The Philippines might not immediately spring to mind when you’re thinking about the world’s best surf spots. However, with reef-ringed islands facing out to the Pacific Ocean, this island nation is blessed with world-class waves, including one of the most famous on the planet: Cloud 9.
There are also gentle rolling waves that make great playgrounds for learners. Add in glassy waters, palm-lined beaches and a friendly surf culture, and it’s no wonder the Philippines appeals to every level of surfer.
The secret is well and truly out and this wave-swept country is now firmly established on the surf map. In this guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about finding the sweetest swell in the archipelago.
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A Guide to the Best Surf in The Philippines 🌊
Where to Surf in The Philippines 🏄🏻♀️
There are diverse surf spots scattered across the Philippines, on both sides of the country and on northern and southern islands. However, the best action is found along the eastern coastline, which is exposed to the vast Pacific Ocean and the swells produced by the largest body of water on Earth.
SIARGAO
Sitting on the easterly edge of the vast island nation, the small teardrop-shaped island of Siargao is the undisputed surf capital of the Philippines. Thanks to its proximity to the Philippine Trench, its exposure to the Pacific Ocean and the reef that surrounds the island, Siargao receives some of the best swell in the country. Long loved by surfing pros, the island is becoming increasingly popular with learners too.
Most of the breaks are clustered around Siargao’s southeast corner close to the main traveller hub of General Luna, although there are some breaks further north on the east coast and on the northern tip of the island. It is most well-known for the Cloud 9 break, often dubbed Crowd 9 by the locals thanks to the ever-increasing number of visitors. The wave can produce epic barrels in peak season and hosts the annual Siargao International Surfing Cup competition in October/November. Further north, Pacifico is a sleepy surf-town with a tubular break that hosted its first national surfing competition in September 2024.
Beyond the pros and advanced surfers, there are plenty of waves for intermediates too, including several outer reef breaks that require a boat ride to reach (such as Daku, Stimpys, Cemetery and Salvacion). There are also smaller waves suitable for learners (including Jacking Horse, Ocean 9 and Paradise) and a growing number of surf schools and surf camps popping up on the island.
“The surf spots in Siargao are some of my favourite in Southeast Asia. Plus, beyond the breaks, the island is simply stunning and the vibe is very chilled and friendly. I’m not surprised people end up staying for weeks or months on end, just like I did!” Lisa Barham, Writer at South East Asia Backpacker.
LUZON
Luzon is the most northerly of the main islands in the Philippines and the largest in the archipelago. It’s home to the capital, Manila, as well as several epic surf destinations.
Baler, Aurora
The town of Baler is the capital of the Province of Aurora on Luzon’s east coast. It’s famed for being the location where the surf scene in the classic film Apocalypse Now (1979) was filmed (although the movie was set in Vietnam). The story goes that the crew left behind some surfboards, which the locals then used to learn the sport earning Baler the epithet, The Birthplace of Philippine Surfing.
The most famous break at Baler is Charlie’s Point (thanks to the movie), although it’s not known to be the best ride. Experienced surfers are better advised to head to Cemento Reef (also known as Cobra Reef), a fast reef break that provides glassy walls in the right conditions. Sandy Sabang Beach is home to a more gentle beach break suitable for learners and longboarders.
San Juan, La Union
On Luzon’s northwest coast, La Union is called the Surfing Capital of the North and is good for all surfing levels, but is particularly popular as a place to learn. There are a number of spots dotted along the La Union coastline although the town of San Juan is at the heart of the action. The town has a thriving surfing community and has produced some of the country’s top surfers. It’s also the setting for the La Union International Pro surf competition.
San Juan is one of the most accessible beaches and surf spots from Manila, which has led to an explosion of development catering to the surfers and sun seekers keen to escape the capital and hit the waves/beach. The upside is that there are plenty of good accommodation and dining options as well as a thriving nightlife. The downside is that the breaks can get crowded. There are several beach breaks that are great for first-timers. The best beginner spot is San Juan Beach Break (aka Urbiztondo) and there are plenty of surf camps in the area. Experienced surfers head to Monaliza Point, a lovely long righthander, or The Bowl, which can produce barrels.
