Siargao, the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” is a tropical paradise that offers an unparalleled island life experience. With its pristine beaches, world-class surf breaks, and lush natural landscapes, it’s no wonder that Siargao has become one of the best places to visit in the Philippines. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this idyllic island has something for everyone.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Siargao 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Resort: Nay Palad Hideaway
- 🏨 Budget Hotels: Siargao Island Villas
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Bulan Villas Siargao
- 🛏️ Eco Lodge: Kalinaw Resort
6 Areas Where to Stay in Siargao: Finding Your Perfect Island Escape ☀️
- 🏄♂️ For Surfers: General Luna
- 🌴 For Seekers of Serenity: Malinao
- ⛵ For Island Tour Enthusiasts: Del Carmen
- 🏖 For Nature Lovers: Pacifico/San Isidro
- 🧘♀️ For Those Seeking Total Seclusion: Burgos/Santa Monica
- ⚓ For Island Hoppers: Sohoton Cove
1. General Luna – Surfing Capital of the Philippines ⛱️
🏄♂️ Surfer’s Paradise: If you’re a surfer, General Luna is definitely where you want to plant yourself. It’s the perfect base to easily access not just Cloud 9, but all the island’s best surf spots. We’re talking epic waves at spots like Daku Island and Guyam Island that you can easily hit up on an island hopping tour right from General Luna.
🏄♂️ Surf Town: General Luna is a lively surf town that literally pulses with energy and passion for surfing. Located on the western coast of the island, it has become world-famous thanks to the legendary Cloud 9 surf break.
🌊 Epic Waves: Watching experienced surfers conquer the barreling waves of Cloud 9 is truly a breathtaking sight. These powerful tubular waves, forming over a coral reef, attract surfers from all over the world eager to test their skills. The best time for surfing here is from October to May, when the waves peak.
🏄 Surf Culture: In General Luna, surfing is not just a sport, but a whole lifestyle. The laid-back surf town atmosphere is palpable everywhere – from beach bars with reggae music to shops selling surf gear. After a session on the waves, many surfers gather at Harana Surf Resort to swap stories and enjoy a refreshing beer.
🎢 Entertainment: But General Luna is about more than just surfing. There’s plenty to do for those who don’t surf as well. Be sure to visit the unique skate park, where you can watch local kids masterfully ride their boards. Stroll through the night market to sample delicious street food and buy handmade souvenirs.
🏖️ Beaches and Sunsets: General Luna is surrounded by stunning white sand beaches, many of which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing when you’re not surfing. Coconut Road is especially worth noting – a picturesque stretch of coastline fringed by coconut palms. You can take a leisurely stroll or relax at a beach bar, enjoying the epic Siargao sunsets.
🍽️ Cuisine and Nightlife: Despite its compact size, General Luna offers an excellent selection of restaurants and nightlife venues. Be sure to stop by Bravo Beach Resort, where you can savor the freshest seafood and amazing cocktails right on the ocean’s edge. And for party-goers, General Luna has prepared several lively bars with live music.
The Best Places to Stay in Siargao: Siargao Island Villas 🌴
⭐ Best Hotels in General Luna:
- Entire Private Beachfront Villa in Siargao Luxurious beachfront villa with modern amenities, private infinity pool, and stunning ocean views. Ideal for a romantic getaway or family vacation.
- Tropical Temple Siargao Resort A resort hotel with an outdoor pool, parking, garden, and terrace. Located a 3-minute walk from General Luna Beach. Air-conditioned rooms, some with a balcony and pool view.
- Soultribe Beach Retreat Escape to tranquility at Soultribe Beach Retreat. Nestled on the shores of Siargao, our retreat offers a serene oasis with cozy accommodations and a laid-back atmosphere.
🏠 Best guest houses in General Luna:
- Amihan Bungalows Charming bungalows surrounded by gardens, a short walk from Cloud 9 beach. Cozy rooms, friendly hosts.
- Gratitude Inn Guest house 100 m from the beach with a garden and terrace. Spacious, clean rooms with good amenities, helpful staff.
- Wayans Siargao Guest house 500 m from Malinao beach with a garden, terrace, free parking. Comfortable rooms, pleasant atmosphere.
🛏️ Best hostels in General Luna:
- Three Little Birds Hostel New modern hostel 500 m from the beach with a shared lounge, terrace, free parking. Comfortable beds with curtains, air conditioning.
- Hostel Bajala Siargao Clean, comfortable hostel with a garden, shared lounge, restaurant and bar. Great location on the beach, friendly atmosphere.
