Surfing in the Philippines
The Philippines might not be the first country that comes to mind for surfing in Asia—but it should be. With over 7,000 islands, consistent swell during monsoon seasons, and a growing surf scene, this island nation is packed with hidden gems, reef breaks, and tropical lineups with barely anyone in the water.
Whether you're a beginner looking for mellow peelers or a barrel chaser searching for typhoon-season slabs, this guide has everything you need to surf the Philippines right—from top spots and seasons to local tips and surf culture.
📅When to Go:
There are two main surf seasons in the Philippines, depending on the coast. The east coast (Siargao, Eastern Samar) fires during the southwest monsoon (August–November) with consistent swell and heavier waves. The west and north coasts (La Union, Baler, Pagudpud) shine from October to March, especially during the northeast monsoon with offshore winds and clean conditions. Shoulder seasons can still deliver fun waves with fewer people.
🏄♂️Boards:
If you’re surfboard-picky or heading to remote areas like Eastern Samar or Guiuan, bring your own gear. In Siargao and La Union, there are plenty of rentals and some solid board shops. That said, rental quality varies, so pack your own if you can. Bring tropical wax, a backup leash, ding repair, and reef booties if you plan to surf shallow spots. Airlines like Cebu Pacific and AirAsia charge for boards, so check their policies and pack well.
🚗 Getting Around:
In places like Siargao, a scooter with a board rack is the move—cheap, fun, and lets you chase waves easily. For Luzon spots (La Union, Baler, Pagudpud), buses and vans are common, or rent a car if you’re bringing your own gear. Reaching more off-grid breaks like Eastern Samar usually requires a domestic flight + van or boat combo, so plan ahead.
🤙Local Vibes:
Filipino surf culture is super chill and welcoming. Locals love seeing new surfers in town—just be respectful, share waves, and don’t paddle straight to the peak at spots like Cloud 9. A little “Salamat” (thank you) or “Ingat” (take care) goes a long way. Expect post-surf hangs with BBQ skewers, cold San Miguel beers, and epic sunsets. Community vibes are strong—support local surf schools, eat at carinderias, and tip your boat guides.
🏄♂️ Why Surf the Philippines
Last updated: March 2025
Less crowded than Bali and Indo’s mainstream spots
Consistent monsoon swell from both the Pacific and South China Sea
Beginner-friendly and advanced waves across multiple islands
Beautiful scenery—think limestone cliffs, jungle-lined beaches, and crystal-clear water
English-speaking locals make travel super easy
Affordable travel and chill surf towns with island vibes
Tips for Surfing in the Philippines
Best Surf Spots in the Philippines
Siargao – The Surf Capital
Siargao is the crown jewel of Philippine surfing—and for good reason. This tear-shaped island in the southeast is blessed with reef after reef of high-quality waves, a buzzing yet laid-back surf community, and an island lifestyle that’s easy to fall in love with.
Top spots:
Cloud 9 – One of the most iconic waves in Asia. A fast, hollow right-hand reef break that breaks over sharp coral. It’s photogenic (thanks to the wooden boardwalk) and powerful. Best for advanced surfers with a solid barrel game.
Quiksilver / Jacking Horse – Right next to Cloud 9. A playful wave that’s way more forgiving, ideal for beginners on the inside and intermediates on the outside.
Tuason’s Point – A heavy left-hand reef with serious punch. Great for those who love speed and power, but not ideal for beginners.
Stimpy’s, Rock Island & Secret Spot – Boat-access only reef setups that offer everything from perfect lefts to long, wrapping rights. Uncrowded (most days) and absolutely worth the mission.
🤙Vibe: Lush coconut groves, palm-lined roads, surf hostels, smoothie bowls, and scooters with board racks. It’s got that tropical dream feel with a bit of a Bali-meets-Byron vibe.
💡Best time: August to November for the biggest swells and cleanest conditions. March to May is perfect for beginners with smaller, friendlier waves.
La Union - Cozy Surf Town
La Union (or "Elyu" to locals) is the closest legit surf destination to Manila, which means it’s a go-to for weekend trips. It’s got consistent waves, a fun beach town atmosphere, and a strong surf community that welcomes newcomers and pros alike.
Top spots:
Urbiztondo Beach – A classic beach break with gentle waves and sandy bottoms. Ideal for longboarders and beginners. Always has a few peaks to choose from.
Monaliza Point – A cleaner left-hand point break with more power and length. Good for long rides when the swell hits right.
