siquijor tourist

10 Siquijor Tourist Spots That You Shouldn’t Miss: Falls, Beaches, Cliff Diving

How to Go to Siquijor

1. cambugahay falls, 2. paliton beach, 3. salagdoong beach cliff diving, 4. tubod beach.

• 5. Lagaan Falls
• 6. Old Enchanted Balete Tree in Siquijor

7. Siquijor Churches

• 8. Lugnason Falls
• 9. Tulapos Marine Sanctuary
• 10. Butterfly Sanctuary Siquijor

Visit these Siquijor Tourist Attractions Now!

• Book our  Siquijor-Cebu-Bohol tour package

With its rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, the island offers unforgettable Siquijor tours for travelers seeking a fun-filled adventure. From idyllic beaches and waterfalls to historic churches and marine sanctuaries, find out what to do in Siquijor by checking out the Top 10 Siquijor tourist spots you should add to your travel itinerary!

See our popular Siquijor Tours and Activities

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Siquijor can be reached through various transportation options. When taking flights to the Philippines , the main gateway to Siquijor is Dumaguete City , which offers convenient access for travelers. Direct flights to Dumaguete are available from Manila Airport and other major Philippine destinations. 

Once you arrive at the Dumaguete Airport, you will find that airport transfer services are readily available, making your journey to the Dumaguete Port a hassle-free experience. From there, you can catch a ferry that departs for Siquijor. Alternatively, travelers can also book Siquijor tours that include transfers from Dumaguete, providing a convenient and hassle-free way to reach the island.

Another option is to take a ferry from Cebu or Bohol to Larena Port in Siquijor, another major port on the island. Once you arrive at Larena Port, you will have convenient access to explore the breathtaking natural wonders and cultural attractions spread throughout Siquijor.

See our popular Dumaguete Tours and Activities

Apo island day tour with transfers from dumaguete, manjuyod dolphin watching & sandbar tour with lunch & transfers from dumaguete.

For a thrilling experience at this tourist spot in Visayas , try the Tarzan swing and make a big splash as you swing into the water from a rope. You can also hop on a bamboo raft and leisurely float along the pools. The area surrounding Cambugahay Falls is also ideal for picnics, a great way to bond with family or friends.

See our popular Waterfalls Tours

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Aside from swimming, snorkeling is highly recommended on this famous beach in the Philippines , as the coral reefs near the shore teem with vibrant marine life. You can also set up a picnic, enjoy a beachside barbecue, or stroll along the shoreline, taking in the panoramic views of the ocean.

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In addition to cliff diving, Salagdoong Beach offers a range of enjoyable activities. You can swim and snorkel in its cool waters, exploring the vibrant marine life and coral reefs. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the beach provides ample opportunities to sunbathe on its sandy shores.

Nestled in the municipality of San Juan in Siquijor, Tubod Beach stands out for its pristine shoreline and idyllic vibe. One of the main attractions at Tubod Beach is its natural spring water pool, which gives the beach its name, as "tubod" means "spring" in the local language. You can take a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters of the pool, surrounded by lush greenery and a serene ambiance.

Apart from swimming, you can also go snorkeling in Tubod Beach to explore the underwater beauty of the surrounding coral reefs. Moreover, this best beach in Siqujor is well-known for its breathtaking sunsets. It offers a beautiful view for peaceful walks along the shoreline during the evening.

5. Lagaan Falls 

Lagaan Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall located in the municipality of Lazi, Siquijor. To get to this Siquijor waterfall, you must embark on a short trek through a beautiful forested trail, adding excitement to your adventure. Once you arrive, you will be greeted by a mesmerizing waterfall that flows into a refreshing pool. Take a dip in its cool waters, which will be particularly invigorating after your trek.

For the more adventurous souls, Lagaan Falls also provides cliff-jumping opportunities. You can leap from the rocks into the deep pool below, experiencing an exhilarating adrenaline rush. Moreover, the surrounding area is an ideal spot for picnicking and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.

See our popular Canyoneering Tours

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Considered one of the best places to visit in the Philippines , the Old Enchanted Balete Tree in Lazi, Siquijor, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. This ancient tree, estimated to be over 400 years old, is a living testament to the island's captivating history and folklore. The tree's massive branches and twisted roots exude a mysterious vibe that adds to its charm.

At the Old Enchanted Balete Tree, you can have a relaxing fish spa experience by putting your feet in the natural pool. Tiny fish gently nibble on your skin, which feels unique and therapeutic. You can also sit under the tree's shade and enjoy the calm surroundings.

During your visit to Lazi Church, you can attend religious services or join the annual May celebration called the Feast of San Isidro Labrador. You can also explore the nearby Convent Museum and visit religious artifacts and historical relics.

See our popular Pilgrimage Tours

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In addition to swimming, there are other activities to enjoy at Lugnason Falls. Exploring the nearby forest trails is a popular choice, offering a chance to immerse yourself in nature and discover local plants and animals. You can also have a picnic at designated spots near the falls.

9. Tulapos Marine Sanctuary 

Aside from snorkeling, you can discover fascinating facts about marine species, coral reefs, and the sanctuary's ongoing conservation initiatives through their guided tours and educational programs. Led by knowledgeable local marine conservationists, you will be able to gain better awareness of the importance of preserving these delicate habitats.

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If you love taking pictures, you can explore the paths of the sanctuary and discover picture-perfect spots at every turn. In addition to the butterflies, the sanctuary is home to a diverse range of plants and flowers, providing stunning backdrops for your photos. You can also take leisurely walks along the designated trails and visit the sanctuary's gift shop, where you can find a variety of butterfly-themed souvenirs, handicrafts, and educational materials.

Planning your trip to Siquijor is made easy with the help of a comprehensive Philippine travel guide . From organizing exciting Philippines tours to finding the best Philippine vacation packages , you can embark on a seamless journey to explore the best tourist spots in Siquijor. As you start your adventure, you can easily find and book the perfect hotel through hotel booking services in the Philippines . All this and more make planning your trip to Siquijor a breeze!

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15 BEST Siquijor Tourist Spots – The Ultimate Guide

Looking for the best Siquijor Tourist Spots? This is the only guide you’ll Need!

Siquijor Island in the Philippines is a mystical paradise with many awesome things to do including epic waterfalls, white sand beaches, iconic landmarks, awesome cliff jumps, and much more!

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast like myself, you’ll be spoiled for adventures to add to your list of must-see tourist spots in Siquijor!

Commonly referred to as the ‘Isla del Fuego’ or ‘the island of fire’ , it’s widely known for its witchcraft, healers, and spiritual rituals which are not something that you come across every day.

As spooky as this sounds, there is no need to be alarmed as Siquijor is a completely safe and normal island in the Philippines, just like the rest!

In this post, I have put together the ultimate guide to the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Siquijor and other useful information on how to get here, where to stay, how to get around, and the best time to visit!

Table of Contents

SIQUIJOR TOURIST SPOTS – OVERVIEW

Let’s start this guide with all the essentials you should know about Siquijor, such as the island’s location, getting there, and more.

WHERE IS SIQUIJOR ISLAND?

Siquijor Island is located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines.

It’s very close to the neighboring islands of Cebu, Bohol, and Dumaguete which can be easily reached by plane or ferry.

Click here to see the location on Google Maps and check the best Siquijor tourist spots map.

HOW TO GET TO SIQUIJOR?

There are two ways to get here, one is by plane and the other by ferry.

There are weekly flights to Siquijor connecting domestic travelers coming from Manila, Cebu, and Dumaguete.

Dumaguete to Siquijor ferry

One of the most common routes is the ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor which takes approximately 1.5 hours and the cost is around 500-600 pesos depending on the star rating of the ferry. There is also an additional 20 pesos terminal fee.

Daily ferries are departing from Dumaguete Port in Negros Oriental and arriving at Larena Port in Siquijor.

Cebu to Siquijor ferry

If you happen to be in the very south of Cebu and heading to Siquijor from here, there is only one ferry departure per day leaving from Liloan Port in Cebu at 10 am, bound for Larena Port in Siquijor. The ferry from Cebu to Siquijor takes approximately 1-2 hours and the cost is around 200 pesos.

You can purchase your tickets at the Liloan Port at least one hour before departure.

Bohol to Siquijor ferry

The ferry from Bohol to Siquijor is another common route for travelers and this is the exact route that I took. The cost for this journey is around 900 pesos plus an additional 20 pesos terminal fee.

Daily ferries are departing from Tagbilaran Port in Bohol around 10 am and it takes approximately 2 hours to reach Larena Port in Siquijor.

WHERE TO STAY IN SIQUIJOR?

Siquijor has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury: Aloha Seaside Resort

Mid Range: Nakabalo Guesthouse & Restaurant

Budget: JJS Backpackers Village

FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY,  SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

How to get around the tourist spots in siquijor.

There are a couple of options for getting around the island and enjoyin g Siquijor what to do, and they are by scooter, habal habal, tricycle, or Jeepney.

You can rent a scooter for as little as 250 pesos per day and make your own way around the island at your own pace.

When you arrive on the island by ferry, you’ll find that there are half a dozen scooter rental stores located at the Larena ferry terminal which is super convenient. You can pick up a set of wheels for the time you plan to spend on the island.

If you are not confident driving a scooter, the other option is to hail down a Jeepney, tricycle, or habal habal (motorbike taxi) along the main road in Larena and get a ride to San Juan, the main tourist hub on the island.

The cost depends on how good your bartering skills are, though for a 40-minute drive from Larena to San Juan in a Jeepney should be around 100 pesos, in a tricycle 500 pesos, and habal-habal 350 pesos.

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BEST TIME TO VISIT SIQUIJOR?

The best time to visit Siquijor, weather-wise, is between April and July when temperatures are hot and there is barely any rainfall. This is also high season, so expect to see many tourists during these months.

I recommend visiting the tourist spots in Siquijor on the shoulder months of the high season between November and March which sees a bit of rainfall but usually only lasts for a couple of hours and the rest of the day is sunny.

Try to avoid the typhoon season which is between August and October.

Must Read: 3 Weeks Philippines Itinerary

15 BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN SIQUIJOR

Now that you’ve got all the information on how to get here, where to stay, the best time to visit, and all the logistics, let’s get to the fun stuff!

So without further ado, here is the ultimate guide to the 15 Best Siquijor Tourist Spots!

PALITON BEACH

The first thing that should be on the top of your list of things to do is to hit the beach! Paliton Beach is rated as one of the best beaches in Siquijor for its glistening white sands and palm tree-fringed shoreline.

This is one tourist spot in Siquijor you do not want to miss!

Paliton Beach is located in the main tourist area of San Juan. Most accommodations are dotted along the main road in San Juan so no doubt Paliton Beach will be within walking distance from your hotel.

Paliton Beach faces west making it the perfect spot to watch the sunset on the sand with your mates!

There are a few oceanside cafes and beach bars dotted along Paliton Beach serving up cold brews and delicious meals. Most usually have happy hour between 4 pm and 6 pm, so make sure to get there around this time if you want to score some cheap drinks.

If you visit Paliton Beach during the day it’s just as good. You can find several tree swings tied to bent palms that you can have a turn on and swing out over the water’s edge!

Apart from that, there isn’t a whole lot more to do on Paliton Beach other than going swimming in the ocean, laying in a hammock underneath the coconut palms, or reading a book by the beach.

Paliton Beach really is the best beach on the island and I highly recommend adding this epic spot to your itinerary.

Full Blog Post: Paliton Beach

BEST TOUR TO SIQUIJOR

The best way to visit is to join a Tour To Siquijor From Dumaguete !

It includes accommodation for 2 nights, breakfast, hotel transfers, and a fun guide to spend the trip with!

CAMBUGAHAY FALLS

Cambugahay Falls is arguably the best waterfall on the island! Cambugahay Falls is most famous for its tiered levels and freshwater cascades that are surrounded by lush rainforest which is why it’s one of the most popular tourist spots in Siquijor!

Cambugahay Falls is located in Lazi which is approximately a 30-minute drive from San Juan to reach the falls and the entrance fee is 20 pesos. You may also have to pay a donation fee for parking. 

From the jump-off point, it takes around 5 minutes to walk down a set of concrete steps to reach the first level of Cambugahay Falls. This epic location features a large natural swimming hole and some man-made structures including rope swings, bamboo rafts, and a wide set of falls. 

Unfortunately, when I visited Cambugahay Falls the water was brown, and not that inviting due to heavy rains the night before. I was a little disappointed when I didn’t get to experience the true beauty of these falls, but hey, that’s just Mother Nature.

Besides the bottom swimming hole, there are a few more levels of Cambugahay Falls to explore.

Follow the trail upstream and across the bamboo bridges where you will find more freshwater swimming holes, flowing rock pools, and several cliff jumping spots.

Full Blog Post: Cambugahay Falls

SALAGDOONG BEACH & CLIFF JUMP

Wondering what to do in Siquijor? Salagdoong Beach is hands down one of the best beaches on the island which is most popular for snorkeling around the colorful reefs, relaxing on the secluded beaches, and epic cliff jumping!

I highly recommend adding Salagdoong Beach to your list of best things to do in Siquijor!

Salagdoong Beach is attached to Salagdoong Beach Resort on the far east corner of the island in the town of Maria.

From San Juan, it’s approximately a 50-minute drive to reach Salagdoong Beach and the entrance fee is 50 pesos per person plus an additional 20 pesos for parking.

Salagdoong Beach boasts two beautiful coves lined with coconut palms and white sand shorelines. Just off the shore is a colorful reef that is great for snorkeling and swimming. 

I would have to say the slippery slide and cliff jumping at Salagdoong Beach is the main attraction and one for thrill-seekers! Make sure you visit during high tide to do these activities.

There are two diving boards here, one is around 5 meters and the other is 10 meters. Jumping from the top of the cliff into the turquoise waters below is one of the most adrenaline-fuelled activities to do during your visit.

Full Blog Post: Salagdoong Beach & Cliff Jump

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CENTURY-OLD BALETE TREE

The century-old Balete Tree is one of the most visited tourist spots on the island and it’s easy to see why!

This Siquijor tourist spot is located in Lazi on the south coast of Siquijor Island Philippines. From San Juan, it’s approximately a 20-minute drive and the entrance fee is only 10 pesos.

The 400-year-old Enchanted Balete Tree has a very mystical and spiritual background. It’s a place that local shamans use for sacred rituals. However, I didn’t see any witchcraft when I visited.

At the base of the Century Old Balete Tree is a small freshwater pond filled with fish that will nibble the dead skin off the soles of your feet if you dip them in.

Enjoy your fish foot spa while marveling at the thick canopy and huge vines that hang from the Old Enchanted Balete Tree.

Next to the Century Old Tree is a two-story restaurant where you can grab a meal with drinks and also a souvenir store selling all sorts of gifts. All in all, it’s one of the best places where to go in Siquijor!

LUGNASON FALLS 

Lugnason Falls, also known as Zodiac Falls, is up there with one of the  top waterfalls in Siquijor that I highly recommend adding to your itinerary!

Lugnason Falls is located in the main tourist area of San Juan, From Paliton Beach, it’s approximately a 15-minute drive inland from the coast. The entrance is free though you may be asked to pay a small parking fee of 10 pesos.

From the jump-off point, it takes around 15 minutes to walk along a dirt trail through the forest to reach Lugnason Falls.

Lugnason Falls features a 5-meter waterfall and a large spring filled with blue Gatorade-colored water. It’s an adventurer’s playground and reminded me of the blue-ass water that I found at Kawasan Falls in Cebu .

Lugnason Falls is a great spot to hang out and go swimming under the falls to cool off. For thrill-seekers, jumping from the top of the falls into the catch basin below is a lot of fun too!

Don’t end the adventure here as there are more unique spots to be found in the same valley as Lugnason Falls. Follow the jungle trail downstream where you will find man-made aqua ducts and an epic cold spring perfect for swimming!

Can you think of better things to do Siquijor?!

Full Blog Post: Lugnason Falls

The BEST Hotel in Siquijor

Need a place to stay? Aloha Seaside Resort is conveniently located in Siquijor.

Whether you’re here to explore around or relax in comfort, Aloha Seaside Resort is an excellent option!

VISIT THE LAZI CHURCH

Lazi Church, also known as San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, is the island’s oldest, largest, and most significant Roman Catholic Church.

San Isidro Labrador Parish Church is located in Lazi on the island’s south coast. From San Juan, it’s approximately a 20-minute drive

The construction of Lazi Church was completed in 1884 and was built mainly with stone and hardwood. The bell tower attached to one side of the church was built one year later, the most dominant feature on the outside.

Next to the church, you can also find a silent convent that acts as a museum that holds many old artifacts and antiques. The entrance fee at the museum is around 20 pesos.

Lazi Church also plays home to large masses and it’s possible to take a tour inside of this century-old church with a priest.

QUISOL MOUNTAIN VIEW

Quisol Mountain View boasts one of the best panoramic viewpoints which overlooks the island and its pristine coastlines! This epic viewpoint is an off-the-beaten-path adventure that is easy to find and far away from the crowds that you will find at other Siquijor tourist spots.

Quisol Mountain View is located at the top of the hill between Lazi and Larena. It is approximately a 40-minute drive from San Juan to Quisol Mountain View.

Here is the exact location on Google Maps.

There is no official parking lot or tourist desk at this location, so you will have to park your scooter on the side of the road and find the entry point which isn’t too hard to find.

You will see a large sign with the words ‘Quisol Mountain View’ written on it and make-shift stairs cut into the land leading up to the viewpoint. See the image below for reference.

It takes around 5 minutes to walk to the top of the mountain and you’ll be rewarded with extensive views of the island.

Unfortunately, it was a bit cloudy on the day I visited, but on a nice clear day, you will be able to see the neighboring islands of Cebu, Negros, and Bohol.

Get off the typical tourist trail and add the Quisol Mountain View to your list of things to do in Siquijor!

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LAGAAN FALLS

Lagaan Falls is one of the best waterfalls on the island and a must-visit. Swimming holes, rope swings, rock jumps, and small caves are just some of the things you can expect to find at this epic Siquijor tourist spot!

Lagaan Falls is located in Lazi on the south coast of the island. From the main tourist area of San Juan, it’s approximately a 30-minute drive to reach Lagaan Falls.

The Lagaan Falls entrance fee is 50 pesos and parking is free. At the entrance, local guides will offer to take you down to the falls but this is not necessary as the trail is clearly marked.

However, I visited these falls on my own and decided to take a guide for good company and tipped him 100 pesos at the end. 

It takes around 15 minutes to walk along a dirt trail underneath a dense rainforest canopy to reach t he first level of this waterfall.

Some of the features you will find here are a large swimming hole, rope swings, small caves, rock jumps, and a wide set of falls. 

Don’t forget to follow the jungle trail upstream where you will find small freshwater rock pools and natural jacuzzis. You could easily spend a few hours here jumping from pool to pool, swinging from the tree swings, and not getting bored.

The lush jungle surrounding Lagaan Falls makes this place so tranquil, and I highly recommend adding this spot to your list of things to see in Siquijor.

Full Blog Post: Lagaan Falls

MAN-MADE FOREST SIQUIJOR

The Man-Made Forest is similar to the Bilar Man-Made Forest in Bohol , though on a smaller scale. A visit to this tourist spot is worthy of a quick stop for a photo during your adventures around the island.

The man-made forest can be found in Maria on the southeastern corner of the island. From San Juan, it is approximately a 45-minute drive.

This enchanting stretch of road is around 2 km long and lined with beautiful mahogany trees between the towns of Minalulan and Liloan.

When you enter this parallel tunnel of trees, you’ll feel like you’ve just entered another realm. You will also notice the temperature drop drastically as you drive through the man-made forest because the canopy above almost completely cuts out the sun.

I recommend stopping by the man-made forest on your way to Salagdoong Beach, another of the places to visit in Siquijor.

TALISAY BEACH

Talisay Beach is not as crowded and popular as Paliton Beach, which is why you should definitely find the time to visit this underrated destination.

Talisay Beach can be found between Lazi and Maria, which is also in the same direction as Salagdoong Beach.

There is no official entry point for Talisay Beach, you can park your scooter on the side of the road and follow one of the dirt trails down to the shoreline.

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Emerging out of the jungle trail, you’ll step foot onto a white sand and coral cove that is stunning, to say the least.

Talisay Beach is best visited on high tide when the water comes right up to the palm-fringed shoreline, making it easier to go for a swim. At low tide, you will have to walk across the rocky reef to find deeper water for a refreshing dip.

Talisay Beach is also a renowned spot for snorkeling, so make sure to bring a mask and snorkel set with you down to the beach.

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DAY TRIP TO APO ISLAND

Apo Island is a volcanic island located 30km off Siquijor’s southern coastline. Notorious for its dive sites and snorkeling, an Apo Island day trip is one of the top-rated things to do!

To book an Apo Island Tour you can pop into one of the many dive shops and resorts located along Paliton Beach in San Juan and organize your trip through them at least one day in advance.

A barbecue lunch and cold refreshments are usually included with the Apo Island tour.

Apo Island has been the longest-lasting community-led marine protected area in the Philippines since 1986.

Apo Island is so aesthetically pleasing to the eyes that you won’t want to close them! We anchored up the boat on the outer edge of the reef near the main beach port of Apo Island.

Shortly after anchoring, we all jumped off the side of the boat and were snorkeling with turtles in no time!

The Apo Island tour is an entire day of snorkeling with sea turtles, fish, sea snakes, and hundreds of colorful corals. There are also a few small mountain peaks on Apo Island that you can hike.

Related Article: Apo Island Guide

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TUBOD MARINE SANCTUARY

Tubod Marine Sanctuary is a protected reef making it one of the best snorkeling and dive sites on Siquijor Island .

Tubod Marine Sanctuary can be found in front of Coco Grove Resort and just off the shore from Tubod Beach in San Juan. From Paliton Beach, it’s approximately a 10-minute drive to reach Tubod Marine Sanctuary.

Colorful corals and an abundance of marine life flourish within this protected marine sanctuary so you are in for a real treat!

You can bring your own mask and snorkel with you or rent one from the resort and it’s a short distance swim out to the reef.

There are minimal currents and waves at Tubod Marine Sanctuary and the waters are incredibly clear. I recommend setting aside at least one hour of your day to enjoy this epic location.

BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY

A new tourist spot in Siquijor is the beautiful butterfly sanctuary.

The Butterfly Sanctuary is located close to the highest point on the island at Cang-apa village between Lazi and Larena. From San Juan, it is approximately a 40-minute drive.

The butterfly park is run by a local man who welcomes guests to walk around the gardens and interact with the butterflies and other bugs inside his sanctuary.

It’s wort a quick stop to have a poke around and grab a fresh buko (coconut) before continuing on to the next spot!

You can also visit the Quisol Mountain Viewpoint which is right around the corner from the butterfly sanctuary.

LOCONG FALLS

Nestled in the southern part of Siquijor Island, this waterfall offers a refreshing swimming spot for a small entrance fee of 50 pesos.

Once you get there, you’ll be greeted by a guide, which is optional but I recommend for supporting the local community.

Plus, he knows his way around the area so you stay safe with an expert.

These Siquijor Falls aren’t very high but beautiful nonetheless and there’s even a rope for you to swing and make the most of your time.

Overall, this spot provides a peaceful and secluded location for a refreshing swim in the natural beauty of Siquijor, and you can stop here on the way to Cambugahay Falls!

CANGBANGAG FALLS

The last Siquijor waterfall I recommend visiting is Cangbangag Falls. Enveloped in lush forests, this waterfall is a breathtaking sight you don’t want to miss, despite the remote location.

You can get there by scooter from Butterfly Sanctuary and, truth be told, it’s easy to get lost while finding it, but the locals will help you once you’re nearby.

I recommend wearing proper shoes as it is about a 20-minute trek to reach the falls. However, the journey is worth it once you get a glimpse of it!

The falls are not crowded, mostly visited by friendly locals, which is a great way to experience a special experience when visiting Siquijor.

All in all, I highly recommend Cangbangag Falls as one of the Siquijor destinations to add to your itinerary.

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When visiting the Philippines and these Siquijor spots as a whole, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

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FINAL THOUGHTS – SIQUIJOR TOURIST SPOTS

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4 thoughts on “15 BEST Siquijor Tourist Spots – The Ultimate Guide”

Thank you for the in-depth information!! We were thinking that 5 days might be too long to spend on Siquijor Island, but with some great sights to see and some relaxing on the beach…I think 5 days will be perfect!

Hi pauline, you are most welcome, have a great time on the island!

Interesting travel information ,Thanks

You’re most welcome, thanks for reading! Enjoy your trip to Siquijor!

