Top 13 BEST Things To Do In Siquijor

Are you planning a trip to the mystical island of Siquijor?

This post will detail the top tourist spots, natural attractions, and things to do in Siquijor for an unforgettable adventure.

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Siquijor Island is rapidly becoming a must-visit destination in the Philippines.

Its untamed natural beauty and laidback vibe attract nature lovers, environmental enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

From waterfall hopping and white sand beaches to cliff jumping and hidden caves, to breathtaking snorkeling spots and abundant marine life.

Whatever type of traveler you are, there is something here for everyone.

Known as the mystical island, famous for witchcraft and healing rituals, Siquijor also has a unique history and culture waiting to be discovered.

This post will detail the very best things to do in Siquijor, updated for 2024.

Map of Siquijor with tourist spots

Siquijor is super accessible and all of the below tourist spots can be reached by following the Siquijor Circumferential Road around the island.

How to get around Siquijor

The best way of getting around Siquijor is with a scooter, which is the main mode of transport for everyone. The roads are very well-maintained.

We hired our bike for 350 PHP ($6) a day from Stella’z Guesthouse for 5 days.

Cambugahay Falls | Most iconic Siquijor tourist spot

Cambugahay Falls are arguably the most beautiful falls in Siquijor. Visiting these tiered turquoise cascades is one of the best things to do in Siquijor.

The perfect tourist spot for nature lovers and thrill seekers.

Whether you prefer to marvel at the crystal-clear waters and get that picture-perfect shot on a bamboo raft, or fling yourself off a rope swing, Cambugahay Falls offers something for everyone.

Full Post: The Top 5 MOST BEAUTIFUL Waterfalls In Siquijor

This waterfall has three tiers, vibrant turquoise waters, and is surrounded by dense jungle. It is one of the most beautiful I have seen in the Philippines.

The entrance fee for Cambugahay Falls is 20 PHP ($0.35) and scooter parking is 10 PHP ($0.17). If you want to use the rope swings or the raft, this is an additional 50 PHP ($0.88) each.

Need a Siquijor tourist spots itinerary? Check out my How To Spend 3 Days in Siquijor: DIY Travel Itinerary

Why is Cambugahay Falls famous?

Cambugahay Falls has gained fame as one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the Philippines.

This is the most popular fall in Siquijor, and it’s easy to understand why. Try to visit as early as you can to avoid the crowds.

Kawasan Falls & Cave

Another one of the best things to do in Siquijor is pay a visit to some of the more off-the-beaten-track falls.

Although not as big as other falls on the island, Kawasan Falls is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and escape the crowds.

Full Post: Kawasan Falls Siquijor: A COMPLETE Guide To Siquijor’s Hidden Gem

Not just a pristine secluded waterfall, but an adventurer’s playground with a hidden cave behind the cascade, a rope swing, and a rock slide.

Due to the steepness of the trail going down, you will be assigned a mandatory guide. There is no entrance fee but you are expected to tip the guide.

For more information, including an estimated tip, how to get there, and what to expect, you can read my full guide here.

Day trip to Apo Island

Apo Island is one of the best snorkel and dive sites in the world, known for its rich marine life and biodiversity.

A day trip to the Apo Island Marine Sanctuary is one of the best things to do in Siquijor, just a short 1-hour boat trip from the island.

Coco Grove Beach Resort offers an amazing day trip from Siquijor Island, with everything included. This is one of the best day trips we took in the Philippines.

Full Post: Apo Island Day Trip From Siquijor: The ULTIMATE Guide

Taking the tour with Coco Grove is totally hassle-free as your transport is included in the price, as well as a buffet lunch on a private beach.

If you want to see sea turtles in the Philippines, then a day trip to Apo Island will not disappoint. You have the choice of either snorkelling or diving.

I was blown away by how many turtles we saw, about 7 in total. It was also the most vibrant coral I’d ever seen, with so many different fish and even a water snake!

A day trip to the protected waters of Apo Island is a must when visiting Siquijor. You can read my full guide, including prices and how to book here.

Salagdoong Beach & Cliff Jump

Salagdoong Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island and a top Siquijor tourist spot for thriller seekers.

