Cebu to Dinagat Island: Step by Step Travel Guide for First Time Visitors
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While destinations like Siargao and Bohol usually get most of the attention, many travelers now look for routes like Cebu to Dinagat Island as they explore the lesser-known side of the Philippines.
The beautiful Dinagat Island Philippines, has started gaining attention because of its clear waters, hidden beaches, caves, rock formations, and untouched landscapes.
The challenge is that getting there is not as simple as boarding a direct ferry or flight. Take it from me, who travelled at least 7 hours from Cebu to Dinagat Islands via Surigao City and if we add my travel time from Dumaguete, that’s 16 hours in total.
So, if you are a first-time visitor and wondering how to go to Dinagat Island, this guide walks you through every route from Cebu, including options through Surigao City and Siargao Island.
Budget-Friendly Route: Ferry from Cebu to Dinagat Island via Surigao
Fastest Option: Flight from Cebu to Dinagat Island via Surigao
How Do You Get from Cebu to Dinagat Island?
At this moment, there is no direct flight from Cebu to Dinagat Island. Most travelers enter through Surigao City because it serves as the main gateway to San Jose Dinagat Island, the capital of the province.
You can also travel through Siargao if you plan to visit both destinations but there’s a catch…
🚢 Ferry from Cebu to Dinagat Islands via Surigao
This is one of the most common and budget friendly routes. I took this option during my first trip to Dinagat Islands and rode OceanJet from Cebu to Surigao.
The trip took around 5 hours and 30 minutes and included a short stop in Maasin, Leyte, along the way. If you plan to take the same route, you can find more details below.
Step 1: Ride a ferry from Cebu to Surigao City
Several shipping lines like Starlite Ferries operate overnight trips between Cebu and Surigao while OceanJet is the faster option. Travel time usually ranges from 5 to 10 hours, depending on sea conditions and vessel type.
Many travelers prefer overnight ferries because you can sleep during the journey and arrive in Surigao early in the morning. However, if you want the faster option, OceanJet is your best bet.
➤ OceanJet
| Ferry & Fare | Cebu to Surigao City | Surigao City to Cebu |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Class or Open Air | ₱2,470 | ₱2,470 |
| Business Class | ₱3,510 | ₱3,510 |
| Travel Time | 5 hrs and 30 mins | 5 hrs and 30 mins |
| Schedule | 7:00 AM Daily | 1:00 PM Daily |
➤ Starlite Ferries
| Ferry & Fare | Cebu to Surigao City | Surigao City to Cebu |
|---|---|---|
| Reclining Seat | ₱1,725 (Regular) | ₱1,500 (Regular) |
| ₱1,380 (Student) | ₱1,200 (Student) | |
| ₱1,232 (Senior/PWD) | ₱1,071.43 (Senior/PWD) | |
| ₱863 (Child 2-11) | ₱750 (Child 2-11) | |
| Economy Bed | ₱1,840 (Regular) | ₱1,600 (Regular) |
| ₱1,472 (Student) | ₱1,280 (Student) | |
| ₱1,314 (Senior/PWD) | ₱1,142.86 (Senior/PWD) | |
| ₱920 (Child 2-11) | ₱800 (Child 2-11) | |
| Tourist Class | ₱2,185 (Regular) | ₱1,900 (Regular) |
| ₱1,748 (Student) | ₱1,520 (Student) | |
| ₱1,561 (Senior/PWD) | ₱1,357.14 (Senior/PWD) | |
| ₱1,093 (Child 2-11) | ₱1,950 (Child 2-11) | |
| Travel Time | 10 hrs | 10 hrs |
| Schedule | 9:00 PM | Monday to Friday | 9:00 AM | Monday to Saturday |
➤ Cokaliong
| Ferry & Fare | Cebu to Surigao City | Surigao City to Cebu |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | ₱1,584 | ₱1,584 |
| Tourist | ₱1,872 | ₱1,872 |
| Cabin | ₱2,304 | ₱2,304 |
| Suite Room for 2 | ₱5,472/room | ₱5,472/room |
| Suite Room for 3 | ₱8,208/room | ₱8,208/room |
| Travel Time | 9 hrs | 9 hrs |
| Schedule | 7:00 PM Daily | 7:00 PM Daily |
Step 2: Travel from Surigao Port to Dinagat Island
Once you arrive in Surigao City, head to the port area where ferries depart for San Jose, Dinagat Island. It is a different port and you can find it along the boulevard right beside the large “I ♡ Surigao” sign.
If you are coming from the main port, you can simply walk if you are traveling light, or take a tricycle ride for 15 pesos only.
I took the latter because walking under the summer heat of the Philippines is not an option.
The boat trip to San Jose usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, although travel time can vary depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions.