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20 Breathtaking Siquijor Tourist Spots You NEED to Visit in 2024

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by  Manoling Martinez

February 1, 2024

Note: This post may include affiliate links. Read more about this here .  

What do YOU think Siquijor is like?

A dark, cursed island filled with laughing witches stirring their cauldrons all day?

That’s what the island’s reputation is like after all. 

In reality though?

It’s a bright, sunny island BURSTING with natural beauty everywhere you look! 

From the Gatorade waters of Cambugahay Falls to the purple sunsets at Paliton Beach, here are 20 Siquijor tourist spots you should consider checking out! 

Some of these are popular spots you hear about all over social media. 

While others are almost unknown, spots that I just heard of by talking to the locals on the island. 

Gear up and let’s get into it! 

My Top 20 Siquijor Tourist Spots (Popular Destinations AND Unknown Spots)

Twenty is a LOT of tourist spots. 

And while there’s no strict order to my list, I did try to organize these by putting my personal favorites first (and mixing the types of spots a bit, so I won’t list falls after falls after falls) . 

With that said, here are my twenty favorite tourist spots in Siquijor:

• Lagaan Falls 
• Sambulawan Underground River
• Paliton Beach
• Cambugahay Falls
• Mt. Bandilaan
• Lugnason Falls
• Tubod Marine Sanctuary
• Cantabon Cave
• Old Balete Tree
• Cangbangag Falls
• Lazi Church & Convent
• Other Falls (Kawasan, Locong, Cabugsayan)
• Salagdoong Beach
• Larena Triad Coffee Shop
• Butterfly Sanctuary
• Holy Mountain
• Capilay Spring Park
• Tulapdos Marine Sanctuary
• Roadtrip around the whole island

Let’s take a closer look at each one! 

Before We Begin! A Quick Word on Siquijor’s Tipping Economy

A lot of the spots above don’t have entrance fees (or if they do, it’s super cheap like php20) . 

However, most have local guides who can help you get to the spot/show you around, and you’re expected to tip these guides. 

How much you give is really up to you. 

But if you want a reference, I was tipping my guides around php100 ($2) per hour. 

Since I was traveling alone, I rarely spent two hours in a place. And if the guide was particularly friendly, I made sure to add a little extra (the most I paid was php400) . 

Keep that in mind since I won’t be talking about entrance fees below unless there’s a significant one! 

Also, I won’t include a “how to get there” section unless there are special instructions! 

In Siquijor, it’s either you rent a motorbike and use Google maps, or you get a tour guide to take you around (public transportation is quite poor here).  

Now let’s get into it!

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #1: Lagaan Falls – Strikingly Beautiful, Not Super Crowded (Lazi)

If I could only go to ONE spot on the whole island, I would choose Lagaan Falls. 

Lazi, Siquijor, is PACKED with Gatorade-blue waterfalls deep in the forest. 

Most of these have swing jumps, some have rafts for picture-taking, but ALL of these falls are super refreshing to dip into. 

So why is Lagaan my favorite? 

Because one: 

It’s the second largest of these Gatorade-blue falls. 

Because it’s the second largest, it doesn’t get nearly as many crowds as the largest one (Cambugahay) gets!

What this means is that you get the same breathtaking falls, but you can get it all to yourself (especially if you go early!). 

Plus, I really enjoyed the rock slide on the falls. 

And the little cave under the falls. 

You can even climb out of the cave and stand directly under the splashing water! 

This place is PACKED with fun. 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #2: Sambulawan Underground River – Super  Unique and Underrated Experience (Lazi) 

I’d say the most unique thing you can do in Siquijor is swim in the underground river. 

At the entrance, it might look like just another cave. 

But as you descend into the darkness, you’ll very quickly hear the noise of a rushing river. 

That, my friends, is the Sambulawan underground river. So don your life jacket and prepare to swim through narrow cave walls! 

The swim up the river is only 150 meters long and only takes a few minutes to reach the end. The creepy part is that no one, not even the locals, knows how deep the river is. 

At the end of the river, you’ll find a room in the cave where you can relax. 

It’s quite difficult to get good pictures inside a pitch-black cave, but if you can, you might want to get a picture of the natural Buddha just hanging around here. 

After the short river tour, you’ll swim back and your guide can take you deeper into the cave where you’ll come across otherwordly stalactites and stalagmites. 

You’ll also see bats hanging overhead, and might encounter some cave spiders too! 

Sambulawan Underground River Entrance Fee: Php250 for entrance, life vest, and flashlight! Don’t forget to tip your guide! 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #3: Paliton Beach – Surreal Sunsets (San Juan)

There are world-class beaches all around Siquijor. 

But the most famous one of them all is Paliton Beach along the San Juan coast. 

Paliton is on the Westernmost side of the island, which means the sunsets here are absolutely glorious. My pictures don’t do it justice! 

Speaking of pictures, Paliton is also a very Instagram-worthy beach. 

Whether it’s the sunset…

This swing…

Or even this abandoned fishing boat…

You’ll come away from here with lots of pictures to take home! 

You can also swim here. I’ve been told that if you swim a little further off, you’ll find a marine sanctuary. 

Sadly, I visited during the Habagat season. The waves were just too strong for me to brave the ocean. 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #4: Cambugahay Falls – Most Famous Waterfall (Lazi)

Back to waterfalls. 

Cambugahay is the name that everyone knows and talks about. 

And while I personally prefer Lagaan, there’s no doubt that this spot is just as beautiful (maybe even a little more)! 

The secret to Cambugahay is to come early – before people start popping in. If you can do this on a weekday, that’s even better. 

Because trust me, if you can catch Cambugahay empty, it’s a paradise. 

You can use the swing jump all you want…

Get on the raft and go under the waterfalls…

Or take a short walk upstream to the other falls of Cambugahay…

Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have a fun-filled time at Cambugahay! 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #5: Mt. Bandilaan – Eerie Mountain Forest (Siquijor)

Let’s get this straight: 

There are no witches in Siquijor. 

If there are any, you’re probably not going to run into them. 

Okay, maybe if you foolishly drive your scooter up Mt. Bandilaan at night. Then maybe you’ll encounter something. 

Because even at midday, the thick foliage of this protected forest blocks out most of the sun. 

And since there’s absolutely nobody around, you get a pretty eerie feeling when you’re here, especially if you’re alone! 

In the middle of the park, you’ll find the highest point in Siquijor. 

There’s a tower there that you can climb to get a beautiful panoramic view of the whole island. 

At the base of the tower, you’ll find a quick “stations of the cross” hike you can take. 

However, it’s a bit difficult to follow the crosses from #1 to #14 in order. It’s a bit scattered around, so I suspect you’re supposed to have a guide with you. 

How to Get to Mt. Bandilaan: There is a direct road from Cantabon Cave to Mt. Bandilaan that doesn’t show up on Google Maps. Passing here can save you a lot of time.

But just a warning! It can get VERY slippery when it rains, so drive with caution. 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #6: Lugnason Falls – Unique Green Waterfall (San Juan) 

There are about ten falls in Lazi that all look almost identical to one another. 

However, if you go over to San Juan, you’ll find one that is different from the rest. 

Lugnason Falls is conveniently just a few minutes away from the main tourist road of Siquijor. And it’s definitely a must-visit! 

The water here isn’t Gatorade blue. Instead, it has an enchanting green hue that you probably won’t be able to resist. 

The falls itself is also taller than the short ones you find in Lazi. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even climb to the top and jump down into the pool below! 

Aside from the falls,  you can follow a trail downhill to this odd-looking waterway system. 

You can even swim in the center of this pool. 

You can also walk upstream from the falls, where you’ll encounter the “zodiac falls,” 12 falls all named after a zodiac sign. 

Note: trekking upstream is difficult without a guide who knows the way. I wasn’t able to see all the falls because I wasn’t sure how to get past the dense shrubs. 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #7: Tubod Beach & Marine Sanctuary – Amazing Beach, Dive, and Snorkeling Site (San Juan)

One site that I would’ve LOVED to explore is the Tubod marine sanctuary. 

Found right beside Coco Grove Resort, this sanctuary is super easy to access. Plus, all along the road, there are numerous dive shops where you can rent gear to go scuba diving. 

I’ve been told that the reef here is full of life and that you can even see schools of barracuda roaming around these waters. 

Sadly, I came down with food poisoning on the day I was supposed to dive! 

As for snorkeling, it was Habagat season, so I didn’t really want to take my chances with the huge waves. 

I was able to chill at the beach, which was already fun by itself. But I can’t help but feel I missed one of the biggest things to do in Siquijor. 

So if you have the opportunity to explore this marine sanctuary, make sure you take it! 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #8: Cantabon Cave – Deep Cave Full of Strange Formations (Siquijor) 

If Sambulawan Underground River wasn’t enough cave for you, then you’ll love Cantabon Cave!

Cantabon Cave is an 800-meter “hike” deep below the mountains of Siquijor. 

While everyone can fit in here, taller people (especially foreigners) might have some difficulty at the entrance, which is just a small opening on the ground. 

But don’t worry, this is the only part that gets pretty tight. You will have to crouch and crawl in some sections, but unless you’re claustrophobic, you won’t have problems with the rest of the cave. 

Inside, prepare to get wet! 

You don’t have to swim, but some sections have waist-deep water. 

However, if you do want to swim, there’s a natural waterfall and swimming pool found about halfway through the cave. 

There are also otherworldly rock formations like these rice terraces…

Shower head… 

And many, many others which I’ll leave out so you can go and discover them yourself!

Cantabon Cave Entrance Fee: Cantabon Cave entrance fee is p20/head, light rental php30/head, and the mandatory guide fee of php500 (up to 3pax). There’s an additional fee of php100 per person if you exceed 3 pax. 

Fun fact: Cantabon Cave is one of the only spots that has a pretty well-established entrance fee. I’m not sure if that’s something that I’d want for the rest of the island though! 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #9: Old Balete Tree – Fish Foot Spa Under a Giant Tree (Lazi) 

Now, I know what you’re thinking…

What the heck is a FISH foot spa? 

Believe it or not, it’s where you dip your feet in a small pond, and small fish eat the loose skin from your feet! 

Does it hurt? 

It’s mostly just ticklish. Think of it as fish nibbling your feet rather than them biting (and the big fish in the pond aren’t too interested in tourists’ feet).  

However, once in a while, a particularly feisty fish might take an unusually large bite and it can hurt a bit. 

But don’t worry, no one’s ever been wounded or anything over here. Plus, that’s part of the fun of it – you never know how big of a bite you’re going to get! 

The pond is cozily nestled under a giant balete tree that is said to be 400-500 years old. 

If you’re not from the Philippines, our folklore sees balete trees as the home of all kinds of creatures like fairies, dwarves, spirits, and even demons. 

That’s why this place is called the old enchanted balete tree! 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #10: Cangbangag Falls – Secret Spot! The Tallest Waterfall in Siquijor (Larena) 

There’s a magical feeling when you find a secret spot on your own. 

A spot where even Google Maps won’t help you too much. 

So in the spirit of adventure…

I’m not going to tell you how to get to this spot!

You can always ask a tour guide to take you there. 

But where’s the fun in that? 

Rent a scooter and go find it yourself. 

This is the least visited waterfall in Siquijor – and no wonder! It’s hard to get to. 

Plus, the water isn’t as enticing as the bright blues and greens of Cambugahay and Lugnason. 

Instead, the joy of finding these falls is in the adventure and the solitude of being completely alone deep in the forest of Siquijor. 

You can swim here, but I recommend taking the time to just sit or lie down and listen to the flowing water paired with the sound of birds all around you. 

It’s magical. 

How to Get to Cangbangag Falls: Again, I’m not going to tell you exactly how to get there, since finding it is part of the fun. But here’s a hint! 

The road leading to the falls (which Google Maps doesn’t show) is somewhere in Brgy Catamboan, Larena. 

The drive is an extremely scenic twisting mountain pass. 

Just continue on the road until you get to a point where your motorbike can’t go anymore. Then continue your journey down by foot. 

The trek down is pretty steep, but at the end of it, you’ll find one of the most glorious sites in Siquijor, the majestic Cangbangag Falls! 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #11: Hapitanan – Flying Broom Photoshoot Area (Lazi)

Some people hate being stereotyped. 

Others, like the folks at Hapitanan, take advantage of it. 

So instead of being bothered by Siquijor’s reputation as a witch island, they instead built a little witch-themed stopover by the side of the road! 

Hapitanan roughly means “a place that you pass by” in Bisaya (there’s no direct translation). And what a fitting name! 

Found right in between the beaches of San Juan, and the waterfalls of Lazi, this spot is the perfect place to take a break and drink some coconut water. 

It’s also where you can ride the broom (which is just you, on a platform, doing a jump shot with a broom) . 

They have a bunch of witch-themed souvenirs that you can get here. 

Between the jump shots, the coconut water, and just the overall relaxed vibe, this is the perfect place to “hapit” on your way back to San Juan. 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #12: Lazi Church & Convent – Old Buildings in the Lazi Town Center (Lazi)

Confession time: 

I’m not a big fan of old churches and buildings. And I probably won’t go out of my way to see one. 

However, these two are quite special. 

The Lazi Church is one of the best-kept old churches around. And was even nominated as a UNESCO heritage site for its baroque-style exterior. 

But what really makes this place special is the giant convent just across the road. 

Built in 1884, the Lazi Convent is said to be the oldest and largest convent in all of Asia. 

Today, these two buildings still stand strong and beautiful. 

The trees all around them provide shade from the blazing sun. And thanks to its location, it’s a great place to chill and snap some photos after diving into the nearby waterfalls all day. 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #13: The Other Lazi Falls – Kawasan Falls, Locong Falls, Cabugsayan Falls (Lazi)

Does Siquijor ever run out of falls???

No, no it does not. 

If Lagaan, Cambugahay, Lugnason, the Zodiac Falls, and Cangbangag weren’t enough, there’s still a BUNCH of waterfalls all found on the same river as Lagaan. 

All of these falls are pretty similar to one another. 

They’re all Gatorade blue, they usually have rope swings, they’re all VERY refreshing, and some of them (like Kawasan), have a small cave under the falls as well. 

So here’s the thing:

You really don’t need to visit all of these falls. 

If you’ve already been to Cambugahay and Lagaan, there’s nothing more to see here. Just smaller versions of those two. 

But if the thought of going somewhere off the beaten path excites you, or if you want to make sure that there’s absolutely no one else with you, these are the falls to visit! 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #14: Salagdoong Beach – Cozy Beach with Manmade Forest (Maria)

On the eastern side of the island, you’ll find Salagdoong beach. 

The place was a tourist hotspot before Covid arrived. 

People used to go to the little islet just off the beach, and use the diving board to jump into the sea!

Recently, however, it’s gotten a lot quieter. With no lifeguards around and renovations going on, there was no diving or even swimming allowed when I visited. 

Update October 15, 2023: Salagdoong is now open for swimming and cliff jumping! More reasons to come visit!

Nevertheless, it was still a nice place to chill as I drove around the entire island. 

And I’m pretty sure the place is going to bounce back very soon! 

As I’ve mentioned, there were renovations going on. The resorts in the area were gearing up to go into full operation mode once again. 

Also, to get to Salagdoong beach, you’ll have to pass through the Salagdoong forest – a lovely manmade forest that’s perfect for getting pictures. 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #15: Larena Triad Coffee Shop – Coffee Shop on a Hill Overlooking Larena (Larena)

There aren’t many famous restaurants in Siquijor. 

However, if you’re passing through Larena, I highly recommend a stop at the Larena Triad Coffee Shop. 

Found on the top of a hill, the view you get from here is very pleasant. 

You can see the town of Larena below. And far off, you can even see silhouettes of Negros and south Cebu on the horizon. 

For drinks, they serve all your favorite coffees like latte, cappuccino, mocha, americano, etc. 

And they also serve lots of food. 

This “coffee shop” is actually a restaurant. Their menu is super diverse, and you can get everything from burgers to fried chicken. 

Larena is quite far away from the main tourist zones. And the food isn’t outstanding that you have to make the trip here. 

However, if you’re in the area, it’s probably the best place to go and grab lunch, dinner, or snacks! 

How to Get to Larena Triad Coffee Shop: IMPORTANT! When searching for this coffee shop, make sure you search for its exact name. There is another spot in Google labeled “Larena Triad Restaurant & Bakeshop.” That is NOT where you want to go! There’s literally nothing there (trust me, I’ve been there!)

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #16: Butterfly Sanctuary – Small Garden With Lots of Colorful Butterflies (Lazi)

Tucked away in the hills of Siquijor is a small sanctuary for butterflies. 

In the garden, you’ll find plenty of flowers and even more butterflies with all kinds of colors. 

There are black and yellow butterflies:

Orange butterflies: 

Brown butterflies: 

And even these black butterflies with bright blue underbellies (unfortunately, I wasn’t able to picture the blue): 

Overall, the place isn’t extraordinary. 

But if you want to support the conservation of these beautiful creatures, a short trip to the sanctuary is all you need to do. 

It’s technically in Lazi, but the closest landmark to it is Mt. Bandilaan – so I’d recommend visiting the sanctuary after that. 

Also, if you have good camera gear, this is a great place to get some awesome photos. 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #17: Holy Mountain – Isolated Hill With Giant Cross Overlooking East Siquijor (Enrique Villanueva) 

There are two ways to get to Holy Mountain:

The normal way – where you park your bike on the side of the road, then proceed up the steps like a pilgrimage. 

Or, the extreme bike-ride way – where you literally drive your scooter up the mountain! 

For most people, I’d recommend the first way. 

But, if you’re up for an extreme adventure, then the second way is what you should try! 

Keep in mind though that you will probably need a guide for the second way. The dirt path leading up the mountain is difficult to find on your own. 

My guide and I navigated through rocky roads and mountain passes, all to get to this one, small serene chapel on top of the hill. 

The views were very pretty, of course. And the feeling of being completely alone up on a mountain is very peaceful too. 

But for the adventurous, try asking a guide to lead you to the motorbike path because it’s a CRAZY ride. 

Note: To find Holy Mountain in Google Maps, search for “Healing Mountain.”

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #18: Capilay Spring Park – Free Spring Running Through Town (San Juan)

One spot that you probably won’t miss unless you deliberately avoid it is Capilay Spring Park. 

Found right in the center of San Juan (the busiest tourist town), Capilay Spring is a long green natural spring that makes a wonderful chilling spot. 

The water is cool and refreshing, and if you’re in for a quick swim, this is a great place to do it. Its shape resembles a lap pool, so you might even get some training in. 

It seems to be a local favorite too.

If you come here in the late afternoon, you’ll find plenty of students hanging around the tables. 

Overall, it’s a very cozy little park. 

Not really a place you should go out of your way for. But since it’s almost never out of the way, Capilay Spring Park is a very nice place to stop by.

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #19: Tulapdos Marine Sanctuary – Diving Spot with Barracuda (Enrique Villanueva)

Getting to the end of our list, we have the Tulapdos marine sanctuary. 

This is, once again, a spot that I was unable to visit due to the strong waves! 

My guess is that if I did get to snorkel around here, it would be much higher on this list. 

But again, everyone that I heard from tells me that this one is one of the best of the bests. 

Schools of barracuda, sea turtles, and sometimes even a shark can be found in these waters. 

It’s found all the way on the East side of the island, but if you get the opportunity to go, definitely go and take it! 

Best Siquijor Tourist Spots #20: Roadtrip Around the Whole Island! 

This isn’t a spot, but it’s something you should definitely consider doing. 

Rent a motorbike, and drive around the WHOLE island. 

That’s right. 

Siquijor is only 102km around. If you drive non-stop, you can easily get this done in less than three hours.

But why would you?

You can plot your trip to include some of the tourist spots I mentioned above. 

Or you can just drive and take in the beautiful views. 

Somewhere in Maria there’s a rice field that turns golden during sunset. 

Then there’s this Talingting signage, with a small basketball court with plenty of locals. 

Further on in Larena you’ll find this boulevard that’s very reminiscent to the one you get in Dumaguete. 

There are so many things you’ll find for yourself if you go on a roadtrip of the whole island. 

Whether you have a defined itinerary, or you’re just going where the road takes you, it’s something that’s very worthwhile. 

Which Siquijor Spots Are YOU Excited About?

Twenty spots is a lot for such a small island. 

But was that all?

Absolutely not. 

After a week on the island, I left feeling like there was STILL more to discover. 

And so, I’ll leave that up to you now! 

I hope this list has been helpful for you in planning your trip. 

But remember! 

There’s still more that is out there for YOU to discover. 

So get out there and find it! 

And when you do, let me know in the comments what your favorite spot is! 

– Manoling

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Manoling Martinez

Hi! I'm Manoling, a 24-year-old backpacker from Cebu City. I'm on a mission to visit ALL 82 provinces of the Philippines. You can follow my adventures on my Instagram, or plan your trips here on my website!

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25 Siquijor tourist spots + Map & Prices

Siquijor is one of the hidden gems in the Philippines . Only a few tourists visit this incredible island, others preferring to visit Bohol or Cebu instead. Well, I’m here to tell you that after spending one month in the Philippines, Siquijor is by far my favorite island.

This island is perfect for active travelers, for those who like to spend time in nature and get off-the-beaten-path. Home to pristine beaches, stunning waterfalls and witches (yes, real witches), Siquijor is a must-see when traveling to the Philippines .

I spent one week on this island, exploring every corner and every natural wonder there is. To show you the beauty of this exotic island, I’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Siquijor. But before talking about the tourist spots in Siquijor, let me tell you a few interesting facts about this island.

1. Interesting facts about Siquijor

• Siquijor used to be called “Isla del Fuego” or “The Island of Fire” due to the large number of fireflies
• Siquijor is known for its magical rituals. The most sold potion on the island is the love potion and even tourists can buy it. You can find it at souvenir shops near the Balete Tree.
• Siquijor welcomes around 500,000 international tourists each year which is not that much compared to El Nido , Coron or Cebu.

2. Top Siquijor tourist spots – MAP

To see all the tourist attractions in Siquijor, click on the map below or click here . Choose the ones you like the most and add them to your itinerary!

3. Things to do in Siquijor

Siquijor is a small island and all the tourist attractions listed below can be visited in about 4-5 days. If you really want to enjoy this island and plan a relaxing holiday, I recommend spending 6 days here. There’s plenty to do and I can guarantee you won’t get bored!

1. Kawasan Falls

After visiting Cambugahay Falls , we headed to Kawasan Falls, a smaller waterfall located nearby. After a short walk through the jungle, we arrived at this beautiful waterfall. We and another couple were the only people there.

We swam into the natural pool for a while and then Dan ventured inside the small cave behind the waterfall. He also jumped into the water from the top of Kawasan. Even though this waterfall is not as impressive as Cambugahay, it’s still a beautiful place and a point of interest in Siquijor.

Entrance fee – free

2. Snorkel at Tubod Beach

Among the most beautiful beaches in Siquijor , Tubod is one of the hidden gems on the island. You won’t find many people here, so you can snorkel and admire the marine life in peace. Tubod Marine Sanctuary is thriving with colorful fish and vibrant corals.

The beach is quite narrow, but it’s gorgeous. Tall palm trees are lined along the seashore on one side while the other side is bordered with turquoise water. It’s pretty incredible! Definitely my favorite beach on the island. You can read more about Tubod Beach here .

Entrance fee – 50 PHP per person for snorkeling, 20 PHP per person for swimming

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3. Mount Bandilaan

Mount Bandilaan is the highest point on Siquijor Island (632 meters). From the main road, where you can park your motorbike, you’ll have to climb a few stairs to reach the top. It will take about 15 to 20 minutes.

Once you reach the top, you’ll see a tower. Climb it and you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the entire island. This is definitely one of the most beautiful things to see in Siquijor.

Entrance free – free

4. Salagdoong Beach

If you’re looking for the best tourist spots in Siquijor, you have to stop for a few hours at the famous Salagdoong Beach . This is the perfect destination for adventurous travelers who like cliff jumping.

There are two jumping platforms, a 10-meter platform and a 7-meter platform. When I visited, I chickened out and I went to the beach instead. Anyway, this is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the nature while in Siquijor.

Entrance fee – 30 PHP per person, 20 PHP for motorbike parking

5. Paliton Beach

With beautiful beach bars, Paliton Beach is one of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset. The beach is wide, but unless you arrive here early, it’s going to be pretty crowded. You can swim or snorkel in the crystal clear water and then buy a fresh coconut from one of the small shops.

Entrance fee – Free

6. Cambugahay Falls

One of the must-see places in Siquijor and the most popular tourist attraction on the island is the beautiful three-tier waterfall Cambugahay Falls . With milky blue water, jumping platforms and exciting swings, this picture-perfect place is one of Asia’s most beautiful waterfalls .

