Nature's Swimming Pool : Magpopongko Rocky Beach, Siargao

During my brief 4-day stay at Siargao sometime years ago I heard from the local guide that along the beaches of Pilar, Siargao is a not-so-well-known “Nature’s Swimming Pool”. It was reportedly discovered by beach-frolicking kids by accident. Well, that was the shortest story I ever heard of in my life. Either the narrator didn’t bother to continue or I simply didn’t have further interest to hear more. The mere mention of it was enough to arouse my curiosity.

It only took me seconds to decide to go check the place. Luckily, one local was kind enough to to take me for the rough 15-20 minute motor bike ride.

There was a natural tunnel passage under the rock as a shortcut. The locals constructed a makeshift wooden stairway for the short climb.

After a few short walk and climbs the shortcut would reveal the doorway to the Natural Swimming pool.

Testing the cool, crystal clear sea-water of the pool.

The water was too tempting to hold back swimming for another minute.

Loving the waters. I just couldn't get enough of this place.

The only downside of this natural pool is the absence of hand rails.

Taking a balance and calculated steps on the natural rocky floor. At the background is the huge sitting rock to which the place derived its name in Visayan dialect.

You don't just get to see one big rock, but a few more big rocks.

Well, the island is surrounded by rock islets really. So, you wouldn't be surprised to see them at all. You could only marvel at them, though.

It took me a risky climb up the other big rocks to get a good shot with this view. Here's the true beauty to behold of the Nature's Swimming pool.

I just felt too in-loved with the soothing waters. Taking just one more dip before I left nature to its own business.