Long weekends in a country of 7,107 islands leaves the adventure traveler with a lot of choices as to where to go and what to do. Siargao gained popularity as a surfer's paradise but there is much more to it than that.
Aside from surfing, tourists can also indulge in other activities such as spelunking, cliff-diving and watersports such as kayaking and wake and paddle boarding. One can arrange for day tours of the Magpungko Rock Pools and the Tayangban Cave Pools which are the main attraction for spelunkers. Watersports shops are aplenty in General Luna where one can rent equipment and beginners can get lessons.
Exploring the islands is another activity and island hopping trips between Guyam, Daku and Naked Islands are available for individuals and groups inclusive of lunch. In between one can take a dip in the pristine blue-green waters or explore the inland attractions Siargao has to offer. You can go paddle-boarding at the Sugba Lagoon or swim and sunbathe in the Magpupungko Tidal Pool. A short trek will bring you to Taktak Falls whose beauty will leave you with a relaxed and refreshed feeling while you stretch along the rock formations which dot it. There is also the Togoman Lagoon with its stingless jellyfish and spelunking in the Hagukan and Magkukuob Sea Caves. Magkukuob is also the spot which allows you to jump off 60 feet into the sea from its highest point. At the end of an adventurous day, you can relax and enjoy the sunset by the Cloud 9 Pier or rent a hut along Pacifico Beach.
If you're a party animal, Siargao is one endless beach party every day of the week. Parties are held nightly in General Luna. Bars are featured with a specific theme each night which is proof of the island's strong sense of community. You can dance or sing the night away depending on the latest innovation the bar owners have to offer guests.
Food is both native and Western fare among the numerous bars and restos that dot General Luna. Drinks are the same with local and imported beers and liquors along with the native island creations by its creative mixologists. Siargao's advantage over Boracay is it is still relatively undeveloped and both the natives and the expats have banded together to keep the island clean with regular beach cleanups which everyone can participate in both residents and tourists alike.
One can fly directly to Siargao from Manila via Phillipine Airlines Cebu Pacific or Skyjet. If there are no direct flights on the day you intend to travel, there is the option of flying to Surigao and traveling to Siargao by ferry. Flight schedules and fares are available on the websites of the airlines. Accommodations are aplenty and run the whole price points from budget to high-end.
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