Located on the eastern tip of the island in the town of Maria, Salagdoong Beach & Cliff Jump is roughly an hour from the tourist hub San Juan.

As well as a beautiful white sand beach, these turquoise waters are also one of the best snorkelling spots in Siquijor, with vibrant colourful coral reefs not far from the shoreline.

For those in search of a bit of adventure, here you will also find two cliff jumping spots at heights of 9 and 6 meters. If you plan to jump, ask around to make sure it is high tide and safe to do so.

If you don’t fancy flinging yourself into the water that way, there is also an amazing slide straight into the ocean. A trip to Salagdoong Beach is one of the best things to do in Siquijor.

What is Salagdoong Beach known for?

Salagdoong Beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Siquijor. With vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface, this is also a great snorkelling spot.

This spot is also increasingly known to thrill seekers and adventure lovers for its epic cliff jumping and slide.

How much is the entrance fee to Salagdoong Beach Siquijor?

The entrance fee is 30 PHP ($0.52), plus an additional 20 PHP ($0.35) for scooter parking.

Have you got your Waterproof Dry Bag? (with Waterproof Phone Case included)

Paliton Beach

Arguably the best beach in Siquijor, you cannot miss a trip to the white sands of Paliton Beach as one of the top things to do on the island.

Soft white sand, turquoise waters, and a coconut-fringed shoreline. Paliton Beach possesses a tranquil tropical charm and is a great spot to unwind and catch some rays.

Although there are no activities here, this is a great beach to relax or go for a swim. There are also some super Instagrammable tree swings.

Must Read: How To Spend 3 Days in Siquijor: DIY Travel Itinerary

This is undoubtedly the best sunset spot in Siquijor. You’ll find a chilled laidback atmosphere here as the sun is going down, with some of the beachfront restaurants offering happy hour from 4-6 PM.

Paliton Beach is the very definition of a tropical paradise. You cannot miss this beach when looking for the best things to do in Siquijor.

What is Paliton Beach known for?

Paliton Beach is known for being one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in Siquijor, reminiscent of Boracay’s White Beach.

It is also known for being the best sunset spot on Siquijor Island. It is perfect for those wondering what to do in Siquijor at night.

West Coast facing, Paliton Beach is the perfect place to kick back with friends and admire the colours of the sky as the sun sets over the ocean.

Tubod Beach & Marine Sanctuary

Another one of the best things to do in Siquijor is to visit Tubod Beach & Marine Sanctuary.

You have a choice of simply relaxing on the white sand beach and soaking up the rays, or exploring the thriving marine life just meters from the shoreline.

This is one of the best snorkeling spots and one of the best natural attractions in Siquijor.

Under the surface, you are welcomed by vibrant corals, an array of colorful fish, starfish, giant clams, and even sea turtles if you’re lucky.

Tubod Beach is perfect for that post-snorkel relaxation, with a coconut-fringed shoreline for shade. There is also a shallow area to the left of the Marine Sanctuary if you want a paddle.

This is also a great spot to watch the sun go down. Tubod Beach does not attract as many tourists as other beaches in Siquijor so you can enjoy peace and tranquility.

Have you packed your Reef Safe 98% Organic Sunscreen?

How much does Tubod Beach & Marine Sanctuary cost?

• Access for sunbathing ONLY is free
• 20 PHP ($0.35) swimming fee
• 100 PHP ($1.80) snorkelling fee

Either bring your own snorkel, rent from Tubod Marine Sanctuary directly, or from Coco Grove Beach Resort. This should be no more than 100 PHP.

Related: ULTIMATE SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary

How do I get to Tubod Marine Sanctuary?

Tubod Marine Sanctuary is located just 5 minutes from the tourist hub of San Juan.

The entrance to Tubod Beach & Marine Sanctuary is pretty unassuming. If you head to Coco Grove, you will find a sign to the beach on the right-hand side, where you can park your bike.

Follow the dirt road down a couple of minutes before reaching the shore. Here, you pay the necessary fees depending on whether you prefer to snorkel or sunbathe.

