In this guide we’ll be looking at some of the best tourist spots in Siquijor. Siquijor island is one of my favourite places in the Philippines because it has an amazing combination of beautiful beaches and amazing waterfalls and is less crowded than its more famous neighbours in the Philippines.
If you’re visiting the Siquijor tourist spots as part of a backpacking tour of the Philippines, don’t forget to read my Manual; Backpacking the Philippines for hints and tips for your trip around this amazing country!
Now let’s check out the best tourist spots in Siquijor.
Tourist Spots in Siquijor
Siquijor island is an incredible island that remains somewhat of a hidden gem in the Philippines. The beaches in Siquijor can rival almost any others in the Philippines and with a number of beautiful waterfalls and other incredible tourist spots in Siquijor; it really is somewhere that you can escape some of the larger crowds seen elsewhere in the Philippines.
I have selected some of my favourite tourist spots in Siquijor to provide you with plenty of inspiration for your trip to the Philippines and to convince you that this mystical island is one not to be missed!
The Beaches in Siquijor
One of the biggest draws to this amazing island is the beautiful beaches in Siquijor. Parallels are drawn with the incredible White Beach at Boracay but on Siquijor island you get far fewer tourists than on Boracay which makes it an amazing place to spend a few days really enjoying the beauty of nature in this part of the world.
Here I round up some of my favourite beaches in Siquijor for you to add to your itinerary!
Paliton Beach
Paliton Beach, one of the San Juan beaches, is hands down one of the best beaches in Siquijor and definitely one of the most popular tourist spots in Siquijor.
Paliton Beach boasts powder white sand and beautiful turquoise water earning it the nickname of the little Boracay due to its similarities with White Beach.
It isn’t as long as White Beach, nor is it anywhere near as busy (with either tourists or bars and restaurants), but it is still beautiful and feels a lot more natural and undiscovered than its more well-known counterpart.
And once the day is drawing to an end, stay some more! Paliton Beach faces west and so it is the perfect place to watch the sunset on this amazing tropical island.
The sunsets are very impressive here and I would definitely recommend you head to the beach for sunset during your trip!
Salagdoong Beach
Salagdoong beach is another of the amazing beaches in Siquijor that is well worth a visit, especially for the adrenaline junkies amongst you!
This beach comprises two coves separated by rocks jutting out into the sea. The coves themselves have beautiful white sand and beautiful turquoise water fringed with palm trees for the perfect place to relax and swim!
What differentiates Salagdoong Beach from the other beaches in Siquijor is the presence of not one but two diving boards! Take on the challenge of the 5m or 10m man-made diving boards or for a more mild rush, try the natural rock slide into the sea!
There is a lifeguard on duty and as the beach is part of the Salagdoong Beach Resort, it is well maintained and supplied with a restaurant and toilets.
It is located on the east coast of Siquijor island and there is a small entrance fee of 30 pesos per person (less than $1 or £1) and an additional 20 pesos for parking.
Tubod Beach
Tubod Beach is a hidden gem in Siquijor, located at Coco Grove Beach Resort but remaining relatively unknown to tourists at the moment and so for me is one of the top tourist spots in Siquijor.
Not only is it a beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters, but it is also located at the Tubod Marine Sanctuary. As a result, it is the best beach in Siquijor for snorkelling!
Take (or hire) a snorkelling mask and head just offshore into the designated snorkelling part of the marine reserve to seek a world of tropical fish, coral and reefs. Seeing Nemo is almost guaranteed!
The Siquijor Falls
Siquijor island is quickly growing a big reputation within the travelling community for three things; being less discovered than its other more famous neighbouring islands, the stunning beaches in Siquijor and the Siquijor waterfalls!
For me, Siquijor was one of my favourite places in the Philippines for these very reasons. The beaches were beautiful and much less busy than elsewhere in the Philippines and when you head away from the coast and inland on Siquijor island, you can explore some amazing natural sights including the numerous Siquijor waterfalls.
Below are some of my favourite Siquijor waterfalls to tempt you to the amazing Siquijor island! It is easy to see why these are some of the most exciting tourist spots in Siquijor!
Cambugahay Falls
Cambugahay Falls is one of the coolest tourist spots in Siquijor and one of the most famous of the Siquijor waterfalls.
Cambugahay Falls comprises several tiers of beautiful turquoise pools beneath some impressive falls!
Each tier offers something different with a large pool for swimming and relaxing (complete with a floating bamboo platform which you can rent for the ultimate in relaxation!) and another pool complete with several rope swings for the adrenaline junkies!
With something for everyone, Cambugahay Falls is one of the best tourist spots in Siquijor; whether you wish to relax in the beauty of the falls or you wish to perfect your dives from the rope swings!
