Siargao has always been a magnet for surfers, backpackers, and island lovers. Its mix of world-class waves, palm-lined roads, and easygoing lifestyle makes it one of the most talked-about destinations in the Philippines. This year, though, many travelers and locals are noticing big changes. Compared to last year, the island feels quieter. For some, this is a welcome return to a slower pace. For others, it is a reminder of how fragile the tourism economy is.
Fewer Tourists, Quieter Vibe
Many who visit Siargao in 2025 notice how different the atmosphere is compared to 2024. Last year, the island felt busy and alive. General Luna, the center of Siargao’s nightlife and dining scene, was crowded, and Catangnan Bridge, sometimes called the AFAM Bridge, was a regular hangout spot with food stalls and tourists gathering for the sunset. This year, the energy feels subdued. Tourists are fewer, streets are less busy, and even popular spots like Cloud 9 are easier to access without the usual crowd of surfers waiting for waves.
For travelers who come to the island seeking peace, this shift is appealing. It is easier to rent a motorbike, find a quiet place to relax, or enjoy the surf without the pressure of large groups. The island feels more like the “old” Siargao that long-time visitors describe, a sleepy surf town where people came for the waves and stayed for the laid-back lifestyle.
Impact on Businesses
Some visitors and locals say they notice changes in Siargao’s business scene. Hotels, inns, and hostels are offering discounts to attract guests. A few shops and restaurants appear to be closing or up for sale. There are also reports from workers and receptionists about reduced hours or forced leave during the slower months. These accounts show how the slowdown feels on the ground.
At the same time, government data paints a bigger picture. According to the Department of Tourism, international arrivals to the Philippines reached 5.4 million in 2023, almost double the 2.7 million recorded in 2022. From January to July 2024, arrivals already hit 3.5 million. The national trend points to growth, though the distribution across destinations is uneven. This contrast highlights how Siargao, while part of the country’s overall tourism gains, can still experience local dips that affect small businesses and workers.
Tourism Data and Visitor Numbers
Government figures provide a broader picture. According to the Department of Tourism, international arrivals to the Philippines reached 5.4 million in 2023, almost double the 2.7 million recorded in 2022. From January to July 2024 alone, arrivals hit 3.5 million. This shows that overall tourism in the country continues to grow. Yet, travelers and locals in Siargao point out that the island feels slower this year compared to its peak in 2024. The difference highlights how local conditions, such as costs and access, can shape how tourism is experienced on the ground.
Timing and Seasonality
One explanation is timing. Tourists from Europe and the United States often travel during their summer months, and that season is now ending. Off-peak months like August and September have always been slower. Many visitors agree, though, that this year feels unusually calm even for the season.
Costs and Travel Choices
High costs also play a role. Flights to Siargao are more expensive than in past years, and in some cases, comparable to trips abroad. Some tourists say the cost of visiting Siargao is close to booking trips to countries like Vietnam or Thailand, where food, lodging, and transportation are often cheaper. One traveler even compared their experience, saying they stayed in a hostel in Phuket for three days for about the same price as a single night in Siargao.
Another factor is flight availability. Some direct Manila-Siargao flights have been reduced, with routes shifted to Clark or Cebu. This adds travel time and extra costs, making the island less convenient to reach compared to destinations with more direct access.
Local Perspectives
Opinions about the change vary. Some long-time visitors and locals welcome the calmer atmosphere. They say the island feels closer to how it was before the big tourism boom, when it attracted drifters, surfers, and people seeking a slower way of life. Without heavy crowds, surfing becomes more enjoyable and the community feels more connected.
Others, though, worry about the economic slowdown. Locals who rely on steady tourism face uncertainty when businesses close or cut staff hours. For those invested in Siargao’s hospitality and tourism sectors, the concern is not just about this year but also about whether the island can sustain itself if high costs and limited flights continue.
What This Means for the Months Ahead
The situation in 2025 shows how tourism naturally moves through cycles of highs and lows. Last year was peak, full of energy, and crowded streets. This year is quieter, with open spaces and slower days. Neither state is permanent, since global travel patterns, pricing, and access all influence how visitors arrive. For now, travelers who come to Siargao can enjoy a calmer side of the island, while locals and businesses continue to adapt to the changing flow of tourism.
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