guidebook
updated monthly!
eco-homestay
TOURISM ROAD, MALINAO, GENERAL LUNA, SIARGAO ISLAND, PHILIPPINES
ABOUT US
Secret Spot was born out of love for Siargao island's surf and natural beauty. There are six distinct bedrooms offering simple but generous spaces for those who want to stay a few days or a few weeks. Find peace and tranquility in our simple, minimalist boho chic interiors. Each bedroom is well ventilated with lots of natural light and a nice work desk.
We are less than 2 kms away or a 5 minute scooter ride from the busy town center, situated in the quieter end of General Luna in a small town called Malinao where you'll find the best white sand beaches on the island. Slow down, grab your sarong and borrow a book from our library to read with on the beach.
We believe we can help the original dwellers of this environment thrive by small sacrifices and learning how to co-exist with them. At night, we have very dim lighting to minimize our impact on marine life, crabs and fireflies. We hope you'll not only love the island as much as we do, but continue to come back in the years to come. 💗
how we started
Secret Spot was built from humble beginnings.
After studying, working, volunteering and backpacking around 32 countries solo, I moved to Siargao in 2016 with the intent of living a slower pace of life.
I stayed at a hostel for a few months teaching yoga at different resorts and also worked as a tour guide. During that time I realized that I wanted to live here permanently and maybe create a business as well. I’d cycle around General Luna everyday looking for land to build on.
The buying process took awhile, but was ecstatic to finally get started. Back then there were only about 30+ accommodation in General Luna, so during peak season, I hosted friends and Couchsurfers on the wooden floor of my bahay kubo.
With the help of my mom managing the project, construction took 9 months. We finally opened September 2018. We offered daily beach yoga classes, organized beach clean-ups and emphasized our sustainability efforts.
Mid 2021, during the pandemic, we renovated Secret Spot into a guesthouse offering private rooms. After the devastation of Typhoon Odette, we again had to do major renovations in 2022.
Today, Secret Spot has six private bedrooms offering travelers a cozy place to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the main town. Thank you for staying with us and we hope you enjoy your visit.
💗 Adi
ARRIVAL IN THE PHILIPPINES
Fill out your arrival form on https://etravel.gov.ph before your flight. You will be given a QR code which will then be scanned at Immigration upon entry to the Philippines. As of July 2024, there are no secondary entry requirements.
If you're staying in Manila for a few days, try to get a Globe eSIM card or a physical SIM card at the airport with some data loaded on it. Download the Grab app on your phone and register with your local phone number. Book a Grab car through the app, this is the easiest way to reach your hotel in Manila.
Before you fly to Siargao, try to download an offline Google map for the island.
AIRPORT
Transfers
Communicate with us via your reservation channel, whether via Airbnb, Agoda, Booking.com, social media or email.
Our airport driver will be holding a sign with your name on it upon exit at Sayak Airport in Siargao. The ride is about 45 minutes to General Luna town where Secret Spot is located.
Payment will be collected at the accommodation.
If you are unable to locate our driver or see your name, you may ride any of the white vans waiting inside the parking lot and ask them to take you to Secret Spot Homestay in Malinao, General Luna.
Please send us a screenshot of your arrival details specifically the following info:
AIRPORT VAN RATES:
PHP 350/person for a shared van
PHP 3,000/van for a private van
(accommodates 6 persons + luggage)
Check In Time: 1:30 PM
Upon arrival at Secret Spot, enter the small black metal gate. Walk across the pathway to find our main entrance. Our manager Breech or caretakers Neneng or Yayang should be there to welcome you and give you a quick tour around the house and your bedroom.
If checking-in early or late, we would appreciate it if you could communicate your estimated arrival at Secret Spot so you can have a smoother check-in process.
Please see next page for Early Check-In Instructions.
Check Out Time: 11:00 AM
We hope you've had a great stay! Please let us know if there's anything else we can do for you. Be sure to turn off all the lights, fans and AC inside your bedroom. Leave the key on the door knob. Endorse any remaining food items to the manager/staff. Your airport driver should pick you up 2-3 hours before your flight so please be ready by then.
Late check-out is charged Php 500 per hour.
EARLY ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS
While waiting for check-in, please take some time to read our Guidebook for a stress and hassle-free stay on the island.