You can even rent a wooden raft, like we did, and relax for a few minutes while surrounded by the thick jungle. Cambugahay Falls is simply stunning so make sure to add it to your itinerary!

Entrance fee – 20 PHP per person

7. Guiwanon Spring Park

One of the most famous tourist attractions in Siquijor is Guiwanon Spring Park . Here you can walk on wooden bridges between mangroves. These unique plants are extremely important for the local ecosystem and they serve as a nursery for fish.

Entrance fee – 10 PHP per person

8. Coral Cay Beach

Coral Cay Beach is one of the places you need to visit when in Siquijor. Unlike Paliton Beach and Salagdoong Beach, Coral Cay is a bit off-the-beaten-track. There are a few resorts with beach bars where you can have lunch or get a snack but otherwise, the beach is pristine.

The water gets deep gradually, making it perfect for swimming. I recommend bringing your towel because you won’t find sunbeds to rent here. Click here for other awesome beaches in Siquijor!

9. Lugnason Falls

One of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island, Lugnason Falls is also a popular spot for those who like cliff jumping. The waterfall is quite popular and easy to reach.

From the parking spot, you’ll have to walk for about 10 minutes through the jungle and then you’ll be rewarded with this stunning waterfall. If cliff jumping is not for you, you can simply swim in the natural pool formed at the base of Lugnason Falls.

Tip – Don’t visit it during the dry season (February, March, April) because the waterfall has no water.

Entrance fee – Free, 10 PHP per motorbike for parking

10. St. Francis of Assisi Parish

Also known as the Siquijor Church, this is one of the landmarks on the island. Founded in 1783, the church was actually completed in 1831 and is made out of coral stones. If you’re spending a few days on the island, I recommend stopping for a few minutes here.

11. Lagaan Falls

From Kawasan Falls head north for a little bit and you’ll arrive at Laggan Falls. This waterfall is rather small, but it’s worth visiting due to its natural beauty, especially if you’re in the area. There is also a free rope swing that you can use.

Entrance fee – 30 PHP

12. Old Enchanted Balete Tree

One of the best places to visit in Siquijor is the Old Enchanted Balete Tree, a place covered in mystery and magical stories. It’s well known that Siquijor is popular for its healers and witches.

If you want to buy some potions, head to the Balete Tree. I’m not sure if they work, but the souvenir shops are packed with potions and other magical objects. Anyway, leaving magic aside, this 400-years old tree is worth visiting.

Entrance fee – 10 PHP

13. Take a day trip to Apo Island

Would you like to swim with the turtles? If the answer is yes, take a day trip from Siquiijor to Apo Island . Swimming with the turtles was the highlight of my trip to the Philippines.

Apo is a small island where a small community of people lives. Apart from snorkeling or diving, there’s not much to do and one day is more than enough to explore it.

Cost – 1950 PHP per day trip (it includes boat, lunch, snorkeling gear)

14. Larena Triad Coffee Shop

One of the off-the-beaten-path places in Siquijor is Larena Triad Coffee Shop. To get here, you’ll need a motorbike but this coffee shop has the best view on the entire island. Grab a seat at their open terrace and admire the sea.

If you haven’t tried Halo-Halo yet, I recommend ordering this Filipino dessert here. It’s a mix of condensed milk, crushed ice, beans, fruits, rice and jelly. I know it doesn’t sound tasty, but it actually is!

15. Butterfly Farm

This list of Siquijor tourist spots continues with the Butterfly Farm. Here you can admire beautiful and colorful butterflies. The garden is quite big and there are plenty of species to admire. Make sure to bring your camera and snap some awesome photos!

Entrance fee – 100 PHP

16. Hidden viewpoint

Somewhere in the centre of the island, a short walk away from the main road, is a beautiful hill with one of the most incredible views in Siquijor. The climb is easy and it will take about 10 minutes to reach the top.

You won’t find anyone here. We saw this hill from the main road and we decided to explore it and I’m so glad we did! For the exact location, click here .

17. Cangbangag Falls

One of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island is Cangbangag. It’s the tallest waterfall in Siquijor and a hidden place for most tourists. If you like offbeat places, away from the hordes of tourists, Cangbangag Falls is the perfect place for you.

18. Eat at Monkey Business

My favorite restaurant on the island is Monkey Business . The staff is super-friendly, the decor is on point and the food is great. Not to mention that the portions are huge. I chose to sit on one of their swings while I devoured my delicious burger.

19. Cantabon Cave

Located in the center of the island, Cantabon Cave is one of the top tourist attractions in Siquijor. This underground cave is 800-meters long and to explore it, you’ll need sturdy shoes. Also, make sure to store all your electronic devices in a waterproof bag.

To visit this cave, you’ll need a guide but you can find one at the entrance. The entrance fee will include safety equipment such as a helmet and light.

Entrance fee – 500 PHP for a group of 3 people

20. Lazi Convent

Located in the town of Lazi, this convent was built in 1884. It’s the biggest one in Asia and it plays an important religious role in the local community. When visiting Lazi Convent, make sure to stop at the Siquijor Heritage Museum. Here you can admire historical items and religious artifacts.

21. Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

One of the best snorkeling spots in Siquijor, Tulapos Marine Sanctuary is home to incredible marine life. Colorful fish, turtles and huge corals are waiting to be discovered here.

Unlike Tubod Marine Sanctuary, you’ll need a guide for Tulapos, snorkeling here without one is not allowed. The entrance fee is 300 PHP and it includes snorkeling gear and a guide.

22. Kagusuan Beach

Located away from the crowds, Kagusuan Beach is another tourist destination you need to visit in Siquijor. From the road, you’ll have to walk for about 10 minutes to reach this beach, but you’ll be rewarded with a pristine place with no crowds.

Of course, there are no beach bars, toilets, or any facilities here but you can enjoy being surrounded by nature and beauty for a few hours.

23. Capilay Spring Park

If you want to feel the pulse of the local community living in Siquijor, head to Capilay Spring Park in San Juan Town. The water is cool and about 2 meters deep and there are no entry fees. Everybody can enjoy this awesome spring! It’s the perfect place to refresh yourself after a day of sightseeing in Siquijor.

24. Marelle’s Seashell Museum

Would you like to learn more about the marine life? Stop at Marelle’s Seashell Museum. Here you’ll discover an impressive collection of seashells, land snails and other marine creatures. After that, try their restaurant for some delicious Filipino dishes.

Entrance fee – 100 PHP per person

25. Drive on a motorbike around the island

The best way to explore Siquijor is on a motorbike or scooter. It gives you the freedom to explore every beach and waterfall at your own pace. Also, you’ll pass through local villages and you can make as many stops as you want along the way.

4. How to get to Siquijor

The only way to reach Siquijor is by ferry. To get to this island, you have three options. You can either take the ferry from Cebu, Dumaguete or Bohol. Either way, you’ll arrive in Larena Port.

Dumaguete to Siquijor

To get from Dumaguete to Siquijor you have two options. You can take the ferry for about one and a half hours. The trip will cost around 150 PHP.

Another option is to book a day trip. I recommend this top-rated tour that includes stops at Cambugahay Falls , the Balete Tree and Triad Cafe.

Cebu to Siquijor

The fastest option is to take a ferry from Cebu to Tagbilaran in Bohol and then another ferry from Tagbilaran to Siquijor. The trip will take around 4 hours.

Bohol to Siquijor

From Tagbilaran, Bohol , you can take the ferry to Siquijor for about 2 hours. The ride is comfortable and there are no stops along the way. Check out my Bohol guide here .

5. Where to stay in Siquijor

Choosing the perfect hotel for your budget might be daunting, but I’m here to help you. I’ve been searching for the best hotels and guest houses in Siquijor for every budget and these are my recommendations.

• Budget –  Miki’s Guest House  –  cozy house, good facilities (including scooter rental), AC, WiFi
• Mid Budget –  Tropical Fun Ta Sea  –  excellent location, sea view, clean and spacious rooms, excellent amenities
• Luxury –  Infinity Heights Resort  –  incredible private villa with sea view, luxurious design, very spacious, friendly staff

6. Final thoughts

Siquijor is one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, a hidden gem with stunning beaches, crystal-clear water and breathtaking waterfalls. I recommend spending at least 3 days on this island because it has a lot to offer!

I hope that these tourist attractions in Siquijor inspired you to book a trip to this island. Make sure to also add Bohol to your itinerary. It’s famous for its Chocolate Hills and epic waterfalls .

Enjoy these Siquijor tourist spots and let me know in the comments below if you have any questions. May the travel bug bite you!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

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12 Places to Visit in Siquijor + Things To Do

Hop on a ferry from Dumaguete & wander around the mystical island of Siquijor. This small island off-the-coast of Negros Oriental province in Central Philippines is famous for its stunning beach coves, waterfalls, and as a home of mountain-dwelling mangkukulam (healers/Filipino witches).

Touchdown at Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, which serves direct flights from Manila and Cebu. From Dumaguete Pier, ride one of the frequent ferries to Siquijor. Travel time by fastcraft (high-speed ferry) is 50 minutes. You can also reach Siquijor on a direct ferry from Cebu or Bohol.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Siquijor travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Siquijor Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

View all travel tips on: Siquijor .

1. Cambugahay Falls

Location : Siquijor Circumferential Road, Lazi, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

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2. Salagdoong Beach

Location : Maria, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

3. Lazi Church (San Isidro Labrador Parish Church)

Location : Lazi, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

4. San Isidro Labrador Convent & Siquijor Heritage Museum

Location : In front of Lazi Church. Lazi, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

5. Siquijor Church (St. Francis Of Assisi Parish Church)

Location : Sta. Fe. St, Siquijor, 6225 Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

6. Maria Church (Our Lady of the Divine Providence Parish Church)

Location : Siquijor Circumferential Road, Maria, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

7. Old Enchanted Balete Tree

Location : Siquijor Circumferential Road, Lazi, 6228 Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

8. Cang-isok House

Location : Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

9. Salagdoong Forest

10. Capilay Spring Park

Location : Siquijor Circumferential Road, San Juan, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

11. Poblacion Siquijor Beach (Siquijor Pier Beach)

Location : Siquijor, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

12. Poblacion San Juan Beach

Location : Poblacion, San Juan, Siquijor . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go near Siquijor & beyond

Dumaguete City & Negros Oriental

Location : Negros Oriental province, Central Visayas region . Save on Google Maps .

Dumaguete Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Top discounts

Manjuyod Sandbar and Twin Lakes Tour

Siquijor Cambugahay Falls and Heritage Day Trip

Twin Lakes Natural Park with Dumaguete City Tour

See more : Dumaguete City & Negros Oriental travel tips

Location : Central Visayas region . Save on Google Maps .

Bohol Travel Essentials

Bohol Countryside Tour w/ Buffet Lunch

Bohol Private Car Charter

Chocolate Hills Adventure Park Admission Ticket

See more : Bohol travel tips

Cebu Travel Essentials

Cebu-Tagbilaran, Bohol OceanJet Ferry Ticket

Cebu Airport Private Transfers – for Cebu City, Mactan & more

Bohol Day Tour from Cebu

See more : Cebu travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Siquijor that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Siquijor

Siquijor tourist spots, things to do in Siquijor, where to go in Siquijor & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Siquijor

Click below & search recommended Siquijor hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

• Southeast Asia
• Philippines

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Top Things to Do in Siquijor Island

Things to do in siquijor island, explore popular experiences, ways to tour siquijor island.

Full-Day Private Siquijor Island Tour

Siquijor: Island Tours and Packages

Siquijor Island Tour From Dumaguete

11 Days in Philippines : Cebu-Bohol-Camiguin-Siquijor

Siquijor: Transport-Car-Van-MotorBike

Full-Day Private Tour Siquijor Island

Siquijor Scuba Diving for Beginners

7 Days in Philippines: Bohol and Siquijor

Tours & sightseeing, top attractions in siquijor island.

Shore Excursions

Private & custom tours, popular cities in siquijor island.

What travelers are saying

• Cambugahay Falls
• Tubod Marine Sanctuary
• Paliton Beach
• Cantabon Cave
• Lugnason Falls
• Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary
• Old Enchanted Balete Tree
• MARELLE’S SEASHELL MUSEUM- RESTAURANT & BAR- GIFT SHOP

9 x Best Things To Do in Siquijor (Travel Guide)

Siquijor is a beautiful, small, and somewhat off-the-beaten-path island in the Philippines located right under Cebu. White beaches, crystal clear waters for swimming, majestic waterfalls, super friendly locals, and stunning drives are all that you can expect traveling here. Drive around the entire island’s coastline via the main road within two hours by motorbike and explore all the tourist attractions Siquijor has to offer.

Things To Do in Siquijor

Siquijor has to be on your Philippines Travel Guide . Despite the island’s small size, there are a lot of great things to do on Siquijor. Plan on spending 3 days visiting these stunning tourist attractions.

1. Cambugahay Falls – best Siquijor tourist attraction

A stunning waterfall is divided into three levels here, all including an enormous pool. The main pool has a couple of rope swings that will make it even more fun to spend some hours here.

Swing an unlimited amount of times for 50 PHP (0.89 USD). There is also an entrance fee to the falls, which costs 20 PHP (0.35 USD). You won’t need a guide to get to the waterfall; it’s about 150 steps on a well-made stair. Because it is a popular tourist attraction in Siquijor, we recommend you visit in the morning (opens at 8 AM).

Here are all your hotel options in Siquijor.

2. Paliton – Best Siquijor Beach

The most beautiful beach in Siquijor is called Paliton Beach. It is well known among travelers and locals but doesn’t get too crowded besides the weekends. The white sand beach, clear water with starfish, and palm trees make it a great place to spend the afternoon and watch the sunset. Paliton Beach is located very close to San Juan town.

Tip: Take a bag with you and do a little beach clean up while you tan.

3. Butterfly Sanctuary Siquijor

One of the most surprising Siquijor tourist attractions is the Butterfly Sanctuary in the center of the island. Hop on a motorbike and drive a stunning route up the hills. The butterfly park is a sanctuary started by a man who releases butterflies from his garden weekly. Due to new buildings and deforestation, fewer butterflies can be found in the wild.

Visit his garden with huge, beautifully colored butterflies, drink coconut, and help the owner to maintain his project.

4. Lugnason Falls

Different from Cambugahay Falls, the Luganson Waterfall is hidden and not on every traveler’s list of things to do in Siquijor. A beautiful 5-minute hike down the jungle hill brings you to a silky blue waterfall.

Swim, swing, or climb at the waterfall, and before you know it, you’ve spent a couple of hours relaxing and playing around. There is no entrance fee, and the locals hanging around are there to have a good time with you.

Hotels in Siquijor 😴

5. Tubod Beach – Relaxing thing to do on Siquijor

Want to spend some time on the beach? Tubod is a long, calm, sunbathing beach in front of the Coco Grove Resort. There is a marine sanctuary in front, so we don’t recommend swimming here. The corals are too close to shore, no matter if it’s high or low tide. We have seen people standing on top of or hitting the corals, and that shouldn’t be the case!

If you do swim near the corals, please be aware of the sea urchins and, sometimes, jellyfish. Good to know: Siquijor is not a party island but mainly to relax.

Also read the ultimate Philippines travel guide

6. Salagdoong Cliff Jump

Drive down the scenic coastline on Siquijor towards Salagdoong Beach Resort. Salagdoong cliff jump point is located on top of a rock reaching a height of 10 meters and is a cool thing to do on Siquijor. The nearby white beach is great to relax. Parking is 80 PHP.

Good to remember is that this tourist attraction in Siquijor is only accessible during high tide.

7. Churches

Siquijor is home to many beautiful old churches. While arriving in Siquijor town by ferry, you immediately notice the old church called the San Isidro Labrador church. Drive around the island, and you will see a new one in every town. Some are open to enter and see from the inside.

8. Old Enchanted Balete Tree

The 400-year-old Balete Tree is a popular quick stop on your way to one of the other Siquijor tourist attractions. At the bottom of the tree lies a freshwater base, and the story goes that the tree is enchanted. Tours are offered to this location, but we wouldn’t say that’s worth your money.

9. Climb to the viewpoint

On your way to the butterfly park, make sure to stop at a sign that says ‘ Quesol Mountain View ’. It’s a 5-minute walk up a hill that gives you a great view of the area.

Travel Tips for Visiting Siquijor, Philippines

Getting money on Siquijor isn’t a problem. There are a couple of working ATMs around the island. You can easily ATM in Google Maps to find them.

Good to know: During rainy season, power cuts occur more than usual.

Staying connected via WiFi on Siquijor is challenging. Most larger restaurants offer a slow connection, just enough to email or WhatsApp. It’s best to buy a SIM card in advance, which seems to work across the entire island.

Motorbike Rental

Different from other islands in the Philippines, Siquijor’s main transport is a motorbike. While arriving at the harbor, you can directly rent a motorbike. This should cost 350 – 500 PHP (6.20 – 8.80 USD) per day, depending on the season. Driving around by motorbike is one of the best things to do on Siquijor.

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Best restaurants on Siquijor

In San Juan town are a handful of good restaurants. We ranked them by our yummy (♥️) rating.

• Luca Loko ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
• Baha ♥️♥️♥️♥️
• Tomato & Basil ♥️♥️♥️
• Sunset restaurant ♥️♥️♥️

How to get to Siquijor

Due to Siquijor’s position near Dumaguete, Cebu, and Bohol, it isn’t that hard to reach the island. There are no flights, but it is easily accessible via ferry.

It is best to take a ferry from Dumaguete (40 min) or Bohol (90 min). Both locations are easy to reach by airplane. From Cebu City would require a bus trip (4 hours) down the island to the ferry point in Lilo-an. Please note that while departing, you have to pay a terminal and luggage fee.

Find your boat / bus tickets online . We recommend OceanJet.

Where to Stay

Siquijor, Philippines, offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from cozy beachfront bungalows and boutique resorts to budget-friendly hostels, making sure every traveler has a comfortable stay for their budget and preference.

The Best Time to Visit

Siquijor has the best weather from November to May. The best time to visit is from December to March. The hottest months are from April to June and are best to avoid.

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Canyoning in Cebu: Jump off Waterfalls in The Philippines

Whale sharks in the philippines: things to know before you go, philippines travel guide: the ultimate 3-week itinerary.

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Hi. Love your article. Went to Cambugahay Falls yesterday and there is actually an entrance fee of 20pesos

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12 Best SIQUIJOR TOURIST SPOTS (Enchanting waterfalls & beaches)

The beautiful island of Siquijor is known for being one of the mystical and magical places in the Philippines . The island is famous for making alternative medicines and more than century-old traditions. But setting aside all of this, there are loads of best tourist spots in Siquijor, from beach hopping to exploring forest trails leading to enchanting waterfalls and visiting historical and century-old attractions.

Although some visitors who believe in the old stories and tales are hesitant to visit the island, Siquijor still offers many unspoiled and off-the-beaten paths. Thus, it is perfect for summer getaways and adventurers who like less touristy spots.

If chasing waterfalls is one of your interests, Siquijor is also the best place to go. From Cambugahay Falls to Lagaan Falls, these spots are surely enchanting nature gems. The province is also a recommended destination for those who enjoy water activities like snorkeling, exploring marine life, cliff diving, and slippery slides that lead to crystal blue waters.

Nowadays, many foreign and local tourists visit Siquijor. The old tales about the island are only a thing of the past because Siquijor truly offered something magical that has captured the hearts of many travelers.  So to know more about the island that is also known as “Isla del Fuego” or Island of Fire, here are the 12 best tourist spots that you must explore.

1. Cambugahay Falls

One of the best tourist spots in Siquijor, Cambugahay Falls is truly a magical place with three-tiered waterfalls and clear blue waters. It is located beside the highway and one of the most popular spots in town where tourists and locals flock. Cambugahay Falls is also very accessible by riding tricycles or renting a motorbike.

Credit: emmanicoleshaw

Once in the area, visitors need to walk downstairs with 135 steps to see the beauty of Cambugahay Falls. Although Cambugahay Falls doesn’t have a towering drop, its vastness makes it more enchanting. In addition, there are rope swings in the area for added fun when jumping, and offers balsa rental ideal for Insta-worthy shots. However, there are no restaurants in the area, so it’s better to bring your food if you’re staying long.   CHECK – BEST HOTELS IN SIQUIJOR HERE

2. Paliton Beach

If you’re a fan of Boracay but trying to avoid the crowd, head to Siquijor’s Little Boracay, the Paliton Beach. The summer paradise offers a scenic view with large palm trees along the coast, clear turquoise waters, and fine white sand, very similar to Boracay but more secluded. It is located near San Juan town and the perfect spot on the island, to watch the sunset.

Credit: TripAdvisor

However, since Paliton Beach is not commercialized, there are no accommodations on the beach offering sunset views. Also, there are no restaurants or shops on the beach, only locals setting up stands for a mini store selling beverages and snacks. But if you want to stay longer, there are a few nearby accommodations to stay.

3. Salagdoong Beach

A must-visit for thrill-seekers, Salagdoong Beach is a recommended spot to do cliff diving into the crystal blue waters of Siquijor. To reach the area, get off the ferry, and it will take around an hour ride to reach the entrance of Salagdoong Beach Resort. Upon arrival, guests need to pay an entrance fee of Php 30 per head and a Php 20 parking fee before driving through the main beach.

Credit: Salagdoong Beah 

Salagdang Beach is a hidden gem with two stunning coves, white sands, and surrounded with palm trees. But the top attractions that the beach offers are cliff jumping with 5-meter and 10-meter diving boards and the slippery slide.

4. San Juan Beach

Apart from the pristine beauty of Paliton Beach, San Juan Beach is a great place to visit, where loads of resorts are lined up. Since it’s very close to Paliton Beach, it is a good place to stay overnight after exploring the marine sanctuary. The Poblacion San Juan Beach is not only popular for its accommodation but boasts a picturesque ocean view, fine white sands, and has a backdrop of large palm trees.

Credit: Shoestring Diary

In short, the San Juan Beach looks very similar to Siquijor’s Little Boracay but more touristy. Furthermore, it is a popular diving spot, such as the Maite point filled with marine wildlife and the Tubod Sanctuary coral reefs.

5. Sandugan Beach

Located in Barangay Sandugan, in Larena town, Sandugan Beach is another breathtaking and secluded spot offering fine white sands, mountain views, and surrounded by lush forest. It is the perfect place to visit for unwinding and to bring kids to swim or snorkel, considering its shallow and gentle waters.

Credit: Enroute Negros

In addition, its long shoreline reaching the clear waters makes it place for a dip while lounging. Sandugan Beach is accessible via a motorcycle or jeepney ride and has resorts nearby in the area, offering accommodation, restaurants, and diving activities. So if you’re planning to take some time off, Sandugan Beach will not disappoint.

6. Siquijor Church (St. Francis Of Assisi Parish Church)

The first stop to all travelers seeking to explore Siquijor, the Siquijor Church, or Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Church, is more than a century-old Catholic Church and was the first and only church on the island until the 19th century. Travel back in time as you visit this church built by the Spaniards in 1783.

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The stone church was constructed to serve as a hiding spot from pirates and was originally designed with a nipa roof. Moreover, its adobe bell towers serve as a watchtower, to easily spot island invaders. Siquijor Church convent is strategically located, as it faces the hill to avoid being captured by enemies during the Spanish colonization.

7. Old Enchanted Balete Tree

If mystery and mythical creatures pique your interest, head to one of the best tourist spots in Siquijor, the Old Enchanted Balete Tree. The 400-year old tree is less than an hour’s drive from San Juan, located in the town of Lazi at Barangay Campalanas. Also, it is a quick stop-off point since the century Old Balete Tree is located just along the road.

Credit: Old Enchanted Balete Tree

The bewitching Balete Tree is not only famous for its century-old age but attracts tourists for its natural springs flowing from its underneath. There is also a man-made pool where the clean spring waters flow through and have fish doctors if you feel like having a foot spa.

8. Lugnason Falls

Another must-see in town, Lugnason Falls, is one of the most famous falls in Siquijor. The enchanting natural wonders have a 5-meter waterfall and clear blue water spring, filled with lush greeneries hidden in the forest trail. It is also a recommended spot for adventurers, where they can freely jump off from the top of the falls.

As of writing, there is no entrance fee to get in the falls and only charges Php 10 for the parking fee. Also, the fun doesn’t end in the waterfalls since tourists can swim in a manmade pool coming from the spring. Follow the trail downstream and walk through the aqua-ducts to reach the spot.

