There’s something almost unreal about Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande — a place where the sea glows turquoise, cliffs rise like cathedrals, and jellyfish drift like living lanterns under the water. Hidden just a few hours from Siargao, this isn’t your typical beach stop. It’s nature’s secret — one part adventure, one part magic.
- 🌿 The Magic and Mystery of Sohoton Cove (and Why It’s Unlike Anywhere Else)
- 🗺️ How to Get to Sohoton Cove (From Siargao, Surigao, and Davao)
- 🌤️ Best Time to Visit Sohoton Cove and Jellyfish Lagoon
- 🏝️ Island-Hopping Highlights: What to See Inside Sohoton Cove and Around Bucas Grande
- 💰 Budget Breakdown: Cost of a Sohoton Bucas Grande Trip
- 🌅 Responsible Travel Reminders Before You Leave Sohoton
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sohoton Cove & Bucas Grande
- 🌺 What the Sea Whispers in Sohoton
Locals call it a maze of lagoons and caves, each corner revealing something new. You’ll swim through limestone arches, kayak into blue-green coves, and find yourself surrounded by hundreds of stingless jellyfish — gentle creatures that float close enough to touch. Don’t worry, walang kagat ‘yung jellies! It’s peaceful, mesmerizing, and unlike anything else in the Philippines.
For many, visiting Bucas Grande vs Siargao feels like stepping into another world. Siargao may have waves, but Sohoton has wonder. The Sohoton Bucas Grande tour is your pass into this hidden realm — part marine sanctuary, part enchanted dream.
In this Sohoton travel guide, we’ll show you the best time to visit, how to get there, what to expect, and how to make the most of your day — whether you’re coming from Siargao or Surigao del Norte. So pack your dry bag, charge your GoPro, and get ready to meet the Philippines’ most magical lagoon.
🌿 The Magic and Mystery of Sohoton Cove (and Why It’s Unlike Anywhere Else)
If Siargao is for surfers, Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande is for dreamers. The moment your boat glides under that limestone arch — the only way in or out — you’ll understand why travelers call it “the enchanted twin of El Nido.” Inside, the world goes quiet. The water turns from turquoise to emerald to glass, cliffs rise around you like ancient guardians, and time seems to pause.
The Stingless Jellyfish Sanctuary
The real stars here? The stingless jellyfish of Bucas Grande — small, golden, and almost transparent, like drifting orbs of light. During Sohoton Cove jellyfish season (March to October), they appear by the hundreds inside the lagoon, turning it into a living galaxy under the sun. You can swim beside them, but never scoop or touch — they’re delicate, protected, and part of what makes this Jellyfish Sanctuary in Surigao so magical.
Local guides paddle you quietly into the lagoon using small wooden boats. The air feels thick with stillness — no motors, no shouting, just the soft dip of paddles and the sound of your heartbeat. You’ll float there, surrounded by light and life, and realize you don’t need adrenaline to feel alive.
The Caves and Lagoons of Sohoton
Beyond the jellyfish lagoon lies the Sohoton National Park, home to mystical caves like Hagukan (the snoring cave) and Magkukuob (the diving cave). In Hagukan, you swim through a tiny opening and enter a dark cavern where the waves echo like a snore — hence the name. The roof glows faintly blue as sunlight filters through the water, making it feel like you’ve entered a secret cathedral.
In Magkukuob, visitors climb a rock ledge and jump back into the lagoon — a quick thrill before the calm returns. Every corner feels sacred, yet alive. It’s what makes Bucas Grande island hopping so special — no two spots feel the same.
The Legend Behind the Name
“Sohoton” comes from the Visayan word “suhot”, meaning “to pass through.” Locals say it’s a metaphor for life — to reach something beautiful, you must first go through darkness or uncertainty. And as you emerge into those glowing lagoons, it all makes sense.
In the end, the Sohoton travel guide isn’t just about routes and fees — it’s about finding places that remind us of wonder. Because in Bucas Grande, magic isn’t something you imagine. It’s something you float through.
🗺️ How to Get to Sohoton Cove (From Siargao, Surigao, and Davao)
Getting to Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande isn’t as simple as hopping on a van — but the adventure starts there. The cove sits in Socorro, Surigao del Norte, on an island separate from Siargao and the Mindanao mainland. You’ll need a mix of sea and land rides, but trust me — once you see that first lagoon, sulit lahat.
From Siargao (Most Popular Route)
If you’re already in Siargao, Sohoton is an easy — though early — side trip. Head to Dapa Port before sunrise and take a public boat to Socorro Island. Travel time is about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on sea conditions. From there, your Sohoton Bucas Grande tour operator will handle the rest — transfers, park fees, and lagoon entrance.