Network: Secret Spot Siargao Wi-Fi Password: sustainability
If you have a few hours to kill, head to town for a good breakfast. Walk to Amon Café (1.3 kms away) or hail a tricycle to take you to General Luna’s town center for more options. Please see our list of recommended cafés and restos starting page 21.
Feel free to leave your luggage underneath the wooden stairs. The area is monitored by CCTV but please bring your valuables with you if you decide to leave the property.
If your room is already available, our manager will call or text you to let you know that your room is ready. You may check-in early at no extra cost.
KEY Deposit
Our manager Breech will be collecting Php 500 key deposit upon check-in which will be returned to you when you surrender your keys upon check-out.
DAMAGED/STAINED ITEMS
Any other lost, broken, damaged, stained items will be charged accordingly. In this case, we will charge for cost of item + shipping fees as most of our inventory is imported in.
GRATUITIES
If you've had a pleasant stay with us, feel free to leave the staff at tip!
Collect your key deposit at check-out or you may choose to give it as tip. It will be shared by our staff that currently includes our manager Breech, Yayang and Neneng. ❤️
WIFI
NETWORK
Secret Spot
PASSWORD
sustainability
Siargao Island's internet has drastically improved over the years. Here at Secret Spot, we have STARLINK satellite internet with an average speed of 150 - 200 mbps. Speed depends on network strength, current weather and also your gadget's capabilities.
During all-day, island wide scheduled power cuts, our generator will run 1-2 hours at a time, as scheduled. If internet access is crucial for you, we can supply you with a back-up Globe router which can be sustained by a power bank.
feel at home
Tag us on Instagram!
@secretspotsiargao
AMENITIES
BATHROOMS
Some bedrooms such as the Tierra, Attic and Studio have the luxury of a private en-suite bathrooms. The Sunset and Sunrise bathrooms also have private designated bathrooms on the ground floor. Moonrise shares a bathroom with the current onsite manager.
KITCHEN
Each bedroom has a designated shelf inside the refrigerator and over the stove. Kitchen items are inside the cabinets or hanging by the windows. Drinking water is free of charge. Please read the Kitchen Rules before using this space.
LAUNDRY
Our housekeeping staff are able to do your laundry at Php 300 per load (up to 4 kilos). You may give them your payment directly. Turnaround time is 24 hours as they are air-dried.
LIVING AREA
Feel free to dine, socialize or work on your laptop here, but please avoid leaving your personal belongings in this area for obvious reasons.
HOUSE RULES
WE ARE A SMOKE-FREE ZONE
01
We discourage smoking within the property, including our garden area as there are various flammable materials around, the fine is Php 10,000. You may vape on the porch if no other guests are around.
REFUSE SINGLE USE PLASTIC
02
The ecological health of this island is our #1 priority. Single use plastic is banned on the island, so please refuse if offered. Bring eco-bags and refillable water bottles with you everywhere.
ON VISITORS
03
Secret Spot is a social place and visitors are welcome. However, a fee of Php 1,000 may be charged if they stay overnight. Extra bed requests are upon availability and charged Php 800 per bed per night.
04
CLEAN AS YOU GO
We have the luxury of daily housekeeping in shared spaces, but we appreciate guests who are able to keep the house clean at all times. A cleaning fee may be charged if room or kitchen is left dirty,
05
SAVE ELECTRICTY
Take part in the island’s sustainability efforts by turning off lights, fan, airconditioners when leaving your room. Due to frequent blackouts, Airconditoners easily break if left on.
PET FRIENDLY
06
We are a pet-loving accommodation and this is made clear in all our booking channels. If you somehow missed this and suffer from pet allergies or have low tolerance for pets, we can help you find alternative accommodation for your comfort.
07
CLOSE THE GATE
Malinao is a very safe neighborhood and we have not had any record of theft. However, we still need to be vigilant at all times. We need your cooperation to close the gate and doors at all times to keep our property, other guests and pets safe.
08
ZERO TOLERANCE FOR ABUSE
We understand that unforseen circumstances may occur. However, we do not tolerate disrespect, threat, accusations or any form of abuse on our loyal and trusted staff members. You will be asked to leave without refund and may be summoned to the local police station.
PETS / SERVICE ANIMALS
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS
Furry friends are welcome at Secret Spot.
1
Pets must be registered at the time of reservation. Email us the following info: Pet Name, Birthday, Gender, Breed, other details to note.
Pet Vaccine Booklet must be shown with up-to-date 7in1 vaccine, Anti-Rabies Vaccine, Flea and Deworm medication. Please provide your pet their own food, bowl, blanket, proper hygiene, cleaning products and other essentials.
