Island Hopping in Siargao
Part of the Siargao travel guide — see every topic in All Siargao Guides.
The most popular day trip in Siargao is the three-island tour from General Luna. In one morning or afternoon, a small boat takes you to Naked Island, Daku Island and Guyam Island. Each is different: a bare sandbar, a large island with a village, and a tiny island with palm trees. This guide explains the trip and how to plan it.
Naked Island
Naked Island is a long, narrow strip of white sand in the middle of the sea. It has no trees and no buildings, which is how it got its name. The water around it is clear and blue, and it is a beautiful place for swimming and photos. There is no shade at all, so bring a hat and sun protection, and do not stay too long in the middle of the day. The size of the sandbar changes with the tide. It is usually the first stop on the tour.
Daku Island
Daku means "big" in the local language, and Daku is the largest of the three islands. It has a small fishing village, a long white beach and many coconut palms. Most tours stop here for lunch. You can buy fresh seafood and have it grilled, or bring your own food. Fresh coconuts are sold on the beach. There are simple huts for shade. Daku is also a surfing spot in the right season. Be respectful in the village and ask before you take photos of people.
Guyam Island
Guyam is a small, round island covered in coconut palms and ringed by white sand. You can walk all the way around it in a few minutes. It is a quiet place to relax, swim and take photos, and it is often the last stop of the tour. A small entrance fee is usually collected on arrival. Guyam is close to General Luna, so you can see it from the shore. The water around it is shallow and calm on most days, which makes it good for families.
Booking the tour
Tours can be booked through hotels, travel shops or directly with boatmen on the beach in General Luna. You can join a shared group tour or hire a private boat. Tours usually last about half a day to a full day, depending on how long you stay at each stop. Island entrance fees are often not included in the tour price, so ask first. Mornings are usually calmer and less crowded. Trips may be cancelled when the sea is rough, so keep a spare day in your plans.
What to bring
Bring sun protection, a hat, sunglasses and plenty of drinking water. There is little shade on Naked Island. Pack a dry bag for your phone and money. Bring cash in small notes for entrance fees, food and drinks on the islands. Snorkel gear can be useful, though the snorkelling on this tour is simple. Wear clothes you do not mind getting wet, as the boat ride can be splashy. Take all your rubbish back with you, as the islands have no waste collection.
Island Hopping at a glance
| Getting there | Boats leave from General Luna |
|---|---|
| Hours | Half-day or full-day tours; mornings are usually calmer |
| Cost | Shared or private boats; island entrance fees are often extra |
| Best time | About March to October for calmer seas; check the weather on the day |
| Bring | Sun protection, water, cash and a dry bag |