Siargao 3 Island hopping + Corregidor Island

Exploring Siargao 3 Island Hopping + Corregidor Island: An Honest Review

When it comes to island-hopping adventures, Siargao is often celebrated for its surf breaks and laid-back vibe, but this tour offers a different perspective—crystal waters, picture-perfect islands, and a taste of local culture. This private boat trip takes you around four unique spots, each with its own charm, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and even hiking if you’re up for it.

One thing I really appreciate about this experience is the flexibility you get—since it’s private, your group can decide how long to linger at each island. Plus, the inclusion of a local lunch at Daku Island really enhances the value, giving you a chance to try authentic Filipino fare. That said, there’s one thing to keep in mind: the overall rating isn’t glowing, with some travelers feeling that Siargao itself is becoming less pristine and more crowded.

This tour suits travelers who crave a personalized day on the water, want an easy way to explore multiple islands without the fuss of public tours, and are comfortable with a day that involves some walking, swimming, and light hiking. If you’re chasing a classic, Instagram-worthy island experience, this is a good option, but if you’re looking for untouched nature or a quieter vibe, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Enjoy the convenience and flexibility of a tour tailored to your group’s pace.
• Island Hopping Highlights: Visit four distinctive islands—Guyam, Daku, Naked, and Corregidor—with diverse scenery and activities.
• Culinary Touch: A delicious, locally prepared lunch on Daku Island is included, adding cultural flavor.
• Balanced Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and optional hiking make for a varied day.
• Convenient Transfers: Pickup and drop-off from General Luna make logistics hassle-free.
• Pricing & Value: At $103 per person, the tour offers a full day of sights and activities, but some travelers question the overall cleanliness and upkeep of Siargao itself.

A Detailed Look at the Siargao 3 Island Hopping + Corregidor Island Tour

An Intro to the Tour Structure

The tour kicks off early at 7:00 am, with pickup arranged from your hotel in the General Luna area. From there, you’ll hop aboard a private boat with all fees—including permits, environmental, parking, and entrance charges—covered in the price. This means you won’t be caught off guard by hidden costs, which is a big plus for budget-conscious travelers.

The boat itself is equipped with life vests for safety, and a tour assistant is along to keep things running smoothly. Expect the day to last between 7 to 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak up the sun and explore without feeling rushed.

Guyam Island: A Snapshot of Paradise

Your first stop is Guyam Island, which is the only privately owned island in General Luna, designed more or less like a giant clam—hence the shape. It’s a quick hour here, but packed with photo ops. The island boasts a basketball court, balancing rope, and multiple Instagrammable spots. Its small size makes it perfect for a quick stretch and some photos, but not much else—so plan to embrace the relaxed vibe and enjoy the views.

Reviewers mention that Guyam is a “must-visit,” especially if you’re into capturing picturesque scenery or want a break from the boat. The island’s charm lies in its simplicity, with stores selling snacks and drinks, making it easy to grab a refreshing coconut or some chips.

Daku Island: Culture, Cuisine, and White Sand Beaches

Next is Daku Island, often regarded as the crown jewel of the trip. This is where most groups enjoy their included lunch, often a highlight for visitors. Known for its powdery white sand and clear waters, Daku is also a barangay community, giving you a glimpse into local life.

The island is sizable enough to explore on foot, with gentle strolls through the community feeling like an authentic cultural experience. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the beach. Notably, Daku offers cooking services, so you might find yourself savoring freshly cooked seafood and local dishes—an aspect many travelers appreciate. One review specifically mentions enjoying the “delicious food and tapas,” which adds a flavorful layer to the day.

The island’s surf spot nearby is another bonus if you’re into catching some waves, though the main focus is usually on relaxing and soaking up the scenery.

Naked Island: The Iconic Sandbar

The third stop is Naked Island, aptly named because it is devoid of vegetation—just pure, white sand and shallow waters. It’s a quick hour here, but the scene is striking. The vast stretch of sandbar is perfect for strolling, swimming, or just lying down and basking in the sun.

A notable insight from reviews hints that Naked Island is considered a “world-class tourist spot,” ideal for those who love an unobstructed view of the ocean and a good photo backdrop. There’s no shade or shelter, so bring sun protection if you plan to linger.