Cambugahay Falls is located in Lazi which is around 30 minutes drive from the popular tourist area of San Juan. Entry is 20 pesos per person and you may be asked for a donation for using the parking area.
Various vendors are on hand at the falls with refreshments for sale. You have to pay 50 pesos to use each swing, but once paid you can have unlimited tries to perfect your dismount!
Lugnason Falls
Another of the Siquijor waterfalls, Lugnason Falls is definitely one of our top tourist spots in Siquijor and not only for the waterfalls but for the amazing local volunteers that maintain these falls and provide their services as tour guides.
Lugnason Falls is also known as Zodiac Falls as there are a number of different levels to the falls; each of which are named after a sign of the Zodiac.
The main waterfall at Lugnason Falls is a beautiful 8-metre high and around a 10-metre wide waterfall tumbling into a beautiful turquoise pool of water.
You can sit on the edge of the pool or swim in the crystal clear waters. Equally, there is a 10-metre high rope swing for those of you brave enough. There is also a very small wall up the race of the waterfall, to the right of the fall, where you can climb to the top of the fall and jump into the pool below!
Lugnason Falls is located near San Juan and is approximately 15 minutes from Paliton Beach
Entrance to Lugnason Falls is free, although you may be asked for a 10 peso fee for parking. There are local volunteer guides at Lugnason Falls who are fantastic and come highly recommended!
Century Old Balete Tree Siquijor
The century-old Balete Tree is steeped in mystical history, in keeping with the history of Siquijor island itself and making this amazing tree of the most visited tourist spots in Siquijor.
The enchanted Balete Tree is apparently over 400 years old and is rumoured to have been used historically by Shaman on the island for sacred rituals. We didn’t see any rituals when we visited but that didn’t make it any less impressive!
The old enchanted Balete tree itself is huge, as you may expect from a 400-year-old tree, and has a beautifully ornate fish pond at its base. When you arrive you will see lots of people sitting around the edge of the fish pond with their feet in the water taking advantage of a fish foot spa! If you keep your feet still in the water the fish will nibble away the dead skin on your feet; which can be very relaxing unless you are ticklish!
The enchanted Balete Tree is located on the south coast of Siquijor island in the municipality of Lazi which is around 20 minutes from the popular tourist area of San Juan.
Entry to see the Balete Tree is only 10 pesos and you can stay as long as you like gazing at the amazing tree and having your feet nibbled by the fish! There is also a small restaurant next door where you can get some food (homemade empanadas, bread and noodles!) as well as a gift shop for any souvenirs!
This is one of the most unique tourist spots in Siquijor and I would definitely recommend a visit!
Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary
This lovely little place is one of the most relaxing tourist spots in Siquijor and well worth a visit if you get a chance.
The Siquijor butterfly sanctuary is run by a local man called Dante who has set aside 200 square metres to dedicate to providing a sanctuary for over 20 different species of butterflies.
Siquijor butterfly sanctuary also acts as an educational centre for local children to learn all about biodiversity and the importance of preserving it.
Not only is the Siqujor butterfly sanctuary educational but the butterflies themselves are beautiful and the grounds are very serene and relaxing.
The sanctuary is located in Larena Town and the entrance fee is 100 pesos ($2, £1.5) with that fee going to the improvement and continuation of the sanctuary.
Where to Stay when Visiting the Tourist Spots in Siquijor
Much like the rest of the Philippines, Siquijor Island has a huge variety of accommodation to choose from, from bouncing hostels, relaxing bungalows and luxurious villas and hotels.
Siquijor Island can be split roughly into five areas:
Maria Town – Located on the east coast of the island and is known for its relaxed, small-town feel. Home to Saladoong Beach, lots of greenery and other beautiful beaches, including the quiet and tourist-free Kagusuan and Talisay beaches.
Larena – A port town and the best place to stay if you’re travelling on a budget, and/or like to live like a local on your travels, then this is the place for you. It’s where many locals live and work, so there are markets, eateries and shops as well as beaches to explore too!
Siquijor Town – To the northwest of the island, you’ll find Siquijor Town, where you’ll find the second port of the island – and is where you’ll be dropped off if you’re arriving on the island by ferry.
San Juan – The best place to base yourself if you want to experience the best nightlife on Siquijor Island. Siquijor Island is small, so don’t go expecting Boracay-level nightlife, but there are some lovely bars here to let your hair down and have a few drinks. San Juan is also home to the best beaches on Siquijor Island and has a great range of both budget and luxury accommodation.
