Wave After Wave: Surigao’s Festivities! Surf at Cloud 9 Festival: Groove with Kabibo Festival: and witness history in Pangasananan Festival!
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The Soul of a Nation in the Age of Change Meet the OG guardians of the Land: The Manobo Tribe of Bislig
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Purely Surigao! Surigao isn’t just the places, it’s the flavors too! Check out these local treats!
Sun-kissed & Sea-bound: Surigao Beach Diaries Flaunt that beach summer vibes and sizzle here at Surigao Beaches!
Wave After Wave: Surigao’s Festivities! Surf at Cloud 9 Festival: Groove with Kabibo Festival: and witness history in Pangasananan Festival!
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The Soul of a Nation in the Age of Change Meet the OG guardians of the Land: The Manobo Tribe of Bislig
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12 Reasons to visit the Hinatuan Enchanted River in Surigao From Myth to Marvel — Experience the Enchantment in Surigao
Get to know ARCHER! Quality food, COFFEE, massages, and top-notch hospitality is waiting for you at MV Starlite Archer!
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Where to? A home away from home? This is where you can stay during your Surigao Trip
Flavors of Surigao:
A Taste of Tradition & Tide
Sayongsong
As Filipinos, we have a soft spot for rice desserts— comforting, nostalgic, and always satisfying. But Sayongsong from Surigao del Sur takes it to another level. This local delicacy blends glutinous rice, coconut milk, sugar, and crushed peanuts into a creamy, melts in your mouth and slightly nutty treat that’s steamed in banana leaves for that extra earthy aroma. It’s not just dessert— it’s heritage wrapped in flavor.
Poot Poot Ginamos
Poot-Poot Ginamos is a bold delicacy from Surigao del Sur that’s sure to challenge your senses. Made from a tiny, uniquely local fish called poot-poot, found only along Philippine shores, this dish is fermented with salt and vinegar until it develops a sharp, pungent aroma that can curl your tongue and awaken your taste buds. But it’s more than just a strong flavor—it’s a proud testament to the fishing culture and culinary heritage of the Surigaonons.
Gigaquit Rhum
‘Gumuguhit’ na inumin ba ang hanap mo? Try Gigaquit Rhum. It is a well known native beverage from Surigao Del Sur made from the distilled and fermented sap of the nipa palm known locally as tuba or sasa. Locals would describe it having a unique, earthy, and vegetal flavor.
Dried Pijanga
Filipino’s love for dried fish is unparalleled. It is a staple to every Filipino household not only because of its addictive taste but for the memory and comfort that it holds that warms the heart of every Filipino. Dried Pijanga is not an exception, it is known for its unique taste, crispy texture, and savory, not-toosalty flavor that is equally addicting as our favorite tuyo and danggit.
Sun-kissed and Sea-Bound: The Surigao Beach Diaries
There’s no escaping Surigao without at least trying your luck riding the waves of Siargao Island—a breathtaking, tear-drop-shaped jewel off the northeastern coast of Mindanao. Surrounded by 48 stunning islands and islets, Siargao rose to fame after being named the best island in the Philippines in 2019 and has since earned its title as the country’s surfing capital.
Today, it continues to be a haven for thrill-seekers and laid-back travelers from around the world, all drawn to its perfect blend of chill vibes and wild adventures. In this issue, we’ve curated five must-visit spots in Siargao for surfing, sunbathing, and pure relaxation.
PHOTOS
Magpupungko Rock Pools
is Siargao’s natural
affinity pool located at Pilar. This pool is cloistered from the open sea by natural limestone barriers creating a miniature marine, with its own crystal waters, rock formations, and small open caves for people to explore and dive in. It’s also one of the best areas in Siargao to sunbathe, relax, and capture the scenic view of the coastal area in the open sea. To best enjoy the pool, visit during weekdays and avoid special holidays.
Magpupungko Rock Pools
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
• Cement, sand, and aggregates
• Structural steel and rebar
• Plumbing and electrical supplies
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Located at Siargao’s circumferential road approximately 18 kilometers outside General Luna is the Maasin River. Its lush bent of coconut palm trees and deep emerald waters make it a perfect therapeutic destination for those who seek the serenity of life.