2
3
Max limit of 1 pet for Tierra and Moonrise. Maximum pet limit of 2 for Villa, Sunrise and Sunset.
4
Newly rescued pets will only be allowed at the property when bathed, free of ticks and fleas and all vaccines are complete and up-to-date. Call VetCare or Siargao Pet Doctors for appointment.
5
Poop must be picked up with biodegradable bag or leaves and thrown into our compost bin in the backyard. A fine of Php 1,000 will be imposed for pets that defecate or urinate inside the house.
6
If pets pose as a nuissance, threat or danger to humans or other pets, they will be asked to leave without refund. Any loss or damage to property incurred by your pet will be charged accordingly.
We love pets, however, you are responsible for your them. Secret Spot
does not assume liability or loss, sickness or injury of your pet.
muning
The Philippines has a huge problem with homeless dogs and cats. We highly encourage and appreciate donations to local pet rescue organizations such as:
@runforkapon
@bepawsitive.siargao
@puppypuddlesiargao
@sparphilippines
@sandypaws.rescue
@dogblessyousiargao
If you would like to adopt a furry friend to bring back home, please let us know and we’d be happy to help you with the entire process of getting a Vet Clearance and a BAI Permit.
SCOOTER RENTALS
The most common way to get around. Costs around Php 400 per day. Rental prices vary depending on the quality of the scooter and how long you want to rent it for. You are required by law to have a valid driver's license and wear a helmet.
CAR RENTALS
Coastal Reef Adventure rent out 4x4 Jimnys that are capable of driving you in and around the island. Starts at around Php 3,000 per day. They require a security deposit of Php 10,000 in cash. You get it with a full tank of gas and return it the same way.
BICYCLE RENTALS
Around Php 300 per day at Kalipay Resort in General Luna.
HABAL-HABAL OR TRICYCLE
Two blue tricycles are usually parked out front or hail passing ones to get to any point on the island. Fare starts at Php 30 per person and increase as the ride gets longer.
TRANSPORTATION
Things to do
CHILL AT THE BEACH
The beach across the road is one of the most underrated beaches on the island. Take a meditative walk or sunbathe on the fine white sand and crystal clear warm waters. Walk with us every Sunday, when weather & tide permits. More details on our glass board.
SECRET BEACH
Pin "Doot Beach" on Google maps to find this hidden gem. At the end of Malinao Beach Road, park your scooter and find the hidden entrance amongst a lush garden. Sunbathe or rent a crystal kayak and navigate your way around the mangroves.
CLOUD 9 & JACKING HORSE
The world famous Cloud 9 is just a 15 minute scooter drive. Watch local rippers do aerials or have a surf instructor teach you the basics at Jacking Horse. Be sure to get somebody who is certified by Siargao Island Surfing Associaton for your own safety.
CATANGNAN - CABITOONAN
BRIDGE
Currently the most popular sunset spot in town. Perfect place to try local street food! Bring a skateboard to show off your skills, jump off the bridge during high tide or dare your mates to try Balut.
PLACES TO SEE
SANTA FE BEACHES
Past the Catangnan bridge is a town called Santa Fe. Explore their white sand beaches, cold spings and have some sisig and tuna Poké and baked scallops for lunch at Haole.
SEA OF COCONUTS
Drive towards the north to see breathtaking views of the island. Get your self a human drone to capture all the fun memories with your crew!
MAASIN RIVER
Climb and jump off the bent coconut tree for an exhilarating experience. Rent a bangka to reach a small lagoon up the river. Tayangban Cave is nearby, also worth the visit!
SUGBA LAGOON
From the port, a small bangka takes you through the mangroves and into a big lush lagoon. Jump off the diving board or paddle board around this magical place all day.
explore
Tag us on Instagram!
@secretspotsiargao
BY day itinerary
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
BY day itinerary
DAY 5
DAY 6
DAY 7
DAY 8
SURF
Tag us on Instagram!
@secretspotsiargao
dry season
march to september
During dry season, the eastern surf spots work from mid-tide to high-tide.
Daku
Pansukian
Cemetery/Pisangan
Tuason Point
Cloud 9
Quiksilver
Jacking Horse
Rock Island
Stimpy’s
Pacifico
Burgos
Tangbo
Check surf forecast on surfline.com
wet season
october to february
During wet season, the southern surf spots work from mid-tide to high-tide.