9. Lazi Church (San Isidro Labrador Parish Church)

An exemplary model of neoclassical architecture, the Lazi Church, or San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, is a Baroque Roman Catholic church established by Augustinian Recollects in 1857. It is also a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the Baroque Churches in the country.

Unlike any other century-old church, Lazi Church is uniquely built with wall coral stones and carved with finishing touches by local artisans. Furthermore, the church features a painted blue ceiling, symmetrically balanced pulpits, original devotional painting, herringbone wood flooring, and marbled floor altar. Lazi Church convent is recognized as one of the biggest convent’s constructed during the Spanish colonial period.

10. Lagaan Falls

Apart from secluded beaches, Siquijor has loads of waterfalls to choose from, and Lagaan Falls, should not be missed. It is located nearby the Old Enchanted Balete Tree and will take half an hour ride from San Juan if you’re renting a motorbike or riding a tricycle. Once on the jump-off point, tourists have to pay a Php 30 entrance fee and charges free for parking.

Credit: manoukvdijken

After paying the entrance fee, it will require trekking down for around 15 minutes through the forest trail, where the stunning Lagaan Falls unveils. The first tier is the biggest and ideal for swimming and has a rope swing for added fun, similar to Cambugahay Falls.

11. Talisay Beach

Located near the town of Maria and Lazi, Talisay Beach is the perfect spot to cool off and avoid the crowd. Although this beach is not known as Paliton Beach, it is still a must-visit for beach bummers featuring white sand and a breathtaking cove. In addition, this is a famous snorkeling spot, so don’t forget to bring your gears.

To reach Talisay Beach, head to a similar route to Salagdoong Beach and venture through the forest trail. Also, it is best to visit this hidden gem during high tide season to avoid walking through rock cliffs and swim easily.

12. Cang-isok House

Lastly, the ideal spot to visit for history enthusiasts, Cang-isok House is another centuries-old structure in the town of Siquijor. Located on the coast of Barangay Libo at Enrique Villanueva town, Cang-isok is a stilt house built in the 1800s and recognized as the oldest surviving ancient house in Siquijor.

Credit: Touristang Pobre 

Standing strong on the coast of Siquijor, the historical attraction is made from locally sourced materials like bamboo, molave, tugas, and nipa roofs. Although Cang-isok House looks rustic and tattered, it is still a great representation of how locals lived centuries back then. So take the time to drop by at this spot and feel how to live decades ago.

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• Top 14 Siquijor Tourist Spots: Island of Enchantment

What are the best Siquijor tourist spots you should visit? Find out in this article. Learn why this tropical island is a favorite getaway despite its remoteness.

Tucked away in the central part of the Philippines, Siquijor is an island that boasts an otherworldly charm. Often referred to as the “Island of Fire,” this destination ignites the imagination with its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local legends.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the best Siquijor tourist spots with pictures that will undoubtedly leave you captivated.

Here we go!

1. Salagdoong Beach: A Tropical Paradise

Our journey begins at Salagdoong Beach, a quintessentially tropical paradise that embodies the essence of Siquijor.

The soft, powdery white sands juxtaposed against the vibrant azure waters create a picture-perfect setting for beachgoers and sunseekers.

As one of the most popular Siquijor tourist spots, this beach also offers an adrenaline rush with its daring cliff diving spots. Capture the moment as you plunge into the clear waters, and take in the breathtaking views that surround you.

2. Cambugahay Falls: Nature’s Cascading Symphony

Nature’s melody comes to life at Cambugahay Falls, a multi-tiered cascade that’s as refreshing as it is stunning.

The crystal-clear water descends through lush greenery, forming a series of inviting pools. Swing on the iconic rope swings, let the cool water rejuvenate your senses and bask in the tranquility of the serene forest surroundings.

This spot is not just a tourist attraction; it’s an invitation to connect with the raw beauty of nature.

3. San Isidro Labrador Church: A Glimpse into History

Delve into Siquijor’s rich cultural tapestry at the San Isidro Labrador Church, a historical gem that stands as a testament to the island’s enduring faith.

The Baroque-style architecture of the church exudes a sense of grandeur, while the interior holds religious artifacts and artworks that chronicle the island’s history.

This sacred site allows visitors to reflect on the island’s spiritual heritage and the role it has played in shaping the community.

4. Lazi Convent: A Masterpiece of Architecture

Adjacent to the San Isidro Labrador Church stands the Lazi Convent, a structure that has withstood the test of time.

As the oldest and largest convent in the Philippines, it is an architectural masterpiece that tells the story of colonial influence on the island.

The intricate carvings, wooden floors, and well-preserved halls provide a glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

5. Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary: Nature’s Kaleidoscope

Step into a world of vibrant colors and delicate beauty at the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary.

Home to a diverse array of butterfly species, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to witness these enchanting creatures up close.

Wander through lush gardens adorned with colorful blooms, and let the fluttering wings of the butterflies transport you to a world of magic and wonder.

6. Balete Tree and Fish Spa: A Natural Retreat

Amidst the legends and lore of Siquijor lies the Balete Tree, a towering banyan tree that has stood for centuries.

As you approach, you’ll notice its enormity and the mystical ambiance it exudes. Engage in a truly unique experience as you dip your feet into the natural pool beneath the tree.

Tiny fish, known as “Doctor Fish,” provide a therapeutic foot spa that’s both relaxing and rejuvenating—a fitting metaphor for the island’s ability to heal and rejuvenate the soul.

7. Capilay Spring Park: Oasis of Serenity

For a leisurely escape, Capilay Spring Park offers an oasis of serenity where the natural spring waters converge into inviting pools.

Surrounded by verdant foliage, this park is perfect for picnics, strolls, and moments of contemplation.

As you take in the tranquil atmosphere, you’ll find that this spot encapsulates the island’s essence—a harmonious blend of nature and relaxation.

8. Paliton Beach: Secluded Paradise

Seeking seclusion? Paliton Beach beckons with its unspoiled beauty and tranquil ambiance.

This hidden gem boasts powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, inviting you to unwind and soak up the sun’s warm embrace.

Whether you’re gazing at the horizon or relishing the gentle waves, Paliton Beach offers a secluded paradise for those who prefer a quieter escape.

9. Tubod Marine Sanctuary: Beneath the Waves

Siquijor’s enchantment isn’t confined to its shores; it extends beneath the waves.

The Tubod Marine Sanctuary invites you to explore an underwater realm teeming with marine life. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will be delighted by the vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and intricate ecosystems that thrive beneath the surface.

This sanctuary serves as a reminder of the island’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures.

10. Mount Bandilaan Nature Park: A Peak Experience

Elevate your journey to new heights at Mount Bandilaan Nature Park, the highest peak on the island.

The park presents a myriad of experiences, from panoramic views that extend to neighboring islands to well-marked hiking trails that wind through lush forests.

As you explore, you’ll encounter a serene butterfly garden—an unexpected oasis of tranquility that complements the park’s natural beauty.

Today, the mountain is one of the most important Siquijor tourist attractions. Not only does it offer captivating views but also harbors critically-endangered plants and animals.

11. Tulapos Marine Sanctuary: Conservation Haven

At Tulapos Marine Sanctuary, conservation takes center stage. Immerse yourself in a world of marine wonders as you snorkel or dive in the clear waters.

The vibrant coral reefs serve as a reminder of the delicate balance that sustains the marine ecosystem.

As you navigate through this underwater wonderland, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

Thanks to local conservation efforts, the sanctuary is a thriving Siquijor tourist destination.

12. Cantabon Cave: A Subterranean Adventure

Venture into the heart of Siquijor’s geological wonders at Cantabon Cave—a playground for adventurers and explorers.

Traverse its narrow passages, marvel at the intricate rock formations that have evolved over millennia, and immerse yourself in the underground marvels that the island has to offer.

This journey into the depths of the earth will awaken your sense of wonder and curiosity.

13. Kagusuan Beach: Tranquility Unveiled

As you explore Siquijor, you’ll uncover hidden treasures, and Kagusuan Beach is one such gem.

Tucked away from the bustling crowds, this tranquil beach invites you to unwind on its soft sands, sheltered by towering palm trees.

Whether you’re beachcombing, sunbathing, or simply relishing the calm ambiance, Kagusuan Beach offers a serene escape from the ordinary.

Because of its quaint setting, the beach is an ideal tourist spot in Siquijor for those who opt for less touristy but pristine attractions.

14. Guiwanon Spring Park: Eco-Friendly Wonderland

Immerse yourself in the eco-friendly wonderland of Guiwanon Spring Park, where bamboo boardwalks lead you through mangrove forests and thriving ecosystems.

This park offers a glimpse into the island’s commitment to preserving its natural resources while allowing visitors to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.

The harmony between humans and nature is palpable, making this park an inspiring destination.

This lush attraction is one of the most alluring Siquijor tourist spots.

Siquijor is indeed more than just an island destination; it’s a tapestry woven from the threads of nature, culture, and legend. Each spot invites you to explore a different facet of its enchantment, from the breathtaking beaches and waterfalls to the historical sites that reveal the island’s past.

Whether you’re drawn to adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, Siquijor’s allure is undeniable.

Plan your journey to this mystical island, where every twist and turn reveals a new layer of magic waiting to be discovered.

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Hi there fellow traveler! My name is Daniel although you can call me Kumafor. That's my indigenous name. I grew on a remote village called Lias in Barlig, Mountain Province.

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The 16 Best Siquijor Tourist Spots – Discover The Mystical Charm of Siquijor Island

Siquijor tourist spots are renowned for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and an air of mystique that has earned it the moniker “Island of Fire.” Beyond its mystical reputation, Siquijor boasts a plethora of tourist spots that showcase its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and enchanting allure.

Let’s travel on a virtual journey to explore some of the must-visit attractions on this magical island of Central Visayas .

Table of Contents

1. Cantabon Cave

Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to Cantabon Cave. This underground marvel features stunning rock formations, crystal-clear pools, and the exhilarating experience of spelunking through its intricate network of chambers.

2. Old Enchanted Balete Tree

Feel the ancient magic at the Old Enchanted Balete Tree, believed to be centuries old. This colossal balete tree is not only a natural wonder but also a mystical site where locals say supernatural beings reside. Visitors can dip their feet into the enchanting fish spa pool at its base.

3. Cambugahay Falls

Escape to the refreshing embrace of Cambugahay Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The turquoise blue waters invite you to take a dip or swing from the Tarzan-like vines for a thrilling adventure.

4. Butterfly Sanctuary

Step into the captivating world of butterflies at the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary. This haven for these delicate creatures provides visitors with an educational and mesmerizing experience as they witness various species fluttering around in their natural habitat.

5. St. Francis of Assisi Church

Immerse yourself in history and spirituality at the St. Francis of Assisi Church. This centuries-old church, built during the Spanish colonial era, features intricate architecture and serves as a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage.

6. Lugnason Falls

Nestled in a serene forested area, Lugnason Falls is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The cascading water and tranquil surroundings create a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful escape.

7. Mt. Bandilaan National Park

For breathtaking panoramic views and a touch of adventure, trek to the summit of Mt. Bandilaan. This national park is not only home to diverse flora and fauna but also offers a chance to connect with nature through its well-maintained trails.

8. Paliton Beach

Unwind on the powdery white sands of Paliton Beach. With its clear turquoise waters and swaying palm trees, this secluded paradise is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

9. Hillside Village and Saki Restaurant

Experience the warm hospitality of Siquijor at Hillside Village, offering a panoramic view of the island. Enjoy delicious local cuisine at Saki Restaurant while taking in the stunning sunset. An elegant and relaxing restaurant you should visit while completing your Siquijor tourist spots hopping.

10. Lazi Church – Siquijor tourist spot

Marvel at the architectural beauty of Lazi Church, also known as San Isidro Labrador Parish Church. This Baroque-style church, declared a National Historical Landmark, is a testament to Siquijor’s rich colonial past.

11. Lagaan Falls – Siquijor Tourist Spot

Discover the hidden beauty of Lagaan Falls, tucked away in the heart of Siquijor tourist spots. The cascading water and lush surroundings create a serene environment for those seeking a tranquil retreat.

12. Kanheron Ranch

Experience the rustic charm of Kanheron Ranch, a sprawling estate showcasing Siquijor’s countryside. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding and immerse themselves in the laid-back rural atmosphere.

13. Siquijor Boulevard

Take a leisurely stroll along Siquijor Boulevard, a scenic stretch where locals gather, and visitors can enjoy the coastal views, vibrant sunsets, and the island’s laid-back atmosphere. You can find a selection of street foods and local cuisine while you walk along the boulevard. Simple place yet a must-visit Siquijor tourist spot.

14. Salagdoong Beach Cliff Diving

Thrill-seekers will find excitement at Salagdoong Beach, known for its cliff diving spots. Take a leap of faith into the clear waters and experience an adrenaline rush like no other in this most visited diving destination among Siquijor tourist spots.

15. Marelle’s Seashell Museum & Bar – Gift Sho p

Explore the fascinating world of seashells at Marelle’s Seashell Museum, where an extensive collection showcases the diversity of marine life. The adjacent bar and gift shop provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and take home a piece of Siquijor tourist spots.

16. Tubod Beach and Marine Sanctuary

Discover the vibrant marine life at Tubod Beach and Marine Sanctuary. Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters to witness the colorful coral reefs and an array of marine species thriving in their natural habitat.

Siquijor tourist spots with their magical blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures, promises an unforgettable journey for those seeking a unique and enchanting travel experience. Whether you’re drawn to the mystical or simply captivated by the island’s beauty, Siquijor welcomes all with open arms and a touch of magic.

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Top 20 Best THINGS TO DO IN SIQUIJOR + Tourist Spots

The ultimate guide to exploring siquijor island.

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Siquijor Tourist Spots: Top Destinations and Attractions in Siquijor

Table of Contents

Siquijor is a small island in the Visayas region of the Philippines, known for its mystical charm, white sand beaches, and lush green forests. With its laid-back atmosphere, Siquijor is a perfect getaway for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It is also a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the island’s culture, history, and natural beauty.

Siquijor offers a variety of tourist spots, destinations, and attractions that cater to different interests. For those who love the outdoors, Siquijor has several waterfalls, beaches, and marine sanctuaries that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Some of the popular tourist spots include Cambugahay Falls, Paliton Beach, and Tulapos Marine Sanctuary. For those who want to learn more about the island’s history and culture, Siquijor also has several churches, museums, and landmarks that showcase the island’s rich heritage.

Siquijor Overview

Siquijor, also known as the “Island of Fire” or “Isla del Fuego,” is a small island province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. The island is known for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and mystical charm.

Siquijor is a popular tourist destination for those seeking a more laid-back and relaxed vacation. The island offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, diving, hiking, and exploring its many waterfalls and caves.

Siquijor is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with several old churches and ancestral homes dating back to the Spanish colonial era. The island is said to be home to traditional healers and practitioners of folk medicine, adding to its mystical allure.

How to Get to Siquijor

Siquijor is a small island province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. Despite its small size, it is a popular tourist destination with a lot to offer visitors. If you’re planning a trip to Siquijor, here’s how to get there:

Your best option is to fly from Manila to Dumaguete on Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific Airlines. Siquijor.

If you prefer to travel by sea, you can take the ferry to Siquijor. The only way to reach Siquijor is by ferry. You can take the ferry from Cebu, Dumaguete, or Bohol. The most common route is from Dumaguete to Siquijor, which takes about an hour. Ferries depart from Dumaguete Port and arrive at Larena Port in Siquijor. You can also take a ferry from Cebu to Siquijor, which takes about 5-6 hours, or from Bohol to Siquijor, which takes about 2-3 hours.

Getting Around Siquijor

Once you arrive in Siquijor, there are several ways to get around the island. The most common mode of transportation is by motorcycle or tricycle. You can rent a motorcycle for around PHP 300-500 per day and explore the island at your own pace. Tricycles are also available for hire, and they are a good option if you’re traveling in a group. You can negotiate the fare with the driver before you start your trip.

From Negros Oriental

If you’re coming from Negros Oriental, you can take a ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor. Dumaguete is the nearest city to Siquijor, and it’s only a short ferry ride away. You can also take a bus or van from Dumaguete to Larena Port and then take a ferry to Siquijor.

Best Time to Visit Siquijor

Siquijor is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. The months of April to June are considered the peak season as it is the time when the weather is hot and sunny, perfect for beach activities and island hopping. During these months, expect to see many tourists on the island.

If you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to visit Siquijor during the low season, which runs from June to October. The weather during this time can be unpredictable, with occasional rains and thunderstorms. However, the island is less crowded, and accommodation and tour prices are lower.

It is worth noting that Siquijor is located in the typhoon belt, and typhoons can hit the island during the months of August to October. If you plan to visit during these months, it is best to monitor weather updates and be prepared for possible flight and ferry cancellations.

The best time to visit Siquijor depends on your preferences and priorities. If you want to enjoy the island’s beaches and outdoor activities, it is best to visit during the dry season, from November to May. If you want to avoid the crowds and save money on accommodation and tours, it is best to visit during the low season, from June to October.

Popular Beaches in Siquijor

Siquijor is known for its pristine beaches with clear turquoise waters. The island has several beaches that are popular among tourists. Here are some of the most popular beaches in Siquijor:

Paliton Beach

Paliton Beach is a hidden gem on the west side of Siquijor Island in the Philippines. With its crystal clear waters and fine white sand, Paliton Beach is the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, and snorkel. As the sun sets, the beach is transformed into a magical scene with stunning views of Apo Island.

You can get to Paliton Beach by taking a dirt road in the main tourist area of San Juan. It is a popular destination for those looking for a peaceful and secluded beach experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the Lonely Planet states that the beach offers wonderful views of Apo Island.

Tubod Beach

Tucked away in the picturesque town of San Juan, Siquijor Island, lies the breathtaking Tubod Beach. With its soft white sand, crystal clear aqua waters, and lush marine sanctuary, Tubod Beach is considered the best beach on Siquijor Island and is highly recommended by Tripadvisor for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Located on the south-west coast of the island, Tubod Marine Sanctuary is situated right in the middle of San Juan, where most restaurants and hotels are located. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family outing, or an adventure-filled day, Tubod Beach is the perfect spot.

Salagdoong Beach

At Salagdoong Beach, you can experience the beauty of the crystal clear turquoise waters and white sand of Siquijor Island. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, and it also offers a unique cliff jumping experience. The cliff is about 20 feet high and located at the southern end of the beach.

For those who want to stay for a few days, Salagdoong Beach Resort is located on the far east corner of the island and offers various facilities, such as a restaurant, cottages, and rooms for rent. Salagdoong Beach is the perfect destination for a tropical getaway and offers something for everyone.

Siquijor has many other beautiful beaches that are worth visiting. Whether you are looking for a secluded spot to relax or a lively beach with lots of activities, Siquijor has something for everyone.

Waterfalls and Natural Wonders

Siquijor is known for its natural beauty and is home to several waterfalls that are worth visiting.

Cambugahay Falls

Tucked away in the lush greenery of Siquijor Island in the Philippines, lies the stunning Cambugahay Falls . A three-tiered paradise surrounded by lush greenery, visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear turquoise waters or go for a relaxing bamboo raft ride.

The upper part of the falls is inaccessible to the public, but still offers small tiers for those who are brave enough to explore. For the more adventurous, the Tarzan swing is a must-try activity. Located in the town of Lazi, the easiest way to get there is by renting a scooter or hiring a tricycle from San Juan.

There is a small entrance fee to enter the area, but the breathtaking views and unforgettable experience make it worth every penny. Make sure to visit Cambugahay Falls and take in the beauty of its crystal-clear waters and lush greenery.

Lugnason Falls

Experience the beauty of Lugnason Falls, one of Siquijor Island’s most popular and breathtaking waterfalls! Located in the town of San Juan, this waterfall is surrounded by a lush forest and can be reached after a short hike. Take a plunge in the refreshing waters of the falls or enjoy the view from the rocks nearby.

For those looking for a bit of an adventure, there’s also the opportunity to jump off the cliff into the pool below. With its two levels, Lugnason Falls is a great place to swim and explore. So, if you’re looking to experience the wonders of nature, a visit to Lugnason Falls is a must!

Lagaan Falls

Take a journey off the beaten path and explore the hidden gem of Lagaan Falls! Located in the town of Lazi on Siquijor Island, this mini waterfall is newly developed by the youth of Barangay Kinamandagan and Barangay Tignao to offer a unique experience for adventurous travelers.

A short hike through the forest is all it takes to reach the falls, surrounded by towering trees and lush vegetation, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Take a dip in the several swimming holes, swing from the rope swings, and jump from the rocks – Lagaan Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Siquijor and a must-see during your visit to the island!

Historical Churches and Landmarks

Siquijor is not only known for its natural wonders but also for its historical landmarks.

San Isidro Labrador Parish Church

Visiting San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, commonly known as Lazi Church, is a must for anyone wanting to experience the rich culture and history of Siquijor Island. Built in the 1850s, this Roman Catholic church is one of the oldest and largest churches in the province.

The church is constructed from coral stones and hardwood, and its Baroque-inspired architecture is a mix of Spanish and Filipino styles. Inside the church, visitors can explore a museum filled with religious artifacts and antiques.

The church is also known for its beautiful bell tower, which stands separate from the main church building. Exploring San Isidro Labrador Parish Church is an unforgettable experience and a great way to learn more about the island’s history.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish

Situated in the town of Siquijor on Siquijor Island, St. Francis of Assisi Parish is a Roman Catholic church with a rich history that dates back to 1783. Dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment, this Baroque-inspired church is a popular tourist destination.

As an active church community, the parish offers regular masses and other religious services, as well as updates and announcements on its Facebook page.

Visitors can attend Sunday masses in the morning and afternoon or explore the 19th-century bell tower in the Romanesque-Gothic church of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in San Juan.

Old Enchanted Balete Tree in Lazi

For centuries, the mysterious Old Enchanted Balete Tree in the town of Lazi on Siquijor Island has been a source of fascination and awe. Believed to be over 400 years old, it is one of the oldest and largest balete trees in the province. It’s also known as the “enchanted tree” due to local folklore that claims it is home to supernatural beings, and its water has healing powers.

Tourists flock to the tree to dip their feet in the water and enjoy a unique fish spa, where small fish nibble on the dead skin of their feet.

For a small entrance fee, visitors can experience the tranquility of this ancient tree and its magical atmosphere. The tree is located in the barangay of Campalanas in Lazi and is accessible by tricycle or motorcycle.

Lazi Convent

The majestic Lazi Convent stands tall in the heart of the small and tranquil town of Lazi, on Siquijor Island. Built in 1887 by Filipino artisans, the 42 by 38 meter structure is a beautiful testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans, and is a wonderful mix of Spanish and Filipino Baroque-inspired architecture.

Adjacent to the San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, also known as Lazi Church, the convent is now the home of the Siquijor Heritage Museum, which houses a collection of religious artifacts and antiques.

It is a popular destination for tourists visiting the island and is easily accessible by tricycle or motorcycle. Lazi Convent is considered one of the largest and oldest convents in the Philippines, and is a living reminder of the Spanish colonial era.

Marine Sanctuaries and Snorkeling Spots

Siquijor is known for its stunning marine sanctuaries and snorkeling spots.

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary is a hidden gem located in the town of Enrique Villanueva on Siquijor Island in the Philippines. According to PADI, Tulapos Marine Sanctuary offers thrilling scuba diving, vibrant marine life, and stunning coral reefs.

The sanctuary is home to an abundance of marine life, including majestic sea turtles, powerful barracudas, and agile jackfish. With its easily accessible location and small hut with snorkeling gear, Tulapos Marine Sanctuary is one of the top snorkeling spots in Siquijor.

For only 100 pesos per person, visitors can explore the underwater world of the sanctuary, home to barracudas, jackfishes, blacktip reef sharks, and sea turtles. Since 1986, Tulapos Marine Sanctuary has been Siquijor’s oldest marine sanctuary, filled with an array of colorful fish and thriving coral reefs. Come discover the hidden beauty of Tulapos Marine Sanctuary and be mesmerized by the underwater world!

Tubod Marine Sanctuary

Experience the beauty of Tubod Marine Sanctuary, an enchanting coral reef located in the picturesque town of San Juan on Siquijor Island. Home to a plethora of marine life, including vibrant fish, sea turtles, and other sea creatures,

Tubod Marine Sanctuary is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. With its crystal clear waters and thriving coral reefs, Snorkeling Report has named Tubod Marine Sanctuary as one of the best-preserved and most beautiful coral reefs in Siquijor Island. Protected for over 30 years, visitors can access the sanctuary by land or boat, with boat trips available through local tour operators.