Bogac Cold Spring, Beto Lagoon
For its popularity, Siargao beaches and lagoons can sometimes become crowded but with Bogac Cold Spring, Beto Lagoon, you can still experience that peaceful solitude that you came to experience in Siargao. Its turquoise waters exudes mystery that will pique your curiosity to dive in and experience the refreshing energy it hides within its pool.
60 per head THANK YOU! ENTRANCE FEE
30 per head THANK YOU!
Maasin River
Cloud 9
If you did not grapple with the waves–and got knocked down by the ripples of Cloud 9 Siargao, what’s the point of your Surigao trip? Beyond its mesmerizing landscape and azure waters, Cloud 9 Siargao is bestknown for its waves that surf enthusiasts sought after—no wonder it made it the surf capital of the country.
Secret Beach
Do you ever wish you could just get away— hide yourself from civilization—and shield your soul from the noise that wears you down? You are not alone and Siargao’s Secret Beach happens to be the perfect refuge for you. It is a hidden place nestling a paradise of luscious green and azureverde waters. Here you can swim away your sorrow, paddle out your worries, and create new core memories to cherish and share.
What’s a better food to eat by the beach than a good barbecue? I absolutely loved Bebbie’s BBQ. The smoky aroma, the perfectly grilled meat, and that sweet-savory glaze hit differently when you’re fresh off the beach with salty hair and
Another favorite of mine was Isla Turon. As a Filipino, who doesn’t love a good turon, right? But Isla Turon takes it to another level with cream cheese tucked inside (another personal favorite!) and the option to customize toppings.
If Surigao were a person, who would it be and why?
If Surigao were a person, she would be my extrovert low-maintenance friend. She’s free-spirited and grounded, the kind of friend you don’t need to talk to every day but can always count on when you need her. That’s how the island feels, you can leave and come back, and it welcomes you just the same.
My favorite spot in Siargao would have to be Pisangan surf spot. You can only reach it by boat, which already makes it feel a little more hidden and exclusive. It’s also where I had my very first surf lesson, and my life has never been the same since. What I love most is that Pisangan carries this unspoken seriousness about surfing. There’s nothing else to do there but surf, and that makes it feel like a special place reserved for people who are truly in love with the sport. And when I went there, it was sunrise, so it definitely set the mood. The golden light hitting the waves, the calm of the morning, and the anticipation of my first surf lesson
made it feel like a whole experience, one I’ll never forget. And have I mentioned that my first ever surf instructor was THE iconic Ikit Agudo? Such a top tier experience.
Another favorite of mine is Secret Beach. I grew close with some locals there, and I loved hanging out whenever I had the chance. The beach is calmer, the crowd thinner, and the whole atmosphere more relaxed. There are turo-turo stalls nearby if you’re craving something casual, and even a restaurant if you want something a little more upscale. Sometimes, though, it’s enough to just sit by the sand and enjoy the quiet.
Rizza Camingawan / izacastrx_
Cloud 9 Surf Festival
Cloud 9 Surf Festival
What to look forward to in Surigao’s Cloud 9 Surf Festival
Cloud 9 Surfing Festival is an annual event in Siargao that is usually held during the last week of September for surfers and surfer enthusiasts. It showcases not only the talents of the surfers but also the rich culture of Siargao.
Surfing in Siargao dates back to the early 1980’s when Surf photographer Tony Aruzza and surfer Steve Jones visited the island in their quest for the “perfect wave” and Siargao happens to be the perfect beach break, gaining popularity for both local and international surfers.
This celebration is a seven-day exhibit of Siargao’s heart and soul–its culture. The event features a three-day surf competition, a day of surf workshops, and a cultural period that features cultural performances, live music and local food stalls.