- Vedya Siargao Hostel Hostel with a beautiful garden, yoga terrace, shared kitchen. Cozy rooms, mountain views, calm atmosphere, friendly staff.
2. Malinao: Secluded Beach Getaway 🏖️
😎 Chill Vibes: Alright friends, if you’re looking for a more laidback vibe on your Siargao trip, then the quiet area of Malinao is where you’ll want to base yourself. Just a quick 5-minute drive north of the hustle and bustle of General Luna, this beachside neighborhood offers the perfect setting for a relaxing island escape.
🏖️ Coastal Gem: Malinao is a picturesque coastal area located about 5 km north of the livelier General Luna. It is renowned for its stunning white sand beaches and coconut groves.
🏄♂️ Surf Spot: One of the main attractions in Malinao is Tuason Beach – a popular surf spot with excellent waves. Here you can observe experienced surfers or try your hand at surfing under the guidance of instructors from local surf camps.
🤿 Water Activities: In addition to surfing, Malinao offers many other types of active recreation. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore the picturesque coral reefs near the shore. And for those who prefer land-based activities, hiking trails through the surrounding hills and jungles are available.
⌛ Authentic Atmosphere: Malinao has retained an authentic Filipino atmosphere. Here you can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting small fishing villages and sampling national cuisine dishes in family cafes.
😌 Serene Paradise: Despite its growing popularity, Malinao remains a relatively untouched and peaceful place compared to General Luna. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a secluded beach getaway away from tourist crowds.
🗺️ Perfect Base: Many tourists choose Malinao as a base for exploring the entire island of Siargao. From here, it is easy to reach famous attractions such as Sugba Lagoon, caves, and waterfalls in the jungles.
Top Villas, Beach Resorts, and Hotels 🏝️
⭐ Best Hotels in Malinao:
- Nay Palad Hideaway Luxurious resort with stunning views, an outdoor pool, spa, and restaurant. Spacious villas with elegant design and all amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Soultribe Beach Retreat Boutique hotel on the beachfront with cozy rooms, an outdoor pool, bar, and restaurant.
🏠 Best Guest Houses and Villas in Malinao:
- Lagkaw Siargao Villas Charming villas with air conditioning, verandas, and kitchenettes. Beautiful garden, shared lounge, and free Wi-Fi. Located near Malinao Beach.
- Malipaya Villas Villas with private pools and patios. Modern interiors, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Located on the seafront, 1.5 km from Malinao Beach.
- Bubble Siargao Unique round bungalow with panoramic windows amidst nature. Air conditioning, private bathroom, and terrace.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Malinao:
- Secret Spot Siargao Budget-friendly hostel in a quiet location near the beach. Friendly atmosphere, shared kitchen, and lounge area. Good value for money.
- Hiraya Surf Hostel One of the best hostels on Siargao Island according to guest reviews.
3. Del Carmen – Island Hopping Hub 🌅
🏡 Picturesque Village: Del Carmen is a small picturesque village located on the eastern coast of Siargao. Its main street is lush with tropical trees and adorned with vibrant murals reflecting the island’s culture and traditions. The unhurried pace of life here contrasts sharply with the livelier atmosphere of General Luna.
🍲 Authentic Cuisine: One of Del Carmen’s main draws is the opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic Filipino culture and cuisine. You’ll find numerous family-run cafes and eateries serving dishes prepared with age-old recipes using the freshest local ingredients. Sample the real Filipino sinigang soup, fried fish with coconut sauce, or traditional sweets.
🚣♀️ Fishing Villages: The surroundings of Del Carmen abound with picturesque fishing villages where life seems frozen in a bygone era. Stroll the narrow alleys, watch fishermen mending boats and nets, and soak in the genuine atmosphere of a Filipino province. Don’t forget to visit the local fish market where the fresh catch is sold straight off the boats.
⛱️ Beaches and Reefs: Although not as renowned for its beaches as General Luna, Del Carmen has several stunning spots for swimming and snorkeling. Pamomoan Beach with its powdery white sand and coconut palms is perfect for relaxation. Meanwhile, the coral reefs off Kauhagan’s shores attract snorkelers from around the world.
🦅 Natural Wonder: While not as famous as General Luna, Del Carmen has its own major draw – the stunning Sugba Lagoon. This incredible natural pool is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and has the most insane blue-green waters. It’s honestly one of the most beautiful spots I’ve ever seen.