Lazi – Probably the most secluded of all the towns to stay in on Siquijor Island but home to some fantastic tourist spots in Siquijor including Cambugahay waterfalls and the Butterfly Sanctuary. It’s a bit off the beaten track, so I’d recommend hiring a moped to get around here.
Each area is unique and there is an area for all types of travellers. Here are my top picks of places to stay on Siquijor Island.
Budget Options
JJ’s Backpackers Village – San Juan
With a choice of dorm, single, twin, double or triple rooms as well as a private bungalow, JJ’s has something for everyone.
Based right on the beach, you can enjoy some amazing food whilst watching a spectacular sunset right from the sand.
It has a great socialising area for meeting other backpackers too.
The Bruce Resort – San Juan
Located right on the beach, not too far from JJ’s is The Bruce resort. Beautiful beachfront cottages, a treehouse and spacious apartments are offered at the Bruce but they also have a large pool, free kayaks and mopeds for rent which make it an ideal base for getting out and seeing the island.
There are a few bars and restaurants around, with Sylvia’s opposite doing a band night and disco at the weekend which attracts locals and tourists – we went and it was so fun!
Mid-Range Options
Tropical Fun Ta Sea Rentals – San Juan
Beautifully decorated bungalows right on the beachfront, Tropical Fun-Ta-Sea is a lovely place to stay!
Tropical Fun-Ta-Sea also provides a restaurant (with delicious food!), a bar, a terrace and parking together with a host of additional services such as airport pick-ups, water sports, kayaks and scooters.
The rooms are clean and fresh, the views from your beach-front bungalow are breathtaking and with breakfast offered as well, it is the perfect place to relax, unwind and explore the amazing tourist spots in Siquijor!
Infinity Heights Resort – Siquijor Town
Based in the hills, the view from the infinity pool is the selling point of this well-kept, tidy and clean hotel.
It’s not very close to the beach, and you’ll need wheels to get to the coast, but if you’re looking for total relaxation and a place to get away from everything – then this is your place.
Everything you’ll need is at the resort, so you won’t have to leave, nor will you want to!
Luxury Options
Coco Grove Beach Resort -San Juan
There is nothing not to like at Coco Grove Beach Resort!
A stunning resort with a pristine pool area (and swim-up bar!), multiple restaurants on site to tickle your taste buds and a marine conservation area on site offering the best snorkelling ever!
It’s also got its own private white sand beach which is heavenly.
Whilst it features in the luxury category, it’s great value for money here.
Food and Drink on Siquijor Island
There isn’t a raging nightlife scene in Siquijor – but there are a number of great bars which offer a disco at the weekend, with acoustic and band nights in the week to enjoy over a few drinks.
Most of the restaurants double as the nightlife and are open till late so whilst I usually recommend restaurants and bars separately, I’ve kept them together on this occasion because the food was great at all the bars we went to!
Coco Grove Restaurants
Yes, that’s right, Coco Grove has not one but two restaurants and they are both amazing!
Salamandas Restaurant
The food is excellent at Salamandas, with a mix of local and international food on the menu, but the real reason to visit is for its magnificent setting, view of the ocean and super friendly staff – both of which make it a really friendly and fun place to enjoy a meal.
Sunset Restaurant
Amazing food, amazing cocktails, amazing sunset views, amazing hospitality – enough said! Make sure you have their chocolate cake for dessert! Not to be missed before you leave the island.
Baha Ba’r
“Spicing up” traditional and popular Filipino dishes, the slightly altered Filipino food must be tried here, particularly because a lot of their produce is grown on their own farm, and sourced and raised locally.
Baha Ba’r also has an outdoor area which is perfect for enjoying a few drinks by the ocean.
Dolce Amore
For a taste of Italy in the heart of Siquijor, look no further than the incredible Dolce Amore!
Whether you’re coming for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you’re guaranteed a divine meal! The pizzas are delicious and the ever-changing weekly specials make you want to keep coming back! Served with a cold glass of Italian prosecco and finished with delicious ice cream!
If you are visiting Siquijor, I highly recommend a stop at this amazing place; there’s a reason it’s rated the number 1 restaurant in Siquijor by Trip Advisor!
Keep up to date with their proposed re-opening after Covid on Facebook and Instagram.
Dagsa
For a change of scenery to the beach and sunset, Dagsa Restobar offers a rustic dining area and chill lounge.
The food is really good too – the woodfired pizzas are the best!
There is also live music a couple of times during the week which was really fun with a few beers.
If you’re staying at The Bruce – it’s opposite!
Cockatoo Bar
The owner here used to be a chef in Canada and the food here is incredible.
It’s also a great place to hang out and have a drink whilst listening to the DJ play some tunes!
