Sun and Surf in Siargao

Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, Philippines has been on my travel radar for the longest time. Finally this year, I made it into a summer getaway project, bringing two other desk-chained friends with me. For three days we did nothing but sleep, eat and bask in the island's lush landscapes and scenic ocean views. Flanked by the Pacific Ocean on the west, Siargao Island is unbelievably pristine and wild. The whole island is covered with incredibly thick coconut rainforest canopy and seductive surf coastlines. Like any other idyllic tropical island, Siargao is blessed with crystalline waters in various permutations of blue. 

Siargao is ideal for surfers but for non-surfers like me, the activities to enjoy are limited to island hopping, hanging out at the Boardwalk, sunset watching, sleeping in and exploring random shops and eateries. It's easy to get bored after a couple of days. The island is not that commercially infiltrated so the choices in retail, cuisine and activities are quite limited. The accommodations are simple and humble, true to the island's primitive, laidback vibe.  Overall I had an enjoyable stay and I forgot my cares and worries for a while.

In the meantime, stay green and wild Siargao! 

Hop aboard my tiny boat

Crystalline waters of the purest hues surround  Siargao's most popular island hopping destinations- Naked, Dako and Guyam Islands

Docking in Guyam Island's craggy shores

Island kids rollin' in the biggest sandbox of them all

The best vantage point to feel like a real islander is in Guyam Island

Warm  tidal pools in Guyam Island  to wade and soak in

Stopping by Naked Island for a quick dip

A fiery sunset caps a surfing session at Cloud 9, Siargao

The surfing  tower at  Boardwalk, Cloud 9 in General Luna is Siargao's iconic structure 

Riding out into the sunset

Waves are calling like a siren's song

Exposed coral beds during low tide

Non-surfers can enjoy a panoramic view of advanced surfing action  from the 3-storey platform

Surfers heading home before the platform closes at 6pm

The signature Siargao sunset

Siargao's culinary secret spot where the food is good and memorable

Kermit's Napolitana pizza with DIY toppings

Kermit's fresh salad 

Authentic Indonesian breakfast fare at Warung

Super filling and annoyingly healthy Cloud 9 Kook smoothie bowl  and coffee combo at Shaka Siargao Cafe Gallery

Plenty of coconut juice for sure

A magnificent view of Pilar's coconut plantations en route  to Mapupungko tidal pools

Hey, look up and watch out for falling coconuts!

It's best to visit Mapupungko tidal pools during low tide (usually between 12nn-3 pm). It's an hour away from General Luna.

Enchanting, ethereal, mysterious natural bathtubs that appear and disappear in the ebb and flow

Cliff diving, anyone?

That Dave Matthews Band song playing in my head

Eat, sleep, surf. Repeat.

Golden hour in Siargao

Japanese cruiser bicycles are a cheap mode of transport. One can rent a bike for Php 150 good for one day.

The friendliest dogs can be found in Siargao Island

The island is also best explored on a bicycle since there are practically no rough roads

Last hurrah before going back to the daily grind

Yay, we had a great time, Siargao! Thank you for the memories.