Surfing in Siargao

Hailed as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines, Siargao's potential as a tourist destination was initially "discovered" by the international surfing community, captivated by the awe-inspiring waves found off its shores. Siargao's proximity to the Philippine Deep, mixed with the huge swells from the Pacific, form a powerful combination.


Aside from Cloud 9 and Pacifico, which can be accessed from shore, Siargao's numerous breaks are offshore and can only be reached by boat.


Pansukian Resort can provide its guests a boat to quickly reach surf spots, and a surfer/guide who will point to the day's best swells.


More than 20 surfing spots, mostly offshore, are found within a 20km area of Pansukian Resort, the most famous of which is "Cloud 9". Surfing season is, generally, August to October, with annual international surfing competitions held late in the season, September to October.


Siargao's Surf Areas

The surf spots in and around Siargao can be broken into three areas:

  1. Tuason Point (3 kms. north of General Luna): The most well-known surfing area in the Philippines, including the world famous Cloud 9 (C9). With its heavy and hollow right hand break, Cloud 9 is recommend for experienced surfers only.
    Within a stone's throw of Cloud 9 are three other world-class waves: Jacking Horse, a long right-hander about 200m north of Cloud 9, Tuason Left, an amazingly hollow and powerful left-hander (only for the highly experienced) approximately 400m south of Cloud 9, and Cemetery, a fun left-hander perfect for all surfers located north of GL, paddling out from the cemetery.
  2. North of Cloud 9: Countless spots lie within an hour-and-a-half boat ride to the north of Cloud 9. Some of the more popular waves include Stimpies, a fat and hollow left-hander, and Rock Island, a 300m right-hander that, on a good day, can be flawless. Both are visible from Cloud 9 and break on the opposite tide, so when Cloud 9 is low, simply jump into a pump boat for some slicker rides.
    Further north finds what is considered the best left-hander in the area: Pacifico. This wave is long, hollow, strong, and not to be missed. Further north is Burgos, an area with several lefts and rights that, on their day, rival any others offered on the islands. Continuing north will yield plenty of known and "secret" spots for those intrepid types interested in exploring the less crowded spots of Siargao.
  3. GL and south: All spots south of GL are accessible only by boat, and consistently create a holiday highlight. Daku Daku, an island off the east side of GL, has a fun right-hander that breaks during large swells. The wave breaks on the protected side of the island, making it smaller and a great spot for beginners. Pansukian Reef Daku, an island off the east side of GL, has a fun right-hander that breaks during large swells. The wave breaks on the protected side of the island, making it smaller and a great spot for beginners. La Janoza and Mamon. The islands themselves are beautiful and there are numerous waves in the area with the pick being Mabuntok Reef, to the left of Mamon. This wave caters to all levels and is situated by one of the most pleasant and picturesque beaches in the region.

Information for First-Time Surfers in Siargao

A few thing to be aware of when coming to surf in Siargao:

  • Bring whatever you need, including wax.
  • Buy and wear booties (rubber surfing boots). Some places require walking across the reef to get to the waves. Booties are a great idea for anyone who plants to get into the water, surfers and swimmers alike. Nothing infects faster than a reef cut.
  • Bring a first aid kit - and know how to use it!
  • Always wear sunscreen. Then minutes under the sun is enough to get burned.
  • Most importantly, have travel insurance (and that's a good tip for all your travels).