Forget the mystical stories and get lost to plenty of Siquijor tourist spots waiting for you to discover.
Siquijor is an island province in the southern Visayas region known for its mystic and unique healing arts. While some stories can typically drive attention through media consumption, many amazing Siquijor tourist spots might also capture your attention.
Siquijor island is, without a doubt, surrounded by beaches. It is one of the laid-back island destinations to visit when disconnecting temporarily from the hustle and bustle of city life. Among other exciting things to do in Siquijor are waterfall adventures, spelunking, road-tripping, and exploring its rich diving marine ecosystems.
Unless you desire those so-called potions for whatever reason you have, exploring the rural ambiance of Siquijor otherwise might take you to some great adventures of your life.
Let us run down some of the exciting Siquijor tourist spots!
Table of Contents
1. Paliton Beach
The best thing about visiting islands in the Philippines, like the island of Siquijor, is all about beaches. Here, Paliton beach is among the Siquijor tourist spots that should be on your bucket list.
Tourists regard Paliton beach as one of the most famous beach destinations in Siquijor because of its unspoiled coastlines. In comparison to Boracay, this beach scores fine white sands and turquoise waters. With tall coconut trees along with the coats, you’ll get a piece of paradise on Paliton beach.
This hidden paradise lies along the tourist strip of San Juan. The road leading to Paliton beach can be tricky, though, so better ask your local guide.
While swimming is the main activity to enjoy here, you can always appreciate the beach view any time of the day. Visiting in the morning greets you with the cold breeze. Afternoon visits, on the other hand, showcases dramatic sunset views. This hour will let you play with your creativity to capture those unique shots to share.
With a handful of commercial stalls near the beach, visiting during their happy hours can avail of cheaper drinks.
Since Paliton beach is a public beach, tourists are encouraged to leave nothing but footprints.
2. Cambugahay Falls
Aside from the beaches, other exciting Siquijor tourist spots like waterfalls should be on everyone’s itinerary. One of them is the Cambugahay Falls in the town of Lazi.
As mystic as the province, Cambugahay Falls allures travelers of its natural beauty. It has three tiers of cascades with clean turquoise waters on its hole basin. Besides, towering trees surrounding the water hole keep tourists relaxed during the summer days.
Tourists will surely love splashing to its warm and refreshing bluish waters. In addition, there are jumping platforms and swing ropes to pump some adrenaline.
Either swinging or jumping, both are a must-try when visiting Cambugahay Falls. You can also try riding the bamboo rafts to get closer to the cascades.
Other than the central swimming hole, exploring its upstreams opens up to some more adventures. In addition, you can easily spot other natural swimming holes that are also as charming as the first one.
Reaching Cambugahay Falls takes about 20 minutes with a tricycle or motorbike ride from San Juan.
The best months to visit this Siquijor attraction are during the dry months of March to May, when rain is almost none. This way, the swimming basin keeps its water clean and bluish.
3. Scuba Diving in Siquijor
Although Siquijor is an island itself, scuba diving doesn’t come often to the vocabulary of avid divers. Yet, while the land above is known for its white-sand coastlines, beautiful cascades, and century-old structures, what lies beneath adds to the many Siquijor tourist spots to check by.
Geographically speaking, Siquijor island is close to known diving spots in the Philippines like the Apo Island in Dumaguete, Sumilon in Cebu, and Panglao in Bohol. So it’s not a surprise that the Siquijor also shares an abundance of the marine ecosystem.
When you’re in San Juan, you can find many diving centers that offer comprehensive packages for scuba diving in Siquijor.
Some Siquijor diving spots in the western part are Paliton Wall and Paliton Staghorn in Paliton, Maite, and Solangon. When going south, the Coco Groove, and Sawang, while the north-eastern part has Salagdong and Daquit Shoal.
