Siargao is best known for Cloud 9, one of the most famous surf breaks in the Philippines. But the island isn’t just for experienced surfers — it’s also one of the best places in Southeast Asia to learn how to surf.
The water is warm year-round, beginner-friendly breaks sit close to town, and it’s easy to find experienced instructors in General Luna.
Here’s what to know before you paddle out.
(Still planning your trip? See our full Siargao Travel Guide for where to stay, when to visit, and what else to do on the island.)
Why Siargao Has Good Surf
According to the Stormrider Surf Guide, Siargao sits close to the deep waters of the Philippine Trench, which allows ocean swells to travel unobstructed toward the island. The result is one of the highest concentrations of quality surf breaks in the Philippines.
There are 30+ documented surf spots around Siargao. Many of them are powerful reef breaks meant for experienced surfers — but beginners still have several safe places to learn.
As a general rule:
- General Luna works best during the Southwest (SW) monsoon
- Northern areas like Pacifico or Pilar pick up cleaner swell during the Northeast (NE) trade winds
Where Beginners Should Surf
First rule: don’t paddle out at Cloud 9.
Cloud 9 is a fast, powerful reef break, and beginners are not allowed in the lineup. This is enforced by local surfers and instructors — it’s not just a guideline.
Jacking Horse
The main beginner spot is Jacking Horse, located right beside the Cloud 9 boardwalk.
It’s popular because:
- The takeoff is mellow
- Waves break more gently than at Cloud 9
- You can walk out to the reef at lower tides
One thing to watch for is the sideways current, which can push beginners down the reef. A good instructor will position you correctly so you don’t drift too far.
Pacifico
If you’d rather avoid the crowds, Pacifico is worth the one-hour drive north from General Luna.
The reef here is more forgiving, and the atmosphere is much quieter than the Cloud 9 area. You can usually find instructors near Waves N’ Craves restaurant, which serves as a gathering point for local surfers.
How to Find a Good Surf Instructor
You’ll find plenty of surf schools in General Luna, but it’s best to go with established ones. Two reliable options are:
- Oh Wow Surf
- Surf Spider
A typical beginner lesson costs around ₱500 per hour, which usually includes:
- Surfboard rental
- A licensed instructor
- Basic safety guidance before entering the water
A small but important detail: reputable schools will ask you to sign a waiver before your lesson. If someone skips this step, it’s usually better to look elsewhere.
Also be honest about your swimming ability. Most beginner breaks are waist-to-chest deep, but instructors still need to know your comfort level in the water.
For more distant surf spots like Daku Island or Cemetery, lessons usually require a two-hour minimum because reaching the break involves a short boat ride.
What to Bring Surfing
A few simple things make beginner sessions much easier:
- Aqua socks – Reef can be sharp at low tide when walking to the break
- Rash guard – Prevents board rash and protects from sunburn
- Zinc sunscreen – Regular sunscreen washes off quickly in saltwater
Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, surfing lessons are still possible — just make sure your instructor knows before you head out.
After Your Surf Session
Two hours of paddling — especially against a current — is more exhausting than most beginners expect.
It helps to stay somewhere close to the surf breaks but quiet enough to actually rest afterward.
Araw Boutique is about 10 minutes from the Cloud 9 boardwalk, making it easy to catch early morning surf while staying away from the busiest parts of General Luna. The team can also help arrange surfboard rentals before you arrive, so you don’t need to search around town on your first day.
Recommended Reading
- Stormrider Surf Guide to Siargao – Detailed breakdown of the island’s surf breaks, swell directions, and seasonal patterns.