This gorgeous tear-drop-shaped island in Asia deserves more recognition than it receives.

Siargao, located on the east coast of the Philippines, is an island known for its quiet beaches, exotic wildlife, underground caves, and so much more. 

Not only that, but the island is also recognised as the Philippines surfing capital – specifically a spot named “Cloud 9”, the site of the annual Siargao International Surfing Cup competition. 

Although the island makes a great holiday spot, tourists are far more likely to head to overcroweded Boracay, an island which is just over 500km away from Siargao and far more famous.

Over the last few years, Boracay has experienced a huge increase in tourism, which has, unfortunately, left the island at risk of becoming permanently damaged due to the human effect on the natural environment. 

The damage was so severe that in April 2018, the island was closed for six months in order for the Philippine government to attempt to rehabilitate and redevelop the island.

A number of new restrictions were set in place once the island was reopened, including a limit of 19,200 tourists per day and last year the island saw over 2 million tourists visit – nearly four times the amount of that visited Siargao. 

So, why not try something new – a trip to Siarago instead? The island has its own airport for domestic flights only, but transfers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao make it fairly easy to get to.

There’s also a range of accommodation dotted around the island.

Choose from hostels, beach resorts and hotels depending on what you want to do. Different areas of the island deliver a unique experience.

The area of Pilar, for example, is famous for the Magpupungko pool, offering a matchless swimming spot with beautiful surrounding limestone rock formations.

General Luna, where Cloud 9 is located, also houses many bars and restaurants along Tourism Road and has a lively night scene. It also has many accommodation options which makes it one of the most popular areas to stay at.

This time round, opt in for the less busy option and go for the relaxing island of Siargao.