Lagoons and Rock Pools in Siargao
Part of the Siargao travel guide — see every topic in All Siargao Guides.
Siargao is much more than surfing. The island has large mangrove forests, clear lagoons, natural rock pools and quiet rivers. Most of these places are in the protected area that covers the island and its waters. This guide covers the best nature trips, how to reach them and the simple rules that keep them clean.
Sugba Lagoon
Sugba Lagoon is a calm, blue-green lagoon surrounded by mangroves and limestone hills, near the town of Del Carmen. You reach it by boat through the mangrove channels, which takes a short time from the Del Carmen port. At the lagoon, there is a floating platform with a diving board. You can swim, rent a paddleboard or kayak, and relax in the clear water. Visitors pay an environmental fee and a boat fee, which help protect the area. Go early to avoid the busiest hours.
Magpupungko Rock Pools
Magpupungko is a beach in Pilar, on the east coast of Siargao. At low tide, the sea pulls back and leaves large, clear pools in the rocks. The water in the pools is calm and blue, and you can swim and see small fish. At high tide, the pools are covered by waves, so timing is very important. Check the tide table before you go and plan to arrive at low tide. There is a small entrance fee. The rocks are sharp and slippery, so wear water shoes.
Maasin River
Maasin River is a quiet green river on the road between General Luna and the north of the island. It is known for a coconut palm that leans far over the water. People climb it and jump into the river, and it is a very popular photo spot. You can also rent a small boat or paddleboard to explore the river and the forest around it. The water is calm. Only jump if you are a confident swimmer, and check the depth first. It is a short and easy stop by scooter.
Sohoton Cove
Sohoton Cove is on Bucas Grande Island, southwest of Siargao. It is a full-day boat trip from General Luna. The cove is a hidden bay surrounded by limestone cliffs, with caves and clear green water. You enter some parts through low caves by small boat, depending on the tide. In certain months, a lagoon inside has stingless jellyfish that you can swim with. Book through a licensed tour operator, because the trip includes open sea crossings and must be planned around the tides and the weather.
Mangroves and the protected area
Siargao is a protected area, known as the Siargao Island Protected Landscapes and Seascapes. It includes the mangrove forest of Del Carmen, about 4,900 hectares, the largest unbroken mangrove forest in the Philippines and a wetland of world importance. Mangroves protect the coast from storms and give shelter to young fish and crabs. Local groups offer boat and paddle tours through the mangroves. When you visit, do not leave rubbish, do not take shells or plants, and keep noise low. Entrance and environmental fees help fund this protection.
Lagoons and Rock Pools at a glance
| Getting there | Scooter, habal-habal or van from General Luna; boats from Del Carmen for Sugba |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daylight hours; Magpupungko is best at low tide only |
| Cost | Small entrance and environmental fees at most sites; check before you go |
| Best time | About March to October for calmer seas; check the tide for rock pools |
| Bring | Water shoes, cash and a tide table |