Entrance fees to Tubod Marine Sanctuary are 100 pesos per person and snorkeling gear can be rented for an additional fee. With its stunning views and abundant marine life, Tubod Marine Sanctuary is an experience not to be missed!

Popular Things to Do in Siquijor

Here are some of the top things to do in Siquijor:

Explore the Island on a Scooter or Motorbike

One of the best ways to explore Siquijor is on a scooter or motorbike. The island is small enough to be explored in a day, and visitors can rent a scooter or motorbike from one of the many rental shops on the island. This is a great way to see the island at your own pace and discover hidden gems.

Experience the Thrill of Cliff-Jumping

For adrenaline junkies, cliff-jumping is a must-try activity in Siquijor. The island has several cliff-jumping spots, including the popular Salagdoong Beach. Visitors can jump from a height of 20 feet into the crystal clear waters below.

Try the Tarzan Swing

The Tarzan Swing is another popular activity in Siquijor. This swing is located at Cambugahay Falls and allows visitors to swing from a rope and jump into the water below. It is a thrilling experience that is sure to get your heart racing.

Experience a Fish Spa

A fish spa is a unique experience that is available in Siquijor. Visitors can dip their feet into a pool of water filled with small fish that will nibble on the dead skin cells on their feet. It is a relaxing and rejuvenating experience that is not to be missed.

Where to Stay in Siquijor

Siquijor Island is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines with a wide range of accommodation options for travelers. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, there is something for everyone.

For those looking for a budget-friendly option, there are many hostels and guesthouses available in Siquijor. These accommodations offer basic amenities and are perfect for backpackers or travelers on a tight budget. Some popular options include the JJ Backpackers Village and The Bruce Resort.

If you are looking for a more luxurious experience, there are many resorts in Siquijor that offer a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, private beaches, and spa services. Some of the best resorts in Siquijor include Coco Grove Beach Resort, Infinity Heights Resort, and Kawayan Holiday Resort.

For those who prefer a more unique experience, there are also several eco-resorts and glamping sites available in Siquijor. These accommodations offer a more sustainable and eco-friendly option for travelers who want to minimize their impact on the environment. Some popular eco-resorts in Siquijor include Glamping Siquijor by the Beach and Coco Farm.

Local Culture and Traditions

Siquijor is not only known for its beautiful beaches and waterfalls but also for its rich culture and traditions. The locals are proud of their heritage and have preserved their customs and practices for generations. One of the most notable traditions is the healing rituals performed by the local shamans or “mananambal.” These rituals involve the use of herbs and prayers to cure illnesses and ailments.

Aside from the healing rituals, Siquijor is also known for its unique collections of antique furnitures. The locals have a penchant for collecting and restoring old furniture pieces, which can be seen in their homes and establishments. These pieces are not only functional but also serve as a testament to the island’s rich history and culture.

The locals of Siquijor also celebrate various festivals throughout the year, which showcase their vibrant culture and traditions. One such festival is the “Fiesta sa Isla,” which is held every third week of September. During this festival, locals and tourists alike can enjoy cultural performances, street dances, and a variety of local delicacies.

In addition to the festivals, Siquijor is also home to several beach coves that offer a glimpse into the local way of life. These coves are not as developed as the other tourist spots on the island, but they offer a serene and peaceful environment where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-see tourist spots in siquijor.

Siquijor is a small yet remarkable island in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. The island is known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant marine life. Some of the must-see tourist spots in Siquijor include the Cambugahay Falls, Tubod Marine Sanctuary, Paliton Beach, Cantabon Cave, and Lugnason Falls. These attractions offer a unique experience and are worth a visit.

What are the newest tourist spots to visit in Siquijor?

Siquijor is a beautiful island that is constantly evolving, and new attractions are popping up all the time. Some of the newest tourist spots to visit in Siquijor include the Butterfly Sanctuary, Guiwanon Spring Park, and the Salagdoong Beach Resort. These attractions offer a unique experience and are worth a visit.

What is the best itinerary for visiting Siquijor tourist spots?

The best itinerary for visiting Siquijor tourist spots depends on your preferences and the amount of time you have. However, a typical itinerary would include visiting the Cambugahay Falls, Tubod Marine Sanctuary, Paliton Beach, Cantabon Cave, and Lugnason Falls. You can also add other attractions such as the Butterfly Sanctuary, Guiwanon Spring Park, and Salagdoong Beach Resort. It is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days on the island to fully explore and enjoy all that it has to offer.

What are the top-rated Siquijor tourist spots for 2023?

The top-rated Siquijor tourist spots for 2023 include the Cambugahay Falls, Tubod Marine Sanctuary, Paliton Beach, Cantabon Cave, and Lugnason Falls. These attractions are popular among tourists and offer a unique experience. Other attractions such as the Butterfly Sanctuary, Guiwanon Spring Park, and Salagdoong Beach Resort are also worth a visit.

Where can I find a map of Siquijor tourist spots?

You can find a map of Siquijor tourist spots online or at the local tourism office. The map will show you the location of each attraction and how to get there. It is recommended to have a map with you when exploring the island to avoid getting lost.

What are the best waterfalls to visit in Siquijor?

Siquijor is home to several stunning waterfalls that are worth a visit. The best waterfalls to visit in Siquijor include the Cambugahay Falls, Lugnason Falls, and Kawasan Falls. These waterfalls offer a refreshing escape from the heat and are surrounded by lush greenery. It is recommended to bring a bathing suit and towel to enjoy a swim in the cool waters.

Siquijor Tourist Spots and Tour Packages

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Want more updates about new package tours and tourist attractions in Siquijor that you can add to your itinerary? Like, Follow, and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com  on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram , and Pinterest , and Team Out Of Town  on YouTube  for more Siquijor tourist spots.

• SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE
• Ultimate List of the Best Beach Resorts in Siquijor Island
• Revisiting Siquijor: My Father’s Hometown

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Mystical Siquijor: The Best Experiences on the Island

03/13/2018 by Kristin Addis 18 Comments

Located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, Siquijor is locally known as ‘Esla del Fuego’, or the island of fire, not because of a raging volcano like I initially thought, but because of its mystical fireflies.

“When you see them out, you know there’s magic around,” said Noel, a local who generously offered to take me to a healer on the island, which is also referred to as the ‘mystical island’ or even ‘Siquihorror’ by locals due to the shamanism and witchcraft that Siquijor is known for.

That night as we sat in the open air karaoke bar, just having belted out Katy Perry’s California Gurls and the Eagles’ Hotel California  — two songs I can’t seem to escape as a Californian in Southeast Asia — the power went out all over the island and the stars, and the fireflies, came out to play.

There’s something about the vibe on Siquijor, a combination of white and black magic, the yin and the yang. There’s a feeling of eeriness and intrigue to it, and to visit without connecting a bit to the spiritual side of the island would be missing out on what makes Siquijor so enchanting.

As well as the waterfalls, the beautiful corals, the caves, the big tree, and the white sand beaches.

So this guide has a little bit of both. Departing from the ferry terminal, these are some of the best experiences and Siquijor tourist spots in order:

Table of Contents

Paliton Beach

Paliton is easily Siquijor’s most famous beach, and if you’re staying in San Juan like most visitors, you won’t be too far from here.

The beach’s most famous and striking feature is the line of coconut palms along the beach. It’s also famous for snorkeling and its lovely white sand. Even during high season, it isn’t very crowded. Make sure to explore beyond just the area near where you park. You’ll need to round a few bends on foot towards your right, if facing the water, to find these trees.

Pro tip: Check out the timing of the tides before you go and try to go during high tide. There are sea urchins and jellyfish in the grasses which will make it a bit of a minefield during low tide.

San Juan is where you’ll find most of the guesthouses, resorts, dive shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s where almost everyone stays when they visit Siquijor for two big reasons: It’s west-facing so you get a fantastic sunset, and it has white sand beaches.

Take a walk in any direction around 5pm and watch as golden hour unfolds into a fiery sunset with Negros and Apo Island in the distance.

Century Old Balete Tree

This ‘century old’ tree is actually closer to 400 years old, and is so much more than meets the eye. Once a spot for sacred rituals, the spring under the tree is now a fish spa and love potion vendor, mostly to attract visitors to what would otherwise just be something most people pass right on by without realizing the significance of this tree to Siquijor.

Noel told me that the fairy who was previously in charge of the tree was angry. Periodically, children would go missing around the area and then show up days later, having been taken into the spirit world by the tree. These days there’s a new chief fairy in town – Louie – who is a bit more benevolent.

Whether this all sounds like hocus pocus or not, one thing was undeniable to me as I edited this photo – parts of it looked like they’d been oddly misplaced, disappeared, or airbrushed in, even though it was .RAW straight from the camera. I’m still a bit confused but I’m chalking it up to Louie’s antics. I hope this photo did him proud in the end.

Lagaan Falls

Noel laughed and asked what I thought of Lagaan, expecting that I would have been underwhelmed, when I told him it’s the first place I visited in Siquijor.

I actually loved it! It’s not as big or popular as some of the other waterfalls, but that also makes it a lot less crowded. There’s a rope swing, a natural ‘slide’ (which you can see behind me in the photo above), some cool caves behind the water’s veil, and a little climb-through. It costs 50 pesos to visit plus 10 to park the bike. A bit rich considering Cambugahay is only 10 pesos but still, we’re only talking about a dollar.

Cambugahay Falls

Cambugahay is a three-tiered waterfall with three large lagoons. The aquamarine color, the refreshing water temperature on a hot day, and the way the falls gently cascade over caves and light brown rocks make it clear why this is the most popular spot on the island. It’s just as magical as Siquijor itself.

There are rope swings and platforms to chill on as well as bamboo rafts on each level of the falls. There’s also plenty of room for swimming, though you’ll have to share it with a lot of people unless you’re strategic with your timing. I visited twice, once around 11am and once at 7am, and I’m sure you can guess when I had the better experience. There was almost nobody else when I went early. Having these waterfalls all to yourself is a treat and a half!

I highly recommend the kinilaw or tuna sisig for lunch at El Monte in Lazi afterwards. I’m still dreaming of it. Say hi to the (now) infamous Noel if he’s there wearing his cowboy hat.

Driving and Mangroves

Part of the joy of Siquijor is driving a motorbike through it. The roads are mostly smooth and nice to drive on and there’s hardly any traffic. The few cars and motorbikes I did encounter were conscientious, a nice contrast to the somewhat stressful roads and rude big trucks on Lombok the week before.

Even if you’ve never driven a motorbike before, Siquijor is a good place to learn. Rentals run at 350 pesos per day including a helmet. Anything higher is a tourist price and you can haggle it down. You can rent them in San Juan, Lazi, or directly from the port.

Pictured above are some mangroves along the 15-minute drive from Lazi, where the falls were, to the next spot, Salagdoong Beach. Noel was surprised I was that excited about a bunch of mangroves but as he demonstrated with his lack of enthusiasm about Lagaan Falls, it obviously takes a lot to impress him.

Salagdoong Beach and Cliff Jump

Salagdoong Beach is another fan favorite and while not as gorgeous as the beaches of San Juan, it has two cliff jumps, one that’s 20 feet (6 meters) and one that’s 35 feet (11 meters) high, depending on the tide of course.

I did them both and the taller one is definitely more fun! Just run and leap instead of peering over and trying to decide whether you want to do it or not. I wouldn’t have been able to if I hadn’t just hurled myself over without thinking about it too much.

The jump and beach are part of a resort. Entrance is 60 pesos with a compulsory Red Cross donation included.

Seek a Healer

As mentioned in the intro, Siquijor is full of healers and witches. Want to cast a curse on someone? Siquijor is your place. Want to obtain a love potion? Look no further.

If you want this experience, the first thing to do is talk to a local if you can. See if you can get him or her to bring you to someone legitimate. Noel’s cousin is a healer, and I kindly asked him to help me with an illness I was suffering from. After placing two crystals in a glass of water and chanting over them and the crown of my head, he told me to drink, and to believe. That last part was important. Sadly I still needed another round of antibiotics afterwards but it was still a cool experience.

I spoke with another traveler who did a smoke clearing ritual in the middle of the island with a folk healer, which he gave me a moderately excited review of. You can find them here if it interests you.

Apo Island is the hotspot if you’re into sea turtles. It’s also home to gorgeous corals and over 650 species of fish. You’ll find plenty of dive shops in San Juan that will happily take you out on a day trip, or you can actually stay on the island and the cost of dives drops considerably.

First Name:

Most people stay in San Juan when they visit Siquijor, though I think it’s best broken up into two areas, adding in Lazi. There’s a range of options depending on your budget on Siquijor, though I can highly recommend Xylla guesthouse for a nice clean place to stay in Lazi and Glamping Siquijor (pictured in the star photo above) for San Juan. Both are easy on the budget and a nice value for a private room on the island.

You can get $25 off your booking at both on booking.com with this coupon .

I hope this guide helped you to connect not only with the beautiful places in Siquijor, but the mystical side of the island as well. It has a soul to it that you just can’t get to know unless you go digging a little deeper. All of the spots mentioned above are included in this Google Map for your reference:

On a personal note, I also absolutely adored the local friendliness. Kids were always saying hi, as were the adults, smiling big, genuine smiles and calling out warm greetings. It’s hard not to fall in love with a place like that, isn’t it?

READ NEXT: The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

About kristin addis.

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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03/13/2018 at 9:18 am

I like the way these guides are written, and your style, but I’m suffering from the lack of context!! Where the heck is Siquijor Island?? The last few articles you’ve published just drop a location name in without naming the country, region, or anything. If I have to google a place just to see what region of the world it’s in after reading your website, there’s something missing…

Kristin says

03/14/2018 at 2:23 am

Thanks for the feedback. I tend to think people search for information once they already have a destination picked out but that’s a great reminder that not everyone is in that mode!

03/14/2018 at 12:11 pm

I really like the recent addition of a Google Map at the end of the posts mapping out to readers geographically where you explored in the post. I feel like I can trace your steps almost! The wonders of technology. I think that additional feature goes a long way to help with this issue that was brought up about wondering “where the heck is this awesome place!?”. For what it is worth, while the country is not always linked to the location in the title of a post, you have been good about mentioning the country in the first paragraph or so (like in this Siquijor post the first sentence) in nearly all cases and then there is the “you might also like” which then links to similar posts where the country is explicitly mentioned in the title (e.g., the Kuta, Lombok post). Plus you tell people on the side bar under “upcoming travel plans” where you are at. The Google map is like the finishing touch!

04/24/2018 at 6:04 pm

I love following very few travel blogs for inspiration actually, and yours is one of them. I have noticed you’ve been adding country context lately and I really appreciate it!

04/27/2018 at 9:16 am

Thanks for letting me know! I often forget.

03/13/2018 at 10:06 am

That tree is awesome. I find the Banyan trees amazing too. I think it is great to try the local culture, including trying a healer, the local cuisine, visiting religious sites, performing a ritual etc. To me the pull of travel needs this in addition to the fun outdoor adventures and overall history. What was the most “far out” cultural experience you have had?? (besides the days of silence and contemplation) I realize that there are limits to everything, but stretching one’s boundaries and living beyond a comfort zone even for a day is a reward and memory of a lifetime. Mine, not being Christian, was being in a remote town and asked to join in an intense group religious chant with wild dancing and speaking in tongues. I did not speak in tongues or anything, but the whole experience was intense and they were glad I joined in and I appreciated not just learning something new, but experiencing it first-hand to at least understand it. Hope you feel better soon!

03/14/2018 at 2:21 am

My most far out cultural experience…hmm…It wasn’t necessarily far out, but I loved dancing at the art gallery in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique. Everyone told me to just get out as quickly as I could but that night it was amazing dancing in big circles with locals to thumping afrohouse music. I’ll always hold that memory dear. I really felt welcomed and like a part of this cool underground scene.

Maricel says

03/15/2018 at 9:09 pm

This guide is just what I needed! Will be in Siquijor in a few months.. and it’s so convenient to have a researcher extraordinaire like you Kristin! I’ve been going to places you’ve visited and doing stuff you’ve been doing (lantern festival, silent retreat).. I’ll definitely use your link for booking a place to stay and support you cos you’re awesome!

03/16/2018 at 4:06 am

That’s awesome that you’ve been using the advice you find on here and having fun trips with it! Let me know how Siquijor goes for you!

Lisa Mitchell says

08/14/2018 at 10:38 pm

Hi Kristin, As always you are my ‘go to’ favorite blogger for practical planning and inspiration. I’m planning a few weeks in the Philippines next April and am working around a Tubbataha liveaboard. I’ll for sure be following your guide for Banuae but also would like to find an island with a nice local feeling. Would you choose Siquijor or Siargao if you could only pick one? I’ll be diving plenty on the boat so looking more for relaxing and culture. Thank you!!!!

08/16/2018 at 9:21 pm

Hey Lisa, well Siquijor is pretty unique culturally, but it’s small. I would base it on how much time you have. Siargao has a lot more going on like the lagoons, islands, and surfing. You can see a lot of Siquijor in a day or two but Siargao needs at least a week I’d say.

Allan Albino says

08/17/2018 at 5:12 pm

Correction: Isla De FUEGOS- Plural

This had been a mistake..Even the current Philippine LGUs and tourism units got this wrong…I m able to get the source from the year 1700 map of the Philippines with all islands named in Spanish.. and what i saw ..”ISLA DE FUEGOS” not ISLA DE FUEGO..

08/18/2018 at 2:38 am

07/24/2019 at 12:21 am

Hi. Just a little correction. Apo island is not part of Siquijor.

08/09/2019 at 8:43 am

Thank you so much for featuring our Island, such an amazing blog that has been very usefuly to many travelers around the world to visit and know more about siquijor.

Mathilde Delorme says

08/27/2019 at 9:23 am

Hi Kristin! I am looking for a great island in the Philippines to spend a week with my group for New Year’s eve. I saw your blog post on Siargao, but after reading this I am thinking the weather may be better here. How did you find the nightlife, do you think it would be a fun place for New Year’s Eve, while still offering sightseeing and activities for the daytime? Thanks in advance!

09/02/2019 at 10:01 am

Siargao might have more to do nightlife-wise for NYE. Just make sure you make reservations way ahead of time for activities and restaurants!

Armando says

02/21/2023 at 3:21 pm

Amazing info story, i really love it.

KNOW siquijor

Located in Central Visayas Region of the Philippines, Siquijor is the smallest province in the region and the 3rd smallest province in the country. It is classified as a 5 th class province and has one congressional district. Previously a sub-province of Negros Oriental, it became an independent province by virtue of Republic Act 6398 enacted on September 17, 1971. It has a total land area of 343.5 square kilometers boasting of a 102-kilometer long coastline.  Siquijor is a beautiful island  blessed with stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear seas and rich marine biodiversity.   See more.

Tourism in Siquijor is highly dependent to its strong and strategic connectivity with Dumaguete, Southern Cebu, and Bohol.

municipality

Total population as of 2020 psa census, entry requirements and protocol for inbound travelers.

FOR ALL FULLY VACCINATED INBOUND TRAVELERS

1. LOCAL TOURIST/FOREIGN TOURIST

              *Tourist with Resort Accommodation

Requirements:

• VALID ID / Passport
• Proof of Vaccination (VaxCertPH or Vaccination Card) MUST BE FULLY VACCINATED.
• Booking Confirmation from DOT-Accredited Accommodation or from accommodation granted Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) by the Provincial Government of Siquijor.

*Tourist entering for a DAY TOUR in Siquijor

• Tour Itinerary
• Confirmation note from the guest’s host in Siquijor stating the address of the place where the guest will stay and that he/she is accepting the guest to stay in his/her residence or guesthouse.

  NOTE:   LOCAL TOURIST – any Government issued ID

FOREIGN TOURIST – Passport ID

(Submit above documents through S-Pass ( s-pass.ph ) to obtain Travel Coordination Permit.  

TOURIST shall see to it that their Travel Coordination Permit (TCP) thru S-PASS is duly approved  for fast and smooth  travel. However, tourists who cannot register to S-PASS shall be allowed entry  provided they can  present to the coastguard on duty at the port of origin the above stated  requirements.)

2. RETURNING RESIDENT/APOR/FILIPINO WORKER/MEDICAL PATIENT/WATCHER/INDESPENSABLE TRAVELER

• VALID Government ID
• Proof of Vaccination – ages 5 and above – (VaxCertPH or Vaccination Card) MUST BE FULLY VACCINATED

   ( 4 Y.O. AND BELOW   must be accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.)

NOTE:   RETURNING RESIDENT – any Government issued ID, school ID for student and for                                                           those children without valid ID they can present the Birth Certificate.                                                         

APOR  – either Company ID, Letter Order, or Certificate of Employment

(FULLY VACCINATED TRAVELERS ON THIS TYPE ARE NO LONGER REQUIRED TO APPLY ON S-PASS)

3. OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS (OFWs, RETURNING OVERSEAS FILIPINO ROF)

• Passport ID or any Government Issued ID
• Certificate from the Bureau of Quarantine
• Proof of Vaccination (VaxCertPH or Vaccination Card). FOR FULLY VACCINATED
• Negative RT-PCR Swab Test (48 hours before flight to the Philippines)

4. DELIVERY TRUCK DRIVERS and HELPERS

• Government issued ID or Company ID
• Proof of Vaccination (VaxCertPH or Vaccination Card). MUST BE FULLY VACCINATED 

(FULLY VACCINATED DRIVERS AND HELPERS ARE NO LONGER REQUIRED TO APPLY ON S-PASS)

 ***************************************************************************************************

UNVACCINATED AND PARTIALLY VACCINATED INBOUND TRAVELERS

• Negative RT-PCR Swab Test Result (valid within 72 hours from time of release of result.
• Valid ID or Barangay Certificate for Returning Residents. 

 *************************************************************************************************

CONTACT DETAILS

                                                                                  (0953-209-9165),   ( 0961-617-5474)

– For Returning Resident,

Filipino local worker,, apor (government or non-government), other stranded individual,, emergency traveller,, indispensible traveler,, medical patient and watcher, – for (ofw and non-ofw), and rof, – for local and foreign tourist,, -delivery truck driver and helper.

• Minimum public health standards, which include physical distancing, hand hygiene, cough etiquette, and wearing of face masks and face shields among others, shall be implemented across all settings.
• Travelers must bring hard copies of their submitted documents for verification by port authorities.

DOT accredited

Department of tourism (dot), accommodations, dot accredited, tourist transport, pto recognized, provincial tourism office (pto), restaurants, pto recognized, provincial tourism office (pto), inbound tour operator, tour itineraries, stunning hidden gems, marine biodiversity, healing and wellness, island's stunning gems, siquijor goes zero waste.

#ZeroWasteIslandsSiquijor    #ZeroWasteIslandsProvince

#BreakFreeFromPlastic   #GoForZeroWaste  #SustainableIslands

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We are currently working on this part of this section, please bear with us.

CONTACT INFORMATION

SIQUIJOR TOURISM OFFICE

Provincial Tourism Office (035) 480 9173 [email protected]

Cle Bern J. Paglinawan Provincial Tourism Officer 0935-5742-557 [email protected]

Mei Ling Quezon-Brown Vice Governor Traveler’s Assistance Office 0915-906-9093 [email protected] m

ABOUT THIS WEBSITE

This is the official website of the tourism office of the Province of Siquijor, developed by the Provincial Tourism Office.

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SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

“It’s safe here,” our tricycle driver shared proudly. “You can leave your luggage in the tricycle. No one’s gonna take it.”

That would have been comforting, except he added, “They’re afraid of the needle .”

And just like that, my friend Grace was overtaken by fear. LOL. By reputation, Siquijor is a land of witchcraft and black magic, something that my companion was awfully aware of. But I have traveled long enough to know that a place’s reputation doesn’t always match reality, a view I have explained thoroughly to my friend to blow her doubts away.

But five minutes into this trip, our trike driver filled her mind with images of mysticism. “It’s real,” he said. “I can even take you to a village here so you could meet one.” He was probably referring to the faith healers.

Any other day, I would have said yes as it is something that has always tickled my curiosity, but Grace was quick to steer the conversation away from the topic. “Let’s stick to the beaches!”

Ah beaches. Yes, like many other remote corners of the Philippines, Siquijor too is bursting with something equally magical — natural beauty. This travel guide will allow you to explore beachy side of the province, not much the witchy side. (Sorry if that’s what you’re after. LOL.) And to be honest, that’s probably the only sorcery you’re gonna need.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING SIQUIJOR

When the Spaniards first set foot in the island, they were captivated by fireflies swarming around molave trees, hence the nickname “Isla del Fuego” (Island of Fire). As one of the first provinces reached by the clutches of Spain, Siquijor has Roman Catholicism deeply rooted in their history and culture. In fact, most of the island’s manmade attractions are religious structures.