From the multitude of varying corals to a school of different fishes, divers will be delighted to discover the rich marine biodiversity of Siquijor. Some of the species you can spot to its deeper shoals are barracudas, green sea turtles, and blue-spotted stingrays.
🔗 Nearby Tourist Destination | Bohol |
4. Saint Francis of Assisi Church
Just a few minutes from the port, the Saint Francis of Assisi Church is one of the most accessible landmarks to identify.
Locally known as Siquijor Church, this antique religious place is as good as the first or last stop of your Siquijor tourist spots tour.
Dating back to 1783 as its founding year, the Siquijor Church otherwise dated its completion in 1831. Like most olden churches in the Philippines, this religious tourist spot in Siquijor consists mainly of limestones and coral stones. According to historical notes, its original form is made from nipa huts alone.
Today, the Siquijor Church has its distinct vintage look from when seen from the outside. However, its minimalistic white interior with dark-brown wooden braces that look like trim is observed when going inside.
Its old bell tower sitting isolated from the church serves as a lookout post during the early times. In addition, its convent serves as a safe place for the priests and locals when invaders go to the island.
The small triangular park in front has the ‘Welcome to Siquijor’ signage is perfect for your mandatory photograph souvenirs.
5. Lagaan Falls
If you want less crowded waterfalls to visit in Lazi, the Lagaan Falls are among other waterfalls in Siquijor to visit.
Travelers who are into off-the-beaten destinations will love exploring the Lagaan Falls. After arriving at the entrance desk, you’ll be trailing a dirt road under the shades of a dense forest for about 15 minutes.
Upon arrival, the unassuming swimming hole will greet you with its charming natural beauty.
Just like in Cambugahay Falls, there are also swing ropes to fuel some excitement in Lagaan Falls. In addition, there is also a natural slide to plunge into the refreshing waters.
Exploring the upstream will also take you to another level of fun adventure. There are other more minor falls and natural rock pools to switch by, keeping you occupied for some time.
What keeps it apart from its famous counterpart is its more peaceful and tranquil ambiance, perfect for chilling during the day.
6. San Isidro Labrador Parish Church (Lazi Church)
Going to its downtown area, the Lazi Church is one of the Siquijor tourist spots not to miss.
The Lazi Church is the oldest and largest Catholic church in Siquijor island. It is also declared as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines.
Since 2006, the Lazi Church is currently under nomination for Baroque Churches of the Philippines to the UNESCO World Heritage.
Looking more likely a barn from a distance if you remove the bell tower; the interior otherwise has a unique bluish ceiling. It also has wooden flooring, which sets it apart from the usual churches you see anywhere in the Philippines.
Another interesting thing about its interior is its two pulpits, which also add symmetry and balance.
True to its olden stature, the textured thick coral stone walls are one of the testaments of its origin since its completion in 1857.
Visiting Lazi Church is one of the many more ways to explore and understand the cultural heritage of Siquijor island.
7. San Isidro Labrador Convent
Right in front of Lazi Church is the San Isidro Labrador Convent, which is also a local heritage site worth visiting.
Measuring 42 meters by 32 meters, this two-story convent is one of the oldest and most prominent in the Philippines and Asia. The ground floor is made primarily of coral stones. The upper floor, however, is made of hardwood with timber and steel frameworks.
With some restorations through the National Historical Commission, this Siquijor tourist spot has brought back its glory days in today’s modern period.
Today, this antique convent houses the Siquijor Heritage Museum showcasing religious artifacts and historical pieces. You can also gaze at some collections of carved relics and mass instruments of the 19th century.
While the interior may exude some eerie vibes, roaming around the surrounding of the convent is another story. You can capture excellent photographs with the convent during broad daylight as either a subject or a background. The towering Acacia trees provide shade and add rural vibes as well.
8. Old Enchanted Balete Tree
In the Philippines, there are many folklores of mythical creatures, and the Balete tree is often associated with these stories. Adding to the mystic charm of Siquijor Island, the Old Enchanted Balete tree in Lazi is a must to your Siquijor itinerary.
