Do you ever wonder why Siargao Island has suddenly become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines? Plan your vacation in Siargao and see why tourists never get tired of falling in love with this famous surfing spot in the Philippines. Since planning for a trip can be hard, especially if it is your first time, we made this travel guide for you. In this guide, you will know the best time to visit Siargao, getting around the island and the best places to stay. Read this travel guide until the end to plan your perfect getaway with your friend, loved one, or co-workers
Understanding Siargao
Unlike other famous large beaches in the Philippines, Siargao is just a small island in the shape of a teardrop that is situated on the northeastern coast of Mindanao. It is known as the surfing capital of the Philippines. In the year 2019, it is awarded as the Best Island in the World.
Probably the most famous spot in Siargao is Cloud 9, which is the surfing area. This is the reason why Siargao instantly became popular among international travelers. Also, the waves are perfect. Even for people who are not fond of surfing and just want to look for the best swimming destination, Siargao is the place to be.
This hidden gem on the northern coast of Mindanao has powdery white sand beaches, spectacular islands, turquoise blue with a shade of green waters. These make it perfect for snorkeling and diving. Moreover, it has jaw-dropping waterfalls and Lagoons. Even if you decided to stay for a couple of weeks, you will never run out of stuff to do. Most importantly, you will not get tired of such a beautiful island.
In addition to that, the restaurants in Siargao island offer the best tasting local and international cuisine at any time of the day. Also, General Luna is the most popular place to stay in Siargao.
Best Time to Visit Siargao Island
Siargao Island is accessible throughout the year. Thus, if you are planning a beach lounging or island hopping, anytime would be great. On the other hand, if your purpose is surfing, the best time to visit Siargao is between July to December. It is because this is the best time when the waves are perfect for swimming. In addition to that, you might want to book your flight and accommodation earlier because it is the peak season. Hundreds of travelers would want to experience Siargao despite the huge number of travelers.
If you are a non-surfer, the best time to visit Siargao is during the dry season. Unless you want to turn your beach trip to a staycation in your room.
* The best time to visit Siargao: Surfing Season
The surfing season in Siargao is normally between the months of July to November. It is during these months when the waves are best to ride. Moreover, every September the yearly Siargao International Surfing Cup is conducted. You may want to consider booking your trip in September to witness the best of best when it comes to surfing.
* The Best time to visit Siargao: Dry Season
Even if your purpose in visiting Siargao is not surfing, you must still consider going during dry season. The dry season is around the months of March to September. Also, it is during this time when the sun is out, making it perfect for island hopping or beach lounging.
Aside from that, these are the months when there is little to no rainfall. Hence, you will be able to make the most of your water activities. There are plenty of jaw-dropping islands in Siargao, so make sure to book an island hopping tour.
Climate and Weather
There are some travelers who don’t even consider the weather. It is because the truth is, the temperature in Siargao differs a little in the whole year. The driest season is the month of May, and during that month the temperature is at 32°C. On the other hand, the coolest month of the year has a temperature of 24°C-29°C.
When going to Siargao, always expect rainfall at any month. However, the month of May receives the least rainfall. The month with the most rainfall is January. Hence, if you are planning to have fun at the beach under the sun or go island hopping, do not go during that month.
What to Wear in Siargao
Siargao is an island in the Philippines with plenty of beaches. That said, your purpose of going to Siargao is probably to go surfing or beachin’. It is perfect to bring light clothes, especially during the dry season. Bring enough sunscreen, slippers, shades, goggles, and other swimming aids. If you are planning to go surfing, make sure to wear comfortable clothes, such as a rush guard.
Whether you are going to visit Siargao during the dry season or surfing season, always bring an umbrella with you. It is not only because of the sudden rainfall but to protect you from too much heat of the sun.
Getting Around Siargao
Once you arrived in Siargao, there are actually plenty of transportation options to get around the place. There are habal-habal, tricycles, and jeepneys. Aside from these public transportation vehicles, there also private vehicles such as cars that you can rent.
Depending on where you book accommodation, how long are you staying, and your budget, it is important to take note of the following types of transportation:
*Habal Habal
To those who are not familiar with the term habal-habal, it is a motorcycle you can ride or drive yourself. In Siargao, habal-habal are everywhere especially if you are on a small island. They are convenient, less expensive, and will take you in your destination much faster. Because of the size of the vehicle, they will get to avoid traffic.