BY The Manduls themanduls.com | August 19, 2025
PHOTOS
Kabibo Festival: Alegria’s Dance of Gratitude
Something magical happens every 15th of June in the quiet municipality of Alegria, a landlocked town tucked between Lake Mainit and the Lumondo Waterfalls in Surigao del Norte. The streets bloom in a riot of color, drumbeats roll like thunder over emerald hills, and bodies sway in a dance as old as time. This is Kabibo — a symphony of joy, a tribute to abundance, unity, and the fiery heart of the Alegrianhon soul.
The festival’s origins lie in ancient thanksgiving rites honoring abundant harvests. The word “Kabibo,” meaning lively or spirited, perfectly captures the vibrant energy that defines this joyful celebration.
Unlike commercialized festivals, Kabibo remains deeply community-driven where the entire town participates—from schoolchildren to farmers, barangay officials to elders.
Costumes are handmade, often using indigenous materials. The choreography reflects agricultural themes: planting, harvesting, and celebrating nature’s gifts which will all be expressed during the Kabibo Festival Dance Parade, the highlight of the festival. Their performances are the epitome of gratitude, resilience, and joy.
PHOTOS BY Tourism Alegria, SDN FB: TourismAlegriaSDN
On festival day, travelers can watch the dance parade, join community feasts, and even participate in workshops on local crafts and cooking. It’s a rare chance to experienceSurigao’s inland culture—authentic, unfiltered, and deeply moving.
Whether you’re stepping into Alegria for the first time or coming home once more, the Kabibo Festival gently reminds us that joy doesn’t always come from grand destinations.
Sometimes, it’s found in the warmth of shared stories, the rhythm of familiar dances, and the quiet gratitude woven into the heart of a small town. Alegria awaits, with open arms and
TRIVIA TO KNOW
The festival coincides with Adlaw nan Alegria, the town’s founding anniversary. Kabibo dancers are judged not just on technique, but on spirit and storytelling.
Alegria’s name means “joy” in Spanish—perfectly aligned with the festival’s essence.
3D2N
Day 1: Arrival at Siargao Airport
Day 2: Island Tour with Buffet Lunch
Day 3: Departure
INCLUSIONS
• Hotel Accommodation
• Tours with Lunch
• Entrance Fees
• Tours
4D3N
Day 1: Arrival at Siargao Airport
Day 2: Land Tour and Lagoon w/ Lunch
Day 3: Island Tour with Buffet Lunch
Day 4: Departure
• Roundtrip airport transfers
5D4N
Day 1: Arrival at Siargao Airport
Day 2: Land Tour and Lagoon w/ Lunch
Day 3: Island Tour with Buffet Lunch
Day 4: Free Day
Day 5: Departure
• Environmental Fees BOOK WITH
Pangasananan’s First Roar:
A Celebration of Manobo Heritage and Strength
The air in the heart of Mindanao crackled not with static, but with something far older, far more resonant. It was the rhythmic thud of wooden pestles pounding rice in a traditional Bayu, the focused silence before a spear was thrown in Pagpilak o Sayak, and the collective roar of a community locked in a match of Binugkotay, or tug of war. This was the sound of culture roaring back to life at the first-ever Pangasananan Festival, a vibrant and powerful new celebration of the Manobo people.
Held from September 13-14, 2025, this inaugural event marked a historic moment for the Manobo Indigenous Cultural Community of Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) 239. Officially institutionalized by the community’s leaders, the festival, formally known as the “Aruw tu Pangasananan and IP Day Celebration,” is more than just a gathering.
It is a profound expression of gratitude to “Pangasananan”—the ancestral domain that has nourished them for generations—and a determined step towards revitalizing their cherished traditions.
The festival’s theme beautifully captured this sentiment: “Pangasananan Pasalamatan, Kulturang Manobo Panalipdan, Tribung Kumunidad Protektahan, Henerasyong Sumusunod Paga-ampingan” (Gratitude to Pangasananan, Safeguarding of Manobo Culture, Protection for the IP Community, and Care and Guidance for the Next Generation).
The two-day celebration began with a sacred ritual led by the tribe’s Baylan (spiritual leader), who blessed the grounds and the gathering - anchoring the festivities in deeprooted spiritual tradition. The opening ceremony followed, a formal affair graced by respected leaders and advocates, including Tribal Chieftain Hawudon Tinuy-an Alfredo M. Domogoy and Sectoral Leader Chairman Datu Sayaw Rodino C. Domogoy.
