Mighty waves crush me not
I am new to the surf
Let me paddle through your swells
Though this is not my turf
Mighty waves crush me not
Let me get my stance on right
I am waiting for a perfect crest
To ride on down the line
Mighty waves crush me not
As I can not believe my eyes
I’m ripping on a perfect wave
In this surfer’s paradise
Surfing Capital of the Philippines
Siargao
Island
Siargao, Surigao del Norte
©© Oli Bayer
a secret no more
waves, taller than skyscrapers
as high as cloud nine
More than just surfing If you’re a bit reluctant to try surfing, no ©© Janos Andanar
worries because there are other places to discover and enjoy. Not to
miss is Magpupungko Rock Formations and Tidal Pools located in
Pilar, Siargao. It’s nature’s version of an infinity pool.
World class waves That’s why it is a favourite destination to host ©© Oli Bayer
international surfing competitions. The island boasts several surf Stunning sunsets One of Siargao’s famous spot, the Boardwalk ©© Lino Jubilan, Jr. ©© Ramiro Teofanes
spots which are ideal for both professional surfers and beginners. at Cloud 9, where people can watch surfers play. It is also an ideal
place to wait for the sunset.
68 PwC Philippines VisMin’s Philippine Gems 69
N
Santa Monica
Siargao, Surigao del Norte,
Mindanao Burgos
Geography and people
San Isidro
Siargao is an island located in Surigao
del Norte. Poneas Island
Land area: 437 km2
Major dialects: Surigaonon, Cebuano, Siargao
Boholano, Filipino, and English.
Dinagat
Tona Island
Points of interest
Siargao
• Cloud 9
Surigao
• Sohoton Cove City Bucas Grande
• Magpupungko Tidal Pools Dapa Channel
• Bucas Grande Surigao del
Norte
• Sugba Lagoon
• Naked Island
• Guyam Island
• Daku Island
• Mamon Island
• KiteSurf Siargao
What to bring Accomodation
©© Janos Andanar
Explore Guyam, Daku and Naked Islands Hire a boatman to bring Taking the journey
you to these three beautiful islands in General Luna, Siargao and • Buy and wear rubber surfing
experience the crystal clear waters and white fine sand
1. Plane Daily flights are available boots because you will need
from Manila to Siargao and to walk on some rocky reefs to Food choices
from Cebu to Siargao. get to the waves
2. Tricycle/Multicab/Van At the airport, • Always bring sunscreen or sunblock
you can either ride a tricycle, multicab • Surf boards are available for rent, but it
is recommended to bring one if you’re Transportation
or van to the City’s Sea Port.
3. Boat At the port, you will take a two- staying longer
hour boat ride to Siargao Island.
Regular trip is usually scheduled to Don’t miss See how we rate it on page 81.
sail from 11.00am to 12.00nn.
• Go surfing at Cloud 9 for its
Building better Siargao
huge waves.
Best time to visit
• Trek to Taktak Falls, swim at
• Constructing more concrete roads, bridges
The season here starts in April till mid- Magpupungko Beach and Tidal Pools
and ports
November. During months of August • Island hopping
• Building more resorts and hotels
to October the surf can be big and it
is best for experienced surfers. During May Contacts
to July, the surf is usually small and suited for Explore further
beginners. • Provincial Tourism Officer, +63 (86) 826
Neighboring places of Siargao are
©© Janos Andanar ©© Janos Andanar
231 7041
Surigao City, Dinagat Island and
Bucas Grande. Other towns of
Surigao del Norte and Surigao del
Sur.
70 PwC Philippines VisMin’s Philippine Gems 71