🏝 Quiet Escape: But Del Carmen is also just a quieter, more laidback alternative to the surf town party vibe of General Luna. You’ll find way fewer crowds here, which in my book is always a plus when you’re on a tropical island escape!
⛵ Island Tours: The real draw of staying in Del Carmen though is its proximity to some of Siargao’s most famous islands and natural attractions. This is literally THE jumping off point for boat tours to places like:
- Naked Island – One of the most Instagrammable islands ever with its blinding white sandbar and turquoise waters. An absolute must-visit!
- Daku Island – A gorgeous spot for swimming, snorkeling, beach camping and more. The waters here are unbelievably clear.
- Mamon Island – Another stunner with emerald green waters that are perfect for a dip on a hot day.
☮️ Tranquil Vibe: Perhaps Del Carmen’s greatest asset is its tranquil, soothing atmosphere. Here you can truly escape the hustle and bustle, revel in the silence, and commune with nature. It’s an ideal spot for meditation, yoga, or simply reading a book in a hammock to the sound of lapping waves.
Best Hotels in Del Carmen 🏝️
⭐ Best Hotels in Del Carmen:
- Hotel 12 BEES by Kavia Discover comfort and style at Hotel 12 BEES by Kavia. Located in the heart of the city, our hotel offers modern amenities, chic décor, and personalized service. Relax in cozy rooms, savor delicious cuisine at our onsite restaurant, and explore the vibrant surroundings. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, we provide a memorable stay with a touch of sophistication.
- Lao Singuan Homestay powered by Cocotel Experience authentic hospitality at Lao Singuan Homestay powered by Cocotel. Nestled in a serene environment, our homestay offers comfortable accommodations and a warm atmosphere. Immerse yourself in local culture, savor delicious home-cooked meals, and unwind amidst tranquil surroundings. Perfect for travelers seeking an immersive and genuine experience in Siargao.
- Deja Siargao Homestay Cozy guesthouse with a garden, terrace, and Wi-Fi. Rooms with air conditioning and self-catering facilities.
🏨 Best Guesthouses in Del Carmen:
- Andreas Homestay Welcome to Andreas Homestay, your cozy retreat in Siargao. With comfortable accommodations and a friendly ambiance, we provide a welcoming haven for travelers. Enjoy simple yet inviting rooms, warm hospitality, and a convenient location near popular attractions. Whether you’re here to surf, explore, or simply relax, Andreas Homestay offers a charming and affordable stay for your Siargao adventure.
- Kopinos Tourits Inn Guesthouse with Wi-Fi and parking. Rooms with air conditioning and self-catering facilities.
- Maya Vacanze Playa Natural Experience luxury in nature at Maya Vacanze Playa Natural. Our beachfront resort in Siargao offers stylish accommodations and stunning ocean views. Perfect for a serene getaway in paradise.
4. Pacifico/San Isidro – Off-the-Beaten-Path Destination 🥥
🏞️ Secluded Areas: Pacifico and San Isidro are located in the north of Siargao and represent some of the most remote and sparsely populated areas of the island. Here you’ll find stunning beaches with pristine white sand and crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush coconut groves and picturesque hills.
🏖️ Pristine Beach: Pacifico Beach is considered one of the best on the island. It stretches for several kilometers of untouched coastline. There are practically no tourists here, so you’ll be able to fully enjoy the seclusion and tranquility.
📍 Natural Attractions: In addition to the beach itself, this area has many other natural attractions that are a must-visit:
💦 Rock Pools: The picturesque Magpupungko Rock Pools – natural turquoise pools formed in the coastal rocks. An ideal spot for swimming and photoshoots.
🌅 Sunset Beach: Pilar Beach – another magnificent wild beach, famous for its breathtaking sunsets.
🥥 Viewpoint: Coconut Paradise Terrace – a scenic viewpoint overlooking endless coconut groves. A great place to catch the sunrise.
💧 Hidden Waterfall: Taktak Falls – a multi-level waterfall hidden in the jungles. Can be reached by hiking.
🏄♂️ Surf Spots: For surfing enthusiasts, Pacifico and San Isidro also have several interesting spots with good waves, such as Pacifico Point.
🌳 Nature Escape: So if you’re seeking seclusion, tranquility, and the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in Siargao’s nature, Pacifico and San Isidro are the ideal choice for your island getaway.
Best Siargao Accommodation in Pacifico/San Isidro 🏨
⭐ Best Hotels in Pacifico/San Isidro:
- Siargao Sunrise Villas Villas with air conditioning, kitchen, and Wi-Fi zone. Located 5 corridors away from Pacifico Beach. Beautiful garden and terrace.
