My Top 5 Beaches in Siargao I Visited (+ 1 Hidden Local Beach)

Last Updated on April 24, 2025 by Oliver

Alright, I’ll be honest—this was one article I kind of dreaded writing. Not because I don’t love Siargao (I really do), but because my opinion on the beaches here might ruffle a few feathers. But hey, I’m not here to sugar-coat anything. This is about my experience, and I always keep it real.

Siargao is hands-down one of my favorite islands in the Philippines. It’s the surf capital of the country, packed with world-class waves, cool people, boutique hotels, good food, and just an all-around awesome vibe. It’s got that “Bali 15 years ago” energy everyone seems to be chasing—and yep, I fell for it too.

But today, we’re talking beaches. More specifically, the beaches in Siargao I actually went to, what I loved about them, and what… didn’t quite hit the mark. I’ve rounded up my top 5 beaches on the island—plus one “hidden gem” (quotes intentional, you’ll see why later).

And just so we’re clear: this isn’t one of those dreamy, overly-Instagrammable guides claiming Siargao has the best beaches in the Philippines!!! because—sorry—it doesn’t. Not even close. Some of the beaches are lovely, some are meh, and some are still recovering from that brutal typhoon a few years ago (shoutout to Siargao for bouncing back like a champ, though).

So here’s my honest, no-fluff breakdown of the Siargao beach scene—what’s worth your time, what’s not, and how to make the most of it without setting your expectations too sky-high. Let’s dive in.

Best Beaches in Siargao: Our Experience

Alright, I usually try to keep things positive, but I’m gonna start this one off a little more honest than glowing—because this is actually how I felt. And to be fair, this is more of a me problem than a Siargao problem. The island is stunning, no doubt. But this is my personal experience, and I want to be real with you about it.

We arrived in Siargao without doing much research. We had plans to stay for over a month, work remotely, and live our digital nomad dream—surf in the morning, work in the afternoon, maybe sneak in a beach session before dinner. That was the vision. And honestly, I love Siargao. The food, the people, the vibe, the surf scene, the coworking spots—top-tier. I’m still obsessed with this island.

But… the beaches around General Luna and on Siargao in general are not exactly the tropical paradise I imagined.

Here’s the thing: we needed (and wanted) to stay in General Luna. That’s where everything’s happening. But beach-wise, it’s not what I’d call dreamy. We found ourselves standing on rocky shorelines more often than not, wondering where the ocean went. And then we realized—oh. The tides. They’re intense here.

(Seriously—if you’re planning to beach-hop in Siargao, bookmark a tide chart ASAP. This one became our best friend.)

When it’s low tide, there’s pretty much no water in sight. Just endless rocks. And I mean endless. Some days, high tide only hits at 6am and 6pm, which means you have low tide in between and your whole beach day is kinda gone. Of course, this is something I could’ve found out with five seconds on Google… but I didn’t. So here we are.

Even at high tide, the beaches near General Luna are still kind of a letdown. Most of them shrink into narrow strips of sand, almost swallowed by the sea. We figured out the sweet spot was about two hours before high tide—but even then, don’t expect wide, sandy stretches. It’s more like a quick dip and a nice view with coconut trees in the background. Pretty? Yeah. But not “this-is-what-the-Philippines-looks-like-on-Instagram” pretty.

Now, don’t get me wrong. Some of the beaches are beautiful—especially the ones up north, about an hour away—but if you’re based in General Luna and hoping to walk out your door onto a postcard beach… that’s not really how it is.

That said, it’s still the Philippines, and even an underwhelming beach here beats most beaches anywhere else (and especially German beaches). We still visited all of them more than once, and I don’t regret it. I just wish I’d known what to expect.

So no, I’m not trying to ruin your beach buzz—I just want you to have the full picture. Maybe you’ll check out the spots I mention, take a look at the photos I took, and totally disagree with me. And that’s great! Go make your own experience.

Oh—and that one local hidden beach I teased in the title? It’s actually amazing. So amazing, it almost makes up for the rest. Don’t skip it.