The presence of guests from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and national IP organizations underscored the event’s regional and national significance.
But it was after a festive communal lunch that the heart of the festival began to beat its loudest. The highlight, and by far the most anticipated event, was the “Tribalympics.”
The idea for a Tribal Olympics was sparked just months earlier, in June 2025, when members of the Mgo Bataun tu Pangasananan—the official IP Youth Organization of CADT 239—witnessed a similar event at the Naliyagan Festival in Agusan del Sur. Inspired, they brought the concept home, adapting it to showcase their unique Manobo heritage.
The result was a spectacular showcase of skill, strength, and spirit. Competitors of all ages faced off in a series of traditional games that served not only as thrilling contests, but also as powerful lessons in cultural heritage.
In Gutgutan (traditional fire making), participants frantically worked to create a flame using only indigenous materials. In Pana (archery) and Pagpilak o Sayak (spear throwing), ancestral hunting skills were put to the test. Laughter erupted during the Kadang-kadang (pole-walk race), a chaotic and thrilling test of balance.
Throughout the afternoon, sweat rolled, smiles flashed, and teamwork roared.
The Tribalympics was a vivid demonstration that these traditions are not relics of the past. They are living, breathing skills that continue to define the Manobo people’s resilience, versatility, and steadfast spirit in the face of modern challenges.
As the sun set on the final day, the first Pangasananan Festival concluded not just as a successful event, but as a promise fulfilled. It was a promise to the ancestors to protect their culture, a promise to the community to strengthen their bonds, and a promise to the youth to pass on the torch of their identity.
For any traveler seeking an authentic, dynamic, and deeply meaningful cultural experience, mark your calendars. A new tradition has been born, and its spirit is calling.
THE SOUL OF A NATION IN THE AGE OF
Surigao del Sur is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. Its enchanted falls and mysterious woodland cradle you to a world of wonder and peace, making it a worthy place to experience and explore. Beyond these mystical waters and shrouded greens lies a treasure that thrives in silence, its glow dimmed not by time but by stories left untold - the Indigenous Group of Manobo in Bislig City.
The Indigenous Group of Manobo in Bislig, the holder of Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) 239, is the Domogoy clan of the Manobo Tribe residing at Sitio Bayabas and Sitio Sote of Barangay Burboanan and Sitio Baguis of Barangay Mone, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur.
Change
In an exclusive interview with Datu Sayaw Rodino C. Domogoy, the Chairman of the Indigenous Peoples Organization (IPO), the Manobo Tribal Council of Sote (MATRICOSO), he shared that even he, is unsure of how long they have been staying in the area but according to historical accounts, their ancestors have been occupying the area called ‘linunsudan’ or the old city of Burboanan even before the 17th century.
Much like their ancestors, CADT 239 remains deeply rooted in their tradition. Their political system still operates under an autonomous type of government where they appoint tribal Chieftains to oversee the well-being and order of the tribe. Helping them are their sectoral leaders, Board of Directors, and elders whom they call ‘Manigaon’ or the oldest living member of their clan.
To sustain their daily needs, the community continues to draw support from their natural surroundings, relying on traditional practices such as fishing, farming, and raising livestock.
Rituals still hold a profound and sacred place in the cultural tapestry of the Manobo tribe. Led by their Baylan, the tribe’s spiritual leader, these ceremonies are performed to mark various occasions, activities, and communal milestones. Far more than tradition, these rituals serve as a spiritual bridge — connecting the living Manobo with their departed ancestors, as well as with mystical beings like Engkanto and Diwata believed to dwell within their ancestral lands.
For the Manobo, each ritual is a testament to their deep faith and enduring belief that their ancestors return to inhabit the sacred soil, offering guidance and protection in everyday life. Through the Baylan, the tribe communicates with these spirits, seeking wisdom and counsel that continue to shape the decisions of tribal leaders and the rhythm of community life.
