Magpupungko Tidal Pool — Attraction in Surigao del Norte

One of the highlights of our Siargao trip!

Make sure to visit during low tide—that’s the only time the tidal pools are visible. Don’t forget to ask the locals for the tide schedule on the day of your visit, because once it’s high tide, the pools will be submerged. The place is beautiful, although quite crowded. Be sure to take a photo at Magpupungko Rock, which literally means "sitting or resting rock"—pretty cool, especially if there are no people in the background!

We arrived before 11 AM and stayed until 2 PM. There are plenty of food stalls along the beach, so we decided to have lunch here as well. We also tried a local snack—cassava topped with coconut jam, which reminded us of Camiguin’s kiping. It was only ₱20 each and really delicious! We ended up staying longer than expected because we enjoyed relaxing at the beach and watching the people around.

There’s also a spot here where you can jump off a cliff into the water—perfect for those looking for a bit of adventure. Just make sure it’s safe and the tide is right before jumping.

Going DIY was definitely worth it—we just drove ourselves there. There’s a designated parking area nearby, and the fee for 4-wheeled vehicles is ₱50. If you're in a group tour, your time at each spot might be very limited. Entrance fee is ₱110 per person, and that already includes a local guide. Our guide, Kuya Lucio E., was very kind—he carried our bags, took our photos, and led us to the tidal pools, rock formations, and cliff-jumping spot.

Don’t miss this spot when you visit Siargao! Highly...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5-Star Review – Magpupungko Tidal Pools, Siargao

🌊 Absolutely stunning natural formation – crystal-clear tidal pools surrounded by dramatic rock formations. Feels like a secret world carved by the ocean.

🕰️ Best visited at low tide – pools fully appear only when the tide is out. Check tide charts before heading out.

🏊 Great for swimming and cliff-jumping – calm, clean waters with safe ledges and deep spots to enjoy.

📸 Picture-perfect – vibrant blues, textured rocks, and reflections make it a dream for photos.

🧗 Light exploration – small caves and rock ledges add an adventurous touch. Water shoes recommended for grip and comfort.

💸 Budget-friendly – entrance fee is around ₱50 per person plus a small parking fee. Local stalls offer snacks and drinks.

🚗 Easy to reach – about 30–45 minutes from Burgos or General Luna by scooter or trike. Scenic and smooth ride.

👪 Family-friendly – plenty of shallow spots for kids, with deeper areas for adults to swim or float.

🧼 Basic facilities on-site – toilets, seating areas, and shaded rest zones available.

🌴 Natural and peaceful – not overly commercialized, retains a raw and authentic vibe.

🙌 One of the top must-do spots in Siargao – unique, refreshing, and unforgettable.

A beautiful blend of nature and calm adventure. If you're on the island, don't skip this spot—it’s one of those rare places that looks just as incredible in real life as it...

Been going to this place since I was a kid and there has been a lot of changes.

First, check for low tide. That is when you want to go visit. Do not go on high tide. The waves in the area are pretty strong.

For safety, wear aqua shoes. The rocks and corals are sharp. If youre bringing kids, make sure they are geared from head to toe and do not leave them unattended! The lagoon has smaller pools but run deep.

During the early pandemic, the water was really so clean and clear. It is still clear but not as much during the high tourist months.

There are kuyas renting out lifejackets for 100. They have them in sizes too! The kuya are also kind enough to take photos of tourists. So you just need to ask them.

Food - carenderias are lined up after the entrance. Try the salvaro! Its a local sweet snack. Its a thin crispy cassava chip the size of a head dipped in a sweet coconut syrup (latik). Traditionally dipped but now they drizzle some on top of the chips! Nothing too special about the food. Price is okay. Servings are smaller than usual.

Toilet - they have one at the back of the small restos. Not free.

Parking - theres parking for 20- 30 cars or vans.

Entrance - paid at a table by the side of the main road right before the small entry road.

Beach - white sand. Best enjoyed when its close...