Pacifico Beach Siargao My Complete Guide

Pacifico Beach Siargao: My Complete Guide

If youโ€™re searching for a more laid-back escape on Pacifico Beach Siargao is the perfect spot. Unlike the world-famous Cloud 9, which draws crowds of surfers and partygoers, Pacifico offers a slower pace and a more authentic island vibe. Think quiet palm-fringed shores, cozy surf hostels, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to stay for weeks.

Located on the northeastern side of the island, Pacifico Beach Siargao has been gaining attention among travelers who want something different, less nightlife, more raw beauty, and waves that rival Cloud 9 without the shoulder-to-shoulder lineups. Itโ€™s a beach that feels undiscovered yet welcoming, where you can enjoy surfing, swimming, or simply doing nothing at all.

Why Visit Pacifico Beach Siargao

Pacifico Beach isnโ€™t just a stretch of sand, itโ€™s a whole vibe.

Tucked away on the quieter northeast side of Siargao, this surf village blends laid-back island living with raw, unspoiled beauty.

The beach itself is long and wide, lined with swaying palms and dotted with cozy surf hostels, cafรฉs, and homestays that give it a warm, community feel.

What makes Pacifico stand out is its atmosphere.

Itโ€™s less touristy than General Luna and far calmer than Cloud 9, perfect for travelers who prefer a slower pace.

  • ๐ŸŒŠ Surfers love it for the consistent reef breaks.
  • ๐Ÿ’ป Digital nomads enjoy the peaceful work-life balance.
  • ๐Ÿ๏ธ Beach lovers can simply relax and enjoy quiet mornings by the sea.

Pacifico Beach offers a rare mix of adventure and relaxation thatโ€™s hard to find anywhere else on the island.

Best Things to Do at Pacifico Beach

Pacifico Beach Lighthouse

Pacifico Beach is all about slowing down and soaking up the simple pleasures of island life. Hereโ€™s what you shouldnโ€™t miss:

  • ๐Ÿ„ Surfing the reef break
    • The Pacifico surf break is powerful and consistent, attracting experienced surfers.
    • Itโ€™s considered one of the best alternatives to Cloud 9, offering fewer crowds but equally exciting rides.
  • ๐Ÿ–๏ธ Chilling on the sand
    • The shoreline stretches wide and long, perfect for long walks, reading under the palms, or simply lying back to listen to the waves.
  • ๐ŸŒŠ Swimming in turquoise waters
    • While parts of the reef can be sharp, there are calmer spots where you can swim and cool off after a hot Siargao day.
  • ๐Ÿน Eating and drinking at local spots
    • Pacifico has a growing collection of beachside cafรฉs and surf shacks serving fresh seafood, smoothie bowls, and cold drinks.
    • Itโ€™s easy to spend an afternoon hopping between spots, chatting with locals, and watching surfers ride the waves.

Whether youโ€™re here for surf or simply to relax, Pacifico Beach delivers a balance of action and calm that makes it a favorite for travelers who want something different from Siargaoโ€™s busier areas.

Surfing at Pacifico Beach Siargao

Surfing at Pacifico Beach Siargao is one of the main reasons travelers make the trip to this laid-back surf town. Unlike Cloud 9, where the lineup can feel crowded and competitive, Pacifico offers a more relaxed vibe with powerful waves that still challenge even seasoned surfers.

Hereโ€™s what to know before paddling out:

  • ๐Ÿ„ Beginner lessons
    • Surf schools and local instructors offer lessons starting at around โ‚ฑ500 per hour.
    • Lessons usually include board rental and guidance on paddling, standing up, and timing the waves.
    • Great option if youโ€™re new but want to try surfing in a less intimidating spot than Cloud 9.
  • ๐ŸŒŠ Intermediate & advanced breaks
    • The main Pacifico break is a fast, barreling reef break, best for experienced surfers.
    • Waves here can get big, especially during peak surf season (September to November).
    • If youโ€™ve already surfed Cloud 9, this is a rewarding next step.
  • ๐Ÿ„โ€โ™‚๏ธ Surfboard rentals
    • Boards can be rented by the hour, half-day, or full day from surf shops and beachfront guesthouses.
    • Most rentals range from โ‚ฑ300โ€“โ‚ฑ500 per hour or โ‚ฑ800โ€“โ‚ฑ1,200 per day, depending on the board type.

