Are you looking for an island that still feels authentic and relaxed, but where there’s still plenty to do? Then definitely add Siquijor to your itinerary through the Philippines! This magical island is known for its legends about witches and healers, which is why it’s also called the Island of Magic. At the same time, Siquijor is loved for its turquoise waters, impressive waterfalls, and fun hotspots. You rarely see cars here; most people zoom by on scooters with the wind in their hair, passing palm trees and small villages – the ultimate island vibe! There are also plenty of cozy restaurants, and you can spend your days relaxing on the beach and swimming in beautiful waterfalls. For those looking for a good time, there’s always a party somewhere on Siquijor every evening.
How to Get to Siquijor?
Most people travel to Siquijor from Cebu or Bohol. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how this journey looks.
From Cebu to Siquijor
From Bohol to Siquijor
What to Do in Siquijor?
Despite being a small island, there’s plenty to do. Here are the 13 best things to do in Siquijor!
Watch the Sunset at Paliton Beach
Paliton Beach consists of two parts separated by a large rock. These two parts are also called Big Paliton Beach and Little Paliton Beach. Big Paliton Beach is a popular spot to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand during the day. On the white sandy beach, you’ll find tall palm trees, large swings, and cozy restaurants. In the evening, you can enjoy freshly caught fish from local fishermen.
On the other side of the rock is Little Paliton Beach, officially called Cangbusyo Beach. This is a smaller beach that comes to life towards the end of the afternoon. Many people gather here to watch the sun slowly set into the sea. Order a cocktail, relax in the sand, and enjoy the island vibe.
Good to know: If you follow the sign along the road to Paliton Beach, you’ll end up at Little Paliton Beach. This can make the small beach quite crowded at sunset. If you prefer a bit more space while watching the sunset, head to Big Paliton Beach.
Enjoy the View at LA Canopée Bar & Restaurant
La Canopée Bar & Restaurant is a unique spot in Siquijor where you can enjoy the sunset in style or relax by the pool. This upscale restaurant is located at the top of a mountain and offers a stunning view over Siquijor’s green countryside and the sea in the distance. During the day, you can relax in large nets floating above the landscape, cool off in the infinity pool, and in the evening, enjoy a cocktail by the fire pit during sunset.
Good to know: La Canopée is slightly more expensive than the average restaurants in Siquijor, but the luxurious setting and the breathtaking view make it worth every peso. A minimum spend of 200 pesos is required, which can easily be met with a drink and a snack. If you want to swim, there’s an additional charge of 300 pesos.
Visit Siquijor’s Most Beautiful Waterfall – Cambugahay Falls
Cambugahay Falls is one of the most famous and most visited waterfalls in Siquijor – and for good reason. This tropical waterfall has three levels that cascade into each other, each with a clear turquoise pool perfect for swimming. For a bit more adventure, you can float on bamboo rafts or swing yourself into the water using a rope. Local guides, who call themselves living drones, will happily take photos and videos of you swinging on the ropes with your own phone. There’s a small fee for using the rafts and rope swings.
Tip: The waterfall opens at 8:00 AM, and because it’s the most popular waterfall in Siquijor, it’s best to go early in the morning as it gets crowded quickly. After your visit, head to Twenty4, about 2 kilometers away, for a meal. They serve delicious dishes with their own freshly baked bread.
Lagaan Falls
Located about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Cambugahay Falls, you’ll find another beautiful waterfall called Lagaan Falls. Just like Cambugahay Falls, you can swing into the water using ropes here, but without the fee. Additionally, this waterfall has a natural slide, where you can literally slide from the rocks into the clear water. From the entrance, it’s just a few minutes’ walk through nature before you reach the waterfall.