Many Siargao resorts (especially in General Luna) offer Sohoton day trip from Siargao packages. These include hotel pick-up, boat transfers, lunch, and island-hopping stops. Rates start around ₱2,000–₱2,500 per person for groups of four or more.
Local tip: Leave by 6 AM to make the most of daylight — return trips usually depart before 3 PM due to the tide and weather.
From Surigao City
From Surigao City, take a boat from Pantalan Uno Port or Hayanggabon Port to Socorro. The ride takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive, local guides or accredited operators will bring you by smaller boat into Sohoton Cove itself.
If you’re planning a DIY route, it’s best to stay overnight in Socorro or near Hayanggabon so you can leave early. Note that Sohoton is accessible only during high tide — low tide makes the cave entrance too shallow for boats.
From Davao or Butuan
From Davao, take a bus to Surigao City (roughly 8–9 hours) and follow the same port route to Bucas Grande. If you’re coming from Butuan, it’s shorter — around 4 hours by bus to Surigao, then transfer by ferry.
Some travelers combine Sohoton with a Siargao loop, entering from Surigao and exiting through Siargao or vice versa. It’s a longer route but a great way to see both the surf capital and the jellyfish sanctuary in one trip.
Boat and Entrance Fees
| Fee Type | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sohoton Lagoon Entrance | ₱100 per person | Includes jellyfish lagoon and cave access |
| Small Paddleboat Rental | ₱150–₱200 | For jellyfish lagoon only |
| Environmental Fee | ₱25 | Collected by LGU Socorro |
| Tour Guide Fee | ₱100–₱150 per group | Mandatory for all visitors |
Cash only, no ATMs nearby — bring exact change when possible.
In short, how to go to Sohoton Cove depends on your base point, but every route shares one thing: the journey itself feels like part of the adventure. The longer the ride, the sweeter the arrival.
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🌤️ Best Time to Visit Sohoton Cove and Jellyfish Lagoon
The Sohoton Cove jellyfish season is what turns Bucas Grande from beautiful to magical. While the cove is open all year, the best time to visit depends on both the weather and the rhythm of the sea — because here, even the tides decide when you can enter.
Jellyfish Season (March to October)
From March to October, thousands of stingless jellyfish fill the lagoons of Bucas Grande. They glide gracefully beneath the surface, glowing gold and cream in the sunlight. These months are also the dry season, so the water is clearer, the sky is calmer, and your photos will look like postcards.
During this time, most Sohoton travel guides and tours include a side trip to the jellyfish sanctuary — a serene, paddleboat-only area where visitors float among the jellies without disturbing them.
Local tip: Go mid-morning (10 AM–12 NN) when sunlight hits the lagoon directly — that’s when the jellyfish shimmer the most.
Off-Season (November to February)
Visiting during November to February? You’ll still find calm blue lagoons, but fewer jellyfish. Rainfall can be unpredictable, and tours may cancel if waves are too rough or tides too low to enter the cove’s narrow gate.
That said, the weather still has its charm — misty cliffs, cool breezes, and a quieter, more mysterious side of Sohoton. For some travelers, that solitude makes it even more special.
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Jellyfish Season | Mar–Oct | Calm waters, golden jellies, bright sun |
| Off-Season | Nov–Feb | Fewer crowds, moody weather, peaceful lagoons |
Tides and Timing Matter
Unlike most Surigao del Norte attractions, Sohoton Cove can only be entered during high tide. The limestone archway that serves as the entrance gets too shallow when the water recedes, so tour operators time their visits carefully.
If you’re joining a Bucas Grande island-hopping tour, ask your guide about the tide schedule before booking — some packages start early just to make the tide window.
In short, the best time to visit Sohoton Cove isn’t just about the month — it’s about the moment. When the sun, tide, and silence align, you’ll see why this hidden cove near Siargao has captured so many hearts.
🏝️ Island-Hopping Highlights: What to See Inside Sohoton Cove and Around Bucas Grande
You don’t just visit Sohoton — you explore it one lagoon, one cave, one leap at a time. Every stop has its own mood and story, and with a local guide steering your small boat, you’ll feel like you’re uncovering a secret world piece by piece. Here’s what to expect when you book a Sohoton Bucas Grande tour.
Hagukan Cave – The “Snoring” Chamber
Named after the Visayan word hagok (snore), this cave hums and rumbles when waves crash into its narrow mouth. You’ll need to dive underwater briefly to enter, then emerge inside a hidden dome that glows faintly blue — a natural light show created by sunlight refracting through the sea.
It’s one of the must-stops in the Bucas Grande island hopping circuit, and it’s pure magic: a reminder that nature loves surprises.
Magkukuob Cave – The Jump Spot
Think of this as Sohoton’s version of a mini adventure park. You swim inside, climb a rock ledge, and jump about 15 feet back into the lagoon. It’s not extreme — just enough to make your heart race a little. Most Sohoton travel guides include this stop right after Hagukan.
