Sugba Lagoon with Kids: Is It Worth Visiting?

Crystal-clear turquoise water, peaceful mangrove forests and plenty of fun for the whole family. Sugba Lagoon is a popular destination in Siargao. If you're wondering whether it's worth the trip with kids, here's everything you need to know before you go.

What & Where is Sugba Lagoon?

Located in Del Carmen, around an hour from General Luna, Sugba Lagoon is one of Siargao's most popular natural attractions.

Getting there is all part of the adventure. After arriving at the jetty, you'll hop aboard a small boat that winds through beautiful mangrove forests before opening out into the stunning lagoon.

With calm turquoise water, kayaking, paddleboarding and a jumping platform, it's an easy place to spend a couple of relaxing hours.

Is Sugba Lagoon Worth Visiting with Kids?

Yes!

Although it's a bit of a drive from General Luna—especially if you're travelling by tuk-tuk, we thought it was well worth the journey.

If you book an organised tour, you'll usually travel by van or car, making the trip quicker than travelling by tuk-tuk.

The boat ride through the mangroves was beautiful and once we got to the lagoon we were keen to jump in.

Once there you have the option to hire paddle boards, kayaks, jump off the high jumping board, or just float around in the crystal clear water.

What Can Kids Do at Sugba Lagoon?

There's something here for all ages.

The calm lagoon is perfect for swimming, while older kids and adults can hire kayaks or paddleboards.

The diving platform is one of Sugba Lagoon's biggest attractions. It's higher than it first appears, but my girls absolutely loved jumping in over and over again.

If your children aren't ready for the platform, there's plenty of space to simply swim, float and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

How Much Does Sugba Lagoon Cost?

To reach the lagoon, you'll also need to take a small boat from the jetty. If travelling in a Tuk-Tuk, the driver will generally wait for you.

Boat hire costs ₱1,600 per boat. Each boat can carry 6 passengers, so travelling with friends or a group helps split the cost.

If you're booking an organised tour, these fees may already be included, so it's worth checking what's covered before you book.

When we visited, there was a ₱100 environmental fee per person once you reach the lagoon.

Can You Visit Sugba Lagoon and Magpupungko Rock Pools on the Same Day?

Yes—and we think it's one of the best day trips in Siargao.

We visited Sugba Lagoon as part of a tuk-tuk tour that also included the Magpupungko Rock Pools the famous Coconut Viewpoint and Maasin River.

The order of the day depends on the tides, as the rock pools are only accessible at low tide. Your driver or tour guide will plan the itinerary around this. Just make sure they know that you want to visit the Rock Pools.

Best Time to Visit Sugba Lagoon

The best time to visit Sugba Lagoon is during Siargao's dry season, from March to October, when you're more likely to enjoy sunny weather and calm conditions for swimming and kayaking.

We visited in the morning and I think we got lucky as it wasn't overly busy. Many tours arrive in the morning, so if your schedule is flexible, an afternoon visit may be a little quieter.

What to Pack

• Swimmers

• Towel

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Hat

• Sunglasses

• Water bottle

• Dry bag

• Waterproof phone case

• Drone (if you have one) Sugba is beautiful but the aerial views are spectacular!

• Cash for entrance fees and snacks

Is Sugba Lagoon Worth Visiting?

Sugba Lagoon was honestly one of our favourite experiences in Siargao. Combined with other highlights like the Magpupungko Rock Pools, Coconut Viewpoint and Maasin River, it made for an unforgettable day exploring the island.

The girls absolutely loved it. Between swimming in the crystal-clear water, kayaking around the lagoon and jumping from the diving platform, they were entertained all day.

If you're travelling to Siargao with kids, we'd highly recommend adding Sugba Lagoon to your itinerary. It was a fun-filled day for the whole family and one of the highlights of our time on the island.

Continue Planning Your Philippines Adventure

If Siargao is just one stop on your Philippines itinerary, these guides will help you plan the rest of your adventure.

🇵🇭 Philippines Itinerary with Kids – Follow our complete route through Cebu, Siargao, El Nido and Coron, including transport tips, budgets and everything we learned along the way.

🌴Siargao Travel Guide – Looking for a slower pace? Discover why Siargao became one of our favourite islands in the Philippines, with plenty of tips to help you plan your visit.

🐠 Moalboal Sardine Run Guide – Swim alongside millions of sardines and sea turtles with our complete guide, including the best time to visit and what to expect.

📍 3 Days in Moalboal – Planning a few days in Moalboal? Discover our favourite places to stay, eat and the highlights you won't want to miss.

🌴 El Nido Travel Guide – Everything you need to know about island-hopping tours, where to stay, hidden beaches and why El Nido is one of the Philippines' most spectacular destinations.