Siargao isn’t just the surf capital of the Philippines—it’s one of the world’s most beloved surf destinations. With over 20 named breaks and countless unnamed waves, Siargao offers everything from barreling reef breaks to playful longboard waves. The laid-back lifestyle, warm waters, surf infrastructure, and community vibes make it perfect for surfers of all levels. Local culture embraces the surf lifestyle, and you’ll quickly feel part of the scene.
Siargao: The Surfing Capital of the Philippines
Siargao holds the undisputed title of the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, and for good reason. With its consistent waves, welcoming surf culture, and deep connection to both local traditions and international surf communities, it has become the beating heart of surfing in the country.
Located on the eastern edge of the Philippines facing the Pacific Ocean, Siargao catches swells year-round, making it a magnet for surfers from across the globe. What truly sets it apart is the balance between world-class waves like Cloud 9 and more accessible breaks for beginners and intermediates. This inclusivity is what has allowed the island to grow into a surf destination that is not only elite, but also grassroots and community-based.
Local surfers have been the backbone of Siargao’s rise, with many starting as groms riding wooden boards and now becoming surf instructors, competitors, and ambassadors of the island’s wave-rich lifestyle. Events like the Siargao International Surfing Cup, the Grom Series, and the Women’s Cup have helped propel local talent onto international stages while bringing attention and support to the island’s growth.
From sunrise sessions with playful longboard waves to sunset barrels at Cloud 9, Siargao offers a rhythm and pace that only a true surf capital can provide. It’s not just a place to surf—it’s a place to belong.
Cloud 9 is often called the “crown jewel” of Philippine surfing, and for good reason. This globally recognized break is a hollow, right-hand reef break that challenges even the most seasoned surfers. During the peak season, surfers line up as early as sunrise to catch its powerful barrels, especially at mid to high tide. The wave’s shape is influenced by a sharp reef shelf, producing picture-perfect tubes that have graced countless international surf magazines.
Cloud 9 isn’t just about the waves—it’s also a cultural hub. The three-tier wooden viewing deck has become an iconic landmark and a gathering spot for photographers, fans, and surfers alike. Whether you’re paddling out or just soaking in the atmosphere, Cloud 9 is the heartbeat of Siargao’s surf culture.
The annual Siargao International Surfing Cup is held here, attracting the world’s best surfers. The event transforms General Luna into a festival-like atmosphere with live music, food stalls, and local crafts. Even outside of competition season, the break is buzzing with energy year-round.
Variety of Surf Spots for All Skill Levels
What sets Siargao apart from other surf destinations is the incredible variety of surf spots within easy reach. You can find waves suitable for every level of surfer, from beginner-friendly whitewater rollers to advanced reef barrels.
- Beginner-friendly: If you’re just learning, breaks like Jacking Horse, Daku Reef, and Quicksilver are ideal. These spots offer mellow take-offs, long rides, and plenty of room to practice pop-ups and turns. They’re also frequented by surf schools, so there’s a built-in support system.
- Intermediate: Once you’re comfortable catching green waves, head to Tuason Point or Rock Island. These waves are more challenging, with steeper takeoffs and faster shoulders. They provide the perfect conditions to develop carving and trimming techniques.
- Advanced: For thrill-seekers, Cloud 9, Stimpy’s, and Pacifico deliver powerful, barreling waves that demand skill and timing. These breaks can get heavy during big swells, and wipeouts here mean coming into contact with shallow reef—helmets and reef booties are recommended.
Each surf spot in Siargao has its own character. Some are tide-dependent, others work only on certain swell directions. That’s why many surfers return year after year—there’s always something new to discover.
Surfing Competitions and Events
Surf contests in Siargao are more than just surf—they’re cultural events.
- Siargao International Surfing Cup (October): A WSL QS 5000 rated event attracting top talent from around the world.
- Women’s Cup: Highlights female surfers, with rising talents from across the Asia-Pacific.
- Junior Grom Series: Focused on developing young Filipino surfers.
Beyond the beach, these events include food stalls, eco-awareness campaigns, live music, and traditional performances, turning the competitions into week-long festivals.
The Ideal Time to Visit Siargao and Surf
Surfing is possible year-round, but each season offers something different:
- High Season (Sept–Nov): Best swells, offshore winds, advanced breaks like Cloud 9 at their peak.