Yet, as the country undergoes rapid technological shifts and modernization, these traditions face new challenges. The once tightly woven connection between ritual and daily living is gradually being reshaped, prompting the tribe to navigate the delicate balance between preserving their spiritual heritage and adapting to a changing world.
Datu Sayaw stated that modernization has both positively and negatively impacted their day-to-day activities as a community.
Sa positibong aspeto, tinutulungan ng teknolohiya ang mga Manobo, lalo na ang aming sectoral leaders sa pagprotekta at pagkonserba ng kalikasan. Dagdag pa rito, ang teknolohiya ay nakatutulong sa pagpapalaganap ng impormasyon tungkol sa pagkakakilanlan, layunin, at gawain ng aming tribo.
Sa kabilang banda, nagiging suliranin din ang teknolohiya lalo na sa mga kabataan pati na rin sa mga may edad na sapagkat sila ay mas nahuhumaling sa mga gadgets at devices na minsan ay nakakalimutan na nila ang kanilang mga responsibilidad at ang kanilang pagkakakilanlan bilang isang Manobo.
In response to these changes, the community came together, bridging generations by collaborating with the Manigaon (elders) and the Bataun (youth), alongside the Indigenous Peoples Sector (IPS), Indigenous Peoples Organization (IPO), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and private companies that support their cause. This collective effort aims to preserve and revitalize the rich traditions of the Manobo tribe, ensuring that their cultural heritage continues to thrive across the region.
Conservation of the Environment
In historical context, the ancestors of the IP groups of Manobo in Bislig are said to belong to the original stock of ProtoPhilippine or proto-Austronesian people who came from China thousands of years ago, earlier than the Ifugao and other terrace-building peoples of northern Luzon (CCP Encyclopedia of Arts 1994: 120.).
Since then, the community, being the first inhabitants of the land, have committed to safeguarding the conservation of the ecological environment in the area as this has been their primary source of living and livelihood.
However, with the onset of modernization and rapid technological change, this delicate balance has begun to shift. While progress has brought new opportunities, it has also posed challenges to their traditional practices and environmental responsibilities — particularly in safeguarding natural treasures like the Tinuy-an Falls.
“Ang Tinuy-an Falls ang pinagmamalaking pamana ng kalikasan sa tribong Manobo ng CADT 239, ay tanyag sa pagbibigay ng pangkabuhayan sa tribung kumunidad sa pamamagitan ng pagdagsa ng turista at paglobo ng turismo sa lugar. Datu Sayaw said.
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The Tinuy-an falls, also called the Little Niagara Falls, is a popular tourist attraction in Surigao del Sur. It is a 3-tiered waterfall, with a stunning 95-meter-wide and 80-foot-deep cascade.
It is also a home to an impressive variety of wildlife which includes 91 species of animals such as amphibians, birds, and freshwater fish, along with 188 species of flora, 33 of which are endangered. Such are the reasons why Tinuy-an Falls is an essential ecological life to the Manobo of Bislig.
Kaakibat ng benepisyo ay ang pagdagsa rin ng mga basura at ng mga isyu patungkol sa pangangalaga sa kalikasan, lalong lalo na sa Tinuy-an Falls.
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The National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992, officially Republic Act No. 7586, establishes a comprehensive system for the conservation and management of protected areas in the Philippines.
The primary goal of this provision is to secure these areas for present and future generations, ensuring the preservation of the country’s unique biodiversity including the Tinuy-an Falls, which is under the Republic Act No. 11038 also known as the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act of 2018.
In response to this, the IPS and IPO, along with their forest guards and the ‘Baganis’ of the tribe, have been adamant in the protection and conservation of their Indigenous land, so much so that they have negotiated with individuals and groups that have participated in the illegal logging and land clearing that is causing harm to the environment.
Sectoral leaders have also restricted the harmful farming of both IP and non-IP residents in the area and they have also partnered with the different local agencies and private companies to tighten the conservation of the land resources.
Ang mga katutubo o Indigenous Peoples ay isa sa mga nangunguna sa pangangalaga ng kalikasan sapagkat alam namin, tulad naming mga Manobo ng CADT 239, na ang kalikasan at ang lupang ninuno ay ang pinagkukunan ng mga pangangailangan upang mabuhay.
