Picture yourself gliding across calm, emerald water surrounded by thick mangroves and distant hills. In the middle of this peaceful scene sits a wooden pontoon. That’s Sugba Lagoon Siargao, one of the most beautiful natural spots in the Philippines.
Tucked away in Del Carmen on Siargao’s west coast, this lagoon is pure magic. You can swim, kayak, paddle, or simply float while sunlight dances across the surface.
As an expat living in the Philippines, I can say this place captures everything that makes the islands special. It’s quiet, tropical, and easy to reach whether you book a tour or explore on your own.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get to Sugba Lagoon, what to expect, entrance fees, and my best local tips.
👉 Still planning your trip? Check out How to Get to Siargao from Manila, Cebu & Beyond.
Quick Answers – Sugba Lagoon at a Glance
Need the essentials fast? Here’s everything you should know before heading to Sugba Lagoon Siargao 👇
📍 Where is Sugba Lagoon Siargao?
On Caob Island in the Del Carmen Municipality, about an hour northwest of General Luna.
🚗 How to get to Sugba Lagoon Siargao?
Drive or hire a van from General Luna to Del Carmen, then take a 20–30 minute boat ride through the mangroves to the lagoon. You can also join an organized tour if you prefer everything handled for you.
⏱️ Travel time from General Luna:
Around 1 hour and 15 minutes each way including the boat ride.
💰 Entrance Fee: ₱100–150 per person
🛶 Boat Fee: ₱1,600–2,150 per group (up to 6 people)
☀️ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning during the dry season for calm water and fewer crowds.
🏝️ Main Activities:
Kayaking, paddle-boarding, swimming, cliff jumping, and soaking in those picture-perfect views.
👉 Want to skip the planning? You can book a Sugba Lagoon tour that includes hotel pickup, boat,
Getting Oriented – Location & Background
Sugba Lagoon Siargao sits on Caob Island, part of Del Carmen on the island’s west coast. It’s about 40 kilometers from General Luna, the main tourist hub, and takes roughly an hour to reach.
This peaceful lagoon is surrounded by one of the largest mangrove forests in the Philippines, home to crystal-clear water, limestone hills, and calm surroundings that feel far removed from Siargao’s surf scene.
The lagoon connects to the sea through narrow mangrove channels, which makes the boat ride in almost as beautiful as the lagoon itself.
You’ll glide through glassy green water with mountains rising in the distance, a peaceful, cinematic start to your day.
Because this area is protected, the environment is well cared for. You won’t find noisy crowds or plastic waste here, just the sound of paddles dipping into the water.
It’s close enough to visit on a day trip but feels worlds away once you arrive.
👉 Before your visit, explore General Luna Siargao: A Complete Travel Guide to find the best spots to stay, eat, and start your adventure.
How to Get There
Getting to Sugba Lagoon Siargao is an adventure in itself. The journey takes you across palm-lined roads, through sleepy villages, and deep into Siargao’s famous mangroves before you reach that picture-perfect lagoon.
Here’s exactly how to get there, whether you prefer to go DIY or join a guided Sugba Lagoon tour.
From General Luna to Del Carmen (By Land)
Most visitors start from General Luna, the main tourist area of Siargao. From here, you’ll travel around 45 to 60 minutes by road to reach the Del Carmen Tourism Office, where boats depart for Sugba Lagoon.
You have a few options:
- 🏍️ Motorbike rental: Around ₱400 per day. Great for solo travelers or couples who like freedom. Just make sure you’re confident driving on narrow island roads.
- 🚐 Private van or car: ₱2,000–₱3,000 round trip, depending on the driver and inclusions. Comfortable and ideal for groups or families.
- 🚲 Tricycle or van share: Often arranged through local guesthouses for a budget-friendly ride.
The road is mostly paved and scenic, passing rice fields and small communities. You can park at the tourism office, where staff help organize your boat and collect the entrance fee.
Boat Transfer from Del Carmen to Sugba Lagoon
Boats begin departing around 8:00 AM, and arriving early allows you to join the front of the queue, some groups wait 45 minutes for their turn to board.
