The Surfing Capital of the Philippines made it into the list of "Best Places to Visit" in Southeast Asia!
The pride of Surigao del Norte province, Siargao, was recently included in a list by global travel guide publisher, Lonely Planet, naming it as the best place for surfing in the SEA region.
The article described the dreamy island as a “tropical paradise” boasting “one of the best waves in the world.” They mentioned several must-do island activities from surfing lessons to cave adventures and motorbike rides. The travel guide also hailed it for its enjoyable live music performances at bars and cafes such as Extension and Strum, and praised Filipinos for their hospitality by quoting, “Whatever you decide, expect to be welcomed warmly into the local community.”
The list also included Amed in Bali for its diving and snorkeling sites, as well as Cao Bang, Vietnam; Khao Sok National Park, Thailand; Luang Prabang, Laos; and Penang, Malaysia.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco shared their delight over the news in a statement on July 29 and said: “This recognition reflects the indisputable beauty of Siargao, from its famous surfing spots to its pristine beaches and lively local culture.”
“The acknowledgment given to Siargao is a victory for the islandand its peoples and a proud moment for the entire country. This underscores the growing global appreciation for the Philippines’ diverse and breathtaking landscapes, the richness of our culture, and the warmth and love of our people.”
Deemed as a surfer’s paradise, Siargao hosts regular surfing events and international competitions such as the annual Siargao International Surfing Cup which highlights world-class surfing acts upon the waves of the iconic Cloud 9.