1. Pacifico Beach Siargao

Okay, I feel like I might’ve been a little too harsh earlier—because Pacifico Beach is actually stunning. This was one of my favorite beaches in Siargao. We made a whole day of it, hopped on the scooter, and drove up north to the tiny surf town of Pacifico. It’s a bit of a mission (about an hour from General Luna), but 100% worth it if you’ve got the time.

The town itself is super chill. Way quieter than General Luna, but it’s got just enough going on, a handful of cute cafés, a few beachfront hotels, and some seriously underrated surf. If you’re into the idea of escaping the crowds and staying somewhere a little slower, this could be your spot.

Now, the beach—this is what I thought all of Siargao’s beaches would look like. Long stretch of sand, clear water, perfect rows of palm trees, and perfect waves if you surf. It’s got that dreamy, untouched feel… as long as you time it right with the tides (yes, still a thing up here too).

We didn’t stay in Pacifico, which meant we couldn’t come here daily—but if you’re staying up north, or even just planning a day trip, don’t skip this one. It’s peaceful, it’s gorgeous, and honestly, it kind of redeemed my whole “meh” attitude toward Siargao’s beach scene.

2. Secret Beach (aka Doot Beach Siargao)

Secret Beach—technically called Doot Beach, but literally no one calls it that, is one of the closest beaches to General Luna. It’s not the prettiest beach in Siargao, but it’s the only spot in General Luna where you can actually swim at low tide. That alone makes it a winner.

The beach sits at a little inlet, which means the water stays higher when everywhere else looks like a giant tidepool. So if it’s low tide and you’re desperate for a proper ocean dip, head here.

Just don’t come expecting a perfect white-sand hangout. There is a small patch of sand, but most of it is grassy—fine for laying out, but bring a thick towel (we only had a sarong and the grass was weirdly poky, not ideal). That said, the whole place can be such a vibe. Lots of locals and travelers hanging out, swimming, and chilling in the shade under rows of coconut palms.

There are always a few dogs running around that belong to one of the locals who rents out paddleboards (those dogs are just adorable). The water here is calm and protected, so it’s the perfect spot to paddle around the mangroves. Rentals were 200 pesos when we went—super worth it.

One little extra tip: if you’re planning to hang around for a while, walk over to Kanaloa. It’s a little beach bar right next to Secret Beach with actual sand, bean bags, cold beers, and paddleboard rentals too. Honestly, that’s probably the best way to spend your day here.

3. Ocean 9 Beach (aka Mahaybo Beach)

Ocean 9 is a beach bar in Santa Fe, a smaller, quieter town just outside of General Luna. It’s got a way more chilled-out vibe, and a lot of the digital nomads and long-term expats stay here—us included. So if you’re looking for a bit of a slower pace with a nice little community, Santa Fe is a great place to stay.

Now technically the beach is called Mahaybo Beach, but no one says that. Everyone just calls it Ocean 9, named after the bar that sits right on it—and honestly, it’s the beach spot in Santa Fe.

We really liked hanging out here. There’s a 100-peso entrance fee, but it’s worth it. You can swim in the ocean while the tide’s high, and once it drops, just hop over to the pool and keep hanging out there.

Ocean 9 sells cold beers and cheap cocktails (the food’s a bit meh and overpriced for what it is, so maybe skip that), but the drinks are great, music’s always playing, and they offer tons of surf lessons. This is basically the beginner’s beach of Siargao, so it’s perfect if you want to try surfing without committing to big waves. They’ve also got a few sunbeds, and the vibe overall is just fun and easy. A solid place to spend the day.

4. Alegria Beach

Alegria Beach is another beautiful spot up north, so it’s more of a day trip—but that’s exactly what we did. We hopped on our scooter and did a full island road trip, stopping along the way at Maasin River, Magpupungko Rock Pools, and Pacifico for lunch before eventually reaching Alegria Beach at the very northern tip of Siargao.