Old Enchanted Balete Tree

A visit to the 400-year-old Balete tree is one of the best things to do in Siquijor.

Known for its magical powers, this is the oldest and biggest tree on the island and a must-visit Siquijor highlight.

Siquijor is known as a mystical island, famous for its myths, witchcraft, and healing rituals. The Old Enchanted Balete Tree therefore fits into this scene perfectly.

Just 15 minutes from San Juan, the tree is a real sight to behold. There is a natural spring that flows underneath into a man-made pool and fish spa.

Having fish nibble your feet under an enchanted tree is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but such a unique experience and great fun.

There is also a restaurant here and locals selling handmade ice creams and handicrafts.

You don’t need heaps of time here so it is a great place to visit on your way back from other Siquijor tourist attractions.

How much is the entrance fee for the Old Balete Tree Siquijor?

This is one of the cheapest natural attractions and things to do in Siquijor. The entrance fee to the tree and foot spa is 20 PHP ($0.35).

Butterfly Sanctuary

Visiting the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful experiences and things to do in Siquijor.

This is a real off-the-beaten-path destination, located high up in the mountains in central Siquijor between Lazi and Larena.

The journey up by bike is an experience in itself and offers sweeping views of the mountains and the ocean. This is a great Siquijor tourist spot for environmental enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The owner of this humble conservation project breeds the butterflies and releases them back into the wild, to protect endangered species.

The space is small but the owner is extremely passionate and keen to educate those interested in wildlife and eco-tourism.

The entrance fee is just 100 PHP ($1.80) and goes a long way to supporting this local-led initiative.

As with most destinations in the Philippines, the WiFi in Siquijor can be a little patchy and unreliable. For a stress-free trip, I would suggest getting a data plan with an Airalo eSIM.

Cantabon Cave

A trip to the mystical Cantabon Cave is a great thing to do in Siquijor for adventure lovers.

Entering through a small hole, your guide will lead you to explore the underground world. You will be amazed as the cave opens up and the crystal rock formations become clear.

The route through the cave is mapped out by the underground stream running through, dotted with swimming holes of varying lengths.

The entrance fee is only 20 PHP ($0.35) but you will have to pay an additional 500 PHP ($8.80) for a compulsory guide. This guide is good for up to 3 people. A lifevest and helmet are included in this price.

You will need water shoes and a headlight also, so either bring your own or purchase these for 50 PHP ($0.88) each at the entrance.

This is a one-of-a-kind experience and a must-visit tourist spot in Siquijor for thrill seekers.

Lugnason Falls

Lugnason Falls is another one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Siquijor.

Just a 15-minute drive from San Juan, visiting these falls is another one of the best things to do on Siquijor Island.

These falls are hidden in the lush greenery of the jungle, and the pounding of the cascading water is the first thing you will hear during the short walk down.

The water rushing over the unique rock into a large swimming hole is a real sight to behold. It is the perfect spot for a cooling dip.

There are no activities here but you can scale the rock and jump in if you’re feeling adventurous.

Note: always check the depth of the water first

Full Post: Lugnason Falls Siquijor: EVERYTHING You Need To Know

Try to visit early to avoid the crowds, we came at about 10:00 AM and were the only people there! The entrance was also free.

 If you’re up for a bit of exploration, you can also follow the stream through the forest to the man-made pools further down.

Lagaan Falls

Another tourist spot in Siquijor you cannot miss is Lagaan Falls. Not as popular as other falls, so an oasis of serenity amongst the dense jungle.

Similar to Kawasan, Lagaan Falls also offers an epic rope swing, a natural rock slide, as well a small cave to explore. You could easily spend hours splashing about in the water and exploring the area.

The entrance fee for Lagaan Falls is 50 PHP ($0.88).

Lazi Church

For those interested in religion or neoclassical architecture, a trip to Lazi Church (San Isidro Labrador Parish Church) is one of the top things to do in Siquijor.

I’m not into old churches so we gave this one a miss.

However, as the oldest church in Siquijor, it is well worth a visit to appreciate the architecture. The building still stands with the original materials of coral stone and wood.

