With consistent conditions and wetsuit-free weather year-round, you can’t go wrong booking a surf trip to the Philippines.
LAPPING THE DEEP BLUE WAVES of the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines has long been an under-the-radar destination for thrill-seeking surfers travelling the globe in search of unparalleled waves.
With a diverse coastline offering waves to suit every skill level, this tropical country is developing a global reputation for dedicated wave riders.
Siargao, Baler and La Union are considered the top surf destinations in the country and offer every amenity — from board shops to surf schools and boutique hotels catering to boardriders — that surf-loving visitors could ask for.
Siargao Island
Siargao is the holy grail of Philippine surfing, and a place often frequented by Hollywood celebrities that love the sport. Renowned for the legendary Cloud 9 break, this island paradise is characterised by powerful barrel-style waves. The coast’s right-hand reef break, particularly during peak season from September to November, provides a canvas for daring and unforgettable rides. Surfing this destination is a bucket-list item for many surfers and tests even the world’s most athletic boardriders.
Cloud 9 is also home to the Siargao International Surfing Cup competition, drawing pro surfers from around the world each year.
The beach is known for big waves powered by offshore winds and high tides — conditions attracting intermediate to expert surfers as well as brave beginners. Siargao also boasts stunning turquoise beaches and hidden lagoons that are perfect for exploring after your surfing sessions.
There are a host of stylish surf camps, bohemian surf shacks, and luxury resorts — where guests can partake in services including massages tailored to surfers and photoshoots to commemorate their adventure — in the area alongside a range of surf schools and board shops.
Aside from amazing waves, tourists can anticipate good accommodations and unique local restaurants. Even movie star Ryan Gosling has been spotted riding the waves in Siargao.
Sabang Beach, Baler
For those in search of a more chill surfing getaway and the opportunity to learn new skills at one of many surf camps and schools, the gentler waves of Aurora province’s Baler — and Sabang Beach, in particular — offers an ideal mix of fun in the sun and wave-riding opportunities.
With a rock-free and sandy bottom, this beach is forgiving for first-timers, offering a soft impact no matter how often you tumble off your board. Though the beach offers consistent waves throughout the year, October to April bring in offshore winds that result in optimal conditions.
Sabang Beach has earned a reputation as a welcoming surf spot where beginner and intermediate surfers can catch challenging waves under the tropical sun. Local and international surfers can even spot stars on the boards beside them — Francis Coppola has been known to catch the breaks in Baler. The peaceful atmosphere in the town, shaded by the majestic mountains nearby, makes it a perfect place to vacation as well.
La Union
For beginners looking for a mellow immersion into the world of surfing, booking a stay in La Union, a laid-back town known as the surf capital of the north, is perfect. The town is also just a few hours’ drive from Manila.
The picturesque and crescent-shaped San Juan Beach is known for its crumbly break and peeling right-point break, drawing comparisons to surfing conditions in Southern Australia.
With consistent waves and year-round swell, peak season is usually from October to April but can shift depending on when the monsoon arrives each year.
San Juan Beach lies at the heart of La Union’s surf culture, boasting beginner-friendly waves and patient instructors guiding newbies in catching the beautiful barrel waves crashing along the shore. However, La Union is not a destination only for beginners. Nearby breaks, such as the formidable Monaliza Point, allow advanced surfers to challenge themselves too.
After you’ve put away your board, the town is home to a vibrant local scene full of eclectic cafes, beachfront restaurants, live music, local shopping and stunning sunsets. The vibrant community and laid-back atmosphere make it one of the best spots for surfers to visit with friends, families or partners that don’t surf.
So grab a board, start paddling and discover a world of wave-riding on the beaches of the Philippines. For more information and to see a list of DOT-accredited hotels, resorts and surf camps, visit www.tpb.gov.ph
Article Sponsored by Tourism Promotions Board Philippines.