Giwan
Secret Spot
Paradise
Talisay
Salvacion
connect
Tag us on Instagram!
@secretspotsiargao
LOCAL EATS
Always check Google Maps or their social media pages for opening hours and closed days.
KARENDERIAS
For an authentic taste of home-style Filipino food, try the humble eateries in the center of General Luna. Pin "Tuna on D Go" and "J&M Carenderia" on your Google maps. Order Pinakbet, our version of veg curry and Adobo, a comfort food in the Philippines.
KANIN BABOY
@kaninbaboysiargao
Every dish is delicous here! They are known for their Lechon, crispy on the outside, soft and tender on the inside. Try their version of Sinigang - a salty & sour local stew with various veggies, perfect for a cold rainy day.
KURVADA or DERECHO
@kurvadasiargao
A healthier, MSG-free option to your local style carenderia. These are your best bet if you're both on a budget and on a healthy diet. Try out their Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce and Veggie Spring Rolls. Brunch starts 11 am and dinner 5:30 pm daily.
CATANGNAN PARES
@catangnanparesatbp
Established by a local surfer and his wife, Catangnan Pares is worth the 15 minute drive to the other side of town. Try their generous portions of Fried Chicken & Beef Pares with garlic rice.
BEBIE’S BBQ
@bebiesbbqsiargao
If you are craving for super affordable Filipino-style grilled dishes, Bebie’s is the place to go. Choose from their display of chicken, pork and fish portions. Must try: Siargao style kinilaw, raw fish with ginger, onions and coconut milk.
SUS PASTILAN
@suspastilan
Located in the heart of the busiest area on General Luna. Try their star dish, a generous tasty portion of Chicken Tikka Masala, made only once or twice a week, so don’t miss out! Most days, they serve hearty Filipino stews, Davaoeño style.
what’s NEARBY
Always check Google Maps or their social media pages for opening hours and closed days.
AMON
@amon.iao
Walking distance from Secret Spot is a a pretty little café that offers top notch coffee, matcha, pastries and elevated Filipino brunch meals. Must try: Tapsosyal, Something Fishy and Classic Champorado. Say hello to the sweetest resident doggo, Niño.
VINTA
@vinta.siargao
Vinta has a curated selection of high quality gifts and souvenirs. They have a wide selection of spices, coffee grinds and teas as well. Treat yourself to a handmade sarong from India or Golden Monstera brass jewelry.
BACKSIDE BURGER
@backside_burger
Delicious burgers and thick cut fries with homemade garlic aioli sauce and ketchup. Need I say more?
FOOD LAB
@foodlabsiargao
A quaint plant-based snack shack by renowned vegan Chef Ram. Their Bum Bat with Lemongrass Tofu looks amazing! Also try the Fresh Summer Roll and Tempeh Banh Mi.
LOVE COCO
@lovecoco_ph
Craving for a cold coconut? Find this little gem near the Boulevard. When you’ve finished the juice, ask them to cut it open so you can eat the coconut flesh. Brownies and cookies are freshly baked too!
LITTLE ROTTI
@littlerotti.siargao
An Indian resto with beachfront views located within a boutique hostel Bajala along Malinao Beach Road. Biryani rice and Chicken Masala with Garlic Naan is always a good idea!
JOREN’S
@jorenshomemadeicecream
The best Halo-halo in town! Layers and layers of mouthwatering goodness in a tall glass topped with ube ice cream and a slice of leche flan. Perfect for hot summer days! Crispy turon with ube ice cream is an afternoon delight.
JTs MANUKAN
@jtsmanukan.siargao
After your sunset skate sesh along Malinao Beach Road, make sure to stop by JTs Manukan for dinner. Their specialty has always been Chicken Inasal, but the Cansi and Cansi steak are also a crowd fav.
FLavorful food
Always check Google Maps or their social media pages for opening hours and closed days.
CUMIN
@cuminsiargao
DRUNKEN SUSHI
@drunkensushi.siargao
Super simple yet chíc interiors and yummy food, we don't mind eating here everyday. Our personal favorites are the Taco Birria Masala, Kebab Wrap and Chicken Masala with the Mango Lassi.
Served 8 per order, every piece is a rich mouthful. This is not your regular sushi! We always go for the Spicy Tuna Maki and Volcano Roll, paired with our fav local beer.
