Siargao Island in the Philippines is a small, tear-shaped island with a coastline that is dotted with a succession of reefs, sandy beaches, and coconut palms. This compilation of natural elements makes it a surfers’ haven. Siargao became a popular surf spot when it was discovered by a group of traveling surfers in the 1980s. One of the best known waves on Siargao is nicknamed “Cloud 9”. With its rich, hollow tubes and swimmable access Cloud 9 has quickly become the wave to surf.
Siargao has a relaxed island vibe, with a deep appreciation for its surrounding nature. There are a few places to stay on the island, such as Kawayan (doubles from $109), which is a short walk from Cloud 9 or Kalinaw (doubles from $192), only fifteen-minutes away.
It is a reasonably affordable island for travel, with many restaurants, bars, and beaches to intermingle with locals and get a flavor for the Filipino culture. Buddha’s Surf Resort is one of the coolest Thursday night spots. At Buddha’s Surf Resort musicians from the island and an audience of local surfers come together to chill out and jam the night away. It is the quintessential place to wind down after a big day on the water.
Getting to Siargao is a bit of a challenge, as any gypset travel destination usually is, but it is well worth the effort. It involves a transfer through Manila and then flights on Cebu Pacific via Cebu.
A mild dry season runs from April through October; November to February is typically the country’s typhoon season. In addition to the epic break of Cloud 9, there are excellent surf conditions for all levels of experience.