Bacnotan – A less crowded reef + beach combo a little north of Urbiztondo. Right-handers with more punch and fewer learners in the way.
🤙Vibe: Think beach cafés, art markets, craft beer, yoga sessions, and chill sunset sessions on the sand. A mix of Manila creatives, surf locals, and wanderers
💡Best time: February to July, with September to November offering the most consistent surf during typhoon swell season.
Pagudpud – Off-the-Radar Northern Breaks
Far in the north of Luzon, Pagudpud offers a wild and wind-swept surf scene for those craving solitude and uncrowded waves. It’s not as consistent as the big names, but when it’s on, it’s magic.
Top spots:
Blue Lagoon – A mellow, often overlooked reef break in a stunning cove surrounded by forested hills. Fun on a small to medium swell.
Kingfisher – A more exposed reef that comes alive with north swell. Can offer fun rights and lefts, and even some barrel sections when the tide and wind align.
🤙Vibe: Remote, raw, and peaceful. Great if you want to surf and disconnect. Resorts are few but cozy. Don’t expect party scenes—just wind, waves, and wide open skies.
💡Best time: October to march, especially when strong north swell hits.
Baler – The Birthplace of Philippine Surf
Baler is where it all began, surf-wise in the Philippines. Thanks to the movie 'Apocalypse now' being filmed here in the ‘70s, locals started surfing with leftover boards. Since then, Baler has grown into a beginner-friendly surf town with a proud history and a laid-back vibe.
Top spots:
Sabang Beach – The main surf beach, right in town. A sandy-bottomed beach break with rolling waves perfect for learners and longboarders.
Cemento Reef – A sharp reef break offering a fast, hollow right. Works best at mid to high tide with decent swell. More suited for experienced surfers.
Charlie’s Point – Famous for that Apocalypse Now scene. It’s a shifty beach break that can throw up fun, rippable peaks when conditions line up.
🤙Vibe: Local surf schools, retro charm, and no-frills Filipino hospitality. Baler’s a bit less polished than La Union or Siargao, but it’s got real soul.
💡Best time: October to February for the strongest swells. Sabang is surfable year-round for beginners.
If you’re a surfer, the Philippines is one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated gems. With over 7,000 islands, warm tropical water, and a coastline that faces both the Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea, this country hides an incredible range of surf—from playful beach breaks to heavy reef setups that come alive during typhoon season.
It’s not as hyped as Indonesia, and that’s part of the magic. You’ll find uncrowded waves, local lineups with friendly vibes, and surf towns that still feel authentic and raw. The food is tasty (hello, chicken adobo and fresh mangoes), the people are warm and welcoming, and the post-surf sunsets are pure gold.
From world-class waves like Cloud 9 in Siargao, to the consistent weekend playgrounds of La Union, the historic surf roots of Baler, and the wild frontier vibes in Eastern Samar or Pagudpud, the Philippines delivers waves for every level—beginner to barrel hunter.
Whether you’re locking into a hollow right at Cloud 9, longboarding soft peelers in La Union, or riding remote reef breaks with just a few friends and a boat, surfing in the Philippines is an adventure. It’s not always easy, but it’s real, rewarding, and unforgettable. And once you get a taste, chances are—you’ll be back for more. 🤙
⚠️ Surf Etiquette & Local Tips
Don’t paddle straight to the peak—wait your turn and earn respect.
Respect the locals—they’ve been surfing here long before Instagram.
Watch for sea urchins and coral—get out at the right spots.
Avoid surfing alone in remote areas.
Know the tide and swell direction—many Indo breaks only work at certain tides.
Sustainability & Ocean Conservation
As surfers, we have a responsibility to protect the ocean. Here’s how you can help:
🌱 Use Eco-Friendly Surf Wax & Gear – Opt for sustainable brands.
🌍 Respect Marine Life – Never disturb wildlife or coral reefs.
🏖 Keep Beaches Clean – Always clean up after yourself and participate in beach cleanups.
🌊 Support Ocean Conservation Groups – Donate or volunteer for organizations working to protect our oceans.
Join the Surfing Community!
Surfing is more than just riding waves—it’s about connection. Whether you're looking for travel inspiration, technique tips, or just want to share your latest surf adventure, this blog is here for you.