In terms of land area and population, Siquijor is the third smallest province in the country. It’s so small, you can see most of its key tourist spots in one day or two, although we urge you to stay longer.

• Language : Cebuano. English is widely understood.
• Currency : Philippine peso (PhP). PhP100 = USD2, EUR 1.65, KRW 22000, JPY218
• Mode of payment : Cash. There are a few ATMs in the island so if you’re coming from Dumaguete or Cebu, it would be more convenient to withdraw money before your visit.

WHERE TO STAY IN SIQUIJOR

If you’re strapped for cash, you’ll find several accommodations for less than P1000 a night, with some going as low as P300, especially at town centers and port area. However, note that many of them are basic fan rooms with barely any amenities.

But if you want more comfort, you can stay at a guest house. If you have more funds, staying at a beach-front resort would be ideal. The following are the top options on Agoda, ranked by reviews. Here are the top rated properties on Agoda.

Top Guesthouses in Siquijor

• Swaki-Han Guest House. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Serbab Guesthouse. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Stella’z guesthouse. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Zosimo’s. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Siquijor Resorts and Inns

• Infinity Heights Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Coco Grove Beach Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Tropicasa Siquijor. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Tropical Fun Ta Sea Rentals. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Aquamare Beach Camp Resort. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Siquijor Hotels!

How to get to siquijor.

Siquijor doesn’t have its own airport, but it is easily accessible from Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental. Access from ferry is also possible but it takes hours.

MANILA TO SIQUIJOR

If you’re coming from Manila, you have to fly to Dumaguete or Cebu first. Between the two, Dumaguete is the faster, cheaper, and easier option.

• Fly to Dumaguete City . Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Air carry passengers from Manila to Dumaguete in about 1.5 hours. You can look for flights at Traveloka.com .
• Take a tricycle to Dumaguete Sea Port (near the boulevard). Travel time: 15-30 minutes. Fare: P120-150.
• Buy a ticket and board a ferry to Siquijor . Travel time: 1 hour. Fare: P136 to P360, depending on the destination port, class, and liner. Several shipping lines ply this route so you’re sure to find one every 2 hours. Options are fewer on Saturdays, though. You also have to pay the terminal fee, P25.

Note : The island has two main sea ports, though: one in Siquijor (the town) and the other in Larena. Choose the one near your resort or hotel.

CEBU TO SIQUIJOR

If you’re in Cebu or you want to visit Siquijor as part of your extended Cebu trip, here’s how to get there.

• Make your way to Cebu South Terminal . If you’re coming from Mactan airport, board the myBus outside the domestic terminal to SM City. There’s a bus leaving the Mactan Airport every 30 minutes from 7am-11am, and every 20 minutes from 11am-9:30pm. Fare: P25. Then take a cab to the South Bus Terminal. Outside these hours, you may take a cab, Uber or Grab straight to the bus terminal. Fare is between P230-P300, depending on traffic.
• Hop into the bus bound for Liloan (in Santander Municipality). Travel time: 4-5 hours. Fare: P162 (ordinary), P200 (air-conditioned).
• Board the ferry bound for Sibulan (in Negros Oriental). Travel time: 20-25 minutes. Fare: P50 (ticket) + P10 Terminal Fee + P2 Municipal Fee.
• At Sibulan Port, ride a jeepney or pedicab to Dumaguete City . Jeepney fare is P12. Pedicab is P10 per person.
• Once in Dumaguete City, take a tricycle to Dumaguete Port . Fare: P10.

HOW TO GET AROUND SIQUIJOR

Upon disembarking at either Siquijor or Larena Port, you will be greeted by tricycle and multi-cab drivers, enticing you to get their services. These are legit. (At least most of them are.) Not only can they take you to your resort, they can also tour you around.

Transportation options are very limited in the island. If you can’t drive a motorcycle, you have two main choices:

• Tricycle Tour : P1000-P1200 per tricycle. Up to 3 pax.
• Multi-cab Tour : P1800 per vehicle. Can accommodate 15+ pax.

According to our trike driver, the following are also available, although we never really saw any rental places.

• Van Tour : P2500 per vehicle
• Motorcycle rental : P350 per vehicle

In our case, we began our tour right away and decided to just drop our luggage at the reception of our resort along the way. This way, we get to maximize our day.

The itinerary isn’t fixed. Although your guide/driver will have their recommendations, you also get to choose where you want to go. For example, Kagusuan Beach isn’t part of the usual tricycle route but our driver agreed to take us there at no extra cost.

If you enjoyed your first day tour, hire your guide-driver for your second day so he could pick you up at the resort.

PLACES TO VISIT IN SIQUIJOR

There are two main tours in Siquijor: Coastal Tour and Mountain Tour. The Coastal Tour will show you around the island, making stops at beaches and churches among others. The Mountain Tour will take you deeper inland to Cantabon Cave and Bandilaan Park.

To maximize your time, choose your stops well. Siquijor has a lot of wonderful spots to offer, but to be honest, there are some that can be a bit underwhelming. For example, the Old Balete Tree and Capilay Spring Park can feel like tourist traps at first glance and they pale in comparison to Aurora’s greater balete tree and Camiguin’s hot springs respectively. But here’s the thing: they are legit attractions among locals , who were the original patrons. Context. But feel free to skip them if you feel like you’re not into them. This way, you can have more time for other sites.

Coastal Tour (aka Land Tour)

• Salagdoong Beach . Perhaps the most popular beach on the island. Great for cliff-jumping. Entrance fee: P30. Parking Fee: P40.
• Kagusuan Beach . A short stretch of sand concealed in between rocks.
• Cambugahay Falls . A small, three-tiered waterfall. Perfect for a quick freshwater dip and a mandatory Tarzan rope swing (jk, it’s not mandatory). Entrance Fee: P10. Unli-Swing: P20. Parking Fee: P20.
• Lazi Church and Convent . More formally known as San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, a Baroque structure which was declared a National Cultural Treasure.
• Siquijor Church . Aka St Francis de Assisi Church. Standing right next to the port.
• Capilay Spring Park
• Enchanted Balete Tree. Entrance fee: P10.
• Paliton Beach
• Guiwanon Spring Park

Mountain Tour

• Cantabon Cave . Great for spelunking newbies. It’s not that challenging, but there are curious rock formations and refreshing pools inside. This was the highlight of our stay in Siquijor! Tour Fee: P500 for 3 pax, including guide fee and rental of helmet and flash lights.
• Mt. Bandilaan Park . Perched atop a hill, offering a walking trail and a view of the province and nearby islands.

SAMPLE SIQUIJOR ITINERARY

Below is a sample overnight itinerary with cost breakdown for a group of three. You may pattern your own itinerary after this. Just adjust it according to your needs.

You can book a tricycle or multi-cab tour of the island as soon as you arrive in the island. If your resort is along the way, you may ask the driver to make a quick stop there to check in and leave your bags at the reception before continuing your tour.

The Island Tour mentioned below would take you to key tourist spots in Siquijor including Cambugahay Falls, Salagdoong Beach, Lazi Church and Convent, Siquijor Church, Ecnchanted Balete Tree, and Capilay Spring Park.

Day 1: ARRIVAL + COASTAL TOUR 09:00 am – ETD Dumaguete Port – P25 Terminal Fee 10:00 am – ETA Siquijor Port – P250 Fare 10:20 am – Start Tricycle Tour – P334 (P1000/3pax) 12:30 nn – Lunch – P150 02:00 pm – Continue Island Tour, Total fees: P100 05:30 pm – Back at the resort, rest 07:00 pm – Dinner – P200

Day 2: CANTABON CAVE SPELUNKING 07:00 am – Begin Mountain Tour – P400 (P1200/3 pax) 07:30 am – Cantabon Cave Spelunking – P167 (P500/3 pax) 10:30 am – Bandilaan Park 12:00 nn – Lunch – P150 01:50 pm – ETD Siquijor Port – P250 02:40 pm – ETA Dumaguete Port

The itinerary above will cost you P2100 (USD 42, SGD 57, EUR 37) excluding airfare and accommodations.

If you’re a group of 3 and you have P1500 hotel budget, prepare to shell out P2600 .

Note that we also allotted P150-P200 per meal. That’s more than enough if you decide to eat at cheap eateries around town centers. (That’s what we did.)

Most travelers visit Siquijor as part of a bigger Negros Oriental-Siquijor journey, which also includes Dumaguete City, Apo Island, and sometimes Manjuyod Sandbar. We’ll be providing a sample itinerary for that soon so be sure to check back.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the best time to visit siquijor.

January to May is the best time to visit Siquijor.

Weather-wise, the months of February to May are the driest, which means there’s very little chance that unexpected showers would ruin your itinerary. However, it is also considered high season (peaking during Holy Week)!

Is Siquijor safe?

Yes, Siquijor is generally safe.

But it’s always best to keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave them just anywhere.

What type of power plug / socket is used in Siquijor?

Electricity Info: 220V, 60Hz. Plug and socket Type A.

What is the tipping custom in Siquijor?

Just like in other places in the Philippines, tipping is not mandatory in Siquijor. Restaurants at resorts usually include a service charge but it does not always go to the servers.

If you enjoyed the service, feel free to tip. A tip of 5-10% of the bill is generally well-appreciated.

Are there ATMs in Siquijor?

There are a few ATMs in the island so if you’re coming from Dumaguete or Cebu, it would be more convenient to withdraw money before your visit.

Updates Log

2020 March 8 – Added newly implemented entrance fees

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Siquijor Island: DIY Guide + 2 Days Itinerary

The Philippines has numerous beaches and nature attractions, but if you’re looking for somewhere off-the-beaten track, then check out the island of Siquijor.

Siquijor is a favorite day trip destination among locals coming from Dumaguete City. Foreign tourists, meanwhile, love the island’s charm, its quiet and seclusion away from the hustle and bustle. Here you can spend your days lazing in a casual beachfront, exploring the jungles for waterfalls, and learn about the island’s interesting history and culture.

This island isn’t as commercialized as other provinces in the Visayan Region such as Cebu. One of the reasons it receives fewer visitors is its lack of own airport. To get to the island, you need to ride a ferry from the neighboring Dumaguete City.

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This island province is a great destination to relax and unwind. Discover the best Siquijor tourist spots including beaches, waterfalls, cold springs, and heritage areas such as the century-old balete tree, Spanish-era churches, and more.

Without further ado, here’s our travel guide to Siquijor and a sample Siquijor itinerary for 2 days.

P.S. Planning a trip to Siquijor? Don’t forget to read our Dumaguete-Siquijor Itinerary .

About Siquijor

My solo trip to siquijor, from dumaguete, how to get around, island tour, mountain tour, other tourist spots in siquijor, day trips from siquijor, 2 days siquijor itinerary, where to eat, where to stay in siquijor, siquijor budget and rates, reminders and tips, what to read next:.

Siquijor has an interesting history. It’s called the “Mystic Island” since it is said that the locals in Siquijor used to practice magic. There are also folklore stories of aswang (a mythic creature who flies and eats people) and mambabarang (a type of black witch).

Over the years, the island province has transformed its unique history to that of a healing destination, with the Healing Festival held in Holy Week every year . Visitors can still buy potions and voodoo dolls in souvenir shops, or even seek out faith healers and psychic readers, although they are now far and between.

Over the years, Siquijor has slowly been getting into the main tourists’ radar and becoming a favorite especially of foreign backpack travelers. It’s likely that tourist attractions such as Cambugahay Falls and Salagdoong Beach will get more crowded in the future, but if you want to get away from the scene you can always find a hidden waterfall or empty beach coves to visit.

I went on a 3-day solo trip to Siquijor in 2017. As a millennial, I love learning about the folk lore history of towns and the scary stories I used to hear about it as a kid. I also met a famous psychic healer, Anthony Vivero, who claims he had seen actual aswangs on a visit in the province.

I liked visiting the nature attractions in Siquijor, particularly Cambugahay Falls and Tulapos Marine Sanctuary which at that time wasn’t well known yet and where I snorkeled with baby sharks. I remembered being so giddy about seeing them in the wild that afterwards I texted my boyfriend about my experience.

Truth be told, I also had encountered issues on my visit as a solo female traveler. I booked a tricycle tour from the port in Siquijor and my guide made me deeply uncomfortable throughout the tour (such as when he suggested swimming in the falls with me). I also find the lack of public transport stifling. Since I do not have license (or know how to ride a motorcycle to be honest), I was dependent on tricycle rides and it was expensive paying for P300-500 to visit a tricycle from my resort.

In terms of the spiritual aspect of the island province, most of the witchcraft culture is already commercialized. You can find love potions and other items in shopping stalls near Balete Tree, for instance, and it wasn’t clear whether these are the authentic ones they used to make or just souvenir.

It has been years since I traveled here, so I hope that the island province has improved, particularly in terms of safety for solo female travelers like me.

How to get to Siquijor

Siquijor is connected by 2 major ferry routes: Dumaguete and Tagbilaran (Bohol) .

This is the easiest way to get to Siquijor. Dumaguete has an airport (Sibulan Airport) and from there you can ride a motorbike or tricycle to the port.

• From Dumaguete Port, ride a ferry to Siquijor. Regular ferry takes 2 hours (P140 per person) / fastcraft takes 1 hour (P210 per person).
• Schedule is from 5:30AM to 6PM. Same schedule applies for the return trip, so you have to be at the port before 6PM for the last trip.

Click here to book ferry tickets from Dumaguete to Siquijor .

There is a ferry that runs from Tagbilaran in Bohol to Dumaguete once a day. Travel time is 1.5 hour.

• Bohol to Siquijor: 10:20AM /  Siquijor to Bohol: 12:30PM

Click here to book ferry tickets from Bohol to Siquijor .

From Cebu City, it is also possible to get to Siquijor via Dumaguete. Travel time is 6-7 hours.

• From Cebu City, head to the South Bus Terminal. Ride a Ceres bus to Dumaguete which includes a roro ride. Get off at the last stop (Ceres Bus Terminal) in Dumaguete. Travel time is 4-5 hours, fare is P330 per person.
• From the terminal, ride a tricycle to Dumaguete Port.
• Same instruction as above.

Click here to book ferry tickets from Cebu to Siquijor .

Siquijor is an off-beaten destination and public transportation is limited. There are tricycles available, but they are more expensive compared to tricycles in the city.

• Option 1: Rent a motorbike . The cheapest way to get around is by renting a motorbike. Take note that a driver’s license is strictly required.
• Option 2: Book a local tour . You can also book tours from the local tour guides. They are stationed at Siquijor Port, so you can immediately start the tour after arrival. You can also pre-book the tours, especially if you come during summer.

Tours in Siquijor

There are 2 standard tours you can take in Siquijor: Island Tour and Mountain Tour .

For day trippers, the best option is the Island Tour because it covers the main attractions in Siquijor. The Island Tour can be done in half a day, depending on your pace and how many stops you want to make. Each stop takes 20-30 minutes to get to. In my case, it took me almost a whole day since I stayed for a while in Cambugahay Falls and snorkeled at Tulapos Marine Sanctuary.

If you’re planning on exploring your own, you can still follow the routes in the tours.

Here are the Siquijor tourist spots that you can visit during the Island Tour.

• St. Francis of Assisi Church . The oldest church in the island, built in 1774. It is located just outside the Siquijor Port, with a “Welcome to Siquijor” signage. Selfies and Touch-Down posts are mandatory.

• Lazi Church . An 18th-century church, also known as San Isidro Labrador Church. The church has wide ceilings and huge stained-glass windows. A must-visit if you like historic buildlings.
• Capilay Spring Park . A public pool with refreshing water where locals swim and hangout.
• Century-Old Balete Tree . One of the most popular attractions in Siquijor, this balete tree is said to be 400 years old. Beside it is a small pool where you can enjoy a fish spa. There are also stores nearby selling souvenirs and other items such as voodoo dolls and love potion bottles filled with herbs.

• Cambugahay Falls . Cambugahay Falls is definitely one of the best nature attractions in Siquijor. It is a 3-tiered waterfall where you can swim and use a tarzan swing. The water is usually a shade of light blue, except on rainy days when it is more green-ish but still clear for swimming. The trail is established, so hiring a guide is optional.

• Salagdoong Beach . Salagdoong Beach is an Insta-famous spot in Siquijor. It’s located inside a private resort, so you have to pay an entrance fee and rent a cottage for a day trip if you want. It has beach coves and dive boards 20 feet and 35 feet high. Beside Salagdoong Beach, you can find the Salagdoong Forest Reserve. It’s a man-made forest with molave trees.

• Guiwanon Spring Park . A mangrove protection and preservation area. I stayed here for a few minutes and watched some kids swim in the water, but in general it’s not noteworthy. In my opinion, you can skip this entirely.
• Paliton Beach . A laid-back, white-sand beach. It’s said to be the best beachfront in Siquijor. However, Siquijor does not have very good beaches in general if you want to swim and the said can be found about Paliton Beach. It’s also a public beach and, in my visit, I found some trash in the area.

• Hapitanan Cafe . A new tourist spot in Siqujor, where you can have a photo taking a broomstick ride. This is a must-stop especially for the young-at-heart.
• Dumalaay Boulevard . Located in Larena, this boulevard is a nice place to watch the sunset before leaving the island.

The Mountain Tour involves trekking and caving. There are only 2 places to go to and the tour takes around 4 hours, but it can be exhausting.

• Mount Bandilaan . One of the highest points in Siquijor. Trek to the summit takes about 30 minutes. There is a watch tower at the top, surrounded by the mountain forest. There is an established trail so you can trek by yourself.
• Cantabon Cave . This is an almost-kilometer long cave in Barangay Cantabon with gorgeous stalactites and stalagmites.

Here are other places you can visited in Siquijor. In standard tours, these aren’t normally included so you have to request for them specifically.

• Lugnason Falls . One of the “hidden” waterfalls in Siquijor, Lugnason Falls is smaller than Cambugahay Falls but it’s perfect for those who prefer a quieter swimming hole.

• Tulapos Marine Sanctuary . This is one of the most enjoyable places I found in Siquijor. Here you can snorkel to see corals and barracudas, turtles and black-tipped reef sharks. There is also a giant clam area. This is where I first saw baby sharks in the wild, so I was overjoyed during our stop here. Hiring a guide is advisable so you’ll know which way to go.

• Tubod Marine Sanctuary . Another great place to snorkel, with a variety of tropical fishes and corals.

There are also beaches in Siquijor you can explore on your own including Minalulan Beach , Kagusuan Beach and Solangon Beach .

Some resorts in Siqujor arrange day trips to Apo Island in Dauin . This is a small island where you can spot sea turtles in the wild and snorkel in coral gardens. I had a lot of fun in Apo Island and I highly recommend this experience.

Here’s a sample 2 days Siquijor itinerary for a weekend visit.

You can find a number of local restaurants near resorts and homestays, and some in-house dining options in resorts as well. There aren’t a lot of restaurants on the roadside since most of the island comprises mountain forest.

Here are some of the most recommended eats in Siquijor.

• Larena’s Triad Coffee Shop . Decent and reasonably priced food. This coffee shop is located on the mountainside and offers the best view in Siquijor.
• Baha Bar and Dagsa Restobar . Great options for seafood.
• Luca Loko . Excellent food with vegan options such as buddha and poke bowls.
• BBQ grills near Aloha Grill . This is one of the cheapest places to eat in Siquijor. A series of unnamed BBQ grills with the food laid out so you can pick what you want to eat.

You can also visit a bakery to watch how pan de bisaya is made.

There are several mountain and beach resorts in Siquijor and it’s relatively cheap especially if you’re traveling with someone.

Here are the best stays in Siquijor:

• Luxury: Coco Grove Beach Resort
• Midrange :   Infinity Heights Resort | Charisma Beach Resort
• Budget : Monkey Business Bungalows

Here are the current rates ( Updated as of 2020 ):

Siquijor is a budget-friendly destination. If you’re visiting here for a weekend with someone, a budget of P3000+ above would suffice.

Here are some reminders and tips before your travel Siquijor:

• Bring enough cash. There are only few ATMs in the island.
• Bring a reusable container or bag. Not only for sustainable purposes — there is a penalty fee for using plastic.
• Bring an insect repellent especially if you are staying overnight.
• If you want ocean views, stay in the beachfront resorts and homestays in San Juan. Other towns in Lazi are located far from the ocean.
• Based on my experience, if you’re a solo traveler like me, it might be best to pre-book a tour from a recommended guide. Also, bring your license so you can rent a motorbike to visit places outside of the standard tours.

Has this Travel Guide to Siquijor Province been helpful to you? Let us know in the comment section below!

Visiting Siquijor? You might also be interested in these:

• BEST Resorts in Siquijor
• Dumaguete and Siquijor Itinerary

If you’re interested in less-crowded places in the Philippines:

• Off-the-Beaten-Track Destinations in the Philippines

Get discounts on your travels!

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHERE

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

One Comment

Rechito potestas.

Thanks, this is great info!

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• The Perfect Siquijor Itinerary: How to Spend 2 Days in Siquijor

Siquijor is a tiny island in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines which is known for its ties to mysticism, shamanism, and witchcraft. There are still a number of healers on the island and you’ll spot freshly brewed love potions on sale in the villages.

Magic aside, your Siquijor itinerary will be packed with pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling conditions, and beautiful waterfalls. It’s an island that begs you to slow your pace right down and appreciate nature at its finest.

Since it’s a small island which means that you can easily see the best of Siquijor in 2 days. Now I’m going to tell you exactly how to do this to make the most of your stay on the island of voodoo!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Overview of Your Siquijor Itinerary

Breakdown of your 2 days.

• Day 1: Lugnason Falls & Cold Spring, Enchanted Balete Tree, Lazi Church, Cambugahay Falls, Salagdoong Beach, Talisay Beach, Butterfly Sanctuary, Mount Bandilaan viewpoint
• Day 2:  Cantabon Cave, Guiwanon Spring Park, Tubod Beach & Marine Reserve, Marelle’s Seashell Museum, Paliton Beach

Map for your 2 day Siquijor itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Siquijor itinerary.

I marked your 2 days in Siquijor with different colors – I used blue for the first day and green for the second day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will open up in your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Lugnason Falls & Cold Spring 

Why not start your Siquijor itinerary by plunging into one of the island’s most sensational waterfalls? You’ll understand in a heartbeat why Siquijor is often referred to as one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines !

The Lugnason Falls tumble down a 5 meter (16 feet) rockface into an inviting swimming hole. You’ll love photographing the turquoise water just as much as you’ll enjoy splashing around in it.

It’s best to visit this waterfall during the rainy season or earlier in the dry season before the water levels drop.

Lugnason Falls is a 15-minute drive from San Juan and the main tourist hub. The trail from the parking area to the waterfall takes a further 15 minutes. It’s an easy hike and is clearly signposted.

Entrance to the waterfalls is free but you might have to pay a couple of pesos for parking. 

Before you leave you can continue a little further through the jungle to find the man-made cold springs. They’re not as pretty as the waterfall but they are really unusual to look at and photograph.

Enchanted Balete Tree 

This 400-year-old ancient tree is one of the most unusual tourist attractions to check out during your 2 days in Siquijor.

In Philippine folklore, Balete trees are considered to form the habitats of supernatural creatures and spirits including fairies and tree demons. It gets spookier, as these trees are known to strangle their neighboring trees, killing them in the process!

It’s free to stop and take some photos of the enchanted tree. There is a large pool of spring water at the base of the tree where you can opt to have a fish pedicure for 10 PHP (0.20 USD). 

The Enchanted Balete Tree is a 20-minute drive from the Lugnason Falls.

Lazi Church

Let’s take a break from nature and experience one of the most historic attractions in Siquijor.

The foundation of Lazi Church was constructed in 1884 and the bell tower was added the following year. It is the oldest Roman Catholic Church on the island and features an iconic red roof atop its coral stone foundation. Inside there is a stunning blue ceiling to admire.

Across from the church, you can visit the San Isidro Labrador Convent which houses the Siquijor Heritage Museum.

It’s free to enter the church but there is an admission fee of 20 PHP (0.40 USD) to go inside the museum.

Cambugahay Falls 

Waving farewell to the tree, your next stop is the three-tiered Cambugahay Falls which tipple down through the lush jungle. This is one of the most impressive sights you’ll see and is essential for any Siquijor itinerary.

Cambugahay Falls has an admission fee of 20 PHP (0.40 USD). If you want to play with the Tarzan swing, bamboo raft, and inflatables you’ll need to pay an extra 50 PHP (1 USD). 

The falls are a 15-minute drive from the tree and are accessible via a short walk down a flight of 100 stairs.