Habal-habal is the most popular mode of transportation in Siargao. Whether it is the best time to visit Siargao or not, there are always habal habal almost everywhere. On the off chance, you have not tried riding one, you should try it too. According to the people who have tried it before, it was quite an adventure.
*Renting a Small Multicab
Aside from habal -habal, there are also multi-cab that you can rent. This is the best vehicle to rent if you are going in a group of 3-5. There are also vans but it may not be practical. While multi-cabs are suitable, make sure to look for affordable ones. It is because the rental fee for some multicabs is too expensive.
Aside from that, another good thing about multi-cabs is are convenient and provides comfort as that of a van. Moreover, it is also exciting to experience riding an open-air vehicle while observing the place and the culture. If there is someone in the group who knows how to drive a multi-cab, then you can just ren the vehicle without the driver. With this vehicle, you get to tour the town of your own and visit any places you like.
*Van or Car Rental
If you are visiting Siargao in a bigger group and you are planning to visit other islands in Siargao, a van or car rental is the best option. You can choose to rent a van or car with a driver or not. We recommend renting the vehicle with driver because they can also serve as your tour guide. Moreover, since it is their job to drive with tourists, they know the best places to visit. Apart from that, they know the right directions so you do not need to worry about getting lost.
Most of the car and van drivers in Siargao would already be happy with a tip from you. On the off chance, you arrive in Siargao through plane, you will land in Sayak Airport in Del Carmen. For you to get to General Luna, you can rent a van or car parked outside the airport. If you are only 3-5 travelers in the group, you can share the van with travelers bound to General Luna.
*Tricycle
Tricycles are like motorcycles but there is an attached sidecar to it. The sidecar can carry 2-3 passengers only. Aside from multi-cab, the tricycle is also an exciting way to explore the island and other scenic places it has to offer. Since a tricycle is an open-air vehicle, it can be exciting.
Similar to the previous modes of transportation, you can find tricycles everywhere. Also, you have an option to choose between a taxicab or just a regular vehicle. The former will take to popular tourist spots in Siargao, it is also called a “special trip”. It will also last a whole day so it is also worth your money. At the same time, you get to experience a different kind of tour because you are riding at the tricycle. It will feel like you just in a province but a more magnificent one with several amazing spots.
Where to Stay in Siargao?
Now that you have an idea when is the perfect time to visit Siargao and at the same time the modes of transportation, you also need to know where is the best place to stay.
If you are on a budget, the hostels and lodgings in Siargao are your best option. If you are travelling with your friends and family, opt for private rooms at reasonable price. On the other hand, if you are willing to pay for luxury places, there are also several lavish resorts in Siargao. As you can see, it all depends on your budget and the number of travelers in your group.
*Types of Accommodations
Depending on your budget, it is important to look for the best accommodation for you. Below are some of the common places to stay in Siargao. Make sure to check if these places can accommodate the number of people you are going with.
*Hostels and homestays
You can find a substantial number of hostels on the island. For budget travelers, this one is the best choice. Not only because of the low priced rates, but it is also a great way to meet other travelers.
Siargao hostels provide budget-friendly dorm-type rooms and even single/double rooms with either a shared or own comfort room. Aside from that, they normally have a common area where you can socialize with other travelers.
Aside from hostels, homestays are also popular. As the name implies, you will stay in the home of a local.
*Beach Resorts
The majority of Siargao travelers prefer beach resorts. Beach resorts are perfect for people who have enough budget for accommodation and those who prefer for an easy access to the beach. Also, take note that beach resorts in Siargao are also surf resorts.
What is great about beach resorts is that they have surfing facilities and offer surfing courses.
*Hotels
On the off chance, you are searching for a private and comfy place to say, hotels might be your best choice. Hotels in general provide private rooms with great quality beds and amenities. Moreover, you will also have access to free wife, pool (in some hotels), and free foods.
Although not all hotels in Siargao are beachfront, some are only located a few meters from the beach.
*General Luna
If you are after fun, excitement, and places with several travelers, this is the best option for you. General Luna is where most of fun activities happen. Also, it is where the famous Cloud 9 is situated. This surfing spot has a spectacularly lively night scene. That being said, it is not a surprise that most travelers prefer to book a place in General Luna.
Final Words
Explore the wonders of Siargao and have a blast with your travel buddies by planning carefully your perfect trip. Siargao island has a lot of beautiful places to offer so make sure that you will visit those places. In addition to that, knowing the best month to go to Siargao is very important in having the best beach or surf trip of your life. Use this travel guide when planning your Siargao trip for a one of a kind experience.