Let’s explore the world of surfing together! 🌊🏄🏻♂️
✅ Must-Haves (Don’t Skip These)
Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Regular sunscreen damages coral reefs. Go reef-safe (and it actually works in the humidity). This one’s great https://amzn.to/426EeAr
Universal Travel Adapter – A universal adapter is a lifesaver if you’re bouncing to other countries.
Grab a good one here: https://amzn.to/3HKZ6GH
Portable Power Bank – Keep your phone alive during long bus rides or power cuts.
Reliable option here: https://amzn.to/45Gsw1S
Reusable Water Bottle (with filter if possible) – Stay hydrated without buying endless plastic bottles.
Larq is a great pick: https://amzn.to/4mznZnP
Bug Repellent – Jungle + dusk = mosquitos. Go DEET-free or natural if you prefer.
This spray works: https://amzn.to/45NrOyo
Sturdy Footwear (Hiking Sandals or Trail Shoes) – Flip-flops will betray you on muddy trails or rough terrain.
Check these out: https://amzn.to/4p06rCW
Microfiber Towel – Sand, sweat, waterfalls… you’ll use this daily. This one dries fast: https://amzn.to/45Whe8x
Dry Bag / Waterproof Backpack – Protect your stuff during rainstorms, waterfalls, or boat rides.
Nice one here: https://amzn.to/47q02e5
Essential Packing For Your Upcoming Adventures 🎒
✨ Nice-to-Haves (Make Your Trip Way Easier)
Waterproof Camera (GoPro) – For underwater snorkeling, surf footage, and waterfalls.
Order your Gopro here: https://amzn.to/3HMH86I
📸Why it’s worth it: If you're all about waterfalls, snorkeling, and surfing — aka places you don’t want to risk a regular camera. A GoPro is waterproof, durable, and perfect for capturing underwater adventures or strapping onto your surfboard. The newer models also have killer stabilization, so even jungle hikes look smooth on video.
Camera (Good but Affordable) – If you want better photos without going pro-level, something like the Canon EOS R50 or Sony a6400 with a kit lens is a solid travel pick: https://amzn.to/3HAU67w
📷Why it’s worth it: Not everyone wants a bulky DSLR. If you want high-quality photos without spending thousands, something like the Canon EOS R50 or Sony a6400 is a great balance. Both are lightweight, great in low light (hello, jungle sunsets), and come with decent kit lenses for beginners.
DJI Mini Drone – Capture epic coastlines and jungle views without carrying a giant drone.
This one is travel-friendly: https://amzn.to/45FeY6O
✈️Why it’s worth it: Imagine flying over the jungle canopy or filming a sunset on the Pacific coast — a drone completely changes how you capture your trip. The DJI Mini series is lightweight (under 250g, so no license hassle), packs easily in a day bag, and gets amazing shots without pro-level skills.
Headlamp / Compact Flashlight – Jungle nights get dark fast.
This compact one is perfect: https://amzn.to/3VnMFUd
Earplugs – Between howler monkeys and surf towns with late-night music, you’ll want them.
These block noise very well: https://amzn.to/4npqzNp
Travel Hammock (lightweight packable) – Perfect for chilling on the beach or jungle stays.
Popular one here: https://amzn.to/4p328qG
Sun Hat/Cap – Foldable ones pack easily. This one works well: https://amzn.to/4pfaAmP
By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost.
Thank you for your support ♥️
📸🌎 Follow Our Journey on Instagram! ✈️✨
Want daily inspiration and breathtaking glimpses from around the globe? Join our adventure on Instagram, where we share stunning photos, exclusive travel stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and travel tips you won't find anywhere else.
Connect, explore, and dream alongside fellow travel enthusiasts. Let's inspire each other to discover the world's hidden treasures!
👉 Follow us on Instagram: @Wanderersplaces
Join Our Exclusive Travel Community! ✈️🌴
We're building something special—a vibrant, passionate community of travelers who share a love for adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences. ✈️🌴
By joining our Patreon, you gain exclusive access to:
✅ Insider Travel Tips & Guides – Discover hidden gems, local secrets, and personalized itineraries.
✅ Live Q&A Sessions – Get real-time answers, advice, and inspiration for your next journey.
✅ Private Community Chats – Connect, collaborate, and share stories with fellow travel enthusiasts from around the globe.
✅ Exclusive Content & Updates – Be the first to hear about our adventures, upcoming trips, and exciting projects.
Become part of the journey today, and let's explore the world together!
👉 Join us on Patreon: patreon.com/Wanderersplaces
