The Ultimate Travel Guide to Tandag City, Surigao del Sur
Tandag City is a quiet place facing the Pacific Ocean. This is my home city and let me share this ultimate guide on how to enjoy your visit. If you’re looking for a less-crowded yet interesting place to visit in Mindanao, Tandag City is a great choice. With its beautiful beaches and rich culture, this coastal city has something for every traveler to enjoy.
How to get to Tandag City
Manila to Tandag City:
↳ Option 1: Flight to Butuan or Surigao City. Then take a bus or van to Tandag City. The travel time is approximately 4-5 hours.
↳ Option 2: Ferry from Manila to Nasipit or Surigao City via Cokaliong Shipping Lines. Then take a bus or van to Tandag City. The travel time is approximately 4-5 hours.
Cebu to Tandag City:
↳ Option 1: Flight to Butuan or Surigao City. Then take a bus or van to Tandag City. The travel time is approximately 4-5 hours.
↳ Option 2: Overnight ferry from Cebu to Nasipit or Surigao City via Cokaliong Shipping Lines. Then take a bus or van to Tandag City. The travel time is approximately 4-5 hours.
↳ NOTE: Flight from Cebu to Tandag via Cebu Pacific was available before. It might open again, so please check accordingly.
Butuan to Tandag City:
↳ From Butuan City, take a bus or van to Tandag City. The travel time is approximately 4-5 hours.
Getting around in Tandag City:
↳ Tricycles within the city are available.
What language is spoken in Tandag City?
Surigao del Sur’s native language is called Surigaonon (southern version, there is also a northern version), also called Binisaya by the natives. Sometimes they also call these by their respective towns, like Tandaganon, Tagon-on, etc.
Here is a Helpful Surigaonon Phrases Before you Travel to Surigao del Sur.
Places to visit in Tandag City
Boulevard
The boulevard is an 8,250 square meter area along the shore. It is also called Vicente L. Pimentel Sr. Boulevard. It is known for its colorful lamp posts which are very picturistic during the evening. Both locals and visitors come here to eat tasty local food. There are BBQ restaurants, too.
Carts are available for kids and adults to enjoy, especially in the late afternoon and at night. A massage spot under a tent is available too.
It’s best to visit on the weekend because there’s a night market with stalls selling thrift clothes, and streetfoods. Sometimes, they show outdoor movies in the evening. On weekend mornings, they sometimes have Zumba and aerobics sessions for fitness lovers.
There is also a local tourism office where you can learn about Tandag City. They also sell local delicacies and products that you can buy as souvenirs.
Mabua Beach
Mabua Beach is the go-to spot for swimming in Tandag City because it’s easy to get to. Most people from Tandag City go to Mabua Beach to relax and spend time with their family, especially on weekends. It’s a safer swimming place for kids and grown-ups than other beaches because the water level isn’t too high, even during high tide.
There’s no entrance fee. If you want to stay longer, there are cottages available for rent. Some spots have karaoke too. It’s a good idea to bring food to Mabua because there are no restaurants in the area. However, there are stores where you can buy chips and drinks.
Mabua Beach is quiet during the weekdays, making it even more relaxing. When the tide is low, locals and visitors can explore the seabed. In our local dialect, it’s also known as “hunasan”. From Mabua Beach, you can also see the beauty of Twin Linungao Island and Mankagangi Island.
Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine
Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine, also known as Tandag Grotto, is located on one of the Linungao Islands. The 70-step Grotto offers a 360-degree view of the city. It’s a perfect walking or short hiking trip where you can enjoy peace and quiet. The path winding through the island offers a view of another side of the city and leads to Danakit Cave.
Monkeys in Linungao Island
The other Linungao Island has many monkeys you can see at 6 AM and 5 PM. These monkeys come down from the trees at those times. Some locals take care of and feed them. Visitors are discouraged from feeding the monkeys since they are wild. However, if locals are feeding them, you can ask for their assistance. Currently, there is no entrance fee so please feel free to bring food for the monkeys if you plan to visit.
The twin Linungao Islands of Tandag are connected to the city of Tandag.
Mangkagangi Island
The island is found in the northern part of Tandag City, Surigao del Sur. This rocky island can only be reached by a 40-minute pump boat ride. It is often called “Bat Island” because large black bats live there. There is a small stretch of white sand beach on one side. Make sure to hire an expert (usually a local fisherman who owns a pump boat) to guide you. The area can be dangerous and can only be visited during low tide. Visitors must leave before high tide, as the water rises very quickly.