- Villa Baleia Siargao Discover tranquility at Villa Baleia Siargao. Nestled amidst lush surroundings, our villa offers a peaceful retreat with comfortable accommodations and a serene ambiance. Perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation in Siargao’s natural beauty.
- Bamboo Surf Beach Experience beachfront bliss at Bamboo Surf Beach. Our rustic retreat offers cozy accommodations and direct access to the ocean. Perfect for surf enthusiasts and beach lovers seeking a laid-back escape in Siargao.
🏠 Best Guesthouses in Pacifico/San Isidro:
- Coleto Siargao Guesthouse with a garden, terrace, and Wi-Fi lounge. Spacious clean rooms with air conditioning. Located near Pacifico Beach.
- Kubo ni klay Guesthouse with a garden, terrace, and Wi-Fi lounge. Rooms with air conditioning and self-catering facilities. Located 5 corridors away from the beach.
- BlueWave Surf Stay Experience the ultimate surf getaway at BlueWave Surf Stay. Our cozy retreat offers comfortable accommodations and a prime location near the waves. Perfect for surf enthusiasts looking for a convenient and budget-friendly stay in Siargao.
5. Burgos/Santa Monica – Remote and Quiet Areas 🏄♀️🏐
🏝️ Secluded Paradise: Burgos and Santa Monica are located on the southeastern coast of Siargao and are known as some of the most picturesque and secluded spots on the island. Here you’ll find stunning white sand beaches surrounded by palm groves and rocky cliffs.
🏖️ Pristine Shores: Santa Monica Beach is perhaps the most popular in this area. It stretches for about 2 km of untouched shoreline with soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s the perfect spot for romantic strolls, swimming, and watching breathtaking sunsets.
🌊 Rugged Beauty: Another gem is Burgos Beach, renowned for its impressive rocky formations and grottoes where you can swim. There are also several secluded coves here where you can enjoy complete seclusion.
🌇 Romantic Sites: Besides the beaches, Burgos and Santa Monica offer other romantic attractions such as:
- Santa Monica Pier – an ideal place to watch sunrises and sunsets over the ocean.
- Maasin River – take a romantic boat ride through the mangroves.
- Sohoton and Cabasan Caves – mysterious caves with stalactites and stalagmites.
💕 Lovers’ Haven: So if you’re seeking a romantic haven in Siargao, Burgos and Santa Monica are an excellent choice. Here you can enjoy seclusion, unspoiled natural beauty, and unforgettable moments together.
Romantic Beach Villas 🧘♀️
⭐ Best Hotels in Burgos/Santa Monica:
- Bamboo House for Relaxation Unwind in nature at our Bamboo House. Nestled amidst tranquil surroundings, our cozy retreat offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Perfect for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a natural setting.
- Balay Ni Tatay Farm Resort by Cocotel Discover rustic charm and serenity at Balay Ni Tatay Farm Resort. Surrounded by lush greenery, our cozy retreat offers comfortable accommodations and a peaceful ambiance. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape in the countryside.
🏠 Best Guest Houses and Villas in Burgos/Santa Monica:
- Whitesands Beach Resort Experience seaside bliss at Whitesands Beach Resort. Our beachfront hotel offers comfortable accommodations and stunning ocean views. Perfect for beach lovers seeking a relaxing getaway in paradise.
- 3B Beach Resort Alegria Villas with air conditioning, kitchens, and free Wi-Fi. Beautiful garden, terrace, and free parking. Located near Santa Monica Beach.
- Villa Malinao Oceanview Resort - Superior Bungalow Beachfront houses with air conditioning, kitchens, and free Wi-Fi. Garden, terrace, and free parking. Located on the seafront in the Burgos area.
🏕️ Best Glamping in Burgos/Santa Monica:
- Tending's Rendezvous Luxurious glamping with an outdoor pool, restaurant, and spa. Air-conditioned tents with four-poster beds and open-air bathrooms. Located on the seafront in the Burgos area.
- Philippine Mountain Eco Resort and Bamboo Temple Villas and safari tents with air conditioning, kitchens, and free Wi-Fi. Beautiful garden, outdoor pool, and restaurant. Located near Santa Monica Beach.
- Precious Homestay (Deluxe Room) Experience comfort and convenience at Precious Homestay. Our deluxe room offers cozy accommodations and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable stay in a home-like environment.
