Just south of Cebu in The Philippines lies the stunning island of Siquijor. Despite being infamous amongst locals as a place of witchcraft and superstition, the only real magic you’ll find here is in the island’s pure untamed beauty. Home to white-sand beaches, mystical landmarks and turquoise jungle waterfalls alike, its landscapes are gorgeous, yet it’s atmosphere makes it even more special. Unlike some other destinations in The Philippines, Siquijor has an uncrowded and chilled vibe to it where you can experience relaxed island living. This Siquijor Island guide will help you make the most of your time whilst you’re there.
Table of Contents
Siquijor Island Guide – Best beaches
You can’t go to Siquijor without spending some time at the beach. Especially as it’s home to some truly beautiful ones – below are the best beaches to visit on the island.
Paliton Beach
Located in the San Juan area of the island, Paliton Beach is a small and underdeveloped paradise. There’s a marine sanctuary just off shore so is a perfect spot for snorkelling and you can rent paddleboards and kayaks here too. Due to its west facing position, this beach is also absolutely magical to visit at sunset with a San Miguel or two.
Salagdoong Beach
Salagdoong Beach is quite built-up comparison to other beaches, yet is still super beautiful. You can also go snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding here to see the coral in the shallows. Or if you’re a bit of a thrill-seeker, connected by a bridge from the beach, there’s an island home to some scary-looking cliff jump points.
Tubod Beach & Marine Sanctuary
Tubod isn’t the prettiest beach on the island, but its flourishing marine sanctuary makes the best one to come to if you want to do any snorkelling or diving. The beach itself is quite small, but it’s white sand and handy beach huts also make it a good place to chill for the afternoon.
Siquijor Island Guide – Top things to do
From natural wonders and historical landmarks to thrill seeking activities, these are the top things to do on Siquijor Island.
Cambugahay Falls
Nestled away in the dense jungle just north of Tigbawan, you’ll find this watery wonderland. Tiers of turquoise coloured waterfalls flowing into a collection of pools below. It’s not just a place of beauty but a playground of adventure too, with bamboo rafts, swing ropes and jump points. Entry is free to the falls but you with have to pay to park at the entrance.
Old Enchanted Balete Tree
Located near Lazi next to the Circumferential Road, is Siquijor’s Old Enchanted Balete Tree. This 500-year-old tree is considered magical by the locals and has been turned into a relaxing attraction. The unique freshwater spring at the base of its trunk has been used to create a fish foot spa pool which you can access for 10 pesos per person. There’s also a gift shop next door selling all kinds of magic souvenirs like love potions and voodoo dolls.
Lazi Church
Lazi Church, or more formally known as San Isidro Labrador Church, in Tigbawan, is a historic landmark worth stopping off at for a closer look. Made from sea stones, this pretty house of god showcases a Neoclassical style and a bright blue ceiling.
Siquijor Man-made Forest
If you head off the main road on the way to Salangdoong Beach, you’ll reach the island’s man-made forest. Although it’s not the best attraction Siquijor has to offer, the trees that arch over each side of the road make for some rather good photographs.
Snorkeling/diving
With coral reefs and marine sanctuaries located all around the island, Siquijor offers some amazing snorkelling and diving opportunities.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
If you’d rather get out on the water than under it, you can hire kayaks and paddleboards at most of the beaches on Siquijor.
You might also like: 13 Philippines travel tips you should know
Siquijor Island Guide – Best place to stay
As the island is so small you are never too far away from anything no matter where you stay. We found San Juan on the island’s west side was the most central place to the beaches and attractions. This area of the island also has a lot of cafes, restaurants, accommodation and a more lively vibe too.
Other another area to stay is Larena which is where the main ferry port is and is also home to a good range of amenities and accommodation.
Siquijor Island Guide – Best places to eat
Whether you’re looking for good coffee, vegan dishes or traditional Filipino food, these restaurants will have you covered.
Larena Triad Coffee Shop
This is a great little coffee shop and restaurant with an amazing view across the island and a menu of global dishes to enjoy.
Baha Bar
Located in San Juan, Baha Bar was my favourite bar on the island. It’s ideal for breakfast, lunch or dinner, offering a range of both Filipino and international dishes. It’s also got a nice chilled vibe, a sunset terrace, good wifi and a good beer selection too.
Luca Loko
This open-air bistro in San Juan is your go-to for healthy smoothies and vegetarian/vegan food and has some pretty good wifi too.
Monkey Business
Monkey Business is where to head to for a lively evening in San Juan. There’s a live band on most evenings that attracts the crowds. As well as delicious Filipino dishes being served up fresh from the kitchen.
You might also like: Where to find the best Wifi on Siquijor Island
How to get to Siquijor Island
You can get a direct ferry to Siquijor from Bohol, Cebu and Negros. The ferries run from Dumaguete City from the southern tip of Negros island, and Tagbilaran City on Bohol, arriving into Larena, Siquijor. Whilst the ferry from Cebu runs from Liloan, on the very southern tip of the island, which arrives into Siquijor Pier.
How to get around Siquijor Island
When you arrive at Siquijor there will be trikes at the ferry port to take you to your accommodation. Other than this, public transport is very unreliable on Siquijor Island, so the best way to get around is by scooter. You can hire one from most accommodation for a very reasonable price.