One of the restaurant owners in General Luna (shoutout to Siargao Hawker) actually recommended we skip the public beach and instead head to DaRosa Del Mar Beach Resort—and we’re glad we listened. It was super chill. We grabbed some coffees, juices, and snacks (everything was surprisingly cheap), and ended up chatting with the owner, who’s originally from California. Such a lovely guy. He told us all about the typhoon that hit Siargao and how the island’s still recovering. It was one of those genuinely nice travel moments.

The resort itself is small but really cute, and the beach out front is beautiful. Classic white sand, palm trees, crystal-clear water—it’s a perfect place to spend the afternoon. We hung out on sunbeds, went for a few swims, and just enjoyed the peaceful vibe. Definitely worth the drive up if you’ve got a full day to explore the north.

5. Cloud 9 Beach

Cloud 9 Beach is kind of the main beach in General Luna. It’s located right at Cloud 9, the world-famous surf break in Siargao, and right next to the iconic Cloud 9 Boardwalk.

You’ve probably seen photos of it already—the boardwalk is one of the most famous spots on the island, especially for sunset. Even if you’re not into surfing, it’s a cool place to check out just for the views.

The beach itself isn’t usually very crowded, mostly because this area is all about surfing. People come here to hit the waves rather than hang out on the sand. You can access it from Tourism Road in General Luna (you’ll know you’re close when you start seeing 1000 surfboards and surf schools everywhere). There’s a 100-peso entrance fee, but if you’re staying in General Luna and just want to swim or chill without heading too far, it’s a fine option.

That said, it’s not a massive stretch of beach, and it’s more about the coconut tree vibes and the proximity to the surf. One tip—don’t come at low tide, because swimming is basically impossible here. The reef gets super shallow and rocky, so make sure the tide is high if you want to get in the water.

6. Pasikon Beach – My Favorite Beach in Siargao

Okay, I saved my personal number one beach for last—Pasikon Beach. It still feels like a bit of a hidden gem, even though I’ve recently seen a few blog posts about it, so maybe the secret’s slowly getting out. But when we went, we were literally the only people there, and it was magic.

Here’s how we found it: the owner of our homestay, John (where we stayed the first few nights in General Luna), told us it was his absolute favorite beach on the island. He’ll probably kill me if he finds out I’m telling the whole internet about it—but hey, we don’t gatekeep here.

Pasikon Beach is up north, about 10 minutes past Pacifico, and honestly, you wouldn’t find it unless someone told you about it. There aren’t any big signs or anything—it’s one of those spots you only know if you know.

It’s a stunning little cove with soft white sand, plenty of space to lay out your towel, and almost no one else around. There’s a small local lady who sells drinks and charges a tiny entrance fee, and that’s about it. No bars, no crowds—just the beach, the ocean, and a few coconut palm trees swaying around you.

I’ll add some of our photos below so you can see for yourself, but trust me, this one was special.

Siargao Island Hopping Tour

I know this article is mainly about the beaches in Siargao, but you can’t talk about beaches without mentioning the island hopping tour—it was honestly one of the highlights of our trip. The tour takes you to three smaller islands off the coast of Siargao: Naked Island, Daku Island, and Guyam Island. All three have beautiful beaches, and even though it’s a classic tourist activity, it’s still 100% worth doing—just enjoy it for what it is.

We booked our tri-island hopping tour through Get Your Guide for around $50 USD per person, and that included lunch and pick-up/drop-off at our accommodation, which made things super easy. The vibe on the boat was fun, and each island had its own feel—Naked Island is literally just a strip of white sand, while Daku is a good spot for lunch, and Guyam has that postcard-perfect tropical look.

Alternatives to the Siargao Beaches

If you’re like me and sometimes just crave some cold water (because the ocean isn’t always it in Siargao, especially during low tide), there are some really cool non-beach swim spots to check out.

