Discover the crystal-clear, aquatic-blue pools at Magpupungko Rock Pools Siargao. Includes everything you need to know to visit Magpupungko Beach on Siargao!
If you’re considering a trip to Siargao, then you already know that his is an epic island with so much untapped adventure potential! One of the best attractions you’ll want to check out is the Magpupungko Rock Pools– a series of salt-water pools on rocky flats which are perfect for swimming and cliff jumping.
In this quick guide, I’ll outline everything you need to know about visiting Magpupungko Siargao. I’ll fill you in on your options for getting here, what to expect, and throw in some of my favorite photos from my trip.
Featured in: Siargao Island Travel Guide
Where is Magpupungko Rock Pools on Siargao?
The Magpupungko Rock pools are located on the eastern coast of Siargao Island, the Philippines. It's approximately 40 minutes from the main tourist hub of General Luna. The closest town is Pilar.
Below I've pinned the exact location to help you find it. Note that Google maps spells it as "Magpopongko".
- Google Maps Pin: "Magpopongko Rock Pools and Flats"
How to Get to Magpupungko near Pilar
So, how do we get here? You'll have two main options for getting to the Magpupungko Rock Pools, which I've outlined below.
Option 1: Siargao Land Tour
For those short on time, or if you'd rather spend the day checking out all the best highlights on Siargao by a local guide, then you simply can't beat the very popular "Siargao Land Tour". This is the most popular tour on the island, and for good reason.
Not only does the Siargao Land tour visit the Magpupungko Rock Pools, but you'll also get to see both the epic coconut road and the rope swing on Maasin river.
Related: Siargao Island Hopping
Option 2: Get to Magpupungko Independently
The second option for getting to Magpupungko is to do it independently. For this, you're going to need a motorbike.
This is the way I explored all the highlights on Siargao Island.
You can pick up a daily rental in General Luna for 250-350 pesos. Remember you'll always need to barter to get a fair price.
Directions to the Rock Pool
The drive to the rock pools takes about 40 minutes, following the Dapa-General Luna Road past the awesome palm tree viewpoint and down the famous palm tree road. When you get to the intersection at the Siargao Eagles's Statue, turn right onto the Siargao Circumferential Road.
Follow this past the famous coconut tree swing on the Maasin River and past the Tayangban Cave Pool. Soon after, the road gets a little winding as it wraps around the mangrove coves down to Pilar Port. Continue on and soon you'll arrive at the Magpupungko Rock Pools. There's a sign here that reads: "Magpupungko White Beach".
Tip: Siargao Island is an adventure playground! If you're planning to rent motorbikes, I highly recommend travel insurance by WorldNomads. I swear by them as they are one of the only companies offering adventure insurance with cover for things like motorbikes.
What to Expect at Magpupungko Rock Pools Siargao
As soon as you arrive on the white-sand Magpupungko Beach, you'll want to walk over to the left (north) side, where you'll spot the famous rock pools. There's one main pool at Magpupungko, which is actually split in two. The average depth is around 2-3 meters.
These rock pools are a special breed of blue. They really are beautiful and the dense, coconut palm backdrops make for some pretty incredible scenes.
Tip: You'll want to visit the rock pools at low tide. On high tide, the ocean laps into the pools. Magic Seaweed is a good source for checking tide times.
The Big Pool
The main rock pool at Magpupungko Siargao is the first one you'll find. This is the widest and you can swim comfortably, jump off the rocks and explore the coastal caves.
Below are some shots that I captured on my visit.
Cliff Jumps (rocks)
While not huge, one of the best things to do at Magpupungko Rock Pools is to jump off the large boulders. We had loads of fun doing this and captured some fun photos as well. Remember to always do a depth check when cliff jumping.
More: Best Siargao Tourist Spots
Smaller Pools And the Big Boulder
If you continue on around the headland for about 30 meters, you'll find some smaller pools and a huge, picturesque boulder on the edge of the coast.
Magpupungko Beach
The rock pools aren't the only attraction at Magpupungko Beach. In fact, the beach itself is pretty awesome. You'll find a few small local restaurants here too, which is great after a long day of adventure.
However, if you do visit at extra low tide, you'll find the beach is quite rocky. I'd say it's better to enjoy the pools at low tide and the beach at high tide!
Tips for Visiting Magpupungko Rock Pools
Below are some tips you'll want to know before planning a trip to the Magpupungko Rock Pools on Siargao.
- Visit at low tide
- Get here early - this place is swarming with people around midday
- The rock pools are included in the very popular Siargao Land Tour
- There is no entrance fee to visit and you are free to park your bike!
More Photos from Magpupungko Siargao
Where to Stay on Siargao
When planning accommodation on Siargao, you'll want to know that the main tourist hub is called General Luna. Here, there is solid tourism infrastructure like hotels, resorts, guest houses, restaurants, clubs, bars and tour offices. Below are my favorite picks for where to stay.
Tip: I've written a comprehensive Siargao accommodation guide as well which goes into a lot more detail on places to stay, don't miss it!
- Luxury Villas: Las Palmas Villas and Casitas Siargao - every popular luxury villas located within 100 meters from the beach. Includes swimming pool, bar, and tropical gardens.
- Luxury Resort: Kalipay Resort - the best tropical suites in Siargao, located in an excellent central location that is quiet at night but still very close to everything you need.
- Mid-range beach house: Surfing Carabao Beach Houses - beachfront tropical huts on Malinao beach with air conditioning and an awesome surf vibe.
- Hostel With a Vibe: Ilakai Hostel - the best hostel in General Luna with very impressive reviews.
More Philippines Travel Guides and Blogs
I hope that you've enjoyed my travel guide to visiting the Magpupungko Rock Pools Siargao. While you're here, check out some of my other blog posts to Siargao and the Philippines– I bet you'll find something new!