The old Balete tree is estimated to be over 500 years old, which is believed to be a ritual place of shamen in the early days.
Now, this century-old tree is one of the tourist attractions in Siquijor, where you can genuinely appreciate a broad tree. Near to its footsteps is a concrete pond where you can sit and have your foot some fish spa. Hundreds of thick vines are also evidently visible, embracing and hanging over the tree.
There is a nearby restaurant where tourists can grab some bites and souvenir shops for the mandatory pasalubong.
Visiting the old Balete tree is an excellent addition to your side trips, especially when exploring other Lazi Siquijor tourist spots.
9. Salagdoong Beach and Forest Park
Moving to its eastern town of Maria, Salagdoong Beach is one of the local’s favorite beach places.
This Siquijor beach is one of the many places to enjoy a day at the sands, explore underwater by snorkeling, or go on thrilling cliff jumping straight to the sea.
While some human-made structures are built near the coastlines, this beach is one of the family-friendly beach resorts in Siquijor.
Not for the faint of hearts, the 7-meter and 10-meter diving spots add to the adrenaline of the outdoor enthusiasts. The concrete slide, however, drives you straight sailing to the seas.
Note that these activities are only available during high tide seasons, and it is close during the low tides for safety concerns.
In addition, the near shallow coasts provide ideal spots for quick snorkeling activities. You’ll be surprised to see coral gardens and schools of fish on the crystal clear waters of Salagdoong beach.
Before reaching the Salagdoong beach, you’ll be passing by a human-made forest that is refreshing to the senses. Riding a scooter or motorbike along the concrete pavement is a fun way to maximize your stay in Salagdoong.
10. Broomstick Challenge at Hapitanan
One of the exciting stop-overs when touring Siquijor Island is the Hapitanan, located in the circumferential road near Lazi. In local terms, hapitanan means a stop-over place.
This small hapitanan is a small store where you can buy some goods with their menus branding with ‘Something.’ For cold drinks, it’s called Something Refreshing, hot drinks for Something Awakening, and meals for Something Silog. So you get it, right?
While it is a lovely spot to recharge when traveling to or from Lazi, the trending challenge is to ride a broomstick. Since Siquijor is famed for folk stories about witchcraft, you can complement your Siquijor experience by riding a broomstick. Panis and Harry Potter niyo! Kidding!
Their skilled staff will be glad to take some photos of you while seemingly riding a broomstick, like a witch. To capture some dramatic shots, they have provided a platform with a nice overlooking view. What a fun way, indeed.
Taking photos is free of charge, and a donation box is placed right before the platform.
As a bonus, they also have some tire swings for short photosets or enjoy the vantage views of the seas.
11. Cantabon Cave
Taking a break from the beaches and waterfalls, the Cantabon Cave is one alternative to fill your Siquijor tourist spots list.
When planning for a spelunking tour at Cantabon, you’ll need to register first at the local tourism office of Cantabon, Siquijor. Afterwhich, a tourism officer designates a local guide for your group. They provide complimentary headlamps and helmets as well.
While Cantabon Cave is a whole underground adventure, tourists should expect to get wet and dirty simultaneously. Expect low ceilings and narrow passages where you need to bend your knees and body to advance.
The Cantabon cave stretches around 800 meters with an average touring time of 45 minutes. Inside, you’ll see countless stalactites in every direction, with distinctive walls to interpret by your cognitive imagination.
One famous formation is the ‘king’s bed,’ an enormous white rock formation like a platform.
Cantabon Cave is one of the tourist spots in Siquijor that provides opportunities for the locals.
Reaching the Cantabon takes about 15 to 20 minutes from Poblacion, Siquijor.
12. Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary
Located near the borders of Lazi, Siquijor, and Larena, the Butterfly Sanctuary is a place to appreciate these colorful species.