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Ang simpleng buhay ng mga Manobo sa komplikadong kasalukuyan ay isang palatandaan na ang mga tao ay isa lamang parte ng kalikasan kaya kailangan niya itong pangalagaan upang ito ay manatili at magpatuloy. Datu Sayaw added.
One of my favorite islands is Guyam Island, just off the coast of General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte.
What do you wish you knew before you went to Surigao?
Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte is not only renowned for its natural beauty and surf culture but also for its vibrant nightlife that offers visitors a fun and memorable experience. Yes, it can get a little crazy!
Never go to Surigao without visiting the Enchanted River in Hinatuan and Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig (I heard Britania Group of Islands are also a must see but I haven’t been to yet). These are the places that you should pay heed to when going to Surigao. When I visited the Hinatuan Enchanted River, it felt as though I were gazing into a deep sapphire eye—mesmerizing and alive. The water was so crystal clear you could see the riverbed with the naked eye. Then there’s Tinuy-an Falls, just as majestic in person as it appears in photos—perhaps that’s why it’s often called the ‘Mini Niagara Falls of the Philippines.’ The cascading waters, framed by lush flora and towering trees, are a breathtaking sight. It’s a whole different experience when you witness it in the flesh.
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12 REASONS
Let yourself be drawn by the bewitching beauty of the Hinatuan Enchanted River in Surigao Del Sur. Its stunning blue hues attracted many tourists and locals over the years. The river is teeming with rich marine wildlife and speculative stories of its origin. Its unexplored depths remain a source of mystery and wonder. If that is not enough to convince you, here are 12 more reasons why you should add the Hinatuan Enchanted River to your Surigao itinerary.
1.
Captivating blend of color
One look is all it takes to find out why the Hinatuan Enchanted River keeps going viral from time to time. The water blends a light turquoise by the banks, as well as shallow areas with a vivid cerulean toward the deep end.
It remains a vibrant blue during high and low tide, but when the latter occurs, the Blue Lagoon (deep end) becomes incredibly clearer than usual, so clear it feels like glass, which reveals the hidden caves below as well as the vibrant fish that glides gracefully through the depths, creating a mesmerizing underwater spectacle.
2. Impressive depth remains a mystery
Over the years, many technical divers had tried to reach the floor of the Hinatuan Enchanted River, however, the furthest they could reach was about 87 meters deep. Despite many risky explorations, no one has yet discovered the river’s true depths.
3. Inspired myths and folk stories
Oral tradition gave life to the
legends of the Enchanted Hinatuan River. For example, its captivating blue is said to be painted with jade and sapphire wands owned by diwata or fairies. Fishermen tell stories about large, peculiar fish that cannot be caught by any means. The river itself is said to be the dwelling place of engkanto, spirits and mythical creatures of the Philippines.
4. Named after a poem
The river’s unique beauty was recognized long ago as ‘Libwak’, but its current name Enchanted River was derived from a poem by Modesto Farolan, a journalist, tourism advocate, and former Philippines consul general to Hawaii. He dedicated his poem ‘Rio Encantado’ to a special someone, with the river of Hinatuan as a romantic backdrop for lovers.
The poem was combined with music by Francisco Rio and is now played over the river during fish feeding.
5. Dedicated swimming area
In the past, people were allowed to swim across the whole stretch of the river, including the deep Blue Lagoon; however in 2017, the Local Government Unit of Hinatuan saw that this damages the limestone walls of the river. Broken limestone descends to the mouth of the underwater cave, blocking off the spring and allowing saltwater to enter. This is why they dedicated a swimming spot that is 10 meters away from the lagoon. Since then, the Hinatuan Enchanted River has been restored to its freshwater levels and reduced coliform levels, making swimming safer for everyone.
Note: Life vests are required during swimming. Do not worry about renting one, because it is already included in the river’s entrance fee.
6. Delightful fish feeding show
When the clock strikes 12 noon, swimmers are herded out of the water for a few minutes to give way to the fish feeding show.
