Siargao Island is considered the top destination for slow travel in the Philippines in 2024, and it’s easy to see why. Even I found it hard to leave the island after staying there for six months last year. Although some may argue that there are more beautiful places in the country than this island known for its monstrous waves, Siargao has a unique charm that makes people feel at home. It’s not surprising that many digital nomads have decided to stay here long-term. If you’re considering working from this island, you may be wondering about good workspaces. That’s where this list of my favorite co-working spaces on Siargao Island comes in handy.
—High Cost of Living – Prices in Siargao are at their all-time high and continue to rise along with the island’s popularity. A bed in a mixed dorm apartment costs somewhere around ₱8000 – ₱12,000 per month in General Luna, the main tourist hub. A room is easily ₱15,000 – ₱20,000 a month. A meal in most restaurants is ₱300. A liter of gasoline is somewhere around ₱75 – ₱80. So yeah. Siargao is not a cheap place to live.
—Constant Power Outage – Power outages happen daily at any time. It could be in the morning or the afternoon and could last for hours. Worse, throughout the day. Sad to say, life on the island pretty much stops along with it. Most restaurants are closed. ATMs are not available. You can only wait until the power is back.
—Unreliable Internet Connection – Local networks such as Globe and Smart have poor signals throughout the island. If you need a fast connection, these two networks will not suffice as they are slow even when browsing social media.
—Poor Medical Facilities – In every town on the island, you can find hospitals, but unfortunately, most of them have incomplete facilities. Even the main hospital located in Dapa, the capital of the island, lacks sufficient resources to provide treatment for certain ailments. Additionally, the island has only a few pharmacies and drugstores, which offer medicine at a price that is twice as high as usual. Moreover, some medicines are not even available on the island, making it difficult for people to get the treatment they need.
—Water Scarcity – When they say that one problem leads to the other? This is the perfect example of that. The water supply on the island is scarce. There would be days that it would be hard to come by. I couldn’t figure out what the problem actually is but whenever the power is out, water supply in residential houses and most establishments on the island is also non-existent.
—Live outside of General Luna – Rental prices outside of General Luna are cheaper. You can explore properties in Dapa, Burgos, and Del Carmen. If you want to stay close to the main tourist hub then places like Libertad, Sta. Fe, Don Paulino, and Union have slightly affordable rentals as well.
—Bring a Power Station – This will always come in handy. Not all establishments on the island have backup power generators so having a power station will ensure no work disruption.
—Choose a rental with a kitchen – So you can cook. Eating in restaurants all the time can set you back a thousand pesos or even more per day. Cooking your food is way more affordable. You can buy your supplies on the island’s public market. You may be surprised to find that some prices there are cheap and comparable to those on the mainland.
—Bring your meds – If you require rare medication for a medical condition, it’s unlikely you’ll find it on the island. If you run out, you can order online and have it delivered to your address.
—Monthly scooter rental – On the island, the most common mode of transportation is motorcycles. With your motorcycle, you can travel freely at any time without worrying about bus schedules. You can rent a motorcycle daily, however, long-term rental is a more affordable option.
—Always have cash available – You never know when you might need cash, but relying on ATMs isn’t always failsafe during power outages. Most establishments also accept GCash as a mode of payment, so it’s a convenient app to have.
—Have travel medical insurance – Siargao is a generally safe place but just like any other place, life is unpredictable. Protect yourself from the uncertainty of life on the island with SafetyWing. You can sign up for an account for free and get a chance to win a 1-Month Workation in Mexico City, Mexico.
1. Lexias Hostel & Workspace
What I love about it: It’s open 24 hours even for non-residents of the hostel. Amazing staff. Food is also good. Offers a view of the countryside.
Has Backup Power: Yes
Has Rooms: Yes
2. Alter Space
What I love about it: It’s a fun, colorful, and artsy workspace. The first workspace on the island with one of the most competitive rates. Open 24 hours
Has Backup Power: Yes
Has Rooms: No. Just a workspace.
3. Sunday Siargao
What I love about it: Open 24 hours. Cozy and Instagrammable. You can visit on a day tour for ₱500, consumable food and drinks, and access to their swimming pool.
Has Backup Power: Yes
Has Rooms: Yes. You can stay at Villa Cali.
4. Romantic Beach Villa Siargao
What I love about it: It offers a day tour for ₱500/person (consumable) and access to the pool. Beautiful view of the beach.
Has Backup Power: No
Has Rooms: Yes. It’s one the beachfront resorts in General Luna.
5. Izustarri
What I love about it: It is such a paradise. If you have a bit of a budget then staying for a night is a must.
Has Backup Power: Yes
Has Rooms: Yes.
There you have it, lovelies. There are plenty of co-working spaces on Siargao Island that you can choose from. Select the one that resonates with you most. I’m the kind that gets motivated by what I see that’s why I choose spaces that I think are inspiring and would stimulate my imagination hence this list. For questions, just drop them in the comments. Until next time. Ciao!