Entrance is covered in the standard Sohoton lagoon entrance fee, so you don’t have to pay extra.
Jellyfish Lagoon – The Gentle Sanctuary
This is the famous one — quiet, sacred, and hypnotic. Here you’ll find the stingless jellies drifting like slow-moving lights under emerald water. Motorized boats aren’t allowed, so your guide will row you in using a small wooden canoe.
It’s serene, humbling, and completely safe — a top reason why travelers rank Sohoton Cove among the most unique Surigao del Norte attractions.
Crystal Cave and Bolitas Cave
For those craving more exploration, these twin caves are worth the short hike. Crystal Cave is named for its gleaming rock formations, while Bolitas Cave is filled with smooth, marble-like stones locals call “bolitas,” believed to bring good luck.
Bring a flashlight or rent one from your guide — the air’s damp and cool, and every echo feels like a whisper from the island itself.
| Spot | Highlight | Experience Level |
|---|---|---|
| Hagukan Cave | Glowing water, underwater entry | Easy |
| Magkukuob Cave | Cliff jump, cool swim | Moderate |
| Jellyfish Lagoon | Paddle-only, serene | All ages |
| Crystal/Bolitas Caves | Spelunking, quiet exploration | Moderate |
Hidden Lagoons and Islets
Beyond the main cove, your Bucas Grande island hopping can include smaller lagoons like Tiktikan and Tojoman, and white-sand islets perfect for lunch breaks. Some operators even stop by floating cottages for a boodle-fight-style meal — fresh fish, rice, and laughter shared over sea breeze and sunlight.
So when you plan your visit, don’t rush it. Sohoton isn’t the kind of place you tick off a list. It’s the kind of place you let unfold, slowly, until you realize you’ve fallen in love with silence, sea, and salt all over again.
💰 Budget Breakdown: Cost of a Sohoton Bucas Grande Trip
Yes, Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande looks straight out of a dream — but surprisingly, it’s not a “pang-mayaman” trip. With smart planning, you can explore the jellyfish sanctuary, island-hop through lagoons, and even stay overnight in a floating cottage — all within a reasonable budget. Here’s how the costs typically add up:
Sohoton Tour Packages and Entrance Fees
| Item | Cost per Person | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sohoton Entrance Fee | ₱100 | Includes access to main cove |
| Environmental Fee | ₱25 | LGU Socorro fee |
| Jellyfish Lagoon (Paddleboat) | ₱150–₱200 | Local rowers only; no motorboats allowed |
| Tour Guide Fee | ₱100–₱150 per group | Mandatory for every boat |
| Standard Sohoton Bucas Grande Tour | ₱2,000–₱2,500 | Includes boat rental, life vest, caves, lagoons |
| Island-Hopping Add-ons (Crystal Cave, Bolitas, Tiktikan Lagoon) | ₱300–₱500 | Optional, varies per spot |
Rates may change slightly by season and tide. Always confirm with your operator before your trip.
Transportation
| Route | Mode | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siargao → Socorro | Boat (Dapa Port) | ₱250–₱300 | 1.5–2 hrs |
| Surigao City → Socorro | Boat (Pantalan Uno) | ₱250 | 2 hrs |
| Socorro → Sohoton | Small motorized boat | ₱500–₱800 | 30–45 mins |
Most tour operators already include these transfers in their Sohoton travel guide packages, especially those departing from Siargao.
Accommodation
| Type | Range | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Floating Cottage | ₱1,500–₱2,500 | Club Tara Resort, Tiktikan Lagoon |
| Budget Inn (Socorro Town) | ₱800–₱1,200 | Navarro’s Inn, Sohoton Bay Resort |
| Mid-range Lodge | ₱1,500–₱2,000 | Cinnamon Island Resort |
Many Bucas Grande accommodations offer half-board or package deals that include meals and transfers. Electricity is limited, so bring power banks and enjoy the digital detox.
Meals and Other Costs
-
Local meals: ₱150–₱250 each
-
Fresh seafood boodle fight (group): ₱600–₱900
-
Pasalubong (pearls, dried fish, trinkets): ₱200–₱400
-
Tips for guides and boatmen: ₱100–₱200
💡 Budget tip: Bring snacks and bottled water from Siargao or Surigao — island prices can be 20–30% higher.
Estimated Total (2D1N Trip)
| Category | Budget Traveler | Comfortable Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transport | ₱800 | ₱1,200 |
| Entrance & Tour Fees | ₱1,500 | ₱2,000 |
| Food | ₱500 | ₱800 |
| Lodging | ₱800 | ₱1,800 |
| Total Estimate | ₱3,600–₱4,000 | ₱5,000–₱6,000 |
Not bad for a trip that lets you swim with jellyfish, explore caves, and lounge in lagoons straight out of a movie.