Daet, Camarines Norte
Southeast of Manila the shoreline of Daet offers waves for all levels and the proximity to the capital makes this a popular spot although not overly crowded. Bagasbas Beach is a gentle beach break with both a left- and righthander. The small but strong and consistent waves breaking over a sandy bottom are perfect for learners and the long stretch of sandy beach is not a bad backdrop either! There are also powerful waves for more experienced surfers as well as a right-hand reef break nearby (Mercedes Rivermouth).
Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
For some of Luzon’s best waves, head to the island’s northernmost tip where you will find Pagudpud. The breach breaks here peel both left and right and there are spots suitable for surfers of all levels so everyone can enjoy the waves. Owing to the distance from Manila and, well, pretty much anywhere else in the country, Pagudpud is one of the least crowded surfing destinations in the Philippines, making it well worth the long bus journey to get there. The most popular spot is Blue Lagoon, which, as its name suggests, is in a stunning setting with beautifully clear water and a gorgeous beach.
Zambales
Thanks to its location close to Manila, the Province of Zambales is becoming an increasingly popular destination for those seeking a surf escape from the city. There are a few towns with decent breaks, including San Felipe, San Narciso and San Antonio. Crystal Beach at San Antonio is the best break for learners, especially those looking to level up. The small waves here are also great for longboarding. Experienced surfers can have fun on High 5 Lahar, a punchy A-frame rivermouth break.
CATANDUANES
The island of Catanduanes sits just off the southeast coast of Luzon and is exposed to northeast typhoon swells. It’s known as The Happy Island, and there are certainly enough waves here to keep a surfer smiling. The town of Baras is the place to be and specifically Puraran Beach, which hosts the Puraran Surfing Cup each October as part of the Catandungan Festival. Majestics, the barrelling righthander break, will get seasoned surfers frothing (although some patience may be required waiting for the right conditions) while there’s plenty of other great waves for intermediate surfers looking for a challenge.
MINDANAO
Sitting directly below Siargao, the northeast corner of the country’s second-largest island is exposed to the same conditions that create great waves around the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. Although not quite as good as Siargao’s swell, Mindanao’s eastern coast boasts several surf spots, with Lanuza and Dahican being the most well-known.
Lanuza
Longboarders will have fun on the long right-hand wave Doot Poktoy, and Lanuza Rivermouth can produce barrels for advanced riders. Some surfers venture here from Siargao to escape the crowds, although it might be a little too quiet for some! For the best atmosphere (and waves), surfers should aim to visit during November for the Lanuza Surfing Festival. There are a couple of surf camps here for those looking for a quieter experience than a camp on Siargao.
Dahican
A sandy crescent beach tucked in the southeast corner of Mindanao is gaining popularity as a surf destination. Dahican Beach in Mayo Bay is exposed to the Pacific Ocean and the waves here are best suited to experienced surfers and are also popular with skimboarders. On the other side of the peninsula, Pujada Bay is a playground for everyone with beach breaks for all levels.
Conflict in The Southern Philippines ⚠️
There is ongoing civil unrest on the island of Mindanao and there are sometimes clashes between the military and rebel groups. The conflict is linked to the Moro people’s fight for independence and autonomy. Check the official travel advice in your home country before visiting this region of the Philippines as some European governments currently advise against travel to Minandano. Travelling to an area that your government advises against can invalidate your travel insurance.
PALAWAN
It might be most famous for its spectacular scenery and natural wonders, but there is some surfing to be had on Palawan Island. Don’t expect the same sort of swell as Siargao, but the waves of Duli Beach in El Nido are not to be sniffed at and are good for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Palawan is one of the Philippines’ most-visited islands and the accessibility of this break may be music to the ears of wave-starved travellers who don’t have the time or funds to journey to the other side of this sprawling country in search of a ride. There are also several other surf spots along the island’s west coast between El Nido and Port Barton, notably around San Vincente.