Monkey Business
This bar looks the part, with a sandy floor and swings at the bar.
Whilst it’s not the best food on the Island, it is a great place to get your fill of Western Food and good stodgy food to have if you’re planning on having a few beers!
It does have great bands, DJs and some amazing drinks to enjoy into the evening!
Getting to Siquijor Island
There are two main ways to get to Siquijor island, as with many of the islands in the Philippines, either by air or by ferry.
By Plane
Siquijor airport is a relatively small airport located near the capital, Siquijor.
Siquijor airport has recently been upgraded, having previously had a tiny terminal building which could only hold around 10 people. In 2021, the majority of the upgrade works were completed, providing a new runway and a larger terminal building to house more passengers but this is still extremely limited.
The only direct flights to Siquijor airport are from Cebu and so if you wish to fly to Siquijor then you will either need to first make your way to Cebu airport or plan your trip around the Philippines to accommodate this flight.
Flights can be expensive to Siquijor given the limited number of passengers but are very convenient if time is tight.
By Ferry
The most common, and cost-effective, way to get to Siquijor is by one of the ferry routes to Siquijor island.
Unlike with Siquijor airport, you have more options when travelling by ferry which can be very convenient if you do not wish to return to your point of departure after you have visited Siquijor island.
One thing to bear in mind with the ferries to and from Siquijor island is that there are two main ferry ports. Larena Port and Siquijor Seaport. Depending on where you’re coming from, and then going to, you may not be leaving Siquijor island from the same port in which you arrived.
For example, Dumaguete ferries arrive at Siquijor Port whereas Cebu Ferries arrive and depart from Larena port.
Dumaguete to Siquijor Ferry
One of the most popular routes to get to Siquijor island is to take the ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor.
The journey from Dumaguete to Siquijor takes around 1 and a half hours and costs between 500 and 600 pesos ($10-$12, £8-£10) depending on which ferry you take.
When we took the ferry, in fact from Siquijor to Dumaguete, we were in a tiny little boat with bench seats and only one door at the front by means of ventilation. It was very hot, very choppy and not particularly comfortable!
So if you get the choice of the ferry for the journey from Dumaguete to Siquijor, I would definitely recommend spending a bit extra to add that little bit of comfort!
Cebu to Siquijor Ferry
Another very popular route is from Cebu to Siquijor. Unlike most ferries from Cebu, the ferry for Cebu to Siquijor departs from a port at the very south of Cebu Island called Liloan Port (rather than the main Cebu Port).
The ferry from Cebu to Siquijor can take between 1 and 2 hours depending on the conditions and will cost you around 200 pesos ($4, £3).
There is only one Cebu to Siquijor ferry per day which departs from Cebu at 10 am. Equally, coming the other way, the daily ferry from Siquijor to Cebu departs Siquijor island, at Larena Port, at 6 pm.
Bohol to Siquijor Ferry
When we visited Siquijor we took the ferry from Bohol to Siquijor island as we had just finished our scooter tour of Bohol! If you want to know more, check out our 2-3 day Scooter Itinerary in Bohol!
The ferry from Bohol to Siquijor island departs from Tagbilaran Port in Bohol and arrives at Larena Port in Siquijor.
The ferry from Bohol to Siquijor departs from Bohol around 10 am and the journey takes between 1.5 and 2 hours.
The Bohol to Siquijor ferry will cost around 900 pesos ($18, £15) plus a terminal charge of around 25 pesos. The price can depend on the type of ferry as some have different classes of seats (usually split between being indoors with air-con or being out on the deck). The difference in price was around 50 pesos for us so we went for the slightly more expensive indoor with air-con option!
The ferry from Bohol to Siquijor is daily and leaves Tagbilaran Port in Bohol at around 10 am each day. The return trip departs from Larena Port at around 12.30 pm each day.
Getting Around the Tourist Spots in Siquijor
Once you arrive at Siquijor island there are a few options for getting around. Broadly, these are taking a jeepney, a trike/motorcycle taxi or hiring a scooter.
Once you land at either Siquijor airport or one of the ferry ports, there will be plenty of trikes offering to take you to your accommodation. Equally, you can head to the main road and hail a jeepney or, if you prefer, you can hire a scooter from one of the various rental shops located near the ports.
If you have all of your luggage with you then hiring a scooter at this stage may not be practical and so the most convenient option would be to take a trike. The costs can vary depending on demand but as always, all prices are negotiable.
If you are heading to the main tourist spot of San Juan from the ferry port at Larena then I would expect a trike to cost around 500 pesos ($10, £8). A jeepney would be closer to 100 pesos ($2, £1.50).
