Siargao is an incredible island but there’s much more to explore beyond it. Just a short boat ride away is the beautiful Daku Island, covered in palm trees and surrounded by crystal-clear water.
Known as a surfing and snorkeling destination, Daku is one of the three islands part of island hopping tours together with Naked Island and Guyam Island.
Out of the three, Daku Island was my favourite. I loved the wooden cottages tucked away between the palm trees, the clear water and the pristine beach with incredible views.
In this guide, I’ll share with you everything you need to know about visiting Daku Island in Siargao. But first, let me tell you how to get there.
1. How to get to Daku Island, Siargao
The easiest way to get to Daku Island is with an island hopping tour. I’ve written a complete guide about island hopping in Siargao that includes info about prices, where to book your tickets and more. Make sure to check it out!
If you choose a tour, it will include stops at both Naked Island and Guyam Island and you’ll have around 1-2 hours to spend on each of the islands.
If you want to spend an entire day on Daku Island, head to the wharf in General Luna and talk to the local boatmen to rent a private boat. Make sure to be there early in the morning. Expect to pay a minimum of 200 PHP for the ride.
How to get to Siargao
The fastest and most comfortable way to go to Siargao is by plane from Cebu City. The plane trip will take around one hour.
Another alternative would be to take the ferry from Cebu to Surigao and then another ferry from Surigao to Siargao but this trip will take almost an entire day.
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2. What to expect at Daku Island
As we approached Daku Island I was impressed by the crystal-clear water surrounding the island. Right in front of me there was a postcard-perfect view. Wooden cottages were hidden between the tall palm trees and tourists were swimming happily in the turquoise water.
I visited Daku Island as part of an island hopping tour and when we arrived, the first thing we did was to have lunch. The locals cooked for us a delicious fish with rice and vegetables. After that, we enjoyed some fresh fruits and rested for a while.
I wanted to explore more of the island so I took Dan and started walking along the beach. Behind the palm trees, there is a small village with a few wooden houses where locals live.
It’s incredible to think that on such a small island, mostly covered by palm trees, there is a small community of people who call it home.
In case you visit Daku Island by yourself, there are a few local restaurants on the beach. For example, a kilo of calamari costs 500 PHP while a kilo of prawns costs 600 PHP. You can also choose a side dish of rice or vegetables.
If you want to sit in the shade, you can rent a private cottage for 300 PHP or you can just lay your towel in the shadow of palm trees.
I loved Daku Island because the water was perfect for swimming. I put on my UV shirt and enjoyed the crystal-clear water for a few minutes before returning back to my towel to enjoy the sun.
Here are a few things you should bring with you when visiting Daku Island
- sunscreen – if you care about your skin
- waterproof bag – if you care about your camera and electronics
- UV shirt – it’s awesome for swimming
- fast drying beach towel – a must-have when going to the beach
- snacks (water and biscuits) – don’t get dehydrated!
3. Surfing at Daku Island
The waves at Daku Island are perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. Unlike the most popular Cloud 9, here you won’t find many tourists.
The best time to surf at Daku Island is all around the year except summer, when the waves are flat. Keep in mind that the wave direction is right.
4. Daku Island entrance fee
The entrance fee to Daku Island is 100 PHP per boat but it’s usually included in the island hopping tour price. If you choose to visit it by yourself, you’ll have to pay this fee.
5. Where to stay in Siargao
It’s possible to spend the night on Daku Island in a basic local home. However, don’t expect to have internet or air conditioning. If you want to do so, talk to the locals once you get to the island.
Otherwise, I recommend staying in General Luna in Siargao. This is the biggest village in Siargao and the place where you’ll find ATMs, restaurants and other tourist facilities.
I’ve been searching for the best accommodation for every budget. Here are my recommendations!
- Budget – Ilakai Hostel – good location, clean rooms & bathrooms, friendly staff, good facilities, good value for money
- Mid-Range – DomuMia Villa – good location, great amenities, awesome staff, clean and spacious rooms
- Luxury – Las Palmas Villa – incredible pool, great location, luxurious rooms with amazing amenities, friendly staff, private and quiet
6. Final thoughts
Daku Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines. I recommend exploring it with an island hopping tour but you can also rent a private boat to get there.
If you’re planning your trip to the Philippines, I recommend reading my Philippines Travel Guide that includes important info about transport, top destinations, costs and more! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments section below.
May the travel bug bite you!
Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.
She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here.
To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!