Is Siargao Worth Visiting? What is Siargao Island Known For?
If you're partial to relaxing days, sipping cocktails out of coconuts while lounging on some of the finest beaches on Earth. Or maybe, adrenaline-fueled activities like cliff jumping and surfing the ultimate right-hand barrels are more your style. Or possibly, exploring dense tropical rainforests and finding picture-perfect lagoons and waterfalls like nothing you've ever seen is what you're after.
If so, then Siargao is definitely worth visiting. This article will tell you why this world-famous island in the Philippines is a utopian playground that caters to any traveler's cravings.
What Is Siargao Island Known For?
Siargao Island is a Pacific paradise of adventure and untold beauty nestled among the thousands of scenic islands that are part of the Philippines archipelago. So, answering this question is no easy feat because of the diversity and caliber of attractions this tropical oasis has to offer. However, there is one destination that really put this island on the map and that is Cloud 9.
Cloud 9 is the legendary surf break that was stumbled upon by intrepid surfers searching the globe for the perfect wave and boy did they find it. But what makes Cloud 9 so special? Simply, this iconic wave that breaks over a shallow reef can create some of the most epic tubes anywhere on the planet. For that reason, it's a magnet for surfing enthusiasts and tourists alike who want to ride or just get a glimpse at the perfect barrel in action.
Cloud 9 ranks in the top 10 for international surf spots and is the primary reason the other secret treasures of Siargao were uncovered by folks outside of the Philippines. Hence, it's what Siargao Island is best known for.
Why Visit Siargao?
The harder question is why not visit Siargao! Unfortunately, this article isn't long enough to cover all the reasons this place is worth booking a ticket to right now so we will just cover some of the main ones.
Magpupungko Rock Pools
The vivid turquoise waters of the Magpupungko Rock Pools are truly a sight to behold. These renowned rock pools are exposed during low tide and surrounded by stunning rock formations that make you feel like you're on another planet. But you can do so much more than just kick back and relax in the calm shallow waters of these breathtaking pools of tranquility.
Regardless of your personal taste, this place has something for everyone:
- Snorkeling: You will find spectacular coral reefs teeming with schools of colorful fish in the waters and coastal pools around Magpupungko Rock Pools.
- Cliff Jumping: For those with an adventurous streak, the Magpupungko Rock Pools offer some premium cliff jumping locations that will get the heart pumping.
- Photography: The Magpupungko Rock Pools are as aesthetically beautiful as they are fun. So, if you're a fan of getting some shots of genuinely immaculate and unique natural landmarks, this place is for you.
Tak Tak Falls
A freshwater waterfall on a tropical island? That's right, this island is exceptional in more ways than one. Tak Tak Falls is tucked away in the lush inland forests of the northern part of the island and is the ideal escape into the heart of the natural beauty of Siargao. Whether you're game enough to jump from the top or just want to enjoy a dip in the lagoon below and let the water cascade over you, it's a real treat that shouldn't be missed!
Beaches Beaches Beaches!
If there's one thing that attracts tourists from far and wide to the shores of Siargao, it's the quality and quantity of its beaches. A quick Google search and you will immediately see why, Siargao boasts some of the most pristine beaches you will ever see. Beaches with pure white sand and translucent blue waters that are swimming with bright tropical sea life.
Here are some of the best beaches in Siargao:
- Pacifico Beach
- Malinao Beach
- Alegria Beach
- Cloud 9
- Paghungawan Marshes
Island Hopping
Although Siargao is the crown jewel of the region, there is no shortage of stunning islands just a short boat ride away. These tiny postcard-looking islands offer serene isolation to soak up the panoramic beauty that surrounds you.
Here are some of the best islands you can hop between from your home base in Siargao:
- Daku Island
- Naked Island
- Guyam Island
This is just a taste of what Siargao has to offer. In addition to the spectacular attractions above, there are plenty of enchanting caverns and caves, rowdy nightlife, and much more to enjoy!
Is Siargao Safe?
One hundred percent, yes! The Filipino government has worked hard to make Siargao Island an ultra-safe tourist destination. So long as you don't leave your valuables just lying around or break the law, you have nothing to worry about. That means that you can take in the wonders of Siargao stress-free and focus on the unmatched radiance of the island!