- Dry Season (Mar–May): Sunny skies, smaller waves, great for beginners and longboarders.
- Rainy Season (Jun–Aug): Mixed conditions, fewer tourists, hidden gems can go off during typhoon swells.
Weather and Climate Considerations
- Average temp: 26–32°C (78–89°F)
- Water temp: Consistently warm (28°C / 82°F)
- Best months: September to May for both swell and weather
While the rainy season brings unpredictable skies, it often means empty lineups and surprise sessions for those willing to wait out short storms.
Exploring Siargao’s Surf Spots
Exploring the island’s coastline is half the adventure. Surfboards strapped to motorbikes are a common sight as surfers venture from spot to spot. With over 20 well-known breaks and dozens more that fire only under certain conditions, Siargao is a paradise for wave explorers.
- Tuason Point: Situated just beyond Cloud 9, Tuason offers a sharp, fast left-hand wave that’s punchy and rewarding. It’s less crowded but more challenging, favored by surfers looking to escape the hustle of Cloud 9.
- Pacifico: Located about an hour’s ride from General Luna, this northern break is a quiet haven. Pacifico is a long, left-hand reef break known for its length and power, attracting advanced surfers and free surfers shooting video segments.
- Stimpy’s & Rock Island: These offshore breaks require a boat ride but deliver some of the cleanest conditions on the island. Stimpy’s is famous for its left-hand barrels, while Rock Island offers peeling rights along a picturesque volcanic islet.
- Giwan: One of Siargao’s “hidden gems,” Giwan has a short, powerful right-hand break that’s especially fun on smaller swells. It’s rarely crowded and great for intermediate surfers looking for something new.
- Secret Spot: As the name implies, this break isn’t easy to find. It works on specific swells and tides, but when it’s on, it can be one of the best uncrowded sessions on the island. Ask your surf instructor or a trusted local for directions.
Surf Schools, Camps, and Accommodations
Siargao offers a vibrant ecosystem of surf schools and camps catering to every type of surfer. Whether you’re learning to pop up for the first time or trying to master deep bottom turns, there’s a tailored experience waiting.
Top Surf Schools and Camps
- Kermit Surf Camp – The island’s most famous surf camp, known for its skilled instructors, curated surf trips, and onsite Italian restaurant. They offer packages that include accommodation, daily lessons, and transport to the best breaks.
- Harana Surf School – Run by locals with a strong emphasis on sustainability, Harana is both a surf school and a cultural center. Their instructors are ISA-certified and they offer surf-and-stay packages that reflect Filipino hospitality.
- Pacifico Surf Camp – For those looking to escape the busy south, this hidden northern gem provides guided access to long, clean left-hand waves. Accommodations are rustic, and the vibe is community-driven.
- Awake Siargao – Combining wellness and surf, this camp offers daily yoga, plant-based meals, and progressive surf coaching. Ideal for solo travelers or anyone seeking rejuvenation.
- Fat Lips Surf School – A great choice for beginners looking for fun and casual group lessons near Cloud 9. Their instructors make sure your first ride is memorable.
All schools provide surfboard rentals, video analysis, and local wave knowledge—a critical advantage in Siargao’s tide-sensitive breaks.
Learning to Surf in Siargao
Siargao is one of the best places in Asia to learn how to surf. With its warm waters, friendly instructors, and forgiving reef setups, beginners can build confidence quickly. Lessons often begin with a land-based introduction to paddling, stance, and safety before moving to the water.
Surf schools typically offer packages such as:
- Intro sessions (1–2 hours)
- Day lessons (with two sessions per day)
- Full surf camps (3–7 days with coaching, meals, and accommodations)
Expect to be guided by locals who know the tides and conditions like the back of their hand. Most packages also include daily transport to the best wave based on your skill level and conditions.
Where to Stay for Surfers
Siargao has something for every budget and surf lifestyle:
Budget:
- Mad Monkey Hostel – Party vibes and community atmosphere. Near Cloud 9.
- Hiraya Surf Hostel – Chill, clean, and great for digital nomads and surf beginners.
Mid-range:
- Bravo Beach Resort – Excellent restaurant and beachfront access. Quiet but central.