Once you arrive, you can continue to other municipalities around the island or start visiting some of the popular tourist spots in Dinagat Island, especially if you arrive early in the day.
| Ferry & Fare | Surigao City to Dinagat Island | Dinagat Island to Surigao City |
|---|---|---|
| All Class | ₱260 | ₱260 |
| Travel Time | 45 mins to 1hr | 45 mins to 1hr |
| Daily Schedule | 5:20 AM | 6:15 AM | 6:50 AM | 8:20 AM | 10:10 AM |12:00 PM | 1:30 PM | 4:00 PM | 5:50 PM | 5:10 AM | 5:50 AM | 7:45 AM | 8:25 AM | 10:15 AM | 12:05 PM |1:00 PM |3:45 PM | 4:30 PM |
✨This route works best if:
- You want a cheaper option
- You are okay with longer travel times
- You enjoy sea travel
- You want a straightforward route
✈️ Flight from Cebu to Dinagat Islands via Surigao
If you want to save time, flying to Surigao is the easier option. In some cases, it can even cost less than taking the ferry, especially when airlines run seat sales and promo fares.
Step 1: Fly from Cebu to Surigao Airport
The flights between Cebu and Surigao usually operate once a day. I also tried this route on my last trip, flying from Surigao City back to Cebu City after visiting Dinagat Island.
The flight takes around one hour, though departure times can vary depending on your travel date. You can check the tool below for the latest schedule and available flights.
Step 2: Take a ferry from Surigao City to Dinagat Island
After arriving at the airport, you need to take a short ride to Surigao Port. The fare is 100 pesos if you want to ride the tricycle exclusively.
From there, the same thing, you can ride a fast ferry bound for San Jose, Dinagat Island. This option saves several hours compared to overnight ferry travel or the fast ferry.
✈️ Flight from Cebu to Dinagat Islands via Siargao
Some travelers combine Dinagat Island and Siargao Island in one trip. However, the only catch is that the ferries from Siargao to Dinagat Island are seasonal.
Step 1: Fly from Cebu to Siargao
Siargao is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, so flights from Cebu are frequent and usually take around an hour.
One thing to keep in mind though is that airfare to Siargao can get expensive, especially during peak season.
If your travel dates are flexible, keep an eye out for seat sales since you can sometimes score surprisingly cheap fares.
Step 2: Travel from Siargao to Dinagat Island
From Siargao, you can take a ferry to Dinagat Island operated by Nier Shipping Lines. The route travels from Del Carmen Port in Siargao to Cagdianao Port in Dinagat Islands.
However, keep in mind that this route is seasonal and does not operate regularly throughout the year. Ferry trips usually depend on sea conditions and coastal advisories, so it is best to check schedules ahead of your trip.
You can contact Nier Shipping lines by email: niershippinglines@gmail.com and contact number: 09276709511
| Ferry & Fare | Siargao Island to Dinagat Island | Dinagat Island to Siargao Island |
|---|---|---|
| All Class | ₱350 | ₱350 |
| Travel Time | 1hr | 1hr |
| Schedule | 1:00 PM | 3:30 PM |
✨ This route makes sense if:
- You already plan to visit Siargao
- You want an island-hopping style trip
- You prefer exploring multiple destinations in one vacation
What is the Closest Airport to the Dinagat Islands?
The closest airport to Dinagat Islands is Surigao Airport in Surigao City. Since Dinagat Island Province still does not have a commercial airport, Surigao serves as the main gateway for travelers coming from Cebu.
If you are flying from Manila, many travelers also choose Butuan Airport because of its wider flight options.
From Surigao Airport, you only need a short ride to the port before taking a boat to Dinagat Island. If you arrive through Butuan Airport, you can find vans and public transport services heading to Surigao City, and from there, you can head to Dinagat Port.
Another option is flying to Siargao Airport. However, the direct ferry route from Siargao to Dinagat operates seasonally and depends heavily on sea conditions and coastal advisories, so availability can change.
Dinagat Island Map and Location
Many first time visitors ask where Dinagat Island is located and, surprisingly, even some locals in the Philippines have never heard of the province.
Dinagat Island Province sits northeast of Mindanao and lies just off the coast of Surigao del Norte. It consists of several islands and municipalities, with San Jose serving as the provincial capital.
If you look at a Dinagat Island map, you will notice that it sits between Surigao and Siargao. Its location makes it easy to combine these destinations into one trip if you want to explore more islands during your visit.
Because of this setup, most travelers coming from Cebu use Surigao as their main gateway to Dinagat Island.
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Tourist Spots in Dinagat Island Worth Visiting
After figuring out how to go to Dinagat Island, the next question is usually where to go.
Honestly, after a long trip that took me around 16 hours with barely any sleep, I did not have the energy to join a full tour right away. I arrived before 3 PM, had a late lunch after checking in, and just spent the rest of the afternoon walking around the local market and settling in.
But if you arrive early and still have time to explore, here are some of the most popular Dinagat Island tourist spots you can include in your itinerary:
✨ Islander Castle
A newly opened attraction that has quickly gained attention for its unique structure and scenic views.
✨ Lake Bababu
One of the most photographed spots in Dinagat Island and known for its clear blue water.
