Surigao City, provincial capital of Surigao del Norte in the northeastern part of the Philippine island group of Mindanao, was a crucial port town in the region under Spanish rule in the mid 1600s.
Fast-forward a few centuries later, it still remains its port-town duties, but mostly for travelers who come for its beaches, caves, waterfalls, whirlpools, rock formations, forests, mountain ranges, and other natural gems.
Surigao has also turned into a jumpoff point to nearby island Siargao, which inthe past three decades has grown into the country’s surf capital, hosting the international Siargao Surging Cup for over 20 years now.
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Fun Things To Do
Find out if you're a goofy foot
In surf lingo, a goofy foot is one who puts their right foott ini front vwhen on a surf board (natural-foot folk put their left). In short: when in the surfing capital of the Philippines, you es, you might as well learn to surf. There are enough minor breaks in Siargao for beginners and surf lessons (with board rentals) abound in majority of the resorts.
Make friends with jellyfish
Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande Island has a lagoon where travelers avelers can swim along with stingless jellyfish. The jellyfish are not strictly stingless, but their sting is so mild people stingless, but their stin hardly feel it. Swimmers go into the lagoon via paddle boat so as not to contaminate the water with fuel, and are instructed not to apply sunblock as the jellyfish arez sensitive to chemicals. Also remember that jellyfish easily get dehydrated, so refrain from lifting them out of the water.
Have seafood for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Considering the island province's location in rich open waters, an abundant supply of fresh fish and seafood like marlin, tuna, lobster, crak and prawns is par for the course-all at a fraction of what they cost in mainland Manila. While you can have them restaurants you can also get them fresh from the market and have your resort cook them for a minimal fee.
Get lost on purpose
Surigao City and Siargao have still retained their quaint small-town charm and are ripe for exploring via rental bike or motorcycle Experience a medley of small roads and off-road trails weaving in and out of fishing villages, fields, hills, coastlines, and forests. Immerse yourself in the community and local culture by experiencing the province firsthand and outside the confines of an itinerary.
Make like your caveman forebears
The province is a spelunking paradise replete with caves, most of them largely untouched or minimally developed. Some caves are your standard cavernous great halls with intricately formed stalactites and stalagmites, while others are a network of multiple caverns and tunnels through which you have to crawl. Some are embedded in forests and mountains, while others are located seaside where you can hear the echo of waves crashing outside.
things to know
How to get there
Surigao can be reached via Surigao Airport (with limited flights) or through Butuan Airport, followed by a 2.5–3 hour land transfer. Siargao is served by Sayak Airport (IAO) with direct flights from Manila and Cebu. Travelers can also reach Siargao by ferry from Surigao City, making it easy to combine both destinations in one trip.
How to get around
Surigao offers taxis, tricycles, vans, and motorbike rentals for getting around the city and nearby attractions. In Siargao, the most common way to explore is by motorbike, with tricycles and habal‑habal rides available throughout General Luna. Private vans and organized tours are also popular for visiting lagoons, rock pools, and island‑hopping spots.
Where to stay
Surigao features hotels near the city center and port area, ideal for travelers catching ferries or exploring nearby islands. Siargao’s accommodations are centered in General Luna, offering everything from surf hostels to boutique beachfront resorts. For quieter stays, travelers choose Pacifico, Malinao, or the Cloud 9 area.ce.
Internet
Internet connectivity is generally reliable in both Surigao and Siargao, especially in town centers and tourism hubs. Most hotels, cafés, and restaurants offer free Wi‑Fi, and mobile data from Globe, Smart, and DITO works well in populated areas. Speeds may vary in remote beaches or island‑hopping destinations.
Language
Locals primarily speak Surigaonon and Cebuano (Bisaya). Filipino and English are widely understood, especially in tourism‑focused areas like General Luna, making communication easy for visitors.
Currency
The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs are available in Surigao City and in General Luna on Siargao, though machines may occasionally run low during peak travel seasons. Many small shops, surf schools, and island‑hopping operators prefer cash, so carrying pesos is recommended.
Timezone
Surigao and Siargao follow Philippine Standard Time (PST), which is UTC+8. The Philippines does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why do travelers pair Surigao and Siargao in one trip?
Surigao and Siargao complement each other perfectly: Surigao City serves as the northern Mindanao gateway with caves, lakes, and island‑hopping, while Siargao is the Philippines’ premier surfing capital, known for its laid‑back island vibe, lagoons, and white‑sand beaches. Together, they offer a mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation.
What’s the easiest way to move between Surigao and Siargao?
Travel between the two is easy. Daily ferries operate between Surigao City Port and Dapa Port in Siargao, with travel times of about 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the vessel. Tickets can be booked in advance or purchased at the port.
What experiences can I expect in Surigao and Siargao?
Surigao is known for island hopping, caving, rock formations, and the stunning Lake Mainit. Siargao is famous for surfing at Cloud 9, Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools, and island hopping to Daku, Guyam, and Naked Island. Both destinations offer excellent snorkeling, nature tours, and scenic coastal drives.
Are these destinations suitable for first‑time or casual travelers?
Yes. Both destinations offer a wide range of accommodations, guided tours, and transportation options. Siargao, in particular, is known for its welcoming surf schools and relaxed island atmosphere, making it ideal for first‑timers, families, and solo travelers.
Need help organizing your trip?
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