The poem-song ‘Hymn of Hinatuan’ is played from a speaker while staff aboard a small boat to feed the school of colorful fish below. This activity is said to appease river spirits.
7. Complex underwater cave system
Under the Blue Lagoon, a deep underground cave awaits. The farthest local cave divers had reached was about 87 meters, and the rest remains untouched. To this
day, the Filipino Cave Divers organization explores and studies the Hinatuan Enchanted River, documenting their findings in partnership with the local government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The consistent monitoring by the group contributed majorly to conservation efforts.
PHOTOS BY Jun Cardilanza
8. Conservation and preservation efforts
In the past years, the local government and communities carried out environmental conservation actions to preserve the beauty of the Hinatuan Enchanted River. To decrease pressure on the underground cave, food and drink vendors, souvenir shops, and parking areas were moved to a new facility about 300 meters away from the river. Eating near the area is prohibited and swimmers were limited to a smaller area. These efforts successfully improved the river’s condition and made it as fascinating as it is today.
9. Jump-off point for island hopping tour
Beyond the Hinatuan Enchanted River, there are several islands and rock formations to explore. You can avail an island hopping tour, where the Enchanted River serves as a jump-off. It costs 500 pesos for 2-3 hours, touring the following islands with their corresponding entrance fees (as of 2024):
• Sibadan Fish Cage: ₱50
• Lodestone Shores Resort: ₱50
• Rock Island: ₱30
10. Seafood dining options nearby
A coastal and river exploration calls for seafood, which you can find at the dining hall, near the reception of the Hinatuan Enchanted River. Fresh seafood is also offered at the island hopping locations: Sibadan Fish Cage Resort, Rock Island, and Lodestone Shores.
PHOTO BY Marlon Mayo Google Reviews | Sibadan Fish Cage Resort | November 2024
11. Hinatuan beach resort for overnight stays
The Enchanted River Rock Island Resort is the closest offshore lodging to the Surigao Del Sur attraction. Boat rides can be booked as part of the island hopping tour or separately, especially if you book a room. Upon arrival at the pier, there is a seafood restaurant where you can get your fill of fresh catches.
Another Hinatuan beach resort worth considering is the Lodestone Shores Resort located at Bagasin Island, a short boat trip from the Hinatuan Enchanted River. They have activities such as high diving, swimming, kayaking, and dining.
One of the favorite stops during the Hinatuan Enchanted River island hopping tour is Brenda, a lovely manta ray kept at Sibadah Fish Cage and Resort. This popular stopover can be reached through pumpboat. What’s more is that visitors can swim and interact with Brenda safely as their stings were safely removed by the owners. Aside from bathing with friendly fish, they also offer fresh seafood and lodging for a coastal getaway.
Where is the Hinatuan Enchanted River?
The Hinatuan Enchanted River, located in Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur, borders Barangay Talisay and Cambatong. This 300-meter-long river connects to the ocean, nearby islands, and rocks. It’s a popular spot for local tourists from regions like Davao and Agusan Del Norte, though it remains relatively remote for foreign visitors.
How to Go to Enchanted Hinatuan River
From Cebu to Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur via Ferry
1. Ferry: Book a Starlite Ferries ride from Cebu Port to Surigao Port.
2. Surigao: Take a multicab from Surigao Port to the Surigao City Integrated Land Transport Terminal.
3. To Hinatuan:
• Bus: Take a bus bound for Mangagoy and alight at the Hinatuan Terminal.
• Van: Rent a van directly to Hinatuan, or the Hinatuan Enchanted River (travel time: ≈5.5 - 6.8 hours).
You can also board a bus going to Butuan City, then take another bus going to Mangagoy and alight at Hinatuan Terminal. Hire a motorcycle to Hinatuan Enchanted River.