CEV
@cevsiargao
The first and only Ceviche and Kinilaw resto in the world. If you're a fan of fresh raw fish, Chef David has come up with a variety of ways to elevate this delicacy. Must try - every dish on the menu!
BASILYO
If you're craving for fresh seafood, this is one of the simplest, yet better places in town. Order their Singaporean style chili crabs and Lemon Butter Prawns with garlic rice.
THAIFOON
@thaifoonsiargao
SIARGAO HAWKER
@siargaohawker
Dine on their 2nd level for some interesting Siargao history. Thai Fried Chicken never fails. Pad Thai is wrapped nicely in eggs. Of course Thai Iced Milk Tea is the perfect drink to wash down all the flavours.
After sunset at Jacking Horse, walk over to their tiny stall on the road. They serve the best Beef Rendang on the island. Try their Haiananese Chicken and Singaporean Laksa. All dishes are super affordable as well.
VEGan options
Always check Google Maps or their social media pages for opening hours and closed days.
SHANTI SHANTY
@om.shantishanty
Owned by a French baker, they have the best sourdough, croissants and pan au chocolat on the island. They have a variety of homemade plant based milk for your coffee, cacao or matcha as well. Limited seats, so get there as early at 8 am.
SHAKA
@shaka_cafes
Eat your rainbow! Best smoothie bowls and healthiest brunch options on the island. Indulge in guilt-free delicious meals. Shaka’s food quality has always been top notch. Find them on the right side of Cloud 9. Open daily!
VERDE
@verdesiargao
Newest 100% vegan spot in town! If you’re trying to convert your omnivore friends, this is the place. Their Lasagna Frita is bursting with the perfect crunch and flavor. We love their delicious salads, bowls and burgers too. Don’t forget to try the Brownie Sundae for desert! Open from breakfast til dinner, visit anytime for a colorful, nourishing well-balanced vegan meals.
SOUL SHACK
@soulshack.siargao
They’ve found a new home at La Boheme in Catangnan, near Vedya. Delicious coffee, smoothies, super salads and healthy toasts await you. Their variety of cacao potions are a must-try for everyone!
VEDYA
@vedyasiargao
@vedyakarinderya
This Tulum-inspired place has loads to offer. Sample vegan dishes from their karenderya, open for breakfast and lunch only. Their café is one of the best on the island - try their Iced Ube Latté if you want something new and refreshing. Watch out for retreats and yoga teacher trainings.
COSMIC
@cosmicsiargao
Indulge in traditional FIlipino comfort food like Sisig, Bagnet and Kare-Kare without the guilt. If you're on a budget, their set meals are quite satisfying and wont break the bank. Find them right in the middle of busy General Luna.
best on the island
Unforgettable dining experiences. Secure a reservation days ahead.
CEV
@cevsiargao
WILD
@wild.siargao
VERDE
@verde.siargao
HAOLE
@haolesiargao
LAS BARICAS
@lasbarricassiargao
BULAN
@bulansiargao
L’OSTERIA
@losteriasiargao
LAS PALMAS
@laspalmassiargao
BARBOSA
@barbosasiargao
ROOTS
@rootssiargao
BLISS
@blisssiargao
BACKYARD STEAKHOUSE
@backyardsiargao
BARBOSA
Find Asian cuisine, cocktails and the coolest tunes at Barbosa, the newest bar on the island. Find it above Vissla surf shop. Must try: Pork Belly with Basil. Parties every Friday night.
MANU
Created by an award winning mixologist, you'll find fun, creative cocktails here. Dare you to try -- F*** you Odette.
SIBOL
Always have fun live music going on. Really good coffee and food, too! Crowds extend to the side of the road so make sure to get your table early.
EL LOBO
If you're in the mood to dance, El Lobo is the place. Pick from their long list of cocktails to get you in the mood. Thursdays are more laid back acoustic nights.
BARREL
A sports bar right on the beach. Come here if you want to watch some sports action on the big screen or walk over to their beach bar for some fresh sea breeze.
GET A
DRINK
Tip: Leave your scooter behind and get a
tuk tuk home for your safety!
food delivery
www.siargaodelivery.com
OUR DELIVERY ADDRESS
NEAREST LANDMARK
(Your name)
(Room name)
Secret Spot Eco-homestay
Tourism Road
Barangay Malinao
General Luna
Surigao del Norte
Delivery fee is Php 69 only!
