves without realizing how much time has passed.
Many travelers visit Pacifico to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature. The shoreline feels endless, making it perfect for long walks. With fewer people and more open space, the beach invites you to breathe deeper, slow down, and enjoy the island at your own pace.
8. Immerse Yourself in Siargao Nightlife (Bars, Parties & Live Music!)
Siargao’s nightlife is legendary—not because it’s wild, but because it’s fun, social, and incredibly welcoming. The island’s unique “one bar per night” scene rotation means you always know where the crowd is headed, and whether you arrive with friends or alone, you’ll likely leave with new connections by the end of the night.
From live acoustic sessions at Harana to the energetic gatherings at RumBar or the lively beachfront parties at Bravo, the nightlife is as diverse as the travelers who come here. You’ll see people dancing on sand, sharing stories under the stars, and enjoying the carefree island spirit at its best. And the best part? Every night feels different, yet always memorable.
9. Food Trip Around General Luna
The food scene in Siargao can surprise even the most seasoned traveler. With cafés serving smoothie bowls and freshly brewed coffee, local eateries offering seafood straight from the ocean, and restaurants crafting creative dishes inspired by global flavors, every meal feels like a delicious discovery.
Take your time trying different spots—there’s always something new to taste. Whether it’s a juicy burger after a long day of island-hopping or a hearty Filipino meal that reminds you of home, the diversity of flavors adds a comforting and exciting layer to your Siargao adventure.
10. Go on a Land Tour by Motorcycle
Renting a motorbike in Siargao is almost a rite of passage. There’s something liberating about navigating small roads, discovering hidden beaches, and stopping anywhere that catches your eye. The wind, the smell of the ocean, the curious goats along the roads—it’s all part of the island’s charm.
Taking a land tour gives you access to places beyond the usual tourist trail. You might stumble upon a quiet village, meet friendly locals, or find a secret viewpoint with an unforgettable landscape. It’s a reminder that sometimes the journey itself becomes the highlight of the day.
11. Visit Taktak Falls
Located in Santa Monica, Taktak Falls is one of Siargao’s lesser-known gems. The drive alone is an experience, taking you through rural communities and scenic roads lined with coconut trees. Once you arrive, the sound of the cascading water welcomes you into a refreshing escape.
The falls create a cool natural pool where you can swim, relax on rocks, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect antidote to the island’s heat and a great spot for those who want a quiet, nature-filled moment away from the more popular attractions.
12. Try Wakeboarding at Siargao Wake Park
Located in Santa Monica, Taktak Falls is one of Siargao’s lesser-known gems. The drive alone is an experience, taking you through rural communities and scenic roads lined with coconut trees. Once you arrive, the sound of the cascading water welcomes you into a refreshing escape.
The falls create a cool natural pool where you can swim, relax on rocks, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect antidote to the island’s heat and a great spot for those who want a quiet, nature-filled moment away from the more popular attractions.
13. Spend a Slow Morning at Cloud 9 Boardwalk
Cloud 9 isn’t just for surfers. Early in the morning, the boardwalk becomes a peaceful haven where you can watch the sunrise paint the sky in soft pinks and golds. The waves break rhythmically beneath your feet, creating a natural soundtrack that feels almost hypnotic.
It’s one of those rare places where doing nothing feels incredibly fulfilling. Sit on the edge, sip a freshly brewed coffee, or simply close your eyes and listen to the ocean. In Siargao, the simple moments often turn out to be the most memorable.
14. Explore Secret Beaches & Viewpoints
Siargao is full of unnamed beaches and hidden corners waiting to be discovered. These are the places that don’t appear in guides, where the sand is untouched and the only footprints you see are your own. Finding these secret spots makes you feel like the island is revealing its treasures just for you.
The viewpoints scattered around the island are equally stunning. Climbing up a hill and seeing miles of coconut trees stretching out like a green ocean is an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.
15. Go Freediving or Snorkeling
The underwater world around Siargao is just as captivating as the landscapes above. Snorkeling in shallow, clear waters lets you meet colorful fish and see corals up close, while freediving offers a deeper, calmer, almost meditative experience beneath the surface.
These activities give you a new appreciation for the island’s biodiversity. Floating silently underwater, where everything moves slower, is a soothing contrast to the energy of the island’s nightlife and adventures.
16. Take a Yoga or Wellness Class
Yoga in Siargao blends perfectly with the island’s peaceful atmosphere. Studios often hold their sessions outdoors or in open, airy spaces where you can hear birds, feel the breeze, and see the sky change colors as the sun rises or sets.
Whether you’re experienced or just curious, classes here encourage you to reconnect with your body and mind. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down—a balance to the island’s adventures and late-night parties.
17. Visit the Mangrove Forest in Del Carmen
Del Carmen’s mangrove forest is one of the largest in the Philippines, and exploring it feels like entering another world. The dense mangroves create a natural cathedral of greenery, their roots forming intricate patterns that look almost magical when reflected on the water.
Guided boat tours help you appreciate the importance of this ecosystem, while kayaking lets you explore at your own pace. It’s a peaceful, educational experience that deepens your respect for the island’s natural beauty.
18. Shop at Local Boutiques & Souvenir Shops
Siargao’s boutique shops offer more than just souvenirs—they showcase the creativity and passion of local artisans. You’ll find handwoven bags, beach-inspired jewelry, sustainable fashion, and unique art pieces that reflect the island’s soul.
Shopping here feels meaningful because every piece has a story. Whether you’re buying something for yourself or as a gift, you’re bringing home a little reminder of Siargao’s warm, creative spirit.
19. Go for a Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise is the perfect way to end the day. As the boat glides slowly across calm waters, the sky lights up in vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple. The air cools, the world softens, and everything feels beautifully peaceful.
Some cruises come with music, drinks, or floating platforms where you can jump in for a swim. Watching the sun go down from the ocean makes the moment feel both intimate and grand—a memory you’ll carry long after the trip is over.
20. Have a Lazy Day on the Beach
One of the best things about Siargao is that you don’t always need an itinerary. Sometimes, the most memorable moments happen when you do absolutely nothing. Lay on the sand, feel the sun on your skin, listen to the waves, and let time drift by slowly.
These lazy beach days often become the ones travelers remember most. They’re the moments when you connect with the island on a deeper level—not through activities, but through stillness.
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From adventure-packed trips to relaxing escapes, your perfect Siargao experience starts with the right stay—let SiargaoHotels.ph guide the way.