Talisay Beach 

Now let’s take a break from the waterfalls and head to the ocean. The first of Siquijor’s beaches that I want to tell you about is one of the least developed and quieter ones.

Talisay Beach is perfect for a swim and a snorkel during high tide, otherwise, it’s a nice spot to grab a few minutes of tranquility and take some photos. 

You will need to park at the side of the road and then it’s less than 5 minutes to the beach through the trees.

Talisay Beach is a 10-minute drive from Cambugahay Falls and there is no admission charge. 

Salagdoong Beach 

The next beach on your Siquijor itinerary is one for the thrillseekers!

Palm tree fringed Salagdoong Beach features crystal clear water, white sand, and some epic diving spots from the cliffs and artificial diving boards. The highest one is a leap of 9 meters (30 feet)!

If you do want to cliff jump, I recommend asking any locals who are hanging around nearby for some pointers first to ensure your safety. You’ll also need to plan this at high tide. Safety first! 

Entrance to Salagdoong Beach is 50 PHP (1 USD) because the cove is part of the Salagdoong Beach Resort. You can also buy some lunch from the hotel restaurant if you didn’t bring a picnic along. 

This beach is a 10-minute drive from Talisay Beach.

Butterfly Sanctuary 

A quirky tourist spot in Siquijor, the Butterfly Sanctuary isn’t large but it’s well worth a stop.

The purpose of the center is actually to breed butterflies that are at risk of becoming endangered. They are then released back into nature.

While there isn’t a huge collection to see, it’s a lovely place to see colorful butterflies and other bugs up close. 

The entrance to the sanctuary is 100 PHP (2 USD). It might seem high considering that you don’t see a lot of creatures, but it’s a really worthwhile project to support during your 2 day Siquijor itinerary.

The Butterfly Sanctuary is around an hour from Salagdoong Beach and you can either follow the Siquijor Circumferential Road or drive through the mountains.

Mount Bandilaan viewpoint

A quick 5-minute drive from the sanctuary and you can park at the Mount Bandilaan viewpoint and enjoy panoramic views from the highest point on the island at 632 meters (2,000 feet) above sea level. 

To access the top of the tower you will need to walk up 148 steps. If you time this right and visit on a clear day, you can enjoy the sunset from the deck.

It’s free to climb up to the platform but you may leave a discretionary donation if you like.

Cantabon Cave 

If you’re touring Siquijor in 2 days how about sampling those rumored healing powers of the island for yourself?

Cantabon Cave is an 800 meter (2,625 feet) subterranean stream with stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations. Legend has it that the water has magical powers and you are invited to sample it for yourself during your caving expedition. 

To experience the cave in full you will need to pay for a guided tour. You will need to wear suitable swimming and exercise clothes, I would also recommend some aqua shoes with a good grip to protect your feet from the rocks.

Flip-flops and sandals are not advisable as it’s slippery down there! 

Most hotels will help you to book your tour but if not you can just turn up. The tour costs 600 PHP (12 USD) and includes your helmet and a flashlight.

It takes around 2 hours in total and the drive time from San Juan to the cave entrance is 30 minutes.

Guiwanon Spring Park 

In addition to the twinkling waterfalls and beaches, mystical trees, and underground caverns, Siquijor even has a mangrove forest.

The Guiwanon Spring Park is a peaceful spot that’s particularly appealing to nature lovers. There are a couple of boards dotted around which help you understand the role the mangroves play within the ecosystem.

You can follow an elevated wooden footpath around the complex which lets you get close to the mangroves while appreciating ocean views.

There is a humble entrance fee of 10 PHP (0.20 USD) to pay before exploring the park. You can rent one of the cabins for a few hours or stay overnight if you wish. 

An alternative option is to visit the Guiwanon Spring Park first thing and experience sunrise here before heading to the cave.

Tubod Beach & Marine Reserve 

For the final afternoon of your 2 day Siquijor itinerary, head back to the beach!

Tubod Beach is a sandy beach that grants access to the Tubod Marine Reserve. You can rent snorkeling gear from the Coco Grove Resort if you don’t have your own and wade out to explore the reef and tropical marine life.

Be careful not to touch the coral while you float and consider wearing your aqua shoes again as sometimes there are sea urchins around the reef.

Tubod Beach is a 25-minute drive from the Guiwanon Spring Park. There is no fee to access the beach but if you want to snorkel you will need to pay 50 PHP (1 USD) which goes towards conserving the reserve.

Snorkeling rental is usually 100-150 PHP (2-3 USD) depending on where you hire from.

Either bring a picnic lunch or order some lunch from the Coco Grove Resort or a nearby restaurant. There are plenty of options on the Siquijor Circumferential Road. 

Marelle’s Seashell Museum

Another eccentric tourist spot in Siquijor is the museum that houses hundreds upon hundreds of seashells! The museum is very well documented so you’ll pick up loads of trivia here about the underwater world in general.

You can actually walk to the museum from Tubod Beach in 10 minutes. It’s open daily 7 am-10 pm and the admission fee is 100 PHP (2 USD). However, if you’d like to tuck into some fresh seafood and eat at the museum restaurant the entrance fee is waived.

Paliton Beach 

Wrap up your Siquijor itinerary at one of the most picturesque beaches on the island.

Paliton Beach features gleaming white sand and calm water that’s perfect for swimming although it’s not ideal for snorkeling because of the seagrasses. You can hang out here and watch the sunset.

Paliton Beach is a 10-minute drive from Tubod Beach. It’s free to enter the beach and you can pick up snacks, beers, and soft drinks from beach stalls.

Useful Info for your Siquijor trip

Before we start planning your 2 days in Siquijor, let’s run over some basics such as how to get to the island and where to stay.

Where to stay in Siquijor

LUXURY – Infinity Heights Resort

MID-RANGE – White Villas Resort

BUDGET – Aloha Seaside Resort

How to get to Siquijor

As there is no commercial airport in Siquijor, the island is only accessible via ferry from Negros Oriental and Bohol.

Most boats are operated by OceanJet but there are a couple of other providers that have slower crossings (and cheaper fares). Note that Siqujor has two ports – Siquijor and Larena – so you’ll want to double-check your destination when you book your ticket.

Ferries depart from Tagbilaran City Sea Port on Bohol and arrive at Larena Port. This journey generally takes 90 minutes and fares range from 700-1,000 PHP (14-20 USD) subject to the carriage class.

Since you have to get to Tagbilaran City anyways, it’s worth adding a couple more days to your Philippines itinerary to visit the best tourist spots in Bohol !

Crossings from Dumaguete City Port on Negros Oriental take 1-2 hours subject to whether you take a ferry or fast craft and arrive at Siquijor Port. Again, fares vary from 250-380 PHP (5-8 USD) based on whether you book regular or business class.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Best time to visit Siquijor 

As a tropical island, Siqujor has two seasons – wet and dry. It’s warm all year round but you may want to avoid the monsoon season if you have only 2 days in Siquijor.

The rainy season runs from May until the end of November, which is usually the wettest month. From December the rains ease and February is the driest month.

April is the hottest month, with average daily temperatures lingering around 33°C (91°F). In order to have the best weather, it’s best to travel to Siquijor between January and May.

How to get around Siquijor

Rent a motorbike.

If you feel comfortable doing so, the easiest and cheapest way to get around Siquijor is to hire a motorbike and drive yourself. The main highway, the Siquijor Circumferential Road, is in excellent condition and the island is peaceful and free from congestion.  

Motorbike rental in Siquijor is approximately 300 PHP (6 USD) per day. Remember to carry your International Driver’s Permit and driving license and wear a helmet if you choose this option. 

You can hire a motorbike at rental stores around either port, in the main town of San Juan, or, in most cases, from your hotel. 

Rent a tricycle / habal-habal

Tricycles are the most typical way to get around Siquijor if you don’t want to drive a motorbike. These are basically the Filippino version of the Thai tuk-tuk! 

If you want to rent a tricycle for both of your 2 days in Siquijor itinerary, then you should expect to pay approximately 1,500 PHP (30 USD) per day. But this will be subject to how many of the Siquijor tourist spots you want your driver to take you to. You can also flag tricycles down but the costs for shorter journeys will add up to be more expensive overall.

You can also hop on the back of a motorbike taxi (known as a habal-habal). This is a good option if you’re traveling solo and don’t want to drive yourself. Discuss the rate before you jump on. 

Hire a driver

If you want to travel around Siquijor in air-conditioned comfort then you can hire a car and driver. Your hotel will be able to organize this for you.

Costs are typically around 2,000 PHP (40 USD) per day based on one car with up to three travelers.

Planning a trip to the Philippines?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about the Philippines. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• Top 20 Most Beautiful Islands in the Philippines
• 11 Best Tourist Spots in Siquijor, Philippines
• The Ultimate Bohol Itinerary for 3 Days
• The 7 Best Tourist Spots in Bohol, Philippines

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4 thoughts on “The Perfect Siquijor Itinerary: How to Spend 2 Days in Siquijor”

Hi- for your siquijor 2 day itinerary- did you travel with motorbike?

No, we hired a driver as we were not so comfortable driving motorbikes. However, if you have experience with it, it’s definitely the best and most cost-effective way to get around!

Wow, this article is a fantastic guide for anyone planning a 2-day trip to Siquijor – it’s jam-packed with helpful tips and recommendations!

I’m so glad you like it! Have a great time in Siquijor.

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For most Filipinos, Siquijor is a mysterious other-world of witchcraft and the unknown. True, this tiny island province is famous for its mountain-dwelling mangkukulam (healers) who brew traditional ointments for modern ailments. But these days Siquijor's most popular healing practice involves a cocktail and a deck chair at any number of its laid-back and wonderfully affordable beach resorts. Attractions include great diving, waterfalls, caves and forest walks in the hilly interior. Just about everywhere on Siquijor is great for snorkelling – find the nearest beach and dive in. Like many beaches in the Visayas, swimming is only possible during high tide, and wearing thongs (flip-flops) is recommended as protection against sea urchins.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Paliton Beach

Northeast of San Juan is stunning white-sand Paliton Beach. The water is as clear as glass and there are wonderful views of Apo Island. Take the turnoff…

San Isidro Convent

Opposite the San Isidro Labrador Church, flanked by centuries-old acacia trees, is the oldest Catholic convent in the Philippines, a magnificent timber…

Cambugahay Falls

From Lazi, a sealed road leads 2km north to these refreshing falls on the Po-o River. Above the falls, there's a paid parking bay on your left for your…

Mt Bandila-an

Siquijor's highest peak, Mt Bandila-an (557m), is near Cantabon. Concrete steps lead 10 minutes up to the peak from two clearly marked points on the road…

Balete Tree

Just west of the village of Campalanas is a tremendous balete tree (banyan tree), estimated to be 400 years old and believed by some to be enchanted. In…

Salagdoong Beach

A few kilometres past the town of Maria, Salagdoong Beach is popular with rowdy day trippers. There's a half-open water park that has seen much better…

Lugnason Falls

From barangay Tubod, a paved road leads 3km up to this pleasant waterfall, which cascades into a crisp and clean teal-green swimming hole. You can jump…

Bandila-an Mountain View Park

This park is essentially a public garden with lots of flowers, walking paths and little pavilions for picnics. It's great for bird- and butterfly-watching…

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Siquijor Tourist Spots Guide – 15 Fun Adventures to the Mystic Province of Siquijor

• by Hungry Traveller
• June 6, 2021 March 7, 2022

Forget the mystical stories and get lost to plenty of Siquijor tourist spots waiting for you to discover.

Siquijor is an island province in the southern Visayas region known for its mystic and unique healing arts. While some stories can typically drive attention through media consumption, many amazing Siquijor tourist spots might also capture your attention.

Siquijor island is, without a doubt, surrounded by beaches. It is one of the laid-back island destinations to visit when disconnecting temporarily from the hustle and bustle of city life. Among other exciting things to do in Siquijor are waterfall adventures, spelunking, road-tripping, and exploring its rich diving marine ecosystems.

Unless you desire those so-called potions for whatever reason you have, exploring the rural ambiance of Siquijor otherwise might take you to some great adventures of your life.

Let us run down some of the exciting Siquijor tourist spots!

Table of Contents

1. Paliton Beach

The best thing about visiting islands in the Philippines, like the island of Siquijor, is all about beaches. Here, Paliton beach is among the Siquijor tourist spots that should be on your bucket list.

Tourists regard Paliton beach as one of the most famous beach destinations in Siquijor because of its unspoiled coastlines. In comparison to Boracay, this beach scores fine white sands and turquoise waters. With tall coconut trees along with the coats, you’ll get a piece of paradise on Paliton beach.

This hidden paradise lies along the tourist strip of San Juan. The road leading to Paliton beach can be tricky, though, so better ask your local guide.

While swimming is the main activity to enjoy here, you can always appreciate the beach view any time of the day. Visiting in the morning greets you with the cold breeze. Afternoon visits, on the other hand, showcases dramatic sunset views. This hour will let you play with your creativity to capture those unique shots to share.

With a handful of commercial stalls near the beach, visiting during their happy hours can avail of cheaper drinks.

Since Paliton beach is a public beach, tourists are encouraged to leave nothing but footprints.

2. Cambugahay Falls

Aside from the beaches, other exciting Siquijor tourist spots like waterfalls should be on everyone’s itinerary. One of them is the Cambugahay Falls in the town of Lazi.

As mystic as the province, Cambugahay Falls allures travelers of its natural beauty. It has three tiers of cascades with clean turquoise waters on its hole basin. Besides, towering trees surrounding the water hole keep tourists relaxed during the summer days.

Tourists will surely love splashing to its warm and refreshing bluish waters. In addition, there are jumping platforms and swing ropes to pump some adrenaline.

Either swinging or jumping, both are a must-try when visiting Cambugahay Falls. You can also try riding the bamboo rafts to get closer to the cascades.

Other than the central swimming hole, exploring its upstreams opens up to some more adventures. In addition, you can easily spot other natural swimming holes that are also as charming as the first one.

Reaching Cambugahay Falls takes about 20 minutes with a tricycle or motorbike ride from San Juan.

The best months to visit this Siquijor attraction are during the dry months of March to May, when rain is almost none. This way, the swimming basin keeps its water clean and bluish.

3. Scuba Diving in Siquijor

Although Siquijor is an island itself, scuba diving doesn’t come often to the vocabulary of avid divers. Yet, while the land above is known for its white-sand coastlines, beautiful cascades, and century-old structures, what lies beneath adds to the many Siquijor tourist spots to check by.

Geographically speaking, Siquijor island is close to known diving spots in the Philippines like the Apo Island in Dumaguete , Sumilon in Cebu, and Panglao in Bohol. So it’s not a surprise that the Siquijor also shares an abundance of the marine ecosystem.

When you’re in San Juan, you can find many diving centers that offer comprehensive packages for scuba diving in Siquijor.

Some  Siquijor diving spots  in the western part are Paliton Wall and Paliton Staghorn in Paliton, Maite, and Solangon. When going south, the Coco Groove, and Sawang, while the north-eastern part has Salagdong and Daquit Shoal.

From the multitude of varying corals to a school of different fishes, divers will be delighted to discover the rich marine biodiversity of Siquijor. Some of the species you can spot to its deeper shoals are barracudas, green sea turtles, and blue-spotted stingrays.

🔗 Nearby Tourist Destination | Bohol |

4. saint francis of assisi church.

Just a few minutes from the port, the Saint Francis of Assisi Church is one of the most accessible landmarks to identify.

Locally known as Siquijor Church, this antique religious place is as good as the first or last stop of your Siquijor tourist spots tour.

Dating back to 1783 as its founding year, the Siquijor Church otherwise dated its completion in 1831. Like most olden churches in the Philippines, this religious tourist spot in Siquijor consists mainly of limestones and coral stones. According to historical notes, its original form is made from nipa huts alone.

Today, the Siquijor Church has its distinct vintage look from when seen from the outside. However, its minimalistic white interior with dark-brown wooden braces that look like trim is observed when going inside.

Its old bell tower sitting isolated from the church serves as a lookout post during the early times. In addition, its convent serves as a safe place for the priests and locals when invaders go to the island.

The small triangular park in front has the ‘Welcome to Siquijor’ signage is perfect for your mandatory photograph souvenirs.

5. Lagaan Falls

If you want less crowded waterfalls to visit in Lazi, the Lagaan Falls are among other waterfalls in Siquijor to visit.

Travelers who are into off-the-beaten destinations will love exploring the Lagaan Falls. After arriving at the entrance desk, you’ll be trailing a dirt road under the shades of a dense forest for about 15 minutes.

Upon arrival, the unassuming swimming hole will greet you with its charming natural beauty.

Just like in Cambugahay Falls, there are also swing ropes to fuel some excitement in Lagaan Falls. In addition, there is also a natural slide to plunge into the refreshing waters.

Exploring the upstream will also take you to another level of fun adventure. There are other more minor falls and natural rock pools to switch by, keeping you occupied for some time.

What keeps it apart from its famous counterpart is its more peaceful and tranquil ambiance, perfect for chilling during the day.

6. San Isidro Labrador Parish Church (Lazi Church)

Going to its downtown area, the Lazi Church is one of the Siquijor tourist spots not to miss.

The Lazi Church is the oldest and largest Catholic church in Siquijor island. It is also declared as a National Cultural Treasure by the  National Museum of the Philippines .

Since 2006, the Lazi Church is currently under nomination for Baroque Churches of the Philippines to the UNESCO World Heritage.

Looking more likely a barn from a distance if you remove the bell tower; the interior otherwise has a unique bluish ceiling. It also has wooden flooring, which sets it apart from the usual churches you see anywhere in the Philippines.

Another interesting thing about its interior is its two pulpits, which also add symmetry and balance.

True to its olden stature, the textured thick coral stone walls are one of the testaments of its origin since its completion in 1857.

Visiting Lazi Church is one of the many more ways to explore and understand the cultural heritage of Siquijor island.

7. San Isidro Labrador Convent

Right in front of Lazi Church is the San Isidro Labrador Convent, which is also a local heritage site worth visiting.

Measuring 42 meters by 32 meters, this two-story convent is one of the oldest and most prominent in the Philippines and Asia. The ground floor is made primarily of coral stones. The upper floor, however, is made of hardwood with timber and steel frameworks.

With some restorations through the National Historical Commission, this Siquijor tourist spot has brought back its glory days in today’s modern period.

Today, this antique convent houses the Siquijor Heritage Museum showcasing religious artifacts and historical pieces. You can also gaze at some collections of carved relics and mass instruments of the 19th century.

While the interior may exude some eerie vibes, roaming around the surrounding of the convent is another story. You can capture excellent photographs with the convent during broad daylight as either a subject or a background. The towering Acacia trees provide shade and add rural vibes as well.

8. Old Enchanted Balete Tree

In the Philippines, there are many folklores of mythical creatures, and the Balete tree is often associated with these stories. Adding to the mystic charm of Siquijor Island, the Old Enchanted Balete tree in Lazi is a must to your Siquijor itinerary.

The old Balete tree is estimated to be over 500 years old, which is believed to be a ritual place of shamen in the early days.

Now, this century-old tree is one of the tourist attractions in Siquijor, where you can genuinely appreciate a broad tree. Near to its footsteps is a concrete pond where you can sit and have your foot some fish spa. Hundreds of thick vines are also evidently visible, embracing and hanging over the tree.

There is a nearby restaurant where tourists can grab some bites and souvenir shops for the mandatory  pasalubong .

Visiting the old Balete tree is an excellent addition to your side trips, especially when exploring other Lazi Siquijor tourist spots.

9. Salagdoong Beach and Forest Park

Moving to its eastern town of Maria, Salagdoong Beach is one of the local’s favorite beach places.

This Siquijor beach is one of the many places to enjoy a day at the sands, explore underwater by snorkeling, or go on thrilling cliff jumping straight to the sea.

While some human-made structures are built near the coastlines, this beach is one of the family-friendly beach resorts in Siquijor.

Not for the faint of hearts, the 7-meter and 10-meter diving spots add to the adrenaline of the outdoor enthusiasts. The concrete slide, however, drives you straight sailing to the seas.

Note that these activities are only available during high tide seasons, and it is close during the low tides for safety concerns.

In addition, the near shallow coasts provide ideal spots for quick snorkeling activities. You’ll be surprised to see coral gardens and schools of fish on the crystal clear waters of Salagdoong beach.

Before reaching the Salagdoong beach, you’ll be passing by a human-made forest that is refreshing to the senses. Riding a scooter or motorbike along the concrete pavement is a fun way to maximize your stay in Salagdoong.

10. Broomstick Challenge at Hapitanan

One of the exciting stop-overs when touring Siquijor Island is the Hapitanan, located in the circumferential road near Lazi. In local terms, hapitanan means a stop-over place.

This small hapitanan is a small store where you can buy some goods with their menus branding with ‘Something.’ For cold drinks, it’s called Something Refreshing, hot drinks for Something Awakening, and meals for Something Silog. So you get it, right?

While it is a lovely spot to recharge when traveling to or from Lazi, the trending challenge is to ride a broomstick. Since Siquijor is famed for folk stories about witchcraft, you can complement your Siquijor experience by riding a broomstick. Panis and Harry Potter niyo! Kidding!

Their skilled staff will be glad to take some photos of you while seemingly riding a broomstick, like a witch. To capture some dramatic shots, they have provided a platform with a nice overlooking view. What a fun way, indeed.

Taking photos is free of charge, and a donation box is placed right before the platform.

As a bonus, they also have some tire swings for short photosets or enjoy the vantage views of the seas.

11. Cantabon Cave

Taking a break from the beaches and waterfalls, the Cantabon Cave is one alternative to fill your Siquijor tourist spots list.

When planning for a spelunking tour at Cantabon, you’ll need to register first at the local tourism office of Cantabon, Siquijor. Afterwhich, a tourism officer designates a local guide for your group. They provide complimentary headlamps and helmets as well.

While Cantabon Cave is a whole underground adventure, tourists should expect to get wet and dirty simultaneously. Expect low ceilings and narrow passages where you need to bend your knees and body to advance.

The Cantabon cave stretches around 800 meters with an average touring time of 45 minutes. Inside, you’ll see countless stalactites in every direction, with distinctive walls to interpret by your cognitive imagination.

One famous formation is the ‘king’s bed,’ an enormous white rock formation like a platform.

Cantabon Cave is one of the tourist spots in Siquijor that provides opportunities for the locals.

Reaching the Cantabon takes about 15 to 20 minutes from Poblacion, Siquijor.

12. Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary

Located near the borders of Lazi, Siquijor, and Larena, the Butterfly Sanctuary is a place to appreciate these colorful species.

Run by a local, a small 200 square meters of land is enclosed to conserve some butterfly species on the island of Siquijor. You’ll see these little animals at every stage of life, from larva, pupa, and flying butterflies.

The Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary aims to serve as an educational medium to the youth while conserving their species. With that in mind, some fully grown butterflies are seeking to be released into the wild.

Tourists can walk by the garden and interact with the butterflies as well. A minimal entrance fee and donation boxes are the sources of funding to run these intuitive conservation acts.

Visiting the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary is both fun and a quick educational tour you can add to your Siquijor itinerary.

They even sell some refreshments like fresh buko juices so you can replenish your energy for your next destination.

13. Sambulawan Underground River

With its recent opening to the public, the Sambulawan Underground River has considerably reached the attention of adventure-seeker tourists.

Unlike the Cantabon Cave, this underground adventure runs on a river underneath the earth itself.

Cruising the Sambawan Underground River requires a local guide, so register first to its local tourism office and pay a minimal fee. Worry not if you are not an experienced swimmer because you can at least advance to your heart’s desire with your life jackets on.

This underground river tour on a cave system lets you test your endurance and flexibility. Be mindful, though, that it is highly possible to come across cockroaches and spiders, even bats shelters to the cave.

This Siquijor tourist spot consists mainly of three sections. The first is the freshwater river spanning approximately 200 meters with a water level that can go as high as waist level. The other two are where you can observe some rock formations and where the spiders and bats are.

Overall, finishing this extra-thrilling adventure can take up to one hour, depending on the guests’ phase.

14. Cang-isok House

Aside from the many natural Siquijor tourist spots, a one-of-a-kind attraction gets either a positive or a negative impression. And this is the Cang-isok House.

This olden house sits across the circumferential road in Enrique Villanueva, fronting the sea. It is also beside the Cang-isok village; hence its name is called today.

Although Cang-isok House’s construction materials are wooden pieces, bamboo, and nipa sheets, there is no solid evidence of this structure’s old

Some say it is an old structure in the 1800s. Others are saying it could have been here only by the 1900s.

