The most popular attraction on Siargao Island is the Cloud 9 surfing area in General Luna. It is actually one of the most well-known surfing spots in the entire Philippines, as the right-breaking reef creates a barrelling wave known for its thick, hollow tubes. A surfing competition sponsored by the government of Surigao del Norte is held here every year. Cloud 9 is only recommended for advanced surfers, as it breaks on a very shallow reef. It is also best to come at mid to high tide, as low tide exposes most of the reef.
Even if you are not a surfer or not quite up to the skill level it takes to tackle Cloud 9, it is still highly recommended that you come and take a stroll along the boardwalk. Extending far into the sea, the boardwalk leads to a three-story viewing platform where you can watch the surfers. It is also a wonderful place to take photographs of the ocean. The best time to come is around sunrise or sunset.
Just a 50-minute drive from General Luna, Magpupungko Rock Pools is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Siargao Island. These natural pools are created from water left behind in a coastal rock formation when the ocean retreats at low tide. The water in the pools is bright blue and incredibly clear, making it a popular spot to take a swim and go snorkeling. You’ll have the opportunity to watch a wide variety of fish and other marine life under the surface. The water is also deep enough to allow for cliff jumping off the surrounding rock formations.
Visiting the rock pool requires a small entrance fee of just 50 pesos. As this is a very popular tourist stop, you can expect some crowds, but the pools are large enough to comfortably accommodate many people. You can also beat much of the crowds if you come earlier in the day. Note that the rocks at Magpupungko Rock Poolscan be quite sharp, so it is a good idea to wear aqua shoes or other protective footwear.
For the best inland adventure on Siargao Island, head to the Tayangban Cave Pool near the small village of Pilar. This is one of the most unique experiences offered on the island and is a great choice for those seeking some extra excitement. To reach Tayangban Cave Pool, simply head north about half an hour from General Luna. Once you arrive, you will see a clearly marked entrance sign and a small ticket office. There is a cost of 100 pesos to enter the cave, and it includes a mandatory guide.
Your guide will take you through a crack in a rock formation leading to Tayangban Cave Pool and down into the waist-deep water. The cave is dark, but the guide will carry a torch to illuminate the beautiful stalactite formations inside. There are also some sections of deeper water, but ropes and bamboo make the cave easy to traverse and navigate. The journey through Tayangban Cave Pool takes about 15 minutes, after which you will emerge to a beautiful, emerald green cenote with some fantastic spots for cliff jumping. Your guide will tell you where it is safe to land.
Not too far before Maasin Village, when coming from General Luna, you will find the Sea of Palms, an elevated viewpoint that looks out over a veritable sea of coconut trees. It’s hard to miss this viewpoint when you are headed down Siargao Circumferential Road as it opens up before you as you come around a bend in the road. Thousands of palm trees spread out before you with deep green hills in the background. The Sea of Palmsviewpoint is a great place to come for either sunrise or sunset. If you have the chance, then try to plan your day around seeing both!
The north end of Siargao Island is quieter than the busy tourist areas around General Luna, but there is plenty to see here as well. In addition to Alegria Beach, the northern tip of the island is home to two more must-see attractions that make a great day trip: Santa Monica Pier and Taktak Falls.
Santa Monica Pier is a roughly hour-and-twenty-minute drive from General Luna. It is also just a half-hour drive from Pacifico Beach. The pier extends far over the ocean water below and, as it faces west, it is an amazing place from where to watch the sun dip below the horizon in the evening. A short, 10-minute drive past Santa Monica Pier, you’ll find Taktak Falls, the only waterfall on Siargao Island. It is a popular spot for cliff-jumping, tree-jumping, or for just taking some nice photographs.
As Siargao Island has become a more popular tourist spot, its culinary scene has grown accordingly to accommodate the tastes and preferences of tourists. Most of the island’s top dining spots are located in and around General Luna. You will find a range of different eateries, including cafes, bars, and restaurants, serving a wide variety of both local and international cuisine. Try some traditional Filipino dishes or opt for restaurants serving more western fair. The restaurants on Siargao Island are also known for offering a lot of fresh and healthy food options made with local ingredients, as well as tasty dishes for vegans and vegetarians.
Best restaurants in General Luna
Bravo Restaurant
Kermit Surf Resort and Restaurant Siargao
Shaka Café
Crêpes Siargao Café
Altrove Siargao
Miguel’s Taqueria
CEV: Ceviche & Kinilaw
Warung Siargao Indonesian Restaurant
Homemade Taste Restaurant Siargao
Wishyouwerehere Smoked Meat Diner
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