Once you have got to your accommodation, I would definitely recommend looking to hire a scooter if you wish to explore the tourist spots in Siquijor.
Most accommodations on the island can arrange scooter hire and I would expect to pay around 250 pesos per day ($5, £4). Many of the resorts and hotels had scooters that you could hire there, making it really easy to do. Siquijor island is relatively small and so it is easy to access all of the destinations in this guide by scooter.
Alternatively, if you prefer, your accommodation will be able to arrange taxis/trikes to take you to the various tourist spots in Siquijor when you can either pay per journey or, if you want to tackle a number of tourist spots in Siquijor in one day, per day or per half day.
When to Visit the Best Tourist Spots in Siquijor
When heading out to Siquijor Island, it is important not only to consider the Siquijor weather but also the various amazing festivals in Siquijor. Festivals can be an amazing time to visit somewhere as you can really become involved in local customs and traditions but of course, it will be a lot busier and accommodation will likely be booked in advance and so a bit more forward planning is needed.
So let’s take a look at the Siquijor weather and the festivals in Siquijor to help you time your perfect trip to see the amazing tourist spots in Siquijor.
Siquijor Weather
As with other islands in the Philippines, the Siquijor weather is generally very good all year round. The temperature does not vary much from month to month with the yearly average around 28oC and humidity of around 78%.
The variations in the Siquijor weather is marked by rainfall instead. Generally speaking, April to July is the high season when rainfall is minimal and the temperatures are at their highest.
As you would expect, this high season is the most popular time to visit Siquijor island, both by tourists and by locals from neighbouring islands who head over to Siquijor island to enjoy the beautiful beaches and waterfalls. If you are planning to go in high season then consider booking accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
The worst of the Siquijor weather is during August and October which is known as the wet season or typhoon season. I would avoid travelling during the wet season.
If you want to avoid the dry season but still want to enjoy the best of the Siquijor weather, I suggest planning your trip for the shoulder season which runs from November and March.
There is more rainfall during the shoulder season than the dry season, but any downpours do not last very long and the warm weather and high humidity ensure that the ground dries very quickly after the rain has stopped.
Accommodation is generally cheaper and more widely available during the shoulder season which can be a very pleasant time to visit whilst still experiencing the best of the Siquijor weather.
Festivals in Siquijor
There are many great festivals in Siquijor and these are generally associated with and held in honour of the patron saint of each town, municipality or barangay on Siquijor island.
One of the biggest festivals in Siquijor is the Dilaab Festival in honour of the patron saint of Siquijor town, St Francis of Assisi. This festival is usually held in the first week of October each year and is a celebration of nature and of the hospitality for which the Siquijodnon are famous. Expect parades, singing, dancing and a lot of bright and wonderful costumes at the Dilaab Festival, one of the biggest festivals in Siquijor.
Bugwas Festival, held towards the end of August each year, is another of the festivals in Siquijor held to celebrate a patron saint, this time Saint Augustine, the patron saint of San Juan. The festival celebrates the natural springs which abound San Juan in order to provide a bountiful harvest for the farmers and successful catches for the fishermen.
If you are planning to stay at Coco Grove Beach Resort then their local festival is Tubod Festival, held in mid-March each year. You can expect to see lots more singing and dancing in the streets together with a procession along the main road with lighted candles making their way to the local church.
One of the liveliest festivals in Siquijor is Lubi Festival held in the municipality of Maria around 20 May each year. The festival is held to celebrate the humble Lubi, or coconut, and is a celebration in honour of Our Lady of the Divine Providence (Mary, mother of Jesus). The dance festival that takes place at Lubi Festival is one of the highlights of this amazing festival.
There are various smaller festivals in Siquijor which take place throughout the year. As you will see from the above, most take place within their respective towns or municipalities and so if you do wish to visit during one of these amazing festivals, it is possible to stay in a nearby town and travel in for the specific festival if accommodation in the town itself is fully booked.
If you do get the chance to visit during one of the festivals in Siquijor then you will not be disappointed; these can be some of the best ways to get to know the culture of this island and you can expect to be welcomed by the locals from the minute you arrive.
Let’s Go Explore
As Siquijor is a small island, it’s one that you can really explore the nooks and crannies of and discover some hidden gems!
It’s an easy island to get around and experience and is a super relaxing place to enjoy nature, good food, and a few drinks with the backdrop of some of the most amazing sunsets you’ll ever see. A small island that should not be overlooked.
Let us know if you go to any of the tourist spots in Siquijor mentioned in this blog. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
If you are planning a trip to the Philippines, do check out my guide to Backpacking the Philippines as well as my Mini Guides.
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