After spending time conquering the popular surf breaks in Siargao, I was eager to explore the surrounding islands and uncover some of the Philippines’ lesser-known surf spots. The next four days were dedicated to island hopping, searching for hidden waves, and soaking in the raw beauty that this archipelago has to offer.
My first stop was Daku Island, located just a short boat ride from Siargao. Known for its powdery white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Daku is a haven for those looking to escape the crowds. While most visitors come here for relaxation, I had heard from locals about a little-known reef break on the east side of the island. Eager to explore, I paddled out with just a few other surfers, all of us thrilled at the prospect of riding these uncrowded waves.
The waves were not as intense as Siargao’s Cloud 9, but they offered a consistent and enjoyable ride. The reef break provided just enough challenge to keep things interesting without the pressure of crowded lineups. Between surf sessions, I took time to lounge on the beach, enjoy freshly grilled fish from local vendors, and chat with friendly locals who shared their stories of island life.
The second day of island hopping took me to Naked Island, a tiny sandbar with no vegetation, hence its name. This small stretch of sand is surrounded by pristine waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and enjoying the peaceful, untouched beauty of nature. While there were no waves to surf, the solitude of the island was a welcome break from the adrenaline-filled days in the surf.
From Naked Island, I made my way to Guyam Island, a tiny tropical paradise surrounded by coral reefs. Though not a surf spot, it was perfect for snorkeling. I spent the afternoon marveling at the vibrant marine life, with schools of colorful fish darting through the crystal-clear waters. The island’s coconut trees and soft sand made it the perfect place to relax after hours in the water.
On the third day, I ventured further from Siargao in search of a more secluded surf experience. A local guide had told me about a hidden surf spot on Bucas Grande Island, a lesser-known island just south of Siargao. The journey to Bucas Grande involved a boat ride through the Sohoton Cove National Park, where I was surrounded by limestone cliffs and emerald lagoons – one of the most beautiful places I had ever seen.
Upon arriving at the surf spot, I was greeted by perfect, glassy waves. There was no one else in sight, making it feel like my own private surf paradise. The waves here were long and smooth, offering an incredible ride. After each session, I found myself paddling back out with excitement, knowing that I was riding a wave that few have had the chance to experience.
In between surfing, I explored the rest of Bucas Grande’s wonders. The island is famous for its stingless jellyfish lagoon, where I had the surreal experience of swimming among thousands of harmless jellyfish. It was a day filled with both adventure and awe, as I witnessed the untouched beauty of the Philippines in all its glory.
On the final day of island hopping, I returned to Siargao, where I visited some of the island’s more relaxed surf spots like Jacking Horse and Quicksilver. These breaks are perfect for beginners, but they also offer a fun, mellow ride for more experienced surfers looking to take it easy. It was the perfect way to end my island hopping adventure – a day of smooth, playful waves and a chance to reflect on the past few days of exploration.
While Siargao’s Cloud 9 remains the most famous surf spot in the Philippines, my island-hopping experience showed me that there’s so much more to discover in this tropical paradise. The hidden surf spots, crystal-clear waters, and welcoming island communities made these four days unforgettable. I left with a deeper appreciation for the Philippines’ natural beauty and the sense of adventure that comes with exploring its lesser-known corners.
