Discover Maasin River Siargao—how to get there, what to do, and why it’s a must-visit. Peaceful emerald waters, mangrove canoe rides & diving fun await!
Picture an emerald-green river winding through tropical jungle, framed by mangroves and filled with the soothing sounds of nature. Maasin River, located in Barangay Maasin, Pilar, is one of Siargao Island’s most photogenic natural wonders. It offers a calm, authentic break from the surf and party scene in General Luna.
Whether you want to swim, take a canoe ride, or snap dreamy landscape photos, Maasin River is the spot to slow down and soak in the moment.
Where Is Maasin River Located?
Maasin River is situated in Barangay Maasin, a short 20–30 minute motorbike ride from General Luna, Siargao’s main tourist hub. Nestled inland in the province of Surigao del Norte, the area is serene, with scenic roads leading you off the beaten path.
Directions from General Luna:
- Motorbike rental: ₱400–₱700 per day
- Van or tricycle hire: Ideal for groups
- Navigation: Google Maps > Search for “Maasin River”
- Entrance fee: ₱30 per person
Why Is Maasin River Siargao Special?
Despite the loss of the iconic bent coconut tree which fell down during a typhoon, the area remains unforgettable.
Highlights:
- Wooden diving board over the river
- Mangrove canoe rides with local guides
- Peaceful river swims in crystal-clear waters
- Local wildlife sightings—birds, crabs, carabaos
- Photogenic scenery perfect for travel photos
According to local guides, over 70% of Maasin visitors come back for a second visit—many within the same trip.
What to Do at Maasin River Siargao
1. Jump from the Wooden Diving Board
A fun, adrenaline-pumping experience. Climb up, take a breath, and jump in.
Pro Tip: Ask a local to record your jump—tip ₱20–₱50 for their help.
“It was scarier than it looked, but I’d do it again in a heartbeat.” — Jamie, traveler from Canada
2. Canoe Through Mangrove Tunnels
Let a local paddle you through lush mangrove corridors.
- Cost: ₱600 per boat (up to 3 people)
- Duration: ~30 minutes
- Peaceful, quiet, and ideal for couples or photographers
3. Swim in Emerald Waters
The water is cool, clean, and shallow in some parts.
- Perfect for a relaxing float
- Life vests optional but available
4. Take Epic Photos
Even without filters, Maasin River is Instagram-worthy:
- Reflections on still water
- Sunset glow through mangroves
- Wooden boats, symmetry, and jungle greens
Best Time to Visit Maasin River Siargao
| Season | Months | Weather | Best For |
| Dry | Mar–May | Sunny, hot | Swimming, photography |
| Wet | Jun–Nov | Humid, rainy | Cooler weather, fewer crowds |
| Shoulder | Dec–Feb | Mixed conditions | Comfortable, less crowded |
Avoid typhoon season due to rising water levels and unstable trees.
What to Bring for a Day Trip
Pack smart—it’s not a commercialized area, so what you forget may not be easy to replace.
Day Trip Essentials:
- Waterproof phone pouch
- GoPro or waterproof camera
- Swimwear + dry change of clothes
- Eco-friendly sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Water shoes or sandals with grip
- Cash for tips and snacks
“We brought just a towel and our phones, and ended up wishing we had snacks and better footwear,” says Anna, a local travel vlogger.
How Maasin River Siargao Was Discovered
Before Maasin River became one of Siargao’s best tourist spots, the river was nothing but a part of a road going to Magpopongko Rock Pools.
As tourists go past the river they can see kids joyfully swimming at the river and jumping off the bent coconut tree that really gave Maasin River a thrilling touch.
The delightful sight the tourist saw sparked interest in them so as time passed by they started to join the local kids splashing in the refreshing emerald-green water.
Time came when travel vloggers included Maasin River in their contents highlighting the bent coconut tree in the river which drastically increased the number of tourist going to the place.
Baranggay Maasin noticed the increase of tourists going to the river and its potential to give livelihood to the locals in Siargao so they developed the place and added small canoes to add to the experience.
From simply being a playground of the kids in Siargao, Maasin River Siargao now became a tourist hit bustling with travelers who wants to experience the calm and unforgettable experience the place offers.
Best Canoe Paddler in Maasin River Siargao
If you want to have the best experience while you are in Maasin River, make sure to get the best canoe paddler in town. Meet Kuya Jayson!
He is a local tour guide and canoe paddler in Maasin River.
Even without having the ability to speak this canoe paddler stands out among the rest. While we were going through the lush mangrove trees surrounding the river,
Jayson initiated a photo-op for us three riding in the canoe.
We stopped at the side of the river, in the middle of the mangrove and coconut trees, he took time and make us take turns at the front of the boat. He meticulously and effectively taught us poses just by his gestures.
Our gallery was instantly filled with amazing pictures capturing the lush vegetation in the emerald waters of Maasin river
If you want to have him as your tour guide in Maasin River, just look for him or ask for assistance to the person in the desk.
FAQs About Maasin River Siargao
Is Maasin River in Siargao?
Yes. It’s located in Barangay Maasin, near Pilar, on Siargao Island.
How do I get to Maasin River Siargao?
Take a motorbike or tricycle from General Luna (20–30 minutes). Use GPS for directions.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, an environmental fee of ₱30 per person.
Can I go without a guide?
Yes, but if you want to ride a canoe you definitely need to hire a guide.
Is it safe for kids?
Generally yes, but always supervise children closely, especially near water.
Why You’ll Love Visiting Maasin River Siargao
- Authenticity – Real community vibe, not commercialized
- Beauty – Every angle is a photo-op
- Balance – Peaceful but not boring, natural but not too remote
Whether you’re chasing thrill, stillness, or stories to tell—Maasin River Siargao delivers.
