Secret Beach in Barangay Malinao is officially part of General Luna municipality (not Pilar as often misreported). Locally known as Guiwan Beach or Doot Beach, this hidden spot is a palm-fringed lagoon characterized by mangroves, calm turquoise water, and a grassy shoreline - quite different from the rocky limestone cliffs of Magpupungko in Pilar. While it's no longer completely under the radar (it's now a standard stop on organized "Siargao Land Tours"), it still offers a more peaceful alternative to Cloud 9's crowds. Here's how to experience this hidden gem from Del Carmen.
Image courtesy of Trey Lewis
Quick Facts
- Location: Barangay Malinao, General Luna, Surigao del Norte (NOT Pilar)
- Official/Local Names: Guiwan Beach, Doot Beach
- Distance from Del Carmen: 45-55 minutes by motorcycle
- Distance from General Luna: 15-20 minutes by scooter (south of GL town center)
- Best For: Solitude seekers, photographers, couples, nature lovers, swimmers
- Entrance Fee: FREE (but ₱20 motorcycle parking fee)
- Facilities: Basic - parking fee collection, snack stalls at entrance, small restaurant nearby
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (March-October), weekday mornings
- Swimming Conditions: Generally calm inside the cove; stronger currents outside
- Access: Moderate (short hike from road)
Important: Staff perform bag checks - disposable plastics and bottles are strictly prohibited to protect the mangrove ecosystem.
Local Names & Signage: While "Secret Beach" is the popular tourist label, the beach is officially known as Guiwan Beach or Doot Beach. Look for a small sign reading "Guiwan Surfing Area" at the trailhead.
What Makes Secret Beach Special?
1. More Peaceful Than Cloud 9
While no longer "blissfully under the radar" (it's now a standard stop on organized Siargao Land Tours), it's still far more peaceful than Cloud 9's crowds. Expect groups of 15+ on weekends and during peak hours, but weekday mornings remain quieter.
2. Pristine White Sand
Powdery white sand untouched by beach clubs or commercial development. No plastic waste, no beach chairs for rent - just nature.
3. Palm-Fringed Lagoon Setting
The beach features a unique palm-fringed lagoon with mangroves, calm turquoise water, and a grassy shoreline. (Note: The dramatic limestone cliffs are at Magpupungko in Pilar, not here.)
4. Crystal-Clear Water
Turquoise, transparent water ideal for swimming and snorkeling (bring your own gear). Visibility is excellent on calm days.
5. East Coast Authenticity
This part of Siargao remains largely undeveloped. You'll pass through quiet fishing villages and coconut plantations - the real Siargao.
Image courtesy of Roel N. Catoto
How to Get There from Del Carmen
Motorcycle Route (Recommended)
From Mariden Resort, Del Carmen:
- Head south on the Siargao Circumferential Road toward General Luna (35-40 min)
- From General Luna town center, continue south toward Barangay Malinao (15-20 min)
-
Look for a small sign reading "Guiwan Surfing Area" at the
trailhead
- GPS coordinates: 9.7698° N, 126.1276° E
- Pay ₱20 motorcycle parking fee
- Allow staff to check your bag (no disposable plastics allowed)
-
Hike down a short trail (5-10 min walk)
- Rocky, uneven path - wear proper footwear
- Arrive at Secret Beach (Guiwan Beach)
Total Travel Time: 45-55 minutes from Del
Carmen
Road Condition: Paved road to Malinao; trail to
beach is rocky and natural
Tricycle/Habal-Habal Option:
Hire a tricycle or habal-habal from Del Carmen (₱800-1,200 roundtrip with waiting time). Driver can show you the trail entrance.
Tip: Ask locals for "Guiwan Beach" or "Doot Beach" - most residents know the spot and will point you to the trail entrance marked with the "Guiwan Surfing Area" sign.
What to Expect
The Beach:
- Length: ~150 meters of white sand
- Width: Varies with tide (20-30 meters at low tide)
- Shade: Natural shade from palm trees and mangroves
- Crowds: Moderate - no longer completely secluded; expect 15+ people on weekends during peak hours
Swimming:
- Inside the cove: Calm, clear, safe for swimming
- Outside the cove: Stronger currents and waves (exercise caution)
- Depth: Shallow near shore, gradually deepens
- Marine Life: Small fish visible when snorkeling
Facilities:
- ❌ No restrooms
- ❌ No changing rooms
- ✅ Snack stalls at entrance
- ✅ Small restaurant nearby
- ❌ No lifeguards
- ✅ Natural shade from palm trees and mangroves
- ✅ ₱20 parking fee collection point
What This Means: Bring your own water and main supplies. Note that disposable plastics and bottles are strictly prohibited - staff check bags at entrance to protect the mangrove ecosystem.
