On the white shores of Siargao, where mornings start with salt spray and end with starlit skies, there’s a beachfront stay that doesn’t scream for attention—but quietly wins you over. KATIG Beachfront Boutique Hotel is the kind of place you book once and end up telling all your friends about.
It’s one of the newer spots in Siargao, having just turned one. Originally meant to be a co-working space, KATIG was reimagined by a group of entrepreneurs who saw more than surf and sunsets in Siargao. “We wanted to build something that would speak the language of the island,” said Kim Honasan, one of the partners. “Nothing too loud, just honest, comfortable, and well-thought-out.”
The result is a boutique resort with just 11 rooms—six of which face the Pacific. It’s a minimalist, industrial-chic property that manages to feel both modern and low-key. The structure was intentionally designed to weather the tropics naturally, aging gracefully with the island.
Inside, it’s the thoughtful touches that elevate the stay: miniature wooden boats repurposed as keychains welcome guests in their rooms, while second-floor bathrooms feature skylights that let in the island sun. Downstairs, rooms come with small verandas—ideal for catching the sunrise with a cup of coffee in hand. A few rooms are also adjoining, making them great for families exploring Siargao together.
“We’ve seen a shift in the kind of tourists coming to Siargao,” Honasan said. “It used to be mostly backpackers, then adventurers. Now, more families are visiting. So we made sure KATIG could comfortably welcome all types of travelers.”
Then there’s the location—truly beachfront in every sense. Guests can be picked up for surf lessons right from the sand just steps from their room, tide permitting. Afterward, breakfast and freshly brewed coffee are ready and waiting.
Despite the prime spot, KATIG doesn’t overcharge. With rates lower than most neighboring beachfront properties (some of which go for P14,000 a night), it offers a rare sweet spot: style and comfort, without the price shock.
The name “KATIG” itself is a nod to the outrigger of local boats—a simple tribute to Siargao’s roots and rhythm. Behind the project, aside from Honasan, are Paradise Bed and Brew Corporation and locals Charles Tiu and Jerry Garcia.
“KATIG is a place where guests are welcomed like family,” said Tiu. “We want them to feel like they’re being introduced to our home, our friends, our version of island life.”
That sense of connection carries over to the island itself. Siargao is still a young destination—tourism-wise, it’s only about a decade into its growth. But the vision is clear: build slowly, sustainably, and with the community in mind. Plans for an international airport are underway, expected by 2029 or 2030.
We flew in via Sunlight Air, which offers daily flights to Siargao from Manila or Clark—a smooth, stress-free start to the island escape.
And while surfing is still king here, there’s more to Siargao than its waves: market food trips, quiet mangrove explorations, resilient communities still recovering from Typhoon Odette, and a culture that embraces visitors without losing itself.
KATIG doesn’t try to be everything—and that’s what makes it perfect. It gives you just what you need: a front-row seat to Siargao’s natural beauty, with people who actually care.
