How to Get to Siargao: The Ultimate 2025 Travel Guide for First-Timers

So, you’ve been dreaming of surfing Cloud 9, sipping fresh coconut juice by the beach, and dancing under the stars in General Luna. Now the big question is: how do you get to Siargao smoothly, affordably, and stress-free?

Here’s your complete, no-fluff guide on how to get to Siargao Island in 2025 — whether you’re flying direct or taking the scenic route via Surigao City. Ready? Let’s go. 🌴

1. ✨ Choose Your Route to Siargao

There are two major ways to reach the island:

✈️ Option A: Direct Flight to Siargao (Sayak Airport – IAO)

This is the fastest and most convenient route, perfect for those who want to maximize vacation time.

• Where to Fly From:
  • Manila (MNL)
  • Cebu (CEB)
  • Clark (CRK)
  • Davao (DVO)
• Flight Duration:
  • Manila to Siargao: ~2 hours
  • Cebu to Siargao: ~1 hour
• Airlines Flying to Siargao in 2025:
  • Cebu Pacific
  • Philippine Airlines
  • Sunlight Air (chartered/seasonal)

TIP: Book early! Prices can spike quickly during peak months, especially summer and surf season.

🚢 Option B: Fly to Surigao City + Ferry to Siargao

This is a more adventurous and often cheaper route — and perfect for those on a budget or exploring more of Mindanao.

Step 1: Fly to Surigao City (SUG)

• From Manila, Cebu, or Davao via PAL or Cebu Pacific.
• Flight duration: ~1.5 hours

Step 2: Head to Surigao Port

• Take a tricycle or multicab (₱50–₱100) from the airport to Surigao Port.
• Travel time: ~20–30 minutes

Step 3: Ferry to Siargao (Dapa Port)

• Ferry types:
  • RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off boats): ~3 hours
  • Fastcraft: ~1.5–2 hours
• Ticket price: ₱300–₱500
• Departure times: Usually between 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM

NOTE: Schedules may change due to weather, so always check ferry company Facebook pages for updates.

2. 🛫 How to Book Your Flights (and Save Money)

Use these platforms to compare and book:

• Traveloka
• Skyscanner
• Google Flights
• Klook (for bundled flights + transfers)

✅ Pro Tips for Booking:

• Set flight alerts for promo fares
• Clear cookies or browse incognito
• Use credit card points if you have them

3. 🧳 Prepare These Before You Fly

Make your trip smoother by having everything ready:

• Government-issued ID or passport
• Printed/screenshot of your boarding pass or e-ticket
• Vaccination card (check airline rules)
• Cash — ATMs are limited and often offline in Siargao
• Essentials:
  • Power bank
  • Dry bag
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Swimwear
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Light clothing & flip-flops

4. 🚐 Getting from Siargao Airport (IAO) to General Luna

Once you land, your next step is getting to General Luna — the main tourist town on the island.

Transport Options:

• Shared van: ₱300–₱400/pax (1 hour ride)
• Private van: ₱1,000–₱1,500
• Motorbike rental (pickup at airport): ₱400–₱600/day
• Multicab/tricycle: Less common but negotiable

TIP: If your hotel offers free pickup — grab that!

5. 🏝️ General Luna: Your Home Base in Siargao

Once in General Luna, you’re in the heart of Siargao’s good vibes:

• Cafes, surf schools, beach bars, yoga classes
• Island tour operators, scooter rentals, massage spots
• Resorts from ₱500/night dorms to ₱8,000+ luxury villas

Best Booking Sites:

• Agoda
• Airbnb
• Booking.com
• Hostelworld (for budget travelers)

6. 🗓️ When’s the Best Time to Travel to Siargao?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Season	Months	What to Expect
🌞 Dry Season	March–October	Best weather, great for beach trips
🌊 Surf Season	August–November	Big waves at Cloud 9
🌧️ Rainy Season	December–February	Risk of storms, rough seas

7. 🌊 Island Tours & Adventures You Can Pre-Book

Don’t just chill at your resort — explore paradise! Here are must-do experiences:

🌴 Popular Tours:

• Island Hopping (₱1,200–₱1,500): Naked Island, Daku, and Guyam
• Sugba Lagoon Tour (₱2,000–₱2,500)
• Magpupungko Rock Pools (best at low tide)
• Coconut Road + Maasin River Swing
• Sohoton Cove (whole day tour)

Book via Klook, GetYourGuide, or at local booths in General Luna.

Final Tips Before You Go

• Internet: Globe and Smart both work in Siargao, but can be spotty outside General Luna
• ATM Tips: Withdraw cash before arriving or bring extra — ATMs often run out
• Eco-Reminder: Pack out your trash, respect the island
• Local Tip: Learn a few words in Bisaya like “Salamat” (Thank you) and “Maayong buntag” (Good morning)

🧡 Why Siargao Is Worth the Trip

Whether you’re a surfer, a chill nomad, or just soul-searching, Siargao isn’t just a destination—it’s a vibe. It’s sunsets, slow mornings, fresh seafood, and friendships that last beyond the waves.

So go on—book that flight, charge that GoPro, and see why everyone’s escaping to Siargao in 2025.