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Here are some must-visit spots in Siargao, according to Kelsey Merritt
Are you at work and dreaming of lying on the beach instead? Top fashion model Kelsey Merrit is living that exact dream in Siargao.
The island has consistently made it on leading international best places lists. It landed on Conde Nast Traveler's list of best islands in Asia in 2021, as well as TIME magazine's World's Greatest Places 2021.
Kelsey said many people have been asking her for her Siargao recommendations, so much so that she created her own definitive guide to her favorite Siargao spots, food, and more on Instagram.
Here are some of her faves.
1. Cloud 9
There's probably no better place than Cloud 9 for an experience of Siargao as the surfing capital of the Philippines.
It's the venue of the Siargao Cup, a leading surfing competition that's also sanctioned by the World Surf League. Top surfers from all over the world like the USA and Japan have ridden the waves at Cloud 9.
Aside from the waves, the area is home to white-sand beaches, tide pools, mangroves, coves, and more. Just know that it may get crowded during the surfing season from April to September.
2. Magpupungko
For a change of pace from the surfing, why not hit up a tidal rock pool? Magpupungko is a popular one, and it makes Kelsey's list, too!
The rocks are best seen during the low tide, which usually happens between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Be sure to wear reef shoes for some protection against the sharp rocks. But the blue jewel-tone waters could be well worth it. IG-worthy photos, anyone?
3. Maasin River
Of course, Siargao has a lot more to offer than surfing. For some serenity, head over to Maasin River and ride a canoe. But this river also offers more than just zen—it's also where the famous bent palm tree is located. Some even go so far as to call it the "epic" bent palm tree. The tree even has a rope swing for some added daredevil-ish fun!
4. Harana Surf Resort
Now, where to stay while in Siargao? Among others, Harana Surf Resort is one place that made Kelsey's list. It's a great option for surfing beginners as it has an in-house surf school. Surf's up!
5. Bravo Beach Resort
If you're looking for more fun activities to do, Bravo Beach Resort may be for you as it has an in-house kite surfing school and a skate park, to boot!
After a day of outdoor activities, you can dine at Bravo Restaurant at the hotel to satisfy your appetite. The resto offers Spanish and intercontinental cuisine. Its chefs were trained in Spain and they use local ingredients. Yum!
6. LOKAL
When visiting Siargao and supporting local tourism, why not go the extra mile and enjoy a meal at LOKAL? It's a social enterprise snackbar that supports local community projects.
Be sure to have their monggo wrap. It has Kelsey's stamp of approval! They also offer silog bowls, beefy burgers, chopsuey with vermicelli and vegetables from their very own garden, and more.
7. Manu
To savor a cocktail by the beach, check out the Manu bar. Kelsey called this bar's cocktails "great," and judging by the few photos on their 'gram, we may have to agree. The bar dubs itself as "contemporary tiki Filipino," if that's your thing or you're just curious and looking for a good time. And aren't we all?
Be sure to bookmark this for your trip to Siargao!
—MGP, GMA Integrated News