Truth be told, it is still fascinating to think how this wooden house stands the test of time. Although, from what it looks like, this house might only survive a few years from now.

With tourists’ hopes to restore to its glory days, this historical landmark may drive more tourists and opportunities to the locals.

15. Capilay Spring Water Park

Of all public places in Siquijor, the Capilay Spring Water Park is among the well-known park everyone can visit.

With its accessibility at the center of San Juan town, locals and tourists can visit this water park without any fees.

While there are almost parks in every city or municipality, maintaining a public water park drives interest and fascinates every tourist.

Unlike other outdoor Siquijor tourist spots, the Capilay Spring Park is your laid-back go-to place to explore the town. The natural spring water is refreshing and inviting for a quick dip or by lowering just your feet.

There are concrete benches and trees providing shades and a resting area.

🔗 Interesting Island Tourist Destinations | Romblon | Camiguin |

Get ready to conquer siquijor tourist spots..

Siquijor isn’t just about the mystical stories you have probably heard of or read on your favorite social networks.

This small island is one of the go-to places for off-the-beaten adventures and pristine beaches alike. Other than the natural Siquijor tourist spots to admire, the locals are also known for their hospitality and naturally friendly individuals.

When planning soon enough to visit Siquijor island, know that the best time to visit is during the summer season of February to May. If you want to skip the blazing summer heat, it is ideal for visiting from November to February.

Book your Siquijor accommodations in advance to avail of deals and discounted rates. Planning ahead of your tour can help you maximize your vacation, so you can only think of the day that you’ll be leaving the island paradise.

From the list above, where do you want to visit first? Share this with your circle now and plan your next getaway to Siquijor.

Safe travels!

Remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic. For your guidance about the changes in health protocols, you may visit the guidelines from the Department of Tourism and Siquijor’s official website . Stay safe.

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23 Awesome Tourist Spots in Siquijor Things to Do on the “Island of Fire and Witchcraft”

Within the cluster of Cebu, Negros, and Bohol in the Vasaya Islands of the Philippines lies a smaller stop off with turquoise waters and unreal beaches.  Siquijor Island.  A cluster of white sands, clear turquoise waters, and warmth year round make the tourist spots in Siquijor great lures for everything from diving, to lounging, to motorbike mounted side adventures.

Between your experiences of swimming with whale sharks on Cebu , snorkeling and diving with turtles off Apo Island , and **motorbiking the Chocolate Hills and “rice field islands”** of Bohol, Siquijor is a worthwhile break that I highly recommend.

One day is plenty for exploring the island.  Two to three days are perfect if you plan to dive the amazing dive sites or relax on a beach without the pressure of sightseeing.  Regardless of your tastes, Siquijor is a nice bit of respite from the sometimes chaotic Philippine travel trail.

• Scooter around the Island
• Old Enchanted Balete Tree
• Siqijor Butterfly Sanctuary
• Snorkel at San Juan Beach
• Saladong Beach
• Paliton Beach
• Kagusuan Beach
• Luznanon Falls
• Cambuhaguay Falls
• Gurwahon Spring Park
• Capilay Springs
• Hike Mount Bandilan
• SCUBA Dive: Fun dive or certify in crystal clear waters
• Tubod Marine Sanctuary
• Visit the recovering reefs, previously devastated by the tsunami
• Kanheron Ranch
• Marelle’s underwater World Musem
• Swim in the mangroves
• Visit Lazi Convent
• St. Francis Assisi Church
• Mountain Bike Tour
• Cantaon Cave Tour
• Visit a healer
• Sunset on the west coast of the island in San Juan
• Monkey Business
• Bellview Kuzzina Bar and Restaurant
• M’s restaurant

Al Capone’s Pizzeria

Restaurant saki, daily budget & expenses.

• Where is Siqijor (in relation to other sites)
• From Dumagete
• From….?
• Where to Stay in Siquijor

Best Time to Visit Siquijor

Getting around siquijor, wifi, internet, and connectivity on siqijor, 21 best tourist spots in siquijor and things to do on the “island of fire”, 1. rent a motorbike and ride the main rode around the island of siquijor..

Renting a motorbike is the perfect way to get around the island of Siquijor and see amazing views along the way.  Without stops, this trip would take 2-3 hours, and you’ll pass all of the major beaches and not so major beaches, making it the perfect Siquijor tour. 

A scooter will run you roughly 350 PHP (~$7 USD) per day allowing you to wander freely and fitting those tight, backpacker budgets.

The best option for renting is through your host at your hostel or hotel.  Your hostel or hotel managers are more vested in you having a good experience (and them getting a good review) so they’ll steer you in the right direction.   

Once you have your motorbike, it’s time to ride!  Simply ride the road labeled “Provincial Road” in Google Maps and Maps.me.  The road is fully developed the entire way, and traffic is light enough that even novice riders will be comfortable with the cruise. 

2.   Visit the 400-year-Old Enchanted Balete Tree

The “Enchanted” Balete tree is over 400 years old.  The “enchanted” part is that it’s a miracle the tree survived that long.  Fair enough.

If your travels have you needing a pedi, stick your feet in the pool in front the tree so the fish can give you a nibble pedicure.  Gonna admit, I didn’t do this.  I’m not judging anyone…toe licking just isn’t my thing.  Especially not by fish.  But you do you boo! I was kind of tempted. 

This stop is only about 10 minutes…but it gave me a much appreciated chance for ice cream!  It’s for sale at the shop next to the tree and welcomed on a hot day before proceeding onto the next spot on my Siquijor itinerary.

3. Visit the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary

How could you miss the chance to be surrounded by butterflies?  This attraction is admittedly small but is a wonderful stop off on your motorcycle tour. 

The sanctuary is located in the middle of the island, so cruising over gives you a chance to see more of the island than its beaches.

Entry Fee:  100 Pesos (~$2 USD)

4. Sun, Snorkel, and Sunset at San Juan Beach

A stretch of beach with white sands, turquoise waters, and plenty of areas to snorkel. San Juan beach is exactly what you expect to see in the Philippines.  Just swim about 50 meters off shore and you’ll find a nice reef to snorkel and enjoy.  Or stay on the sand and enjoy the view.

Another perk of San Juan Beach is that its in the little area of San Juan, which has some of the best accommodations and food options on the island.  This makes it a convenient place to swim and sun before walking a short ways for a snack or beverage.

Be sure to spend your sunsets at San Juan Beach as it is the most beautiful, west-facing beach on the island.

5. Saladong Beach and Saladong Beach Resort

Saladong beach is part of a beach resort and is more resort than beach.  Entry will run 50 pesos.  Inside, there are picnic tables and a restaurant.  The beach here is actually quite small and there are better beaches elsewhere on the island, but the restaurant here makes Saladong beach a perfect stop on a motorbike tour around the island.

As small as the beach is, the sands are white and the water is warm.  There is also a cliff to dive from with 7 and 10 meters height…I would wait for high tide though.

6. Paliton Beach

Paliton Beach is a little off the beaten path and you may even miss the access road if you         ‘re not paying close attention, so ask a local if lost.  This tiny stretch of beach is touted (by some) as being the most beautiful on the island.  White sands and pristinely beautiful waters make for great views on the surface, while patchy reefs make for good snorkeling below.

7. Kagusuan Beach

This beach, which is “officially closed”, is more about the adventure than the destination.  Depending where you’re coming from on the island, getting there may take an hour by motorbike and you’ll notice on arrival that this is far from being the most beautiful beach and there are absolutely no tourists.  But, like I said, this beach is all about the adventure of getting there…ideally via motorycle.  If you want a nice detour from your explorations of the island, add Kagusuan Beach as a stopoff

8. Visit Lugnason Falls

If the beaches of the Philippines haven’t met all of your criteria for aquatic paradises, drop by Lugnason Falls.  A series of falls with short hikes, maximum of 15 minutes each, takes you to various falls and pools where you can swim & chill, play on the rope swing, and even cliff dive.  Be sure to go early to beat the crowds and beware that the falls are less spectacular in the dry season (~February), due to lack of rain.

9. Cambuhaguay Falls

Closer to the far side (east) of the island you’ll find another, fun waterfall – Cambuhaguay Falls.  Jump into the pools, ride a bamboo raft, or simply splash and relax.  Whatever you do, this Cambhaguay makes a lovely dip and respite from the heat that comes with tourist high season on Siquijor.

The falls open at 7AM and entry is free, you’ll only pay for parking.  Additionally, you can pay for a bamboo raft ride or to have a guide take you between the falls.

10. Gurwahon Spring Park

Moreso a mangrove tour via catwalk than a spring.  The Gurwahon Spring Park is a series of wood and bamboo catwalks meandering through various mangroves for a calming, peaceful tour with a change of scenery between the single, tiny spring and the sea.

11. Capilay Springs

A park full of green surrounding a manmade swimming pool fed by cool, natural spring water. This spot makes for a great picnic or a break from the day. Entrance is free, but expect tons of tourists any time of day.

12. Mount Bandilaan Hike

If you’re craving a hike, Mount Bandilaan may be a quick, satisfying fix.  At 632 meters above sea level, Mount Bandilaan is the tallest point on Siquijor island and makes for a pleasant 20 minutes of hiking from the parking lot.  If you crave a bit more of a hike, you can walk from the town of Siquijor which is roughly 10 kilometers away. 

During Holy Week, healers come in droves to the mountain for special ceremonies and to provide their services, so be sure visit if you’re in town then.  For 2020, holy week is Sunday April 5 to Sunday April 11, but holy week shifts each year with the dates of Easter, so check on arrival to see if you’re lucky enough to enjoy the festivities.

13. SCUBA Dive: Fun dive or certify

Countless islands in the Philippines are renowned for their undersea experiences at a cheap price, and Siquijor is no different.  The water is warm, the coral reefs and gardens are flourishing, and the price is right. If you have the time, whether you’re coming for a fun dive or need to get your open water certification, consider doing either on Siquijor.

With our friends at Mystic Dives a fun dive will run you ~$25 USD and an Open Water Course will run ~$375 in water that’s warmer, clearer, and more full of life than most other options around the globe.  

Tell her “A Brother Abroad” sent ya!

14. Tubod Marine Sanctuary

Tubod Marine Sanctuary is another fantastic snorkeling spot.  This small yet well-preserved coral garden is home to schools of colorful fish and easy swimming (no currents).  Snorkeling is best at high tide, as the coral garden is right near the shore.

Tubod Marine Sanctuary Entry Fee: 50 Pesos (~$1 USD)

15. Visit the recovering reefs

In 2013, an earthquake in nearby Cebu and Bohol caused a tsunami that also devastated Siquijor.  Along with tremendous damage on the island, a handful of the reefs facing the tsunami were raked clean.  Today, efforts are being made to sector off these areas, allowing the reefs to regrow.  If you love nature, this presents an opportunity to walk on sandbars at low tide and see what a reef in the making looks like.  You can even hire a guide for a small fee to walk you out carefully to see the growing reef and emerging sea life up close, while your guide explains the process happening before your eyes

16. Kanheron Ranch

Essentially a bar with a “wild west” and cowboys theme and tons of memorabilia makes a fun stop off for anyone curious about the old American west

Open 9AM to 6PM daily

17. Marelle’s Underwater World Musem

A small museum that showcases seashells and small marine life of the Philippines with an emphasis on educating and inspiring marine conservation efforts, in the Philippines and beyond.

Marelle’s has an onsite café and restaurant as well, making it another stop off option on the Siquijor Island motorbike tour.

Open 7AM to 10PM daily

18. Swim and snorkel in the mangroves

A perfect complement to snorkeling in the coral gardens alongside the pristine, white sands beaches, snorkeling in the mangroves presents a complete different view and set of marine life for amateur aquatic adventurers.  The ride between Lazi and Salagdoong beach presents the opportunity to play in the mangroves as do several other places on the island…so keep an eye out.

19. Visit Lazi Convent

A 130+ year old Roman Catholic church that is UNESCO World Heritage nominee site and a Philippine National Culture Treasure built from wood and stones from the sea.  A beautiful site for those who love churches and architecture and unique in the predominately Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim region of Asia.

Note: @jobrown777 is an aspiring photographer whose account I stumbled on while researching Siquijor.  He has some amazing shots from around the world.  Show some love by checking out the rest of the artwork and following

20. St. Francis Assisi Church (Siquijor Church)

Built in 1783, the St. Franciss Assisi Parish contains the oldest church on the island.  The church, convent, and bell tower that makeup the grounds are less than half a kilometer from the port and an easy site to see.

21. Mountain Bike Tour

With countless hills on the island, there are plenty of options to get in some downhill single-track riding and mountain bike meandering.  Visit any of the tourist shops, or talk to your hostel/hotel provider about booking mountain bike tours.

22. Cantabon Cave Tour

Tucked in the mountains, this cave was described to me as “the most beautiful in the Philippines”.  The cave extends for about 800 meters and a tour can take up to three hours as you walk and wiggle through the cave’s spaces. The biggest draw of this cave is that it is completely undeveloped, so you get that adventurous feeling and a great contrast to the hills and beaches of Siquijor

You will have to pay an entrance fee and pay for a guide as guides are required.  Also, dress accordingly because you will be getting wet and crawling around a bit.

Tour Price: 600 Pesos (~$12 USD) including guide and entry fee

23. Visit a healer

Whether you’re looking for a cure to an illness or a love potion (seriously!!) Siquijor’s healers are renowned for being effective.  Siquijor’s reputation for witchcraft began with rumors from Spanish sailors in the 1600’s.  The reputation continues as an aspect of the Siquijor culture today, preserved by the “mananambal” or witches/healers that are very proud to carry on the heritage.

To experience a healer on Siquijor, it is best to come during holy week which overlaps with healing week .  During this period that occurs right around Easter but changes every year, healers come out in droves, in places such as Mount Bandilaan, to heal as a show of good faith to the community. 

During other times of the year, talk to the manager at your accommodation and they’ll put you on the right track for your healing experience.

24. Sunset on the west coast of the island in San Juan

After a long day of journeying and exploring, end the adventure in San Juan at the west coast of the island watching the sun drop into the sea.  Between the vibe, the sands, the sea, and the sun, you’ll be hard pressed to find a view and experience this beautiful and refreshing back home…so soak it up and enjoy.

Here’s a great vid of Siquijor to get you in the mood

Where to eat and drink in siquijor, monkey business – in san juan.

If you have no idea where to eat, go to Monkey business.  A cool vibe with upbeat music, and swings instead of bar stools, as well as a great menu of food, cocktails, and mocktails make this a trusty food spot for anyone.  The food served is Filipino fusion, but there are plenty of western dishes on the menu for lunch and dinner.  I highly recommend the lemongrass lemonade.

(**IMG** Siquijor Tourist Spots (User-monkeybusiness.siquijor) (50kb) **IMG**)

Bellview Kuzzina Bar and Restaurant (Collocated with the E.I. Hotel) – Near Siquijor Port

If you’re near the Siquijor port, you’ll only have a handful of not so great options for food.  Save yourself some trouble by heading to the Bellview restaurant.  This restaurant is in the first floor of a hotel and serves Filipino food and western food in large portions that are well prepared 

M Restaurant– Near Siquijor Port

A purely local spot that serves quick snacks, like the local version of pizza and burgers…but honestly, they’re not that great.  However, I do recommend their fresh baked goods to take as to go snacks to go, as they’re delicious, cheap, and packaged to go.  I loaded up on the banana bread and pineapple upside down cake for 50 cents a slice for my cruise around the island by motorbike.  The cakes hit the spot perfectly when I sat cliff side overlooking the ocean for a break and a snack

Open 7 days a week from lunchtime until midnight, Al Capone’s delivers pizzas, calzones, and sandwiches for 100 – 200 Pesos ($2 -$4 USD).  This spot is one of the staples for western food, and the sandwiches make great to-go meals for motorcycle journeys.

Restaurant Saki is repeatedly recommended just as much for the hilltop view as its Japanese dishes and Asian fusion dishes.  Heads up if you’re on a budget, this restaurant is a bit pricier than other options for eating on Siquijor, but you’re mostly paying for the view.

Average Hostel Price : $8 per night – best booked in advance through Booking.com

Budget Hotel Price: $25-$50 per night – also best booked in advance through Booking.com

Cost of a Meal (Western Style): $5-$7

Daily Motorscooter Rental: $7

Average Daily Budget on Siquijor: $50 – $70 (without tours and entrance fees)

How to get to Siquijor

Getting to Siquijor is easy and cheap, just plan on it taking a bit of time, as the only way to arrive or leave is by ferry.  Your best options for making your way to Siquijor are from Dumaguette on Negros Island, from Tagbilaran in Bohol, and from Cebu City.  All three options are via ferry with plenty of departure times.  To book, simply go to the port and purchase your ticket, optimally at least one day in advance to ensure you get the time that is best for your itinerary.

Leaving Siquijor

Siquijor has two separate ports: Siquijor port and Larena port. 

The Siquijor port receives ferries from Dumaguette. 

The Larena port, 20 minutes motorbike ride away from Siquijor port, receives boats from Cebu City and Tagbilaran, Bohol.

Going to Dumaguete and Apo Island:

Leave from Siquijor Ferry Terminal. Ticket price -200 Pesos.  Be sure to check in and get your seat one hour prior

Going to Tagbilaran, Bohol

Leave from Larena ferry port.  Boats leave once daily at 12:30PM.  Be sure to check in at least one hour prior to confirm your seat.  I recommend booking 24 hours in advance as seats tend to book out.

Going to Cebu City

The ferry to Cebu City leaves from the Larena Port multiple times daily

Where to stay on Siquijor: San Juan

Not all beaches in the Philippines were created equal.  Lucky for you, the best beaches on Siquijor are clustered around the little area of San Juan, on the southwest part of the island.  All of the best accommodation on the island is also conveniently situated along the little stretch of road that runs through this “beach village” of San Juan.  Staying here, in San Juan, allows you to walk to the best places to snorkel and dive, and easily find your choice of cuisine, Filipino or Western, when you’re done with the beach.

Renting snorkel equipment or a motorbike, or arranging a dive through one of the dive shops here in San Juan is very easy too.

For specific places to say, Booking.com has the best selection, but consider these spots to keep things interesting…

For a unique experience: GLAMPING Siquijor – Exactly what it sounds like, this “campsite” sits on a pristine stretch of San Juan’s white sand beaches.  Large, luxury tents sit within view of the ocean, walking distance from plenty of bars and restaurants, and in a great location for sunsets. When booking, note that the tents further back from the ocean are cheaper at half the price.

Be sure to book well in advance as reservations at this spot book up quickly.  When I showed up, they were fully booked out for the next week.

Nearly any time of year is great for visiting siquijor.  The weather stays above the 70’s (23 Celsius) most of the year making it consistently warm enough to swim comfortably.  Do note that the temperatures can get into the 90’s Fahrenheit (30+ Celsius) between late May and September.

Tourist high seasons are in April, May, and September.  If you come during these months, book ahead as the best accommodation will book quickly and not be available on arrival or what remains will be very overpriced by Southeast Asia standards.

For getting around Siquijor you will hae two options: renting a motorbike, or hiring a tricycle.

A rented motorbike is by far the best, cheapest, and most convenient way to move around the island.  The roads on Siquijor are well paved, traffic isn’t bad at all, and scooters only cost ~$7 per day. Having your scooter gives you the freedom to explore the beaches and locales as you see fit on the 3 hour cruise of Siquijor Island’s circumferential road.  To rent a scooter, your best bet is renting from your hotel or guesthouse, or the provider they recommend.  This ensures a better experience as the quality of the service the scooter rental provides is linked to your review of the hotel, giving your hotel/hostel an incentive to look out for your best interests.

Tricycles, on the other hand, are simply motorcycles fitted with a sidecar to carry a few people.  On Siquijor, the rates for hiring tricycles are always overpriced during the initial ask and require a bit of negotiating.  Even after negotiating, expect to pay much more than the ~$7 USD it would cost to rent your own scooter.

Don’t expect extremely fast wifi on Siquijor.  Most restaurants catering to tourists and most hotels and guesthouses do have wifi with moderate speeds. Your best bet is to buy a local SIM card with data (~$7) before leaving Manila and Cebu. Cell and data signal through local carriers is reliable through most of the island…just don’t expect that data to be too fast either.

Other Great Reads on the Philippines

Other Content to Help you plan your tour of the Philippines

• Why Coron, Palawan Should be Your Next Stop in the Philippines
• Apo Island: The experience of diving near Dumaguette
• Swimming with Whale Sharks in Oslob
• Why I chose to swim with whale Sharks in Oslob

A Note on the Photograpy: ABA is taking an opportunity to go social.  Many of the images to be featured over the coming months are shared from social media accounts.  I’ve run into tons of aspiring photographers, creators, and small businesses.  I’ve decided to hunt them out and share their images in my content to increase reach.  If you like what you see, support their work with a follow (all accounts linked in photo credits).

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

The Hidden Gem Tropical Destination Known As The Philippines' Island Of Witches

I f you're looking for a destination that is full of magic, mysticism, and mystery, it's time to plan a trip to the beautiful island of Siquijor. Located in the Visayan Island group of the Philippines, the remote island isn't the easiest to get to, but it absolutely rewards those who do . It is about 133 square miles in size and is surrounded by the Bohol Sea. It's known for gorgeous white sand beaches, caves, waterfalls, and witchcraft.

Siquijor has been called many names over the years, including Mystic Island and the Island of Witches. The Indigenous people once called it Katagusan and early Spanish colonists dubbed it Isla de Fuegos, or Island of Fire, likely due to the abundant fireflies that ignited the island with an otherworldly glow each evening. Siquijor is well known around the Philippines for its mysterious and magical history.

The witchcraft in Siquijor isn't something you'd expect to see in a Harry Potter movie, so leave the cliches at home and visit with an open mind. You won't find magic wands and wizard hats on Siquijor. What you will find are healers, herbalists, and mystics with practices deeply rooted in ancestral knowledge, as well as rituals that have been passed down for generations. Even if the witches can't rid you of your negative energy, the natural beauty of Siquijor Island will surely rejuvenate your spirit. One thing is certain — you're bound to be bewitched by this beautiful, hidden gem island in The Philippines. 

Read more: 22 Underrated Tourist Destinations In Asia To Add To Your Bucket List

Legend, Folklore, And Traditional Healing On Siquijor Island

The origins of the magical and healing arts visitors can experience on Siquijor date back hundreds of years. Practices have been passed down from generation to generation. The Spanish colonizers brought Catholicism to the island during the Spanish Colonial Period, which lasted from the mid-1500s to the late 1800s. Many islanders have combined their traditional ancestral spiritual beliefs with Catholic religious practices to create their own eclectic belief system.

One of the most well-known healing techniques on Siquijor is called bolo-bolo. The unique method is believed to have originated on the island. Many illnesses on Siquijor are believed to be the result of bad spirits or curses, and the first hospital didn't open on the island until the late 1940s. Until then, traditional healing methods and herbal remedies would have been islanders' only option when they fell ill. Bolo-bolo involves placing a special stone in a cup of water. Healers will then blow into a straw made from bamboo, known as a "bagacay" and move it around the inflicted person's body to remove bad energy, spirits, and curses. Other healers rely on massage techniques called "hilot" and herbal remedies.

While most of the witches of Siquijor are healers or practitioners of "white magic" there are still rumors of islanders who practice the dark arts, using tools like human skulls to curse people. These sorcerers are called Mangkukulam, and are believed to use their spellcasting skills for both good and evil acts.

Siquijor's Magical Tourism

For some time, Siquijor's spooky folklore and rumors of witchcraft may have deterred some travelers over the years, but now the government is using the lure of healing arts to its advantage. The witches of Siquijor may be responsible for a tourism boom. Wellness-related travel is on the rise, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused people to grow more concerned with their physical and mental well-being. Travelers are continuing to look for new ways to look and feel their best through unique experiences.

For travelers planning a trip to experience some of the beautiful beaches in the Philippines, spending a few days in Siquijor and exploring some of the unique healing techniques may be worthwhile. The easiest way to find and book healing sessions on Siquijor is to consult your hotel. They'll be able to point you in the right direction with recommendations for local practitioners open to working with tourists. Many of the island's healers live around the Mount Bandilaan National Park and cultivate traditional medicinal plants that can assist with a variety of ailments.

The Siquijor Tourism Office also offers a healing and wellness tour, which allows visitors to experience bolo-bolo along with a traditional Balay Pahauli, or "hut of restoration" during their trip. After a morning of healing remedies, travelers can enjoy an idyllic escape surrounded by beautiful waterfalls and rivers along with a pilgrimage hike to the Holy Mountain of God. Consider the  most budget-friendly time to visit the Philippines to make the most of your trip.

Read the original article on Explore