Siquijor Island should be at the top of your Philippines bucket list. Imagine crystalline oceans bordered by postcard-perfect beaches, azure waterfalls equipped with Tarzan swings, and pristine patches of nature scattered across the island. The island is becoming a favourite among backpackers, fostering a vibrant nightlife scene, endless charming cafes, and excellent shopping opportunities. Join us as we explore 30 exceptional Siquijor tourist spots.
Save this Siquijor map with tourist spots to plan your perfect island getaway!
The Best Siquijor Tourist Spots
Stretched around Siquijor are several flawless sandy shores, dotted with arching palm trees and gin-clear waters. No trip to Siquijor island is complete without sunbathing, a beachfront sunset and a refreshing ocean swim.
Beaches:
Paliton Beach: The most famous beach, Paliton Beach, is a small, powdery stretch of sand near the main tourist hotspot of San Juan Town. The beach comes to life around 5 pm, as the sun begins to set, transforming the sky with bright hues of orange and vibrant streaks of pink and red. Here, a small 20 PHP entrance fee helps to prevent overcrowding and keep the beach clean.
Coral Cay Beach:Â If you crave something a little more secluded, Coral Cay Beach is a picturesque white strip of footprint-free sand lined by palm trees.
Kagusuan Beach: Another quiet beach, Kagusuan Beach, requires a more adventurous trail and can often be difficult to find. For those who manage to see this off-the-beaten-track beach, a secluded patch of paradise awaits!
Salagdoong Beach: One of the most iconic Siquijor tourist spots (and undoubtedly my favourite), Salagdoong Beach, is a small, white rocky beach with some of the clearest waters you will ever see. The beach also boasts an exciting cliff-jumping spot. The entrance fee is 50 PHP.
Waterfalls:
Siquijor boasts an array of waterfalls each with its own appeal. The falls offer incredible adventures, turquoise waters and a refreshing place to unwind!
Cambugahay Falls: The most visited falls, Cambugahay is a three-tiered waterfall with a Tarzan swing and vibrant blue waters to swim in. Due to its popularity, it is best to arrive here early in the morning, around opening time.
Lugnason Falls: Becoming more popular, Lugnason Falls is just a short walk through the undergrowth. The fall is picturesque, to say the least – surrounded by the jungle, uncrowded and peaceful! If you feel brave, you can leap off the top of the falls into the pool below, or perhaps launch yourself from the adjacent Tarzan swing!
Cangbangag Falls: The tallest fall on the island, Cangbangag Falls, offers an adventure like no other. To get here, it is best to enlist the guidance of a local, as the roads are uneven and steep, requiring a slightly dangerous drive. Then you need to follow an unmarked path, deep into the undergrowth. You will likely have this spot all to yourself!
Lagaan Falls: Another gem worth exploring, Lagaan Falls promises serenity and natural beauty. And while significantly smaller than the other falls, the seclusions make it worthwhile!
Kawasan Falls: Kawasan Falls provides a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving:
The Philippines boasts some of the most mesmerising coral reefs and marine life in the world, and Siquijor exceeds those expectations. With its vibrant coral formations, schools of barracuda, and visiting reef sharks, strapping on a pair of fins and a snorkel is a must when exploring the island.
Tulapos: Fringed with mangroves, and dotted with corals, this is a unique snorkelling site in the Philippines. Snorkelers are often rewarded with the site of the resident barracuda shoal who frequent the area. And while it may not have the best visibility, the compromise is worthwhile to see barracudas! You may even get lucky and see a turtle or reef shark grazing nearby.
On our Siquijor map with tourist spots, you’ll find this gem far from San Juan Town. Despite its remote location, the impressive barracuda shoal makes the journey worthwhile!
Tubod Marine Sanctuary: Tubod is a thriving underwater ecosystem. Expect to see feathered starfish, parrotfish and clownfish. Sightings of reef sharks, barracuda and turtles are not uncommon here!
Apo Island: Although not part of Siquijor, Apo Island’s beauty and proximity to Siquijor have earned it a place on this list. This marine sanctuary is one of the most famous dive sites in the Philippines. Home to approximately 1,000 species, an underwater trip here will take your breath away. And when you’re tired of snorkelling, you can relax on the powdery sandy shores and soak in the sights of this slice of paradise.
