Surigao del Norte is one of the hidden gems of Mindanao where unspoiled destinations can be found. This place is for those who are fond of extreme adventure, as well as for travelers and tourists who love white sand beaches and fond of playing with big waves. Â Â
The strong and big waves at Siargao Island has made Surigao del Norte known for as the ‘Surfing Capital of the Philippines’. Aside from that, majestic rock formations, mysterious caves, and wide mangrove forests will also enchant you once you visit the beautiful province of Surigao del Norte.
Philippine Airlines offer daily flights to Surigao City. Travel time is about one and a half hour.
You can also reach Surigao city via ferries. 2GO Travel, WG&A, and Sulpicio Lines offers daily trips from Manila to Surigao. If you want to start from Cebu, Cebu Ferries has direct voyages to Surigao as well.
Hop on a bus heading to Butuan City, Davao or Liloan and from there you can ride another bus going to Surigao City.
If you want to explore Surigao on your first few days, you may explore the province via bus, jeepneys, private van and pedicab. Habal-habal rental is also available. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions with the locals.
Discover the enchanting scenery at Magpupungko Beach, a small stretch of fine beach with a beautiful view of the sunrise. Mind you though, this spot is decorated with wonderful rock formations and tidal pools that you will surely love. You can ride or rent a motorbike to take you to this place for about P800 --round trip from General Luna. There’s also an entrance fee of P50 per person. Next on the list is Lake Mainit, the 4th largest lake in the Philippines. Popular for its pear shape, Lake Mainit is a home to rare and fresh water fishes like casili and gurami. Aside from that, the lake is surrounded by lush that includes fire orchid, hardwood premium timber, and palm.
After that, go to the Cuyapnit Cave. Here you can witness a lot of stalactites, stalagmites, giant circular ceiling hole, and crystal floor. Reaching this place will require you for a boat ride shooting at the rapids of Baoy River, so get yourself ready for an adventure. Lumondo Waterfalls and Eco Park shouldn’t be missing on your list. This place is a delight for locals or foreign visitors who visit because of the great volume of water that falls down into the grandiose rock structure. Lastly, also try checking out Bucas Grande, Sohoton National Park, and Dagongdong Rock Formation to make the most out of your vacation to Surigao Del Norte. Â
With all the picturesque places that Surigao del Norte has to offer, there’s so much activities you can also do. Go spelunking at their mysterious caves. Go island jumping, scuba diving, or snorkeling, Explore their waterfalls and nature. Meet the locals. Find peace and serenity at Guyam, Daku, and Naked Islets. And lastly, don’t forget to surf at Siargao Island.
You can also visit Surigao del Norte during their festival season. Siargao Invitational Game Fishing Tournament is held every month of May, where renowned anglers across the globe join the biggest fishing game in the country. Or if you want something more interesting, visit this province during the International Women’ s Surfing Cup, also held every month of May.
Complete your vacation at Surigao del Norte by trying their very own cuisine. You can head to their public market and have some freshly caught seafood or try checking out what their carinderias have to offer. But if you want to go to restaurants, visit Ocean Bounties.They serve seafood dishes for less than P500. Choose from prawns, crabs, adobo, and more. These may be a regular for your taste buds, but you’ll know never what you will miss if you don’t try. Next on the list is the Metro Surigao Food Court. They also offer fresh seafood dishes on their menu.
If you want a more fancy place to eat at, Fiesta Surigao Resort Seafood Restaurant is the place to be.  Same Place has the best barbecue in the city of Surigao. And lastly, for mouth-watering local dishes, visit Marbie’s Store for biko, puto, nilupak and a whole lot more.
There are hardly a number of bars or open establishments in Surigao del Norte that you can have fun at night. If you still want to do something at night, go for a walk and buy a cold beer with your friends and enjoy! Just make sure you’re not disturbing anyone.
Make sure to choose the best hotels in Surigao del Norte, especially if you’re planning to stay for more than a week. Kasili Resort is one of the many hotels you should try to check out. It is built near Lake Mainit. Imagine yourself enjoying this beautiful view right outside your room. They also have swimming pools you can enjoy.
Gateway Hotel accommodation is best for those looking for a more comfortable setting. You will surely get what you paid for because their rooms are air-conditioned, carpeted, have sofas, and a lanai where you can have a view of the place, complete with a cable TV and a hot and cold shower. If you’re on a tight budget, check D&L Lodging Hauz. Their room rates start at P300/night/without air-condition and P650/night/with aircon. Anthony’s Seaside Guesthouse is a 5-minute tricycle ride from the port.
Plot your itinerary very well. Surigao del Norte has a lot to offer but if you don’t manage your priority destinations, you might get lost.
Pack light, but be sure to bring everything you need.
Call a habal-habal driver/ tour guide right before booking an accommodation.
Leave your hotel as early as possible before the tourist attractions get crowded. It’s always nice to stay in a place with no other fellow travelers.
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Total Accommodation | 145 Properties |
Popular City | Burgos, Socorro |
Popular Hotel | Nay Palad Hideaway, Siargao Bleu Resort And Spa |
Popular Landmark | Surigao Airport (SUG), Cloud 9 Beach |