Wiped Out, Hooked, and Ready for More

My Surfing Story in Siargao

All photos by the author

It’s beach season in the Philippines, and for the longest time, I’ve been itching to go back to Siargao.

This tear-shaped island in the province of Surigao del Norte is known as the country’s surfing capital, but there’s so much more to love. Siargao is a paradise of palm-fringed roads, crystal-clear lagoons, hidden rock pools, and powdery white beaches. Beyond its natural beauty, the island has a laid-back vibe and a strong sense of community that makes everyone feel at home.

Siargao has become wildly popular with tourists, and for good reason. It’s not just the parties or the tight-knit community of locals and travelers. The island is also home to the best surfing spots in the Philippines, and I wasn’t going to miss that.

My first attempt at surfing? Hilarious.

We went to the famous Cloud 9 in General Luna after an all-nighter of drinking and dancing, no less.

We dragged ourselves out of bed around 10 a.m., starving, and made a beeline for Shaka Siargao right in front of the beach.