• Beto Cold Spring – This place is such a refreshing break from the heat. There’s a rope swing and a jumping platform, and the water is properly cold. Try to go early on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
• Maasin River – Another popular day trip spot. You can go for a swim in the river and jump off the platform (there used to be a rope swing here too).
• Magpupungko Rock Pools and Flats – These natural tidal pools are super fun to swim in, but make sure you time your visit for low tide—otherwise, they’re completely underwater.
• Pool days – If you just want to relax, the pools at Sundays Café and Hillside Resort are great options. Order a drink and enjoy a lazy day in the shade.

Where to Stay in Siargao Island

We ended up trying a few different places during our stay in Siargao, and most of them were great. Here are the ones I’d personally recommend:

• Araw Homestay – This was a beautiful little spot right in General Luna town. The owner, John, was amazing—super helpful with tips and arranging scooters. Great budget-friendly option if you want something low-key and welcoming.
• Wayans Siargao Homestay – A bit outside of town, this place was one of our favorites. The owners have thought of every little detail, and the common areas (including a small kitchen) are perfect if you’re staying a bit longer and want to cook a few of your own meals.
• Las Palmas Villas – This was our final treat at the end of the trip. One of the most beautiful resorts in General Luna, with stunning design and a dreamy pool area. We only stayed two nights, but if your budget allows, I’d definitely recommend it—it’s a gorgeous stay.

Things to Know When Visiting Siargao

• Tides Matter: Make sure to check the tide schedule when planning beach days or swimming. Low tide can leave many beaches inaccessible for swimming, so it’s best to go when the tide is high.
• Power Outages (Brownouts): Siargao is known for its power fluctuations. Be prepared for occasional brownouts, especially in remote areas. It’s a good idea to have backup charging options, as the voltage can sometimes fry your devices (yep, it happened to my laptop).
• Where to Stay: General Luna is the main hub for tourists—it’s lively and has everything you need. If you prefer something quieter, Santa Fe is a great option. Just be aware that some of the other towns are a bit more secluded, so plan accordingly if you want more privacy or tranquility.
• Rent a Scooter: Siargao is best explored on two wheels. Renting a scooter is the easiest and most fun way to get around the island and reach the coolest spots and beaches.
• Food and Cafes: Don’t miss out on Siargao’s amazing food scene! From local eateries to cozy cafes, the island has plenty of delicious spots to fuel up after a day of exploring.
• Cash is King: While some places accept cards, it’s always best to carry cash, especially when venturing into less touristy areas where ATMs might not be available.
• Respect the Locals: Siargao is a laid-back island with a close-knit community. Be mindful of local customs and always show respect to the people who call this place home.

FAQs About the Public Beaches in Siargao

Are there public beaches in Siargao?

Yes! Most beaches in Siargao are public, though some have a small entrance fee (usually around 50–100 pesos). You can pretty much walk onto most beaches freely—especially in less touristy areas like Santa Fe or up north near Pacifico.

Is there a General Luna Beach?

Not exactly. General Luna is the main town where most people stay, and while there are a few beachfront spots, it’s not really known for one specific “General Luna Beach.” Instead, Cloud 9 is the most well-known beach in the area—and it’s right in General Luna.

How many days in Siargao is good?

I’d say at least 4–5 days if you want to see the island properly. That gives you time to relax, do a bit of surfing or island hopping, and explore the beaches up north without rushing around too much.

How many beaches are in Siargao?

I have no official count, but there are a bunch of beaches scattered across the island—from the more popular ones like Cloud 9 and Daku Island to hidden gems like Pasikon Beach and Alegria. You could easily spend a week just beach-hopping around Siargao.

Final Thoughts on The Best Beaches Siargao

Okay, I’ll admit, I started this article a bit like a Debbie Downer, being all negative about the beaches. But I’ve come around, and it’s not all bad! I think my expectations were just a little off (my bad, oops).

Siargao, in general, is absolutely stunning—lush, filled with palm trees, incredible surf, amazing people, and great food. I had the best time! Sure, the beaches might not be the best in the world or even in the Philippines, but they’re definitely good enough. They do the job, and you’ll have an awesome time here.

I hope this article didn’t scare you off. Siargao is definitely worth a visit, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did. Happy travels!

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