SURFING at Cloud 9, Catangnan, General Luna (photo below).

Looking for a beach getaway? Consider Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte. Here are seven things you can do in the beautiful island known as the surfing capital of the Philippines.

1. Surfing on Cloud 9. Don’t let a trip to Siargao pass without surfing the Cloud 9 wave, or at least just watching the pros glide through the powerful waves. It gained popularity among local and foreign surfers who have been trooping to the island before any of the commercial resorts were built.

2. Cliff/rock diving in Magpupungko. Head to Magpupungko Beach for a stretch of sand, unusual rock formations, and natural saltwater pools reminiscent of infinity pools. The rock formations also function as cliff diving spots that give you that adrenaline rush without provoking a fear of heights. Make sure to ask the locals where the safe spots are.

MAGPUPUNGKO beach and rock formations at Pilaring, Pilar. 3. Paddle board on Sugba Lagoon. Head to the quiet Sugba Lagoon for paddle boarding and a free-diving experience that’s also incredibly photo-worthy. Test your fear of heights and jump off a narrow plank into the pristine waters below, or even go snorkeling among the reefs nearby. The lagoon boasts calmer waters as beautiful rock formations and mangroves can be found in the town of Del Carmen.

4. Rent a motorcycle to go around the island. If Boracay has tricycles, Siargao has its motorcycles. Go on a mini adventure and hop on the locals’ transportation of choice. Feel the wind in your hair (and take fun photos, while you’re at it), and relish the lack of pollution and traffic as you explore what the island has to offer. You might even find yourself a soulmate.

5. Hop on a tropical party boat. Who needs a fancy yacht when you can go on a Galatea cruise around Siargao? Take a trip by the edge of the Pacific Ocean in a paraw, and visit the breathtaking islands of Mam-on, Janoza, Daku, Naked and Guyam, or visit the famous Sohoton Cove, while snorkeling in between. End the day with a grill of fresh seafood caught during your trip for a magnificent sunset you won’t see anywhere else.

SUGBA Lagoon at Caub, Del Carmen. 6. Cleanse your mind and body with Yoga and “whole” foods. Did you know that Siargao is also a cult-favorite among yogis and fans of wholesome living? Many resorts offer yoga classes and retreats all year round — there are quite a number of residents who moved here from big cities here and abroad — with wholesome restaurants aplenty. Go to Lotus Shores or Sadhana Siargao for a yoga class or two, then go for smoothie bowls at Shaka Café afterwards. You’ll be amazed at their selection of dairy-free, gluten-free and meat-free options.

7. Go solo and have an “Eat, Pray, Love” moment. Head to the beautiful island to get your much-needed break from stress, real life, or even heartbreak. Ditch your social media accounts for a while and enjoy the time away from the city.