From there, it’s a calm, scenic journey with views of clear green water and distant mountains.
Life jackets are required, and the lagoon’s staff keep safety organized and professional. The ride alone is worth the trip, it’s one of the most peaceful experiences in Siargao.
👉 Want everything handled for you? Book a Sugba Lagoon tour here that includes transfers, entrance fees, and your boat.
Tour vs DIY – Which Is Better?
Pros of Joining a Tour
You can book a Sugba Lagoon tour directly from General Luna that includes hotel pickup, boat transfers, entrance fees, and sometimes a stop at Kawhagan Island. It’s easy and stress-free, perfect if you want everything handled for you.
Pros of Going DIY
If you prefer adventure, go DIY. Drive to Del Carmen, pay for your own boat (₱1,600–₂,150 per group of up to 6 people), and explore at your own pace. You’ll save a bit of money but need to plan ahead.
Both options get you to the same magical spot — it just depends whether you want convenience or freedom.
👉 Want a no-hassle day trip? Book a Sugba Lagoon tour that includes pickup, boat, and all fees so you can just relax and enjoy the ride.
Before your trip, check out my guide on How to Get to Siargao from Manila, Cebu & Beyond for tips on reaching the island smoothly.
From General Luna to Sugba Lagoon
Getting from General Luna to Sugba Lagoon takes about 70 to 90 minutes in total, including both the drive and boat ride. Most travelers start early in the morning, when the air is cool and the lagoon is still quiet.
You’ll find plenty of tour operators and van services along Tourism Road in General Luna offering shared and private trips. Many hotels and hostels can also arrange pickups right from your doorstep, making the trip effortless.
If you’re driving yourself, head toward Del Carmen on Siargao’s western side. The road is smooth and scenic, passing through palm forests and local villages before reaching the Del Carmen Tourism Office, where boats depart for the lagoon.
⏰ Pro tip: Leave before 7 AM to beat the crowds and enjoy the lagoon at its calmest.
After visiting Sugba Lagoon, consider adding another adventure nearby. Check out my full guide to Magpupungko Rock Pools, Siargao, it pairs perfectly for a day of nature and island beauty.
What to Expect at Sugba Lagoon
Arriving at Sugba Lagoon Siargao feels like stepping into a postcard. The water glows emerald green, mountains frame the horizon, and the floating house in the middle of the lagoon welcomes you to paradise. This is where all the fun begins.
The Floating Pontoon & Lagoon House
When you arrive, you’ll dock beside a large wooden pontoon that serves as the main hub of activity. Here you’ll find tables, shaded areas, and the registration counter. It’s simple but well-organized, with staff helping visitors settle in and manage rentals.
The lagoon enforces a 3-hour time limit per group to manage capacity, the site may host up to ~100 visitors simultaneously. Boats often run between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM; some days the last departure is earlier depending on conditions.
Activities & Rentals
There’s something for everyone at Sugba Lagoon:
- 🛶 Kayak rental: ₱200 per hour
- 🏄 Stand-up paddleboard (SUP): ₱300 per hour
- 🌴 Bamboo raft: ₱400 per hour — perfect for groups or lazy lounging
- 💦 Life jackets are included with all rentals
The highlight is a diving platform that ranges roughly 2 to 4.5 meters depending on water level — higher unofficial jump points (7–8 m) are sometimes explored, though they require great caution. It’s a mix of thrill and laughter as travelers take turns leaping into the lagoon below.
I found the paddleboard rentals perfect for exploring the quieter corners away from the crowds. Locals take real pride in keeping the water clean, and it shows.
Crowds & Rules
The lagoon follows strict eco-rules: no plastic bottles, no alcohol, and no loud music. This helps keep the environment clean and peaceful.
The best time to visit is early morning, when the water is glassy and the crowds haven’t arrived yet. Later in the day, it can get busy with tours from General Luna. We went early and had the lagoon almost to ourselves.