✨ Pangabangan Blue Lagoon
Usually included on island-hopping tours, this is a calm swimming spot with clear water and is perfect for a quick dip.
✨ Bitaog Beach
A quiet stretch of sand with fewer crowds and shallow water, ideal if you want a more peaceful beach experience.
✨ Hagakhak Rock Formation
This is a great stop if you enjoy unusual rock formations and wide-open views for photos.
Many areas in Dinagat Island Province still feel untouched compared to more developed destinations in the Philippines. Some spots can be explored through joiner tours, while others are better visited with a private or exclusive tour.
Cebu to Dinagat Island Travel Tips
A trip to Dinagat Island needs a bit more planning compared to destinations with direct flights. Based on my own experience of taking multiple ferries and boat transfers just to get there, the journey is doable, but preparation makes a big difference.
Here are a few helpful tips to make your trip smoother:
🗓️ Check ferry schedules ahead of time
Boat schedules can change without notice due to weather and sea conditions. I personally chose to travel during the Philippine summer months to avoid rough seas and enjoy clearer skies, which made the trip more predictable.
💸 Bring enough cash
ATMs and major banks like Landbank and EastWest Bank are mainly located in San Jose, Dinagat Island. Outside the town center, cash is still the primary mode of payment. Some establishments accept GCash or bank transfers, but you should not rely on it everywhere. It is better to withdraw in advance before heading to the island.
🏨 Book accommodations early
Options are still limited compared to more developed tourist spots in the Philippines. It helps to book in advance through platforms like Booking.com or Agoda, or by contacting resorts directly through their social media pages.
🕒 Allow extra travel time
Delays are common in island travel, especially when the weather shifts. Give yourself buffer time between transfers so you do not feel rushed or miss connections.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Mobile signal can be weak or inconsistent in some areas, especially outside San Jose. Download maps in advance so you can still navigate even without internet.
🎒 Pack light but pack smart
Bring essentials like sunscreen, a power bank, water shoes, and a dry bag. These small items make a big difference, especially if you plan to visit beaches or go island hopping.
📶 Bonus tip: Expect limited connectivity in some areas
If you are planning to work remotely or stay connected online, prepare for patchy signal in certain parts of the island. It is part of the experience of visiting a more untouched destination.
Wrapping Up: Getting from Cebu to Dinagat Island
Traveling from Cebu to Dinagat Island takes a bit more effort compared to other destinations, but the journey really pays off. The island is still one of the most underrated places in the Philippines, so you get to enjoy stunning landscapes without the usual tourist crowds.
At the moment, you can choose between the ferry via Surigao, a flight connection, or a route through Siargao, depending on your budget and schedule. Either way, you now have a clearer idea of how to go to Dinagat Island and what options work best for your trip.
Once you finally arrive, you will understand why many travelers, that includes me, call it a true hidden gem in the Philippines.
🌴 Travel Resources for Your Dinagat Islands Trip
Planning a trip to the remote and beautiful Dinagat Islands? Here are trusted resources to help you book transportation, accommodations, island tours, and everything else you’ll need for a smooth trip.
✈️How to Get to Dinagat Islands
Most travelers reach Dinagat Islands via Surigao City. Book flights to Surigao Airport from Manila or Cebu through Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines using Skyscanner or 12Go. From Surigao City, take a ferry from the city port to San Jose, Dinagat Islands.
🏨 Where to Book Your Stay
Find beach resorts, guesthouses, and local homestays in San Jose and nearby areas through Booking.com, Agoda, Airbnb, or Vrbo. Since accommodation options are limited compared to larger destinations, it’s best to reserve ahead, especially during holidays and summer months.
🛺 Getting Around
Tricycles or bao-baos are the most common way to get around towns. For island hopping and visiting remote beaches or caves, ask your accommodation about arranging private vans, motorcycles, or boat rentals. If you’re traveling in a group, hiring a van with a driver can make exploring easier.
🌴Book Tours and Activities
Visit Dinagat’s beaches, caves, lagoons, and rock formations by arranging island-hopping tours through local tourism offices or your accommodation.
📶Stay Connected
Smart usually has better signal coverage in many parts of Dinagat Islands, though service can vary depending on your location. Download offline maps before arriving, use an Airalo eSIM if compatible with your phone, or buy a local SIM card before leaving Surigao City.
💸 Cash, ATMs, and Payments
Bring enough cash before heading to Dinagat Islands. ATM access can be limited outside main towns, and many small stores, eateries, and local tour operators only accept cash payments.
🧳Travel Insurance
Protect yourself from flight delays, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations with flexible plans from SafetyWing, HeyMondo, or World Nomads.
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About the Author
Hi! I’m Kristine (aka KR). I’m the main developer of Philippine Hidden Gems. My work includes going to places to cover events and places that I’m happy to share with the readers.
Even though I’m an introvert who loves to read and stay indoors all the time, I love to travel outside the country (at least once a year) and nearby regions within PH.
My recent hobbies include learning Japanese culture and exploring the world of K-Pop as a Carat.