Opposite is also the San Isidro Convent, which is not just the biggest in the Philippines but in Asia in general (I believe), making this a top Siquijor highlight. There is also a small heritage museum upstairs.

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

A visit to Tulapos Marine Sanctuary is another one of the best things to do in Siquijor.

We never had a chance to visit this marine sanctuary but have heard that it is an incredible experience.

The sanctuary is home to many sea creatures, including jackfish, starfish, clams, and sea turtles. The star of the show is the barracuda, which you can see by either snorkeling or diving.

This is the oldest and largest protected area in Siquijor and you will require a guide to enter.

It is located in the north of the island about an hour from San Juan and is a top Siquijor natural attraction.

Must Read: Where To Eat: The Top 10 Best Siquijor Restaurants

Where to stay in Siquijor

The best area to stay in Siquijor is San Juan. This is the main tourist hub and where you will find all the main bars, restaurants, hostels, and guesthouses.

Stella’z Guesthouse

Best low-budget option with a choice of dorms or private rooms, centrally located in San Juan.

Each room comes with an aircon, a mini-fridge, a kettle, and a hot shower. Each room also has a private terrace area with a table and drying rack. Reasonable scooter rental.

Prices start from $7.00 for a shared dorm room and $29.00 for a private room per night.

 

Mandala Tribe Treehouses

One of the most unique and one-of-a-kind accommodations in Siquijor. A great option for couples.

Embrace jungle living in these rustic treehouses surrounded by nature. Excellent location near Paliton Beach.

Treehouses come with an outdoor shower, aircon, and a little balcony. Breakfast is included and served to your room each morning.

Private cabins start from $60.00 per night.

 

Coco Grove Resort

The best luxury Siquijor resort. Centrally located in San Juan on 800 meters of private beach.

A choice of native-style cottages or villas set in lush gardens or on the beachfront. Amazing sunset views.

The resort has three swimming pools, a beachfront restaurant and bar, and a spa. Coco Grove offers many amazing tours and recreational activities, such as a day trip to Apo Island on their very own private yacht!

Prices start from $100.00 per night.

How to go to Siquijor

There is no airport on Siquijor Island, so you will have to take a ferry for the last leg of the journey wherever you’re coming from.

If you choose to fly, I would suggest flying to either Dumaguete, Bohol, or Cebu. From these destinations, you can then take a ferry across.

• Ferry from Cebu City to Siquijor (book here)
• Ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor (book here)
• Ferry from Bohol to Siquijor (book here)

For full details and instructions from all popular destinations, check out my How To Get To Siquijor Guide he

Why is Siquijor famous?

Siquijor is known as a mystical island, with a long-standing reputation for black magic and witchcraft.

The fascination with this mystical land has turned Siquijor into a rapidly developing tourist destination in the Philippines.

The island is also increasingly known for its untamed nature, waterfalls, abundant marine life, and pristine beaches.

Is it worth going to Siquijor?

It is definitely worth going to Siquijor.

Not as touristy as other destinations in the Philippines, it is the only place I have ever visited where you can have a waterfall all to yourself.

The island has a laidback vibe and there is a much slower pace of life here.

There are heaps of activities for you to enjoy, from waterfall hopping to enchanted trees and healing rituals, to pristine beaches and incredible marine life.

Siquijor is a must-visit island for those wanting to escape hoards of tourists and enjoy nature in its purest untamed form.

Well, there you have it! The very best things to do in Siquijor.

If you liked this post and you’re going to be spending some time in Siquijor, then feel free to check out my other posts –

• Where To Eat: The Top 10 Best Siquijor Restaurants
• ULTIMATE SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget & Itinerary
• How To Spend 3 Days in Siquijor: DIY Travel Itinerary
• How To Get To Siquijor Island 2024: A Step-By-Step Guide
• Kawasan Falls: The Complete Guide To Siquijor’s Best-Kept Secret
• Apo Island Day Trip From Siquijor: The Ultimate Guide 2024
• How To Get From Siquijor To Siargao: Schedule & Fare
• Lugnason Falls Siquijor: EVERYTHING You Need To Know
• The Top 5 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Siquijor
• How To Get From Moalboal To Siquijor: Schedule & Fare 2024