Hidden Corners & Quiet Spots
For a more tranquil experience, paddle beyond the main pontoon into smaller coves. These quiet corners are often empty and perfect for photos or a peaceful float. Few visitors explore this far, so it feels like your own private lagoon.
👉 If you’d rather relax and let someone else handle logistics, booking a Sugba Lagoon tour is the easiest way to go.
Entrance Fees & Costs
Before visiting, it helps to know exactly how much a Sugba Lagoon tour or DIY trip will cost. Prices are reasonable, especially if you share the boat with others. Here’s a full breakdown of the typical expenses.
Entrance Fees & Rentals
- 💸 Entrance Fee: ₱100 per person (foreign visitor) / ₱50 per person (local rate)
- ⛵ Boat Rental: ₱1,600–2,150 per group (up to 6 people) — tour combos may go up to ₱2,700+ for multiple stops
- 🪵 Table Rental: ₱50–100 (optional, useful for lunch or storing your things)
- 🛶 Kayak Rental: ₱200–300 per hour (varies by operator)
- 🏄 Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP): ₱300–500 per hour
- 🌴 Bamboo Raft: ₱100–₱400 per hour
- ⚠️ Life jackets are normally provided, but some operators may charge ₱50 depending on availability
If you join an organized Sugba Lagoon tour, these costs are usually bundled into one price, making it easier to budget.
Example Cost Breakdown
- Solo Traveler: ₱1,700–1,900 (if you rent your own boat)
- Couple: ₱900–1,000 each
- Group of 4–6: ₱500–700 each (split boat fee and table)
The more people you travel with, the cheaper it gets per person.
Money-Saving Tip
If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, ask around at the Del Carmen Tourism Office to join another group heading out. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers and save a few hundred pesos.
For budget stays nearby, check my guide to 15+ Best Siargao Hostels: Budget, Surf & Backpacker Stays.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
The best time to visit Sugba Lagoon Siargao is during the dry season, from March to October. These months bring mostly sunny days, calm water, and ideal visibility for swimming, kayaking, and photos.
The rainy season runs from November to February, when occasional storms and stronger winds can cause rougher boat rides. Trips still operate, but they may be delayed or canceled during heavy rain.
⚠️ Note: Sugba Lagoon occasionally closes for annual rehabilitation or when weather conditions (strong winds, sea swells) make boat travel unsafe. Always check the Del Carmen Tourism Office or their official Facebook page ahead of your visit.
No matter the month, the early morning is always the best time to go. Boats usually start departing around 7 AM, and arriving early means you’ll enjoy calmer water, softer light for photos, and fewer crowds on the pontoon.
If you can, plan your visit around a mid-tide schedule. The water is usually at its clearest then, with just the right depth for swimming and paddleboarding.
☀️ Quick Tip: Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and avoiding holidays will give you a more peaceful experience.
If you’re planning your full island itinerary, check out my guide on The Best Time to Visit the Philippines to see how Siargao fits into the country’s seasons.
Sample Itineraries
Whether you’re visiting Sugba Lagoon Siargao for a quick half-day trip or turning it into a full island-hopping adventure, planning your schedule right makes all the difference. Here are a few tried-and-tested options.
Option 1: Standard Half-Day Tour (Most Popular)
Perfect for first-time visitors who want a relaxed experience without rushing.
Example schedule:
- 6:30 AM: Pickup from your hotel in General Luna
- 7:30 AM: Arrive at Del Carmen Tourism Office
- 8:00 AM: Boat ride through mangroves
- 8:30–11:30 AM: Enjoy Sugba Lagoon (swim, kayak, jump, photos)
- 12:30 PM: Return to General Luna for lunch
👉 The easiest way is to book a Sugba Lagoon tour package that includes all transfers, entrance fees, and your boat. It saves time and removes all the guesswork.
Option 2: Combo Tour – Sugba Lagoon and Kawhagan Island
Many Sugba Lagoon tour packages include Sugba Lagoon and Kawhagan Island in one trip, giving you a perfect mix of mangroves and white sand.