Tandag City Plaza
Tandag City Plaza is a quiet place in the center of the city, perfect for walking around or relaxing. It has a fountain and shaded spots where people like to sit and hang out. It’s a nice place to enjoy the calm vibe of Tandag City.
San Nicholas de Tolentino Cathedral
San Nicholas de Tolentino Cathedral is a big, beautiful church in Rosario, Tandag City. The original church was much smaller and was located near Tandag City Plaza. Now, the larger cathedral in Rosario is a popular place for people to pray and attend mass. It’s an important spot for locals and visitors who want to see its simple yet impressive design.
Mahayag Beach
Mahayag Beach is a quiet and clean beach in Tandag City, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The soft sand and clear waters make it a great spot for swimming and enjoying the sunset. It’s not too crowded, so you can have a peaceful time with nature.
Surfing in Barangay San Agustin Sur or Quintos
Dawis and Quintos in Tandag City are great spots for surfing, especially for beginners. The waves are steady, but be careful because sometimes they can get very strong, as Tandag faces the Pacific Ocean. Locals and visitors love coming here to ride the waves and enjoy the ocean view.
Mabuhay Clouds
Mabuhay Clouds is a scenic spot in Tandag City known for its stunning views of the sky and surrounding landscape. It’s a great place to take pictures or just relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Many people visit to watch the clouds and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Tandag City?
- Villa Maria Luisa – A cozy hotel with clean rooms, a pool, and friendly service, great for a comfortable stay.
- Shacene Pension House – A budget-friendly option with simple, clean rooms and a convenient location in the city.
- H Mansion Hotel – Located on the National Highway, offering comfortable rooms that are very affordable.
You can also book an Airbnb in Tandag City, offering more choices like private homes or apartments for a more personal stay.
Where to eat in Tandag City
- Gold Bar & Restaurant – Known for its cozy ambiance near the boulevard. They have a wide selection of Filipino and seafood dishes, perfect for casual dining.
- Uptown Café – A charming café offering coffee, pastries, and meals, great for celebrating special occasions and meeting friends.
- Oceana Restaurant – Located in Villa Maria Luisa Hotel, Oceana serves tasty Filipino food that’s perfect for family and friends to enjoy.
- Kapehan ni Kuya Rico – A local favorite serving coffee blends along with snacks and quick meals. They have a nice view of the mountains.
- Talisayan Restaurant and Bar – A beachside spot offering both local and Filipino cuisine with a scenic ocean view.
- Mi Amore Korean Grill – A KTV and a restaurant in one where you can enjoy flavorful grilled meats and Korean specialties.
- Lasamgy Seaside Grill – Popular for its grilled fresh seafood and grilled meat dishes.
- W’s Pizza – The OG pizza place in Tandag where they serve delicious and affordable pizzas with various toppings. Don’t forget to try their halo-halo too!
- JK’s Grill & Restaurant – Offers a variety of grilled meats and Filipino favorites, ideal for those craving hearty local meals.
Important facts about Tandag City
Tandag City was inhabited by Manobos and Mamanwas during the pre-Hispanic time. It was a port of call for the Spanish galleon. In 1650, it became the capital town of Caraga, then a district that covered the present provinces of Agusan and 2 Surigaos and part of Davao.
The best time to visit Tandag City is within March-August which is the dry season. Wet season is between September-February.
Tandag celebrates the Diwatahan Festival in the third week of January in honor of Señor Sto. Niño.
Tandag hosts the Sangkaan Festival every first week of September. It features street dancing and lively events with tribal music and dances. This festival celebrates the historical battles between the native Manobos and the Moros before the Spanish arrived.
Tandag also celebrates “Araw ng Tandag” every September 10 showcasing the city’s blissful achievements through the years.
Tandag City offers a mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and peaceful spots that make it a unique destination in Surigao del Sur. Whether you’re exploring its scenic beaches, enjoying a quiet moment at the plaza, or surfing along the Pacific coast, there’s something for everyone. With its friendly locals and stunning views, Tandag City is definitely a place worth visiting and remembering.
My Travel Faves!
🌎 Safetywing: For travel insurance
✈️ Google Flights: For finding flight deals
🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels
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☀️ Klook: For tours and activities
📷 Canon G7X Mark II: My travel camera
🧳 Luggage: My favorite luggage
