The small island paradise of Siargao is commonly called the surfing capital of the Philippines due to its strong surfing culture and endless variety of surf breaks. With one of the top-ten breaks in the world, surfing has placed Siargao on the map, and the island has become a dream for many of the sport’s enthusiasts around the globe. Unlike any other island of the thousands that exist in the Philippines, there are over 30 excellent breaks around Siargao, and it is said that there are many more to be discovered.
Surfing in Siargao
Due to a large amount of heavy and shallow reef breaks, Siargao is a perfect destination for intermediate and advanced surfers; although classes are also available for beginners. While many reefs (especially those onshore) may be crowded, the many options will make it easy to quickly find one that suits any surfer’s style and preferences. Offshore breaks will be less crowded since they require an outrigger boat ride to get there, which costs around 5 USD. Siargao has left- and right-hand waves, big and small breaks, numerous onshore and offshore spots and an environment perfectly tailored to the needs and likes of surfers.
Since you will probably want to try out several breaks, it is recommended to rent a motorcycle with a board rack, which is conveniently priced at only about 8 USD a day. You can also find affordable board rentals, although the variety of options may be limited.
Surfers who land in Siargao have the opportunity to embark on the journey of their lifetime, by surfing through the euphoric and adrenaline-inducing waters, all while enjoying the island’s overall relaxed pace and unpreoccupied nature.
Surf Breaks in Siargao
Siargao has the best and highest variety of surf breaks in the entire country, such as the famous Cloud 9 in which international surf competitions are often held. Unlike most surfing destinations, Siargao has breaks for every type of surfer. Below is a list describing some popular breaks.
- Cloud 9 – Ranked #8 in the Top Ten waves worldwide, this beautifully tube-like wave is by far the most popular one in the country. It produces excellent right-hand waves, although it is also left-handed. Waves are massive and steep over a shallow reef, which makes it exclusive for advanced surfers.
- Tuason’s Point – Exclusively for advanced surfers and not far from Cloud 9, some say that this fast, left-hand wave with shallow reef is just as great.
- Quicksilver – Right next to Cloud 9 is this is a smaller right-hand wave, which makes it ideal for intermediate surfers. However, it is often crowded.
- Jacking Horse – This fast wave is in the same area, jacking suddenly at its peak and hitting the reef with great force.
- Little Pony – Sometimes Jacking Horse is so big that it produces a second smaller wave closer to the shore. It is a perfect little spot for beginners,
- G1 – This break is adequate for beginners since it has both left- and right-hand waves and hosts classes regularly.
- Caridad – When conditions are ideal, Caridad has some decent left barrels and a low crowd.
- Pilar – If you are in the General Luna area, you will need a 1.5-hour boat ride to get to this somewhat crowded spot. It has two pretty good left breaks and is best during the northeast monsoon.
- Pacifico – A left-hand 100-150m-long wave, Pacifico is Siargao’s best long wave, consistently producing hollow barrels. It can handle extreme winds and high tides.
- Pansukian – This break produces a long and fast wave when the wind is just right. Since it rarely gets bigger than 6 feet, it is suitable for both intermediate and advanced surfers.
- Stimpy’s – An offshore left-hand wave that requires a 10-minute boat ride, Stimpy’s is generally not crowded. It’s found over a shallow reef and is only for experts.
- Rock Island – Near Stimpy’s is this right-hand break that highly relies on ideal wind conditions. The area makes for great photos with a giant rock formation protruding from the water.
- Daku Reef – Something that makes this offshore right-hand break stand out is that you can find quite a few other waves in its area. This very strong wave also requires a 10-minute boat ride.
- Cemetery – Located right in front of General Luna Cemetery, you can paddle to this semi-offshore break in 15 minutes. Since it is not as readily accessible, Cemetery will generally be without a crowd. It has both left- and right-hand waves.
Best Time To Go Surfing
Siargao Island is such a superb place for surfers, as it has high waves throughout the entire year. During the southwest monsoon, the best waves can be found in General Luna municipality, while Pilar municipality is better during the northeast monsoon.
While it can be easily said that Siargao is a surfer haven year-round, its best months are July through December, with a higher number of swells. More surfers come out in September and October, which is when the swell reaches its peak. Cloud 9 is best from September through November.
Whether a beginner or advanced surfer, this little island has everything that you could expect to find in surfer paradise, — with cool vibes, warm water, and high tides all year. Upon arriving on Siargao Island, its relaxed atmosphere and laid back vibes will have you wishing you could surf here forever.