Caving:
Claustrophobic? Maybe skip this one! Siquijor has a couple of unique underground experiences to try out.
Sambulawan Underground River: A recent addition to Siquijor Island’s activities, this underground river offers a unique experience. Guides will lead you through crystalline waters and small (but manageable) gaps, as you swim and crawl your way through the cave. Expect to encounter plenty of bats along the way!
Cantabon Cave: Venture deep underground into this expansive cave filled with stalagmites and stalactites. Be prepared to get wet as you navigate through a natural cave pool along the way.
Cultural Activities:
The Philippines is rich in culture, from its Catholic heritage to its deeply rooted traditions and folklore. While in Siquijor, be sure to immerse yourself in the local culture!
Visit A Local Healer: Siquijor is known for its mystical reputation, particularly for voodoo and healing practices. Visit a healer to experience a local tradition. These healers use herbal remedies, rituals, and spiritual practices to treat various ailments, using knowledge passed down through generations.
Lazi Church: The main religion in the Philippines is Catholicism. While in San Juan, the main tourist area of Siquijor, take some time to explore the remarkable Lazi Church. With its unique architecture and striking blue ceiling, the church offers valuable insights into the island’s religion and history.
Scenic Spots:
Siquijor Island is proud of its natural beauty. Whether you are looking for a place to de-stress and reconnect with nature, or a gorgeous spot to take some photos, head to one of Siquijor’s many breathtaking sites during your visit to the island.
Manmade Forest: A road lined with towering trees, offering a perfect spot for a photo or a scenic drive.
Holy Mountain: One of the highest peaks on the island, offering panoramic views of lush greenery and the distant ocean. Accessible by motorbike or on foot, the summit features a small white chapel where visitors can pray and reflect.
Balete Tree: One of the most famous Siquijor tourist spots is the centuries-old balete tree in the town of Lazi. This tree is known not only for its age but also for the eerie, mystical atmosphere surrounding it. A natural spring flows at its base, where visitors can dip their feet into the fish spa
Pitogo Cliff: A thrilling cliff-jumping spot in San Juan. Leap into some of the bluest waters you’ll ever see, or pose on the edge for a breathtaking photo.
Springs:
In case you haven’t guessed, the Philippines is extremely (and perhaps even unbearably) hot in most parts of the country. Visiting a spring or a cold swimming spot is the easiest way to cool off!
Natural Pool: A tad off the beaten path, there is a tranquil wild swimming spot, sometimes called ‘Secret Lagoon or ‘Lake Sinungkulan’. The water is a translucent blue and is deep enough to swim and may potentially be some of the coldest water I have swum in in the country!
Capilay Spring Park: This is the largest public swimming pool on the island. This concreted pool is cold and deep, perfect for family gatherings and picnics.
Jungle Hut Airbnb:
This unique accommodation is a must-stay if you get the opportunity—just be quick, as it books up fast! Tucked away in the jungle, this wooden cabin is carefully intertwined with the trees, making it a one-of-a-kind build. The highlight is the secluded patch of the ‘Enchanted River’ in the accommodation’s backyard. Our stay at Junglehut was magical and well worth splashing out on!
Cafes & Restaurants:
JJ Backpackers: A hostel and restaurant that backs directly onto a gorgeous beach, perfect for snorkelling and sunset cocktails!
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Siquijor Sunset Glamping Village: A beachfront restaurant and bar that often has live music in the evenings.
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Runik: An upmarket, adults-only resort and beach club, offering great food, drinks and music.
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Bucafe: A gorgeous wooden cafe, high up in the mountains, providing great food and shakes. The highlight is their comfy cushions and games stations, perfect to relax and watch the sunset.
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Larena Triad Coffee Shop: A cute and comfy cafe offering a stunning view of the sea and surrounding area
Siquijor Tourist Spots Checklist
Let us know in the comments which one of these 30 epic Siquijor tourist spots is top of your bucket list!
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We are Em & Yul – An English & Filipino Travel Couple. Now based in Cebu, we frequently explore the best destinations, hidden gems and cultural attractions across the Philippines.Â
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