The Sohoton Bucas Grande tour proves one thing: paradise doesn’t have to be exclusive — just a bit hidden, a bit wild, and worth the effort.
🌅 Responsible Travel Reminders Before You Leave Sohoton
When your boat glides back through the limestone arch, you’ll feel it — that quiet ache of not wanting to leave. The lagoons fade behind you, the jellyfish drift deeper, and all that’s left is the sound of water against wood. That’s when it hits you: Sohoton Cove isn’t just a destination; it’s a living reminder that paradise survives only if we treat it gently.
Respect the Sanctuary
The Jellyfish Sanctuary in Surigao is one of the few places in the world where humans and jellyfish coexist safely. Protect it. Don’t wear sunscreen or lotion before swimming — they harm these fragile creatures. Keep your hands off the jellies, avoid throwing trash, and never feed fish or wildlife. Every ripple you make here matters.
Support the Locals
Each paddle stroke, each meal cooked on a floating cottage, each warm smile from a guide — all these sustain the island. Spend locally when you can. Hire small-boat operators, buy snacks from fishermen’s wives, and tip your guides fairly. Your pesos become part of a bigger circle that keeps eco-friendly travel in Mindanao alive.
Leave Only Memories
Take photos, yes — but also take the feeling. The stillness of the lagoon, the glow of the water, the hush inside the cave. Because once you’ve seen Bucas Grande island hopping at sunrise, you realize beauty doesn’t need Wi-Fi or filters — just presence.
As the waves carry you back toward Siargao or Surigao, you’ll catch yourself glancing at the horizon, wishing you could stay a little longer. That’s Sohoton’s magic — it never really lets you go.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sohoton Cove & Bucas Grande
1. How do I go to Sohoton Cove from Siargao?
From Siargao, ride a boat from Dapa Port to Socorro Island (1.5–2 hrs), then transfer to a small motorboat heading to Sohoton Cove. Many resorts offer Sohoton Bucas Grande tour packages that include round-trip transfers and lunch.
2. What is the best month to visit Sohoton Cove?
The Sohoton Cove jellyfish season runs from March to October, when the water is calm and teeming with stingless jellies. Visit mid-morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
3. How much is the entrance fee to Sohoton Lagoon?
The Sohoton lagoon entrance fee is about ₱100, plus a small environmental fee of ₱25. Paddleboat rentals for the jellyfish lagoon cost ₱150–₱200 per person.
4. Can I swim with the jellyfish in Bucas Grande?
Yes — but gently! The jellyfish are stingless, so you can float beside them. Just avoid touching or scooping them to keep this Jellyfish Sanctuary in Surigao safe.
5. Is Sohoton different from Siargao?
Yes. Bucas Grande vs Siargao is like calm vs thrill — Siargao for surfing, Sohoton for serenity. Many travelers visit both on the same trip for a perfect balance of vibes.
6. How long does a Sohoton tour take?
A typical Sohoton Bucas Grande tour lasts 6 to 8 hours, including caves, lagoons, and lunch stops. It can be done as a day trip from Siargao or an overnight stay in Socorro.
7. Are there places to stay near Sohoton Cove?
Yes, several Bucas Grande accommodations such as Club Tara, Cinnamon Island Resort, and Navarro’s Inn offer rooms from ₱800 to ₱2,500. Floating cottages inside the lagoon are also available for overnight stays.
8. Is it safe to visit Sohoton Cove?
Absolutely. Accredited guides and life vests are mandatory, and tours operate only during safe tide conditions. It’s one of the most secure eco-adventure spots in Mindanao.
9. Can I do island hopping in Bucas Grande without a package?
Yes, but it’s easier with a guide or operator since tides control entry to the cove. DIY Bucas Grande island hopping is allowed if you register at the tourism office in Socorro.
10. What should I bring for a Sohoton trip?
Pack light — swimwear, towel, waterproof bag, snacks, and cash. Leave lotions and plastic bottles behind to help preserve the Sohoton travel guide’s main rule: take nothing but memories, leave nothing but ripples.
🌺 What the Sea Whispers in Sohoton
Long after you’ve left Sohoton Cove, you’ll still hear it — the echo of paddles slicing through jade water, the hush of waves inside the caves, the laughter shared between strangers who felt small before something vast and alive.
The Sohoton travel guide can tell you where to go and what to pay, but it can’t prepare you for the quiet wonder this place leaves behind. Because when you swim among jellyfish that don’t sting, or glide through light that dances under stone ceilings, you’re reminded that the Philippines isn’t just beautiful — it’s sacred.
So the next time life feels noisy or heavy, remember Sohoton. Remember the silence that spoke louder than words.