What to Bring
Absolute Essentials:
- ☑️ Plenty of water (2-3 liters per person minimum)
- ☑️ Snacks and lunch (limited vendors nearby)
- ☑️ Reef-safe sunscreen (limited shade during midday)
- ☑️ Trash bag (pack out EVERYTHING)
- ☑️ Swimwear and towel
- ☑️ Water shoes or hiking sandals (rocky trail and beach access)
- ☑️ Cash (in case you need to ask locals for help)
Recommended:
- 📷 Camera or phone (charge fully before going)
- 🥽 Snorkel gear (good visibility on calm days)
- 🏖️ Beach mat or sarong
- 🧢 Hat and sunglasses
- 🧴 Insect repellent (for the trail)
- 💊 Basic first aid kit (isolated area, no help nearby)
Tips for the Best Experience
🌅 Visit During Dry Season (March-October)
The east coast experiences heavy rainfall and rough seas November-February. Dry season = calmer waters, sunny skies, and safer conditions.
📅 Weekday Mornings = Solitude
Arrive before 10 AM on a weekday for the highest chance of having the beach to yourself. Weekends see more visitors from organized Land Tours.
📸 Photography Paradise
- Best light: Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM)
- Capture the palm trees framing the lagoon
- Drone shots are spectacular (if you have one)
- Turquoise water contrasts beautifully with white sand
🏊♀️ Swim Safely
- Stay inside the sheltered cove area
- Avoid swimming during high tide or rough weather
- No lifeguards - swim at your own risk
- Bring a buddy (never swim alone in remote areas)
🌿 Leave No Trace
This beach stays beautiful because visitors respect it. Do your part:
- Pack out ALL trash (even organic waste)
- Don't disturb wildlife or coral
- Don't carve names into trees or rocks
- Use reef-safe sunscreen (chemical sunscreens kill coral)
🗺️ Combine with Other East Coast Stops
Make it a full day of east coast exploration:
- Morning: Secret Beach (Malinao)
- Midday: Pacifico Beach (20 min away)
- Afternoon: Magpupungko Rock Pools (if tide permits)
📍 Your East Coast Base Camp
Discover Siargao's hidden treasures from the perfect central location:
- 45 minutes to Secret Beach — Explore the east coast with ease
- Central location — Access north, east, and west attractions easily
- Comfortable pool & rooms — Relax after your beach adventures
- Local insights — We'll guide you to Secret Beach and other hidden spots
- Pet-friendly & family-friendly — Everyone's welcome
Frequently Asked Questions
"Secret Beach" is the popular tourist label, but the beach is officially and locally known as Guiwan Beach or Doot Beach. There's actually a small sign reading "Guiwan Surfing Area" at the trailhead. The "secret" name comes from its relatively secluded nature compared to Cloud 9.
The beach itself is safe, but the isolated location means no lifeguards, limited facilities, and limited phone signal. We recommend visiting with at least one other person for safety. Inform your resort of your plans.
Basic facilities exist: there's a ₱20 parking fee, snack stalls at the entrance, and at least one small restaurant nearby. However, bring your own water and main supplies. Important: Disposable plastics and bottles are strictly prohibited - staff check bags at entrance.
While technically possible, it's not recommended. There are no facilities, no fresh water, and limited security. It's best enjoyed as a day trip from Del Carmen or General Luna.
Use GPS coordinates (9.7698° N, 126.1276° E) or ask locals for "Guiwan Beach" or "Doot Beach." Look for a small sign reading "Guiwan Surfing Area" at the trailhead. Most residents know the spot.
Yes, on calm days. The water is clear with good visibility. You'll see small fish and some coral near the rocky areas. Always bring your own snorkel gear (no rentals).
Related Guides
Nearby (General Luna Area):
- Tri-Island Tour - Island hopping from General Luna (nearby)
North Siargao Attractions:
- Magpupungko Rock Pools - Tidal pools on the northeast coast
- Pacifico Beach - Surf beach on the north coast
- Taktak Falls - Jungle waterfall in Del Carmen area
Photography Spots:
- Maasin Coconut Plantation - Golden hour photography paradise
- Sugba Lagoon - Turquoise waters for stunning shots
Planning Your Trip:
- Sample Itineraries - Day-by-day trip plans
- Budget Guide - Complete cost breakdowns
- Best Time to Visit - Weather and seasonal planning
- Transportation Guide - Getting around the island
- Del Carmen vs General Luna - Why stay north
- Siargao Airport Guide - Arrival and logistics