1. Take a dip in Mapupungko Pool

For only around 1.00 USD, you can take a dip in the famed Mapupungko Pool and enjoy its vast collection of rock formations. You can take a relaxing swim in Mapupungko Pool’s crystal clear waters, go snorkeling to explore hidden gems under the sea, and for the more adventurous folks, you can get that needed adrenaline rush from jumping off rocks into the tide pools. A word of caution though: visitors are only allowed during low tide, so make sure to check the schedule before going to Mapupungko Pool.

Mapupungko Pool

Address: Pilar, Mindanao, Philippines

2. Go caving at Bucas Grande

Sohoton Cave National Park, more popularly known as “Bucas Grande,” is another destination in Siargao where you can get your adrenaline fix. Before being able to explore the cave, visitors have to swim, but what meets you on the other side are two twin caves that are just mesmerizing. These twin caves are named Crystal Cave, which is filled with rock formations with shining crystals, and Bolitas Cave, which funnily enough resembles a male genital. After caving, you can go cliff-diving off of a 6 meter (20 foot) high cliff. Just like the Mapupungko Pool, Bucas Grande is only open to visitors during low tide as the entrance to the cave is half-submerged in water. The cave is open from 7 am - 4 pm daily.

Sohoton Cave National Park

Address: Bucas Grande Island Socorro, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

Website: Sohoton Cave National Park

3. Get some peace and quiet at Mamon Island

For those who want a bit of relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of busy tourist spots, Mamon Island would be your dream getaway. This destination is filled with amazing coral formations you can explore while snorkeling in clear, blue waters, and is so secluded that it is not lined with stores of any kind - whether commercial or otherwise - so you really get that peace and quiet with mother nature. On the other side of the island, you can go surfing as well if you’re still looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience. Bring your own meals and water so you can enjoy a serene picnic by the beach!

Mamon Island

Address: Mamon Island, General Luna Surigao del Norte, Philippines

4. Go island-hopping

After visiting Sohoton Cave National Park, you can embark on an island-hopping adventure visiting 7 other islands in Siargao. Visit Mark-A Island for snorkeling, Bucas Grande Island for the sting-less jellyfish and Hagukan Cave (snoring cave), Cinnamon Island for the Cinnamon trees, Tiktikan Lake for boating and trekking, Naked Island for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing by a white, bare sandbar, Daku Island for snorkeling, and Guyam Island for some seclusion (you’ll have the entire island to yourself).

Island-Hopping

Address: Siargao, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

5. Take a dive in Magkukob Cave

Experience the thrill of being surrounded by baby bats as you enter an enchanting cave. Swimming is needed to enter the Magkukob Cave, but once you’re in, prepare to have your heart captured. After entering the Magkukob Cave, you can cliff-dive into refreshing waters and swim to your heart’s content.

Magkukob Cave

Address: Socorro, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

6. Go on a biking tour

For only 7.00 USD a day, rent a bike and explore the beauty that is Siargao. You can discover and experience local living in Siargao’s villages, meet the hospitable people of Siargao, and chat with them too. You have the freedom to choose your own biking adventure, but make sure to hit some of the local restaurants in the area as they are sure to satisfy your cravings at low cost. Don’t forget to enjoy the scenic route along the way!

Rent a bike

Address: Siargao, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

7. Acoustic Night at Buddha's Surf Resort

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Every other Thursday at Buddha’s Surf Resort is Acoustic Night. For those missing the laid back nightlife of the urban neighborhood, Acoustic Night may be your paradise in Siargao. Enjoy a variety of musical styles from live performances while leaning back, relaxing and sipping from your ice-cold beer bottle. Meet new people, jam with the locals, and belt out to your favorite songs with Acoustic Night open mic. Not to mention, there’s a Thai restaurant downstairs too for those late-night grub cravings. Acoustic Nights start at 8:30 pm.

Acoustic Night at Buddha's Surf Resort

Address: Buddha’s Surf Resort, General Luna, Mindanao 8419, Philippines

Facebook: Buddha’s Surf Resort

8. Have fun in the sun at Daku Island

Located in General Luna, Surigao Del Norte, Daku Island is the ideal beach for those who want the full beach experience. The island is filled with coconut palm trees and white sand, and there are a lot of fun activities for all types of adventurers - solo, couples, family or friends - like snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, swimming and beach volleyball. You can also grill and eat fresh seafood by the seaside, and there’s a trend going around called the CocoShot - a “drunkenly inspired” version of its French counterpart game called “Bowls.” You can also rent nipa huts, then laze around the beach for a beautiful view of the sunset.

Daku Island

Address: Daku Island, General Luna Surigao del Norte, Philippines

More than surfing

The surfing capital of the Philippines is not just a surfing capital - it’s filled with natural gems, great food and a cool nightlife too that everyone can enjoy. So if you’re not quite the surfing fan but you still want to enjoy Siargao, check out these top 8 places where you could do so!