Expect to be out for 7–8 hours, with lunch often served picnic-style on the beach.
Option 3: DIY Overnight in Del Carmen
If you’re into photography or want to avoid the crowds completely, stay a night in Del Carmen. You’ll catch sunrise light over the lagoon and enjoy it nearly empty before tour boats arrive.
⏰ Pro Tip: Always check the weather before booking. Calm water and soft morning light make Sugba Lagoon at its absolute best.
If you’re planning where to stay, browse my guides to 15+ Best Siargao Hotels and 11+ Best Siargao Island Beaches to plan your perfect island itinerary.
What to Pack & Traveler Tips
If you’re planning a Sugba Lagoon DIY trip, packing smart can make the experience smoother, safer, and a lot more fun. The lagoon is remote, and once you’re out there, you won’t find shops or ATMs — so it’s best to come prepared.
Here’s what I recommend bringing:
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the lagoon’s marine life
- 💧 Reusable water bottle and light snacks, since food options are limited
- 💰 Cash only — there’s no ATM near the Del Carmen pier
- 🏖️ Swimwear and a change of clothes for the ride back
- 🎒 Dry bag for phones and valuables
- 📱 Waterproof phone case or GoPro for those iconic cliff-jump shots
- 👟 Water shoes or sandals for walking on wet decks
- 🌿 Eco-friendly mindset — avoid plastic, and take your trash with you
I was impressed by how seriously the locals protect the mangroves and how well-managed the tourism setup is. The Del Carmen community actively limits visitor hours to keep the lagoon pristine.
Safety is simple but important: always wear your life jacket when kayaking or swimming far from the pontoon, and keep an eye on boat schedules for your return.
If you’re visiting on your own, check out my guide to 15+ Best Siargao Hostels for great budget stays that make DIY trips easy to organize.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are the most common questions travelers ask before visiting Sugba Lagoon Siargao and what I’ve learned from going there myself.
Are there crocodiles in Sugba Lagoon?
There have been rare sightings in the mangroves around Del Carmen, but not in the lagoon itself. Locals keep a close watch, and swimming inside the main area is perfectly safe.
How deep is Sugba Lagoon?
The depth varies between 4 to 7 meters, depending on the tide. It’s deep enough for cliff jumping but still calm and safe for swimming near the pontoon.
Can I go without a tour?
Yes! You can do a DIY trip by driving to the Del Carmen Tourism Office and arranging your own boat. It’s cheaper and more flexible if you don’t mind organizing the logistics.
Is Sugba Lagoon open year-round?
Yes, it’s open all year. However, during heavy rains or strong winds, the coast guard may suspend boat trips for safety.
Can I fly a drone there?
Yes, but fly responsibly. Avoid crowd areas and respect local regulations. The aerial views are worth it!
Are there bathrooms and lockers?
Basic restrooms are available at the pontoon, but lockers are limited. Bring a dry bag for valuables.
Can I bring food inside?
Yes, light snacks are allowed, but no plastic packaging. Be respectful of the lagoon’s clean-up policy.
Is Sugba Lagoon good for non-swimmers?
Absolutely. Life jackets are mandatory on boats and available for free at the lagoon, so anyone can enjoy the experience safely.
👉 Want to explore more? Plan your next stop with my 15+ Best Siargao Hotels or 11+ Best Siargao Island Beaches.
Final Thoughts
Sugba Lagoon Siargao is one of those places that captures everything travelers love about the Philippines, calm turquoise water, lush mangroves, and a laid-back island vibe.
As someone based in Cebu, I’ve explored lagoons across the Visayas and Mindanao, but Sugba Lagoon stands out for its balance of calm and adventure.
Go early to enjoy the lagoon at its quietest, and remember to respect the eco-rules that keep this paradise clean and thriving. Every visitor plays a part in protecting it for the next wave of travelers.
Ready to keep exploring? Check out my guides to 15+ Best Siargao Hotels and 11+ Best Siargao Island Beaches to plan the rest of your island adventure.
Remember life’s for living, so go out and live it!
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