Beside SOS gym
Look for a big white house with nipa roof
Concrete fence / black metal gate
DELIVERY INSTRUCTIONS
“Please feel free to enter the black metal gate and meet me at the porch entrance. There are no dangerous dogs in the premises.”
Ask for estimated time of arrival and don't forget to tip generously!
yoga
meditation
breathwork
Follow @yogasiargao for gatherings, yoga
teacher trainings and other updates!
PRANA YOGA
@pranayoga.iao
@pranagarden.iao
Prana has a quaint yoga shala in the middle of a local village Purok 5. Bring your bikini to swim in their pool after a Shakti Flow or try a smoothie bowl from their garden café.
LITTLE SHELL YOGA
@littleshellyoga
Entering this shala is like entering a spa for yoga. If you want a more exclusive, quiet, and private experience, this is the place to practice. They have limited spots so you’ll have to book online. The shala is airconditioned and they clean the mats thorougly for you after each practice.
BODHI
@bodhiyogacenterytt
Sitting on top of a hill, Bodhi Yoga Center provides a diverse range of yoga classes, suitable for all levels. The best part is the overlooking view! Make sure to book their classes online as they have limited slots for each class.
KERMIT YOGA
@kermitsiargao
As you enter the shala, you will be greeted by Tenille, one of the pioneer yoga teachers in Siargao. I highly recommend practicing here for the fundamentals. It’s quite a big space with wooden floors and nipa roof. They have a pool and a restaurant below where you can chill after a revitalizing yoga session.
beauty &
WELLNESS
Be sure to check out each spa’s IG page
for opening times and closed days.
ARUGAO
@arugao.iao
Find their super aesthetic cocoon along the busiest part of Tourism Road, GL. Only place in town with Cold Diode Hair Removal, Body Sculpting and ultra luxurious facials.
SIRENA SPA
@sirenaspasiargao
If being around nature relaxes you, this spa is surrounded by a luscious garden that seems to soothe your senses. Be sure to secure a reservation as slots fill up quickly.
VULTUN
@vultun_
Head to Jacking Horse and find their massage hut by the ocean. Vultun offers surfboard rentals, lessons and they have a resident Physiotherapist as well. For home service massage text them via Whatsapp +63 9171531110.
EMERALD SPA
@emeraldhousevillage_siargao
Located close to Cloud 9, find Emerald’s spa as you walk through their resto. If you’d like a quiet, dark and airconditioned room for your spa services, this is the place to go!
SARONG SPA
@sarongspasiargao
If you’re particular about your nail color, they have hundreds of options. Never crowded, this is our go-to place to get a gel mani-pedi. Massages are a bit pricer here but looks like they are worth it!
ISLA NATURA SPA
@islanaturasiargao
Probably the most affordable spa on the island if you are on a budget or would like to go for more than an hour massage. Their quaint abode is close to Halika Gelato.
TIPS FOR
A better
experience
01
You can be as private or as social as you'd like to be. The kitchen is a great place to get to know your next door neighbors. Share some meals - or go explore the island together.
02
Internet is still spotty in most places on the island. So make sure to download an offline map on our phone especially if you'd like to explore further north.
03
When leaving the room, close your windows and lock your doors. Mosquitos feed at sunrise and sunset. Apply insect repellant as needed.
04
Limit your use of toilet paper. Here in the east, we prefer using the bidet or the bum gun as it has been scientifically proven to clean and sanitize 100% compared to toilet paper.
05
Bath towels, eye masks, ear plugs are provided. Beach towels and extra blankets upon request. We provide you with amenities to make your stay more comfortable.
06
Don't hesitate to ask us about more personal recommendations on places to go, see and eat. We love getting to know our guests beyond the usual small talk!
be careful
07
If driving a scooter, wear your helmet at all times. Local police do regular checks on the main road. So make sure your rental scooter has updated Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration (OR/CR) and that you have a valid driver's license.
08
Same documents are needed if you are driving a car. Not having these docs may require you to pay hefty fines and may invalidate your travel insurance in case anything happens.
09
Never underestimate the ocean, it can be a dangerous place due to the changing tides, rip currents and sharp reef. Never swim in deep waters, surf, free dive or dive alone.
10
Be social, make new friends and party but act with common sense. Make sure you have a safe way of getting home. Never drive under the influence. Call a trusted tricycle to drive you home safely.