- White Banana Beach Club – Minimalist design, Instagram-friendly, great cocktails.
Luxury:
- Isla Cabana Resort – Premium villas and world-class service.
- Nay Palad Hideaway – Ultra-exclusive, all-inclusive with personal guides and private boats.
Tips and Advice for Your Siargao Surf Trip
- Book early: Especially from September to November.
- Bring essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, wax, rash guard, extra fins, booties.
- Respect surf etiquette: Don’t drop in, wait your turn, smile in the lineup.
- Use local guides: They’ll get you to the right breaks at the right tides.
- Go beyond surfing: Explore, connect with locals, and give back to the island.
Getting to Siargao and Transport Options
Getting to Siargao is easier than ever thanks to multiple daily flights and improving infrastructure.
- By air: The fastest and most common way to reach Siargao is by flying into Sayak Airport (IAO). Direct flights are available from Manila, Cebu, and Clark via Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Sunlight Air.
- Via ferry: You can also reach Siargao by ferry from Surigao City. Ferries depart daily and dock at Dapa Port, about 30 minutes from General Luna.
- Getting around: The most popular method of transport is by renting a motorbike (₱400–₱600 per day). Tricycles and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are also common and affordable. Boat charters are essential for reaching remote breaks like Stimpy’s and Rock Island.
Safety and Local Etiquette
Siargao is a welcoming and safe place, but it’s still important to be respectful and mindful of local customs:
- Respect the lineup: Local surfers have priority, especially at breaks like Cloud 9.
- Don’t litter: Help preserve the island’s beauty—dispose of trash responsibly.
- Greetings matter: A smile and “Kumusta” go a long way.
- Dress appropriately: While beachwear is fine near surf spots, be modest in town and villages.
- Support local: Choose local guides, instructors, and restaurants when you can.
Other Attractions and Activities in Siargao
There’s more to Siargao than surfing. Take a break from the waves to enjoy these activities:
- Island Hopping: Join a tour to visit Guyam, Daku, and Naked Island for white sand beaches and crystal waters.
- Sugba Lagoon: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore this turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.
- Maasin River: Swing from a palm tree into the emerald water or drift downstream.
- Tayangban Cave Pool: Swim through underground chambers and freshwater pools.
- Magpupungko Rock Pools: Tide-dependent natural pools perfect for cliff jumping and photography.
Natural Wonders and Island Hopping
The natural beauty of Siargao is among the most impressive in the Philippines. From remote waterfalls to mangrove forests, there’s plenty to explore beyond the beach:
- TakTak Falls: The only waterfall on the island, perfect for a day trip north.
- Del Carmen Mangrove Forest: One of the largest in the country—book a boat tour or kayak through its waterways.
- Naked Island: A stark, stunning sandbar surrounded by deep blue water.
- Daku Island: Enjoy fresh grilled seafood and nap in a hammock between surfs.
- Guyam Island: Small but scenic, ideal for sunset picnics.
Food, Restaurants, and Nightlife
After a full day of surfing, Siargao’s food scene is ready to refuel you. The island offers everything from local Filipino dishes to global cuisine:
Restaurants
- Kermit Siargao – The go-to for pizza and pasta after a surf.
- Shaka Café – Health-conscious smoothie bowls and great coffee.
- Cev Cev – Peruvian flavors in a casual, oceanfront setting.
- La Carinderia – Local Filipino-Italian fusion with handmade pasta.
- Bravo – Spanish tapas and beachfront ambiance.
Nightlife
- RumBar – Reggae and dancing with strong cocktails.
- Loose Keys – A hidden bar with live music and indie crowds.
- Harana – Surf-inspired social spot with fire shows and DJs.
Voices from the Island: Interviews & Stories
Miguel Santos (Local Surf Coach): “Surfing gave me purpose. I teach kids who’ve never even touched a board. When they ride their first wave, that smile—it’s the best reward.”
Jane Reyes (2024 Women’s Cup Champion): “It’s not just about the win. It’s about representing my home on a global stage.”
Matt from Australia: “I came for a week, stayed for two months. Siargao changed how I look at travel—and at surfing.”Sofia from Sweden: “I learned more about myself through surfing and yoga here than I ever did back home.”