6. Sohoton Cove/Socorro – Gateway to Island Tours 🌿
🌴 Island Hopping Hub: If you’re looking to experience some of 9most jaw-dropping natural scenery, then basing yourself near Sohoton Cove is an absolute must! This idyllic inlet fringed by swaying palms and towering limestone cliffs is the jumping off point for some of the island’s top boat and island-hopping tours.
💦 Turquoise Dream: As soon as you arrive, you’ll be struck by the cove’s incredibly clear turquoise waters that make it look like a tropical desktop screensaver come to life. Spend a few days here and I guarantee you’ll be snapping photos left and right trying to capture the sheer beauty.
🐬 Underwater Treasures: Besides the picturesque islands, Sohoton Cove is also renowned for its amazing snorkeling and diving opportunities. The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters teem with diverse marine life – from vibrant coral reefs to schools of tropical fish. Many dive centers offer dives to sunken ships and other underwater attractions.
🌴 Mangrove Adventures: The surroundings of Sohoton are also rich in mangrove forests, which can be explored on traditional boats or kayaks. These scenic river routes allow you to spot numerous birds, iguanas, and other local fauna in their natural habitat.
🥾 Hiking and Waterfalls: For adventure lovers, the Sohoton Cove area has several interesting hiking trails leading to stunning waterfalls and viewpoints with vistas of the island. One popular trail leads to the Tanguban Falls with its turquoise pool for swimming.
🗿 Cultural Heritage: Apart from natural beauty, the Sohoton vicinity also holds traces of ancient civilizations. For instance, the Socorro Caves preserve rock art and artifacts dating back to prehistoric times. It’s also interesting to visit the traditional settlements of the Mandaya people.
🍹 Nightlife Scene: Although Sohoton is considered a more laid-back spot compared to General Luna, there are still a few bars and restaurants where you can enjoy the nightlife after a day spent on the islands. Particularly popular are venues with live music and beach parties under the starry sky.
✨ Natural Wonders: Some of the natural wonders you can easily access from Sohoton include:
- Bucas Grande Islands – Take a boat tour to this group of islands with their famed jellyfish lake, caves, and pristine beaches.
- Daku Island – One of Siargao’s most popular island tour stops with its white sandbar and world-class snorkeling/diving.
- Naked Island – This tiny uninhabited island with its blinding white sandbar and azure waters is an Instagrammer’s dream.
- Magpupungko Rock Pools – These picturesque tidal pools set amongst the rocks are perfect for a refreshing dip.
You’ll find plenty of tour operators offering day trips to all these spots right from Sohoton Cove.
🍹 Beachside Eats: You’ll also find a handful of laidback beach bars and casual dining spots right in the cove area. My go-to was this little bamboo beach shack serving up fresh-caught seafood and cold beers – the perfect way to end a day of island adventures!
FAQs about Siargao ❔
What makes Siargao the perfect place to visit in the Philippines?
Siargao is considered one of the best islands to visit in the Philippines for several reasons. It’s known as the “surfing capital of the Philippines” due to the world-famous Cloud 9 surf break located in General Luna. However, Siargao offers much more than just surfing. With its stunning beaches, lagoons, rock pools like Magpupungko Beach, and lush coconut forests, it’s a paradise island for nature lovers too.
Where are the best areas of Siargao to stay?
General Luna is the most popular area to stay as it’s home to Cloud 9 and many top resorts, hotels, restaurants and bars. However, for a quieter experience away from Cloud 9, areas like Malinao or the north of General Luna offer more secluded options. Pacifico Beach on the northern coast of the island is perfect for surfers seeking uncrowded waves.
What are some of the best resorts in Siargao?
Some of the top luxury resorts include Nay Palad Hideaway, Dedon Island Resort, Siargao Island Villas, and Isla Cabana Resort located in General Luna. For a more affordable option, Lampara Siargao is considered one of the best boutique hostels. Many resorts offer private beach access and areas as well.
I want to stay in a luxury resort away from General Luna, what do you recommend?
For a luxurious stay away from the bustle of General Luna, check out Soultribe Beach Retreat or Yayay Villa in the quiet Malinao area. These upscale resorts offer private villas with pools and stunning ocean views while still being a short drive from top attractions.
What are the best things to do besides surfing in Siargao?
Explore the island’s natural wonders like Sugba Lagoon, Maasin River, and the Tayangban Cave Pools. Go island hopping, rent a motorcycle to cruise around, or simply relax on one of Siargao’s pristine beaches while enjoying a refreshing drink from a beach bar. The island has a laid-back vibe perfect for disconnecting.