Corregidor Island: Adventure and Serenity

Your final stop is Corregidor Island, where you can opt for a light hike to enjoy panoramic views or relax on the white sand beaches. It’s also renowned for its fish sanctuary, making snorkeling a tempting activity if you want to see colorful marine life. The hike offers a chance to experience a different side of Siargao—more elevated, with views reminiscent of Batanes, according to some travelers.

One reviewer mentions that Corregidor offers a “little Batanes of Siargao,” hinting at its cooler, breezier atmosphere. The optional snorkeling is free, but keep in mind that all activity fees are included in the tour, giving you peace of mind.

Practicalities and Additional Details

• Duration & Timing: Expect the full tour to last around 7 to 10 hours, with the start at 7:00 am. This early start helps maximize daylight and island time.
• Transportation: The private boat and vehicle transfers make the logistics simple, especially if you’re staying in General Luna.
• Inclusives & Extras: All fees—including environmental and docking charges—are included. The tour assistant ensures smooth operations, leaving you free to relax.
• Not Included: Food and drinks outside of the provided lunch are not covered, so bring snacks or extra beverages if desired. Tipping is not included but appreciated for good service.

Authentic Insights & Traveler Feedback

While the tour’s features sound appealing, some reviews reveal a less rosy picture. One traveler from Tripadvisor called Siargao “an overrated place,” citing concerns about cleanliness and the overall state of tourism infrastructure—more along the lines of a “past-like” paradise. However, such comments seem more about the island’s overall condition rather than the tour itself.

Another point to consider is the size and upkeep of the islands. Guyam and Naked Island remain scenic, but some travelers note the islands can feel crowded or less pristine than expected, especially during peak times. The local lunch on Daku Island is praised for being delicious, with plenty of authentic flavors and good tapas, making it a highlight for many.

What We Loved

• The personalized nature of a private tour allows you to spend more or less time at each stop.
• The combination of activities—swimming, snorkeling, and hiking—keeps the day engaging.
• The local lunch adds cultural value and a chance to taste Filipino cuisine in an authentic setting.
• The ease of logistics with hotel pickup and all fees included means a stress-free day.

Considerations

• The overall perception of Siargao’s cleanliness and tourism infrastructure might impact your experience, especially if you’re expecting a pristine paradise.
• The crowded feel during peak season could diminish some of the tranquility, particularly on Naked Island.
• The cost at $103 per person is reasonable, though not cheap, considering the full-day experience and inclusions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This island-hopping trip is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, flexible day on the water with easy logistics. It suits those interested in snorkeling, swimming, and local culture, especially if a delicious Filipino lunch sounds appealing. If you’re into Instagram-worthy scenery and don’t mind some crowding, it’s a solid choice.

However, if you’re after pristine, untouched nature or want a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience, you might want to explore other options or visit during less busy times.

The Sum Up

This Siargao 3 Island Hopping + Corregidor Island tour offers an engaging way to explore some of the island’s most iconic spots, with the benefit of a private, customizable experience. The inclusion of a local lunch and all fees makes it a good value for a full day’s adventure, especially if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and gentle hikes.

While some travelers express concerns about the state of Siargao overall, the tour itself provides a well-rounded snapshot of the area’s beauty and culture. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible, hassle-free trip with opportunities to relax and capture stunning photos.

For travelers who value personalized service, delicious local food, and a chance to see multiple islands in one day, this experience is worth considering. Just keep your expectations in check regarding the cleanliness and overall pristine condition of the islands, especially during busy periods.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable as it involves swimming, snorkeling, and light hiking, but always check with the operator about specific age restrictions or safety concerns.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towel, water, snacks, and a waterproof camera for photos.

How long do we stay on each island?
The itinerary suggests about an hour at each stop, but since it’s private, your group can decide to spend more or less time at each spot.

Are there options for activities like hiking or snorkeling?
Yes, Corregidor Island offers hiking, and snorkeling is available at both Corregidor and Naked Island.

What’s the quality of the local lunch?
Multiple reviews praise the lunch for its deliciousness, highlighting authentic Filipino flavors and tapas.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in General Luna are provided, along with boat transportation.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Being a private tour, you can prioritize certain islands or activities, subject to timing and local regulations.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this island-hopping adventure in Siargao delivers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and flexible exploration. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a full day of fun, sun, and marine life, all wrapped in a convenient package.