Pacifico Beach may not be as famous as Cloud 9, but its reef breaks and laid-back surf community make it one of the best places to sharpen your skills or simply enjoy a quieter day in the waves.

How to Get from General Luna to Pacifico Beach

This is the most common route, as most travelers stay in General Luna.

  • ๐Ÿ›ต Scooter rental โ€“ The cheapest and most flexible option. A scooter costs around โ‚ฑ400โ€“โ‚ฑ500 per day, and the ride takes about 1 hour along Siargaoโ€™s coastal road. The views are worth it.
  • ๐Ÿš Shared van or private van โ€“ If you donโ€™t want to drive, shared vans make the trip daily. Expect โ‚ฑ200โ€“โ‚ฑ300 per person, or โ‚ฑ1,500โ€“โ‚ฑ2,000 for a private van. Travel time is also around 1 hour.
  • ๐Ÿš– Tricycle โ€“ Less common for this distance, but some drivers will take you. Prices are negotiable and usually โ‚ฑ800โ€“โ‚ฑ1,000 one way.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Many travelers search โ€œGeneral Luna to Pacifico Beachโ€ because this is the exact route theyโ€™ll take, so itโ€™s useful to know all the options.


From Dapa (Ferry Port)

If youโ€™re arriving by ferry from Surigao City, youโ€™ll land in Dapa Port, about 45 minutes from Pacifico.

  • ๐Ÿ›ต Rent a scooter near the port.
  • ๐Ÿš Vans and tricycles are also available, with rates similar to General Luna.

From Sayak Airport (IAO)

Pacifico is one of the closest beaches to Siargaoโ€™s main airport. From Sayak Airport, itโ€™s about a 30โ€“40 minute drive.

  • ๐Ÿš Vans and taxis wait outside the terminal; expect โ‚ฑ300โ€“โ‚ฑ400 per person for a shared van, or โ‚ฑ1,000โ€“โ‚ฑ1,200 for a private ride.
  • ๐Ÿ›ต Scooter delivery to the airport is also possible if you prefer to ride yourself.
Travel Tip โ€” Magpupungko Stop
If youโ€™re driving from General Luna to Pacifico Beach, consider stopping at Magpupungko Rock Pools for a quick swim and photos. The pools are best at low tide โ€” check tide times and plan your stop early in the day.

Where to Eat Near Pacifico Beach

While Pacifico Beach is best known for its surf breaks, youโ€™ll also find a few laid-back cafรฉs and beach bars that give the area its charm. Donโ€™t expect the same variety as General Luna here, the vibe is slower, more local, and more authentic.

  • โ˜• Common Ground Cafรฉ โ€“ A favorite among travelers and digital nomads. Great coffee, smoothie bowls, and a chill garden setting.
  • ๐Ÿน Local beach bars โ€“ Scattered along the shore, these spots are perfect for grabbing a cold San Miguel or a fresh coconut after a surf session.
  • ๐Ÿ› Homestyle eateries (carinderias) โ€“ Simple, affordable Filipino meals cooked fresh daily. A good way to eat like a local and support small businesses.

๐Ÿ‘‰ The food scene isnโ€™t as developed here, but thatโ€™s part of Pacificoโ€™s appeal! Itโ€™s less about trendy restaurants and more about enjoying island life with a plate of fresh seafood or a beer by the waves.

Where to Stay Near Pacifico Beach Siargao

Maison Bukana

If you want to wake up steps from the waves, staying near Pacifico village is the obvious choice. If you prefer more restaurants, nightlife, and tour options, General Luna is still the easiest home base. Below is a quick breakdown to help you choose.

Top picks in Pacifico village

  • ๐Ÿ๏ธ Budget: Pacifico Surf Bayay โ€” simple beachfront rooms, great for travelers who want sand under their feet without spending much.
  • ๐ŸŒฟ Mid-range: Bamboo Surf Beach โ€” eco-friendly cottages with a chill, local vibe and easy access to the beach.
  • โœจ Luxury: Maison Bukana โ€” boutique resort offering more comfort and privacy for a restful stay.