Run by a local, a small 200 square meters of land is enclosed to conserve some butterfly species on the island of Siquijor. You’ll see these little animals at every stage of life, from larva, pupa, and flying butterflies.
The Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary aims to serve as an educational medium to the youth while conserving their species. With that in mind, some fully grown butterflies are seeking to be released into the wild.
Tourists can walk by the garden and interact with the butterflies as well. A minimal entrance fee and donation boxes are the sources of funding to run these intuitive conservation acts.
Visiting the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary is both fun and a quick educational tour you can add to your Siquijor itinerary.
They even sell some refreshments like fresh buko juices so you can replenish your energy for your next destination.
13. Sambulawan Underground River
With its recent opening to the public, the Sambulawan Underground River has considerably reached the attention of adventure-seeker tourists.
Unlike the Cantabon Cave, this underground adventure runs on a river underneath the earth itself.
Cruising the Sambawan Underground River requires a local guide, so register first to its local tourism office and pay a minimal fee. Worry not if you are not an experienced swimmer because you can at least advance to your heart’s desire with your life jackets on.
This underground river tour on a cave system lets you test your endurance and flexibility. Be mindful, though, that it is highly possible to come across cockroaches and spiders, even bats shelters to the cave.
This Siquijor tourist spot consists mainly of three sections. The first is the freshwater river spanning approximately 200 meters with a water level that can go as high as waist level. The other two are where you can observe some rock formations and where the spiders and bats are.
Overall, finishing this extra-thrilling adventure can take up to one hour, depending on the guests’ phase.
14. Cang-isok House
Aside from the many natural Siquijor tourist spots, a one-of-a-kind attraction gets either a positive or a negative impression. And this is the Cang-isok House.
This olden house sits across the circumferential road in Enrique Villanueva, fronting the sea. It is also beside the Cang-isok village; hence its name is called today.
Although Cang-isok House’s construction materials are wooden pieces, bamboo, and nipa sheets, there is no solid evidence of this structure’s old
Some say it is an old structure in the 1800s. Others are saying it could have been here only by the 1900s.
Truth be told, it is still fascinating to think how this wooden house stands the test of time. Although, from what it looks like, this house might only survive a few years from now.
With tourists’ hopes to restore to its glory days, this historical landmark may drive more tourists and opportunities to the locals.
15. Capilay Spring Water Park
Of all public places in Siquijor, the Capilay Spring Water Park is among the well-known park everyone can visit.
With its accessibility at the center of San Juan town, locals and tourists can visit this water park without any fees.
While there are almost parks in every city or municipality, maintaining a public water park drives interest and fascinates every tourist.
Unlike other outdoor Siquijor tourist spots, the Capilay Spring Park is your laid-back go-to place to explore the town. The natural spring water is refreshing and inviting for a quick dip or by lowering just your feet.
There are concrete benches and trees providing shades and a resting area.
🔗Interesting Island Tourist Destinations | Romblon | Camiguin |
Get ready to conquer Siquijor tourist spots.
Siquijor isn’t just about the mystical stories you have probably heard of or read on your favorite social networks.
This small island is one of the go-to places for off-the-beaten adventures and pristine beaches alike. Other than the natural Siquijor tourist spots to admire, the locals are also known for their hospitality and naturally friendly individuals.
When planning soon enough to visit Siquijor island, know that the best time to visit is during the summer season of February to May. If you want to skip the blazing summer heat, it is ideal for visiting from November to February.
Book your Siquijor accommodations in advance to avail of deals and discounted rates. Planning ahead of your tour can help you maximize your vacation, so you can only think of the day that you’ll be leaving the island paradise.
From the list above, where do you want to visit first? Share this with your circle now and plan your next getaway to Siquijor.
Safe travels!
Remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic. For your guidance about the changes in health protocols, you may visit the guidelines from the Department of Tourism and Siquijor’s official website. Stay safe.