Siargao Diaries – 3-Day Trip (June 2023)

Last June 15–17, 2023, I went on what I’d now call one of the most unforgettable trips of my life — a 3-day, 2-night escape to Siargao with four close friends. This trip was packed with “firsts”: my first plane ride, first beach party, first surf, first jump from a bridge — and yes, even my first tattoo.

Day 1: Flight, Friends, and First Drunk Night

We flew from Cebu to Siargao via Philippine Airlines — my first time on a plane. It was a short, smooth flight, but the experience meant everything to me. After landing, we checked into a 10-bunk hostel and took up four of the bunks. That’s where we met two more travelers who ended up joining us: a German girl who connected with one of my friends, and Janela from Manila.

We spent the afternoon renting bikes and visiting the iconic Coconut View Deck in Siargao — rows and rows of majestic palm trees as far as the eye can see. Afterward, we had dinner in a pricey but delicious spot, then joined a beach party in General Luna.

That night, I got drunk for the first time — completely unplanned. I danced without a care on the dancefloor, got wasted, and somehow made it back to the bunk. I didn't remember how, but I woke up knowing it was one of the most freeing experiences I’d had.

Day 2: Land Tour, Island Hopping, and My First Tattoo

The next day was our official tour. We had a land and island hopping itinerary that included:

• Cloud 9 Surfing Tower

• General Luna Beach

• Coconut View Deck (again, because it’s that beautiful)

• Maasin River & Coconut Swing

• Magpupungko Rock Pools

• Catangnan Bridge

• Sugba Lagoon

We jumped into the river at Maasin, posed on the swing, swam in natural tide pools, and marveled at the turquoise waters of Sugba Lagoon. I also jumped off Catangnan Bridge — a terrifying but bucket-list moment. I ran out of breath mid-swim, and a kind local kid helped me to shore. Scary, but unforgettable.

That evening, I did something else for the first time: I got my first tattoo. It was a spontaneous decision — a small piece, a reminder of this island and the courage I found here.

Of course, night two wasn’t complete without another party. Once again, we danced, laughed, and got tipsy under the stars.

Day 3: Surfing and Saying Goodbye

Our final day was slower. We roamed around town and then booked a morning surfing session near Cloud 9. This was my first time surfing — I got scorched under the sun, tumbled into waves, but stood up on the board a few times. The joy was worth every sunburn.

After lunch and packing up, we headed back to the airport. Parting ways with new friends and this island was hard, but I left with a full heart and so many first-time memories that I’ll never forget.

Final Thoughts

This trip to Siargao was more than just a vacation. It was a personal milestone — filled with spontaneous moments, new friendships, inner growth, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From my first plane ride to my first tattoo, Siargao will always hold a special place in my story.

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