Siargao Tri-Island Hopping Review: What You Need to Know

Siargao, very famous as the surfing capital of the Philippines, gives you, like, postcard-perfect beaches, super blue waters, and, you know, that easy-going island feel. What most travelers definitely shouldn’t miss is the Tri-Island Hopping tour, a, sort of, visit to Guyam, Daku, and Naked Island. So, that, really, begs the question – is it, actually, all it’s cracked up to be? I’m, pretty much, gonna tell you all about it. Let’s see, after this review, you can decide whether you will want to add it to your travel list.

What’s the Deal with Tri-Island Hopping?

Tri-island hopping in Siargao involves hopping in a boat and hitting Guyam Island, Daku Island, and Naked Island, for sure! Tours will typically take, usually, the entire day, that is if you decide to extend to other parts of Siargao. Most of the tours kick off early, around 8 or 9 AM. In a way, this lets you beat the crowd and make, basically, the most out of each spot. Plus, like, lunch is commonly included in the package, a, sort of, boodle fight style right on Daku Island – that is really, something, right?

It seems it doesn’t really matter if you are a backpacker, family, group or even flying solo, this tour is a must! That sounds about right. Usually, it won’t break your bank with a very reasonable price, and, very important, gets you to, arguably, some of the most gorgeous spots around.

Guyam Island: Tiny Paradise

Guyam Island, kind of, is this very small island that you can almost walk around the whole area in, just a little, like, 10 minutes. So, right in the middle, there’s a thick bunch of palm trees, very lush and makes for, arguably, great photos. If that isn’t perfect for the Instagram feed, I don’t know what is! We arrived there around 9 in the morning. Since, just a little, less people arrived, the island was more or less very peaceful and so fun to just enjoy.

It could be that it is very popular, especially, as the day wears on, but when we visited in the morning, we truly had, basically, that feel of having our own private island. It can also get windy as the day progresses. The sand is powdery soft and white, and, sometimes, the water, tends to be, crystal clear – super perfect for taking a quick swim.

A word of warning though is that there isn’t much shade outside of the palm grove, or arguably any stores to buy food or refreshments. That being said, remember to bring a, kind of, sunblock and some drinking water.

Daku Island: Feasting and Fun

Daku Island is the biggest one of the three and that means that it’s, like, usually where everyone stops for lunch. As a matter of fact, “Daku” means “big” in the local dialect. What’s more, the island features a small village with friendly locals.

Lunch that comes with the tour is, basically, served boodle fight style. A huge selection of seafood and, naturally, grilled meats on top of banana leaves. In case, like, the included food is not enough or something, some locals sell drinks, some snacks or let’s say even fresh coconuts at very reasonable prices.

Right after, it’s super perfect to explore, let’s say, other parts of the island and laze around by the shore. Some things, that being said, would include tables and hammocks that are very inviting for that siesta vibe. This is what you, usually, call ‘island life’!

Naked Island: Barefoot Bliss

Naked Island is basically a, sort of, small sandbar – I mean very small sandbar. This, truly, means no trees, no structures – literally nothing but pure white sand. You might even wanna call it, “Islet of Bare Beauty,” or whatever!

That’s why it is called Naked Island, for some reason! As a matter of fact, the surrounding water has the, usually, most amazing shades of blue. When you put these elements together, this definitely makes this island extremely photographic and ideal, naturally, for photoshoots. We got here around 2 PM and some tourists still lingered around or enjoyed swimming.

In a way, due to lack of any shade at all, your visit here will, most likely, be very short, like just enough time to take photos. A piece of advice: if, basically, you have sensitive skin, then definitely apply sunblock since there is zero protection from sunlight. Otherwise, be prepared to, literally, roast a bit. No structures is a pretty unique experience as you will feel you are, in short, stranded on a beautiful deserted island, but then, only for a few minutes before the next boat arrives.

What’s Lunch Like on the Tri-Island Tour?

Most trips bundle the lunch that, commonly, takes place in Daku Island and the local food will very likely become, virtually, the highlight. Food is prepared and, I mean really served boodle fight style. That seems like a ton of freshly grilled seafood, chicken or pork is presented on a bed of, virtually, banana leaves.

A group of friends can feast together! As I was saying, everything is, just a little, super delicious, right from the fish, shrimp, grilled pork, and sometimes even some veggies and fruits depending on what they caught in the market in the morning. I mean, eating by hand with sand between your toes? A great feast, that really makes everything feel extra authentic!

How to Find a Good Tour Operator?

There are, I mean, quite a number of tours to get from General Luna. But then, a great option that has flexibility in travel tours is to book online. I can say with some confidence that most tours are practically the same but vary in, in fact, customer service.

If you choose to get in person, hotel receptions commonly have this that will hook you up. Basically, for a hassle-free tour, choose an, extremely, operator that communicates well. Read a, you know, good number of reviews, or listen to references of other travelers so, in some respects, that you can have, arguably, an idea.

Things You Need to Know Before You Go

Always keep your weather conditions checked so, too it’s almost, that the islands are at its prettiest when, just a little, sunny. Avoid going when a storm is coming! Sunblock should, typically, be used generously for UV protection.

Basically, you should keep your swimwear ready, including towels since the islands give you a, very, quick moment for a nice dip. Also, a waterproof bag will greatly help with phones and devices.

Is the Siargao Tri-Island Hopping Tour Worth It?

Okay, let me be frank. Yes, completely! I mean, each island will give you, let’s say, something so special. Guyam has, like, super beauty and peacefulness, Daku has, you know, island food, and Naked Island provides, basically, an awesome experience in the sun. At the end of the day, I would argue it’s really an incredible trip with awesome views and really a memorable day. Plus the costs are generally, pretty affordable!

Anyone that loves being under the sun, on the beaches or generally in water must give it a shot and try the island hopping tour when visiting Siargao!