Dinagat Islands Travel Guide: The Mystical Paradise Next to Siargao
Let’s be honest about Siargao. We love it. We love the surf, the smoothie bowls, and the nightlife in General Luna. But somewhere between the traffic jams on Tourism Road and the skyrocketing prices of accommodation, the "island escape" vibe has gotten a little... crowded.
Travelers are beginning to whisper about the "Next Siargao" or the "Next Palawan." They are looking for that elusive combination of jagged limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and most importantly—silence.
If you are craving an unspoiled paradise that feels raw, affordable, and genuinely mysterious, you don't need to look far. Just across the channel lies the Dinagat Islands.
Why Dinagat is Trending (And Why You Should Go Now)
Dinagat is currently in that "sweet spot" of travel destinations. It is accessible enough to get to, but raw enough that mass tourism hasn't polished away its charm.
While Siargao has become the commercial hub, Dinagat remains the wild neighbor. It offers the same dramatic karst landscapes you’d find in El Nido or Coron, but without the armada of tour boats fighting for parking space in the lagoons.
Locals call it the "Mystical Island." Whether it's the unexplained folklore, the unique biodiversity, or just the eerie quiet of its forests, there is a vibe here that feels ancient.
Top Highlights: The "Raw" Appeal
1. Pagkawasan Beach and The Blue Lagoon
This is the Dinagat equivalent of El Nido’s Big Lagoon—but arguably better because you might have it all to yourself.
The Vibe: Towering limestone formations covered in shrubbery protect shallow, electric-blue waters.
What to Do: This is prime territory for calm swimming and photography. The water is often glass-like, reflecting the jagged cliffs above. It’s "raw" beauty at its finest; no floating bars, just nature.
2. Lake Bababu: The Sacred Waters
If you are an adventure seeker, Lake Bababu is non-negotiable. It is a meromictic lake, a rare geological phenomenon where a layer of freshwater sits on top of a layer of saltwater, and they never mix.
The Hike: Reaching the lake requires a trek through a dense forest. It’s not a walk in the park, but a true hike surrounded by ancient trees and the sounds of the jungle.
The Experience: When you emerge from the tree line, the silence is profound. The water is emerald green and surrounded by sheer rock walls. Local legends say the lake is guarded by spirits, and when you swim there, you’ll understand why. It feels sacred.
3. The "Islander’s Castle" (White Castle)
Perched on a hill in San Jose (the capital) is a massive, whimsical castle that looks like it was plucked out of a Disney movie. Built by the Ecleo family, it serves as a bizarre but fascinating contrast to the raw nature of the rest of the island. It’s a must-visit for the view alone.
Siargao vs. Dinagat: The Budget
Why spend your entire budget on accommodation when you can spend it on experiences? Here is the reality check for budget travelers.
| Feature | Siargao (The Commercial Hub) | Dinagat (The Unspoiled Gem) |
| Crowds | High density. Expect lineups at surf spots. | Low density. You might own the beach for the day. |
| Food Cost | ₱350–₱600+ per meal (Western pricing). | ₱100–₱200 per meal (Fresh seafood feasts). |
| Accommodation | Expensive boutique resorts are the norm. | Affordable homestays, lodges, and pensions. |
| Vibe | "Party, Surf, Socialize." | "Explore, Disconnect, Reflect." |
The Ultimate 3-Day Dinagat Itinerary
To truly experience the island, you need at least three days. Here is how to do it right.
Day 1: Arrival and The Mystical Sunset
Morning: Arrive at San Jose Port (via ferry from Surigao City). Check into your accommodation in San Jose proper.
Lunch: Head to the public market (Merkado). Tip: Buy fresh seafood here and ask your homestay to cook it for dinner later.
Afternoon: Hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to visit the Islander’s Castle. Even if you can't enter all areas, the panoramic view of the coastline from the hill is spectacular.
Sunset: Walk along the Sta. Cruz Beach promenade. It’s not a swimming beach, but the community vibe at sunset is heartwarming.
Day 2: The Island Hopping Adventure (Basilisa and Libjo)
08:00 AM: Rent a private boat. Unlike El Nido, you don't need to join a rigid group tour. Negotiate with a local boatman for a day trip.
Morning: Head to Pangabangan Island in Libjo. The tidal pool here is famous—a bright blue pool surrounded by jagged rocks that is separated from the ocean at low tide.
Lunch: Picnic lunch at Pagkawasan Beach. Enjoy the powdery white sand and limestone backdrop.
Afternoon: Explore the Blue Lagoon. Take your time snorkeling or just floating.
Late Afternoon: Passing by Duyos Beach for a final dip before heading back to San Jose.
Day 3: The Jungle Trek and Departure
07:00 AM: Travel to Basilisa for the Lake Bababu trek. Start early to beat the heat.
The Hike: The trek takes about 45 minutes to an hour depending on your pace.
The Swim: Spend an hour swimming in the silent, mixed waters of the lake.
Noon: Hike back down and grab a quick lunch.
Afternoon: Catch the afternoon ferry back to Surigao City.
How to Get There
Dinagat is surprisingly accessible, making it the perfect side-trip from Siargao or a destination on its own.
From Surigao City (The Main Gateway): Go to the Surigao City Port. Take a Fast Craft (1 hour) or a Roro Ferry (1.5 hours) to San Jose. Boats run frequently from early morning until late afternoon.
From Siargao: You have two options.
The Long Way: Ferry from Siargao (Dapa Port) to Surigao City, then transfer to a boat to Dinagat.
The Adventure Way: Hire a private boat from Del Carmen (Siargao) to cross directly to Dinagat. This is pricier but saves time and is a scenic ride.
Final Thoughts
Dinagat Islands is not for the traveler who needs 5-star room service or high-speed Wi-Fi at every turn. It is for the traveler who misses the way the Philippines used to feel: adventurous, welcoming, and untamed.
Visit Dinagat to unplug. Visit to see nature before it gets paved over. But most of all, visit to find that sense of wonder that popular tourist spots just can't provide anymore.