When most people visit Siargao, they stick to the usual Naked, Daku, and Guyam Island tour. It’s popular for a reason. These spots are beautiful, easy to reach, and often included in standard tour packages. But if you’re looking for something quieter, less crowded, and a little more special, there’s more to see beyond the usual stops.
Siargao has a handful of hidden gems that many travelers miss. These are the places where you won’t have to compete for a spot on the beach or wait in line to take a photo. Instead, you’ll find calm lagoons, untouched nature, and islands that feel like they were made just for you. This blog will guide you through these lesser-known island hopping spots and help you decide which ones fit your travel style, whether you're looking for peace, adventure, or something in between.
Most island hopping tours begin in General Luna. While the usual Naked, Daku, and Guyam route is still running daily, the experience depends on when you go. Naked Island is a bare sandbar surrounded by clear water. There’s no shade and nothing else, which makes it a good spot for sunbathing and photos. However, there’s no place to hide from the sun, and the waves can be strong, so it’s not ideal for swimming too long.
Daku Island is the largest of the three and offers the most space. There are shaded huts, a long beach, and calm water. It’s a good place to eat lunch or just relax. Guyam Island is much smaller, with palm trees, white sand, and shallow reefs for snorkeling. It’s perfect for a quiet sunset or a peaceful swim. These three islands are nice, but they can get crowded, especially in the late morning and early afternoon.
Now let’s talk about what most people miss. If you head west of Siargao, toward Del Carmen, you’ll find islands that are less visited. One of them is Kawhagan Island. It’s small, peaceful, and has a beautiful sandbar during low tide. Not far from it is Pamomoan Island, which has soft white sand and a quiet vibe that feels like you’re far from everything.
Close to these islands is Poneas Lake. You’ll need to take a short hike after the boat ride, but once you get there, you’ll see a peaceful lake surrounded by greenery. It’s not included in most tours, which means fewer people and more time to enjoy the silence.
Another hidden spot is Sugba Lagoon. Located near Del Carmen, this lagoon is known for its calm turquoise water. You can paddleboard, swim, or just float and take in the view. It feels more relaxed compared to other tourist areas. There are also floating cottages where you can rest or eat a simple meal. Some tour operators now combine Sugba Lagoon with Kawhagan and Pamomoan to make it a full-day experience.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a trip to Bucas Grande Island to visit Sohoton Cove. It’s about two hours away by boat from Siargao. The travel time is longer, but the scenery is stunning. There are caves to explore, lagoons to kayak through, and stingless jellyfish you can swim beside during the right season. This trip is more expensive and takes more effort, but many say it’s the highlight of their visit.
Choosing where to go depends on your travel style. If you want convenience and a simple tour, the classic three islands are the easiest. They’re close to General Luna and perfect if you’re short on time. Just be ready to share the space with many others.
If you prefer quiet places, the western islands near Del Carmen are a better choice. You’ll have more privacy and a more relaxed experience. The boat ride might take a little longer, and some islands don’t have many facilities, so bring your own food and water.
For those who want a peaceful but scenic day, Sugba Lagoon is a great option. It’s beautiful, easy to access with a bit of planning, and offers more things to do like paddleboarding and diving from a wooden platform. It’s less about island hopping and more about enjoying nature at your own pace.
Sohoton Cove is ideal for travelers who want to explore and are okay with a long day on the water. The caves and lagoons feel magical, but you need to plan this trip early and go with a guide who knows the tides and timing.
No matter which route you choose, timing matters. Try to book early morning or late afternoon tours to avoid the mid-day crowds. If you can, go for a private or small group tour. Local boat operators are flexible and often happy to suggest routes that avoid the busy spots.
Island hopping in Siargao isn’t just about checking locations off a list. It’s about finding your own rhythm and discovering parts of the island that match your mood. Whether you want the classic beaches, hidden islands, or quiet lagoons, there’s a route for you. Step away from the crowd, breathe in the sea air, and let the calm side of Siargao show itself.
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