What to Do in Siargao Guide (For Non-Surfers)

December 21, 2018

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.

This post will cover everything you need to know about what to do in Siargao for non-surfers! When I first started planning my adventure to the Philippines I knew that the Siargao was an absolute must! I had seen tons of photos of this palm tree filled island popping up on the ‘gram and I was determined to visit myself!

Siargao is typically known as a surfer’s paradise, however there is PLENTY to do in Siargao for the non-surfing folk!

What to Do in Siargao 

Wander around General Luna

General Luna is such a fun area to explore while visiting Siargao! You’ll find plenty of shops, tourism offices, and restaurants along the main road. This is also where you’ll find the majority of accommodations, both budget and luxury options.

Explore the island by scooter

If you’re trying to figure out what to do in Siargao then renting a scooter is an absolute must! My favorite thing to do in Siargao was to ride around the palm tree littered roads and take in all of the scenery. The main road will take you from General Luna, past the coconut tree forest, alongside the Magpupungko Rock Pools, and up to Pacifico surf area. Scooter rentals were typically around 400 php ($7.50) for the day.

It is so important to remember to always drive safely, wear a helmet, and NEVER drink and drive on the scooters! Please, it’s just not worth it!

Day trip to Sugba Lagoon

This was definitely our priciest endeavor in Siargao, but it was also one of my favorite things to do in Siargao! It is possible to organize a visit on your own, but it is quite a long drive with a number of details to figure out. For this reason we opted for a group tour with My Siargao Guide. For 2000 php ($40 USD) you will enjoy a full day tour to Sugba Lagoon and Kangbangyo Island, with a large lunch included!

Island hopping on a private boat

Renting a private boat is not as crazy as it sounds! On Siargao you can rent a boat for the day for only 1,500 php ($30 USD) that can accommodate up to 6 people. This is an awesome way to explore the nearby islands: Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. There are small entrance fees (50/100 php per person) on some of the islands.

Swing from a coconut tree

This was a serious Tarzan and Jane moment for us, as we climbed our way up the palm tree and swung down into icy water! If you’re making your way from General Luna up towards Magpungko Pools or Pacifico, you’ll pass over a bright red bridge. You’ll most likely find a ton of kids hanging around. Let me let the way to this fun spot! It is free to swing but feel free to tip the kids for their assistance.

Check out the surf scene at Pacifico Beach

Pacifico Beach is located in the Northeast area of the island, approximately an hour from General Luna by scooter. We had a ton of fun checking out the area (and watching the surfers). We pulled over for some delicious food right in the little town.

Take a stroll on the Cloud 9 pier

Hanging out on this pier is definitely one of my favorite things to do in Siargao! A small admission fee of 50 php grants you access to the long pier.

Accommodation in Siargao 

Glamping at Soultribe Beach Retreat

This was my first time “glamping” and we had so much fun! There is something quite luxurious about being able to crawl out of your tent and have a shower, pool, and delicious restaurant right at your fingertips. Not to mention the beach was only steps away! Not interested in the tent life? Soultribe offers cabanas as well! Make sure to book far in advance because this spot definitely books up fast!

Read more about Soultribe Beach Retreat here! 

Buko House

We also had the chance to spend a few nights in the cutest spot! Buko House is located right in General Luna and is perfect for couples or friends looking for a bit more privacy and independence. We loved the space and being able to cook our own breakfast!

Read more about Buko House here! 

Where to Eat in Siargao

Breakfast at Shaka Cafe

Craving a healthy breakfast to start your day? Shaka Cafe serves up some of the best waterfront smoothie bowls! A must on your Siargao to-do list.

Dinner (and Happy Hour) at Kermit

If you only eat at one place in Siargao, it should be Kermit. I know that I should be promoting local food, however I just couldn’t get into the local food in the Philippines. I found a lot of the food to be quite oily. Dinner at Kermit is the perfect thing to do in Siargao. I lived in Italy and the pasta here was some of the best that I’ve ever had! Their 2 for 1 happy hour deal isn’t too bad either!

Like what you read about what to do in Siargao? Make sure to Pin it for later!