General Luna vs Pacifico

General Luna

  • โœ… Pros: More restaurants & bars, surf schools, scooter rentals, ATMs, and tour departures. Easy logistics if this is your first stop on Siargao.
  • โŒ Cons: Busier and noisier at night; less โ€œuntouchedโ€ beach vibe.
  • Best for: First-time visitors, travelers who want convenience, nightlife, and lots of food options.

Pacifico (near the beach)

  • โœ… Pros: Quieter, more local surf community, direct beach access, better sunsets with fewer people.
  • โŒ Cons: Fewer dining and shopping options, limited ATM access, and fewer transport choices.
  • Best for: Surfers, couples, long-stay travelers, and anyone craving a low-key island experience.

How to choose

  • Want to surf morning-to-evening and fall asleep to the ocean? Stay in Pacifico.
  • Want convenience, variety, and easy day-trip planning? Base in General Luna and day-trip to Pacifico.

Want a full comparison of neighborhoods on Siargao? Check out my full guide: Where to Stay in Siargao: 12 Best Places, Spots, and Tips


Tips for Pacifico Beach Siargao

Visiting Pacifico Beach is straightforward, but a few insider tips will help you make the most of your time:

Rentals & Costs

  • ๐Ÿช‘ Chair rental: โ‚ฑ50
  • ๐ŸŒด Umbrella rental: โ‚ฑ100
  • ๐Ÿ–๏ธ Beach mat rental: โ‚ฑ100
  • ๐ŸŠ Snorkel rental: โ‚ฑ150
  • ๐Ÿงด Towel rental: โ‚ฑ50
  • ๐Ÿ„ Surf lessons: around โ‚ฑ500 per hour (board + instructor)

(Prices can change slightly depending on the season and the vendor.)


Money & Convenience

  • Cash is king here. There are no ATMs in Pacifico, so withdraw in General Luna or Dapa before coming.
  • Most rentals are available right on the beach entrance.

Crowds & Vibe

  • Pacifico Beach is much less crowded than General Lunaโ€™s beaches, which makes it ideal for travelers looking to slow down.
  • Youโ€™ll often have long stretches of sand to yourself, especially in the morning.

Pro Tips

  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen as the surf and swimming areas can be exposed.
  • If you plan to stay all day, budget for some shade (umbrella rental is worth it).
  • Sunset here is quieter than Cloud 9, with a more local feel.

FAQs About Pacifico Beach Siargao

Is Pacifico Beach good for beginners?

Yes. Pacifico Beach offers surf lessons for around โ‚ฑ500/hour, which makes it beginner-friendly. That said, the waves here can get powerful, so itโ€™s best for confident beginners and intermediates. Total newbies may want to start at Jacking Horse or inside Cloud 9 before paddling out here.

How do I get from General Luna to Pacifico Beach?

The drive from General Luna to Pacifico Beach takes about 1 hour by scooter along the Siargao Circumferential Road. You can also hire a van or tricycle if you donโ€™t want to drive yourself. Itโ€™s a scenic ride and many travelers stop at Magpupungko Rock Pools along the way.

Can you swim at Pacifico Beach Siargao?

Yes, you can swim, but conditions depend on the tide and waves. The nearshore waters are sandy, while the outer section has reef and stronger breaks. Always swim with caution and check conditions first.

Is there an entrance fee?

Unlike Magpupungko, Pacifico Beach usually does not have an official entrance fee. You may be asked to pay for parking or if you rent chairs/umbrellas, but walking onto the beach itself is free.

Whatโ€™s the best time of year to surf at Pacifico?

The surf season runs from August to November, when the Pacific swells are strongest. For beginners, smaller and more manageable waves can often be found in summer (Marchโ€“May).

Conclusion

Pacifico Beach is the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe, and appreciate the raw beauty of Siargao.

With its long sandy stretch, laid-back surf village vibe, and fewer crowds than General Luna, itโ€™s the perfect escape for travelers who want a more authentic island experience.

Whether youโ€™re here to catch your first wave, relax under a palm tree, or stop by on a day trip from General Luna, Pacifico Beach Siargao delivers a mix of adventure and serenity.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Planning more of your Siargao adventure? Check out these guides next:

Alex J. Knoch
About the Author

Alex Knoch is an American food and travel expert based in Cebu. Heโ€™s currently exploring the Philippines to uncover the best hotels, beaches, and eats. When he isnโ€™t writing, youโ€™ll usually find him sampling street food or kicking back on the beach.

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