11
Local ATMS (BDO/Cantilan Bank) are able to dispense cash for international cards. Euronet ATMs may charge a higher withdrawal fee & conversion rates while BPI cards may withdraw for free.
packing list
Don’t leave home withour these:
SUNBLOCK & INSECT REPELLANT
LIGHT CLOTHING & SWIMWEAR
YOUR MEDICATION
TOILETRIES
BOOK/ E-READER
PASSPORT & DRIVER’S LICENSE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
During wet season (NOV-FEB)
RAINCOAT & UMBRELLA
DRY BAG
A POSITIVE ATTITUDE 😊
During power cuts:
PORTABLE WIFI
POWER BANK
EXTRA PATIENCE 😇
BORROW ME
Borrow these items from us*,
free of charge:
BEACH TOWELS
ECO-BAG
REUSABLE PLASTIC CONTAINERS
BASIC FIRST AID KIT
UMBRELLA
FLASHLIGHT
PORTABLE MINI FAN
GLOBE ROUTER
POWER BANK
YOGA MAT & BLOCK
emotional support dog and/or cat
Luna
*Depends on availability.
Emergency contacts are posted on your wall.
in case of emergency
Siargao experiences a few typhoons during the wet season from November to February.
Some flooding may occur after days of heavy rainfall.
In case of heavy earthquake:
A tsunami may occur after a 20 second earthquake:
Quick thinking matters in case of fire:
power outage
brownout
The entire island of Siargao regularly experiences power shortages due to the influx of tourists. Power might fluctuate throughout the day and there may be brief power cuts or brownouts through out the day, especially during the busier seasons.
Here at Secret Spot, we have a back-up generator that we are able to use 1-2 hours at a time during scheduled all-day brownouts, usually on Sundays. Due to limited capacity, only lights and some electric fans are powered during generator use to avoid the dangers of overloading.
Here are some helpful tips:
Stay comfortable:
If you need to work during an outage, check out these coworking spaces:
We ask for your patience and cooperation during these times. Thank you for your understanding as we find ways to shift to solar energy. 🙏🏽
As a humble island homestay, Secret Spot strives for transparency on booking sites and social media by sharing real photos, accurate descriptions, and recent guest reviews of our place. Additionally, we offer this comprehensive 40+ page guidebook that you can read and download on your device even before making a booking.
We welcome travelers from all backgrounds, but we cater specifically to millennial travelers seeking a simple, local style accommodation. As an eco-friendly and pet-loving household, we especially appreciate like-minded guests. Like any unique destination, our homestay has its own quirks and potential challenges. We understand that our place may not suit everyone.
As a small business, cancellations and refund requests significantly impact us. Operating and maintaining our guesthouse on a secluded island incurs exceptionally high costs. Everything you see around you has been imported from elsewhere.
More importantly, we pay our staff well above the minimum wage and provide all the government-mandated benefits they rightfully deserve. They also get loads of commissions and performance bonuses when we get amazing guest reviews.
We sincerely ask for your support by adhering to our house rules and reservation policies. Furthermore, we are committed to maintaining a respectful and professional environment. We do not tolerate any form of inappropriate behavior and expect all interactions to be conducted with mutual respect and courtesy. 💗
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REFUNDS
REBOOKINGS
CANCELLATIONS
AGODA
AIRBNB
BOOKING.COM
If you have booked through an Online Travel Agent (OTA), this means that you have agreed to their respective terms and conditions as well. Please coordinate with your chosen reservation channel, as their policies may vary. You may contact them via their website, app, email, or support contact number to cancel your reservation or claim a partial refund.
Your OTA handles your payments and remits them to us afterward. We do not have access to your credit card number and cannot process credit card payments at Secret Spot.
Therefore, we are unable to issue cash refunds directly from our property. Since each OTA has different processing times, any refunds should appear on your credit card statement within 1-2 billing cycles.
SECRET SPOT WEBSITE
DIRECT BOOKINGS
15 days free cancellation and rebooking prior to check-in date.
You may correspond with our manager, Breech so she can guide you through the process.
contact info
+63 956 466 3284
general inquiries
reservations
airport transfers
road trips / island tours
bike/scooter/car rentals
surf lessons
Home service massage
FOOD ORDERS
feedback
booking issues
business inquiries and/or consultations
+63 926 7124438
work hours 8 am to 5pm
ENJOY
YOUR
STAY
secret spot siargao
Thinking of extending your stay? Current and returning guests get 15% off when you book direct. Ask us about our weekly/monthly rates!