Entrance Fee and Other Amenities at Hinatuan Enchanted River
Entrance Fee (inclusive of parking, life vest, tables and chairs, unlimited swimming)
• For Residents and Locals of Hinatuan
• Adults: ₱30
• Seniors: ₱20
• Children below 4 feet: ₱15
• For Non-Residents
• Adults: ₱100
• Seniors and PWD: ₱80
• Children below 4 feet: ₱30
Amenities at Hinatuan Enchanted River Ticket office
• Shuttle (free of charge)
• Storage area
• Comfort room
• Changing area
• Parking area
• Restaurant / Dining hall
The temperature in Surigao is warm all year round, which makes it an inviting getaway whenever you want to visit. May is its warmest month, measuring at 32 degrees Celsius down to 26 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, during January, the temperature drops from 29 to 24 degrees Celsius, making it its coldest month.
Either way, it is important to be prepared during your trip. In this issue, we list down the things you must have to keep your Surigao Adventure safe and fun.
Sunscreens/Sunblock
Golden glow? Yes! Sunburned lobster? No thanks!
Tanned skin may scream beach babe vibes, but healthy, radiant skin wins every time. Keep it toned, not toasted on your Surigao adventure!
Slather on a high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen with UVA & UVB protection— because the sun’s scorching rays aren’t playing around.
Stay sun-safe and shine, not sizzle!
Portable WiFi
Unplug? Sounds great—until you realize your epic Siargao sunset is too perfect not to share!
Sure, the goal was a digital detox, but let’s be real—you’ll want to capture the vibes, spread the stoke, and inspire the next wave of adventurers! So go ahead, live the moment, snap the magic, and share the joy—just make sure to bring that WiFi with you!
Portable fan
If Surigao is hot, stay hotter.
Don’t let the tropical sweat melt your beach babe energy–keep that cool, confident glow intact. Stay chill while staying fierce with your portable fan because sweaty isn’t the vibe but slaying under the sun absolutely is!
Water
As Mimiyuuh wisely said: Drink your water, Bch! Detox your soul? Start with your body! Hydration is the real MVP, keeping you fresh, radiant, and glowing even under the scorching Surigao sun. So keep that water bottle close, sip like a queen, and let your skin thrive—because parched isn’t a look we’re going for!
WIFI ONBOARD FOR ALL PASSENGERS
Where to Stay?
Elenita | 11 July 2025
Exceptional 10/10
I love the place, cozy, simple, elegant, best location city center and near to city Boulevard.
Ronald | 8 Sept 2025
Good 7/10
Perfect Location - Closer to everything like cafes, shops, restos, market, boulevard. Friendly and helpful staff members
LIX HOTEL 0970 391 8213 lixhotelsurigao@gmail.com
Eula - June 16,2025
Clean and Comfy
Happy to have stayed here. Much happier that they’re pet-friendly. We went around the city to find a decent pet-friendly accommodation. glad we found this place, it was clean and comfy and the staff members are very accommodating. Our pet loved the place too!
The Grande Suites 0908 860 6512 inquiry@thegrandesuites.com
Judz Abs - July 2025
The staff members are very friendly and accommodating. Good food is reasonably priced. Our room had a perfect view of the beach.
Whendee Gres | June 2025
I went there for my birthday trip and I really had an awesome time. The staff even prepared a surprise while I was having my breakfast so I really felt over the moon, the place is perfect if you want to just relax. The food was also delicious.
Mt. Bagarabon Beach Resort & Hotel 0967 213 4670
Lix Hotel Surigao
Grande Suites Hotel
Mt. Bagarabon Beach Resort & Hotel
Pacifico Island. Far from the crowd and the best place to breathe. Favorite place
What’s your most memorable experience in Siargao?
Roaming around the island using our rented motorcycle.
The very first thing I’d do is to rent a motorbike because that’s the best way to feel the island’s soul.
If Siargao were a person, it would be the love of my life, my partner, because it brings me peace, calm, and quiet.
Go-to hangout place
El Lobo and Siargao Beach Club
Had I known earlier, I would’ve stayed longer in Siargao—four days and three nights barely scratch the surface of what the island has to offer.
One of the most interesting things I learned from my trip to Siargao is that the island’s magic isn’t just in its beaches or waves, but in the way people live. Life there moves slower, yet feels richer, locals and travelers share a rhythm that’s deeply tied to nature and community.