When to Surf in The Philippines 📆
‘When is the best time to surf?’ is a complicated question when it comes to the Philippines. Spread across thousands of miles of water with ocean-facing and sea-facing coasts, the islands of this country are subjected to different weather patterns and dual monsoons. The southwest monsoon (known as habagat) prevails from May to October creating swell along the east coast; the northeast monsoon (amihan) takes over from November to March bringing waves to western shores.
The ‘best’ time also depends on whether you are a seasoned surfer, first-timer or something in between. Generally speaking, the prime months to surf on the east, Pacific-facing coast is August to December, with conditions peaking in September and October. This is when the big waves hit the shores of places like Baler (Luzon) and Siargao that are great for advanced surfers. The west-facing coast is best surfed between November and March, with December and January being peak months in places like Luzon’s La Union.
However, there are often smaller waves outside of these months that are ideal for learners and intermediates. Surfline is a great resource for checking the surf forecast and specific conditions of each spot.
Wet and Dry Seasons in The Philippines 🌦️
Across most of the country, May to October is the dry season and November to March is the wet season. However, for some islands on the Pacific coast, most notably Siargao, the wet season falls during the amihan monsoon (November to March), a fact that catches a lot of people out!
Cost of Surfing in The Philippines 💵
Considering that the Philippines is not one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia, the price of surf lessons and board rental is surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to Bali and Lombok. Conversely, when it comes to the cost of surf camps, the prices are more comparable to other big surf destinations like Indonesia and Sri Lanka, and sometimes more costly.
To rent a surfboard on the beach expect to pay around 200PHP (approx. $3.50USD) per hour. A lesson costs around 600PHP (approx. $10.50USD) per hour. If you would prefer to rent a board for a day or longer you’ll be able to find a much better deal. Surf shops lease boards by the day, week or month. A day rental (24 hours) costs around 500PHP (approx. $8.75USD), while a weekly rental will set you back around 400PHP (approx. $7USD) per day. To keep a board for a month or more you could pay as little as 300PHP (approx. $5.25USD) per day.
There is a developing surf camp scene in the Philippines, particularly in Siargao, where a week’s stay ranges from around $800–1,300USD including accommodation.
“I was pleasantly surprised at the cost of surfing lessons in the Philippines! Considering the cost of living is higher than places like Indonesia and Thailand, I thought the price of surfboard rental and guides was very reasonable.” Lisa Barham, Writer at South East Asia Backpacker.
Why You Should Surf in The Philippines 🤙🏼
Despite having some world-class waves, the Philippines is often overshadowed by nearby Indonesia. This certainly has its advantages and you won’t find anything like the crowds you might experience in Bali. However, the country’s reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s premier surfing destinations is on the rise and the most popular surf spots are becoming increasingly busy, especially in Siargao.
There is consistent swell to be found in the country and with dual monsoons and waves on both the east and west coasts, the Philippines has a relatively long surf season. The local surf culture is known to be friendly and welcoming, plus the country has waves suitable for all levels of surfers. The only real drawback is that travelling to and around the country is not particularly cheap or easy. But it’s often the places that are most difficult to get to that offer the greatest rewards.
If you’re chasing the stoke in Southeast Asia it’s time to set your sights on the Philippines!
Have you surfed in the Philippines? Tell us about your favourite spot in the comments!
Lisa Barham
Having always dreamt of travelling the world, Lisa finally decided to follow that dream in her mid-thirties when she left her nine-to-five in London for life on the road. After trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal and learning to surf in Sri Lanka, she headed for wondrous Southeast Asia, where she can currently be found solo backpacking, navigating through life and unfamiliar streets.
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