Things To Do
in Surigao

Surigao, Philippines, is a vibrant city located on the northeastern tip of Mindanao. Known as the gateway to the Siargao Islands, it offers stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a variety of outdoor activities. The city features beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and friendly locals, making it a must-visit destination.

Surigao is also famous for its unique geological formations and marine biodiversity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City and Nearby Islands
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bonifacio Park, where you can relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding area. Follow this with a trip to the Surigao City Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Take a boat tour to the nearby Bucas Grande Islands, famous for its lagoons and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the enchanting Sohoton Cove.

evening
:

Head back to the city for dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Afterward, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city’s bars and lounges.

day 2
Day 2: Nature Adventures and Cultural Experiences
morning
:

Visit the Mabua Pebble Beach, where you can relax on the unique pebble shoreline and enjoy the coastal scenery. Take a stroll around the area and soak in the sun.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Timubo Cave, where you can swim in the natural pool inside the cave. Learn about the local myths and legends associated with it.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a traditional Filipino dinner at a local eatery, followed by a visit to a night market to sample street food and local delicacies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-$5
🍺Local Beer$1-$2
🚕Taxi Fare (within city)$2-$4
🍦Ice Cream$1
🛒Grocery Shopping (weekly)$25-$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living and food.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Potential for heavy rainfall during the wet season.
  • "Magandang araw" - Good day
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Ano'ng pangalan mo?" - What is your name?
  • "Taga saan ka?" - Where are you from?
  • "Pakiusap" - Please

Places to Visit in Surigao

Visit one of these nice places.

Sohoton Cove

A picturesque cove with stunning lagoons and rock formations, perfect for capturing nature’s beauty.

Bucas Grande Island

Known for its crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, offering breathtaking views.

Mabua Pebble Beach

A unique beach with smooth pebbles that create a scenic landscape for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Surigao

Surigao offers a delightful culinary experience with its array of local dishes and fresh seafood. From street food to fine dining, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Surigao Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kinilaw

A traditional Filipino dish made from fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar and citrus juices.

Must-Try!

Sinigang na Baboy

A savory pork soup with a sour flavor, typically made with tamarind.

Lechon

Roasted pig, a popular dish in Filipino celebrations, known for its crispy skin.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Surigao City Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of local street food including barbecue, snacks, and desserts.

Rizal Street Food Stalls

A collection of food stalls where you can try local favorites like fish balls and empanadas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Surigao has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season from November to April and the wet season from May to October. During the dry season, temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), while the wet season often sees high humidity and temperatures around 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Rainfall is significant during the wet months, especially in July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet older individuals with respect and use formal titles.

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites or local homes, dress modestly to show respect.

Polite Greetings

Use local greetings such as 'Magandang araw' (Good day) to establish rapport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Surigao is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded places. It's advisable to stay informed about local news and avoid areas known for petty crime.

Tipping in Surigao

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some establishments accept credit cards; ATMs are available in the city.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Ideal for outdoor activities, with sunny weather and less rainfall.

Wet Season (May to October)

Expect heavy rains and occasional typhoons, which may disrupt travel plans.

Fiesta Season (August)

Experience vibrant local festivals with colorful parades and rich cultural displays.

Tourist Season (December to February)

High tourist influx, making it busy but lively with many activities.

Nightlife Guide

Surigao at Night

Surigao's nightlife is vibrant and casual, with various bars and lounges offering local drinks and music. Popular spots often feature live bands and karaoke, creating a lively atmosphere. Many venues are open late, providing a relaxed place for locals and tourists to socialize and unwind.

Hiking in Surigao

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Lagtang

A popular hiking destination that offers stunning views of Surigao and the surrounding islands.

Mount Iglit

A more challenging hike that rewards trekkers with panoramic vistas and natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Surigao by plane.

Surigao Airport (SUG)

Located approximately 5 km from the city center, Surigao Airport offers domestic flights connecting to major cities like Cebu and Manila.

Getting Around

Walkability

Surigao is relatively walkable, especially around the city center where many attractions, restaurants, and markets are located. Streets are generally flat, and pedestrian pathways are available. However, be cautious of traffic, as some areas may have limited sidewalks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Cebuano

The predominant ethnic group, known for their distinct language and cultural practices.

Lumad

Indigenous people of the region, with a rich cultural heritage and traditional customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A popular sport among locals, often played in community courts and during local festivals.

Surfing

With nearby Siargao Island, surfing has gained popularity, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Surigao is generally light, with most congestion occurring during peak hours. Public transportation options include jeepneys and tricycles, which are affordable and widely used by locals. It's advisable to ask locals for directions if you're unfamiliar with the routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Surigao.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's best to ask about specific dishes.

Allergies

Always inform the staff about any allergies, as local dishes may contain seafood or nuts.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Surigao include public hospitals and private clinics. The Surigao Medical Center is the main hospital, offering emergency services and outpatient care. Healthcare services may be basic, so travelers with serious health concerns should consider bringing necessary medications and travel insurance.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide