Siquijor is a lush, gorgeous Philippine island that has captured my heart.
Dripping in natural beauty and home to stunning attractions, it should be your next dream destination.
This laid-back and friendly island boasts white-sand beaches and jaw-dropping scenery.
It’s time to unlock new memories with these fantastic things to do in Siquijor, Philippines.
The best part? Siquijor is an affordable destination, so you won’t have to break the bank for an unforgettable time.
Now that you’re convinced, It’s time to dive in.
Pssst: Discover more islands with my Island Hopping in the Philippines guide.
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When Is the Best Time To Visit Siquijor, Philippines
November to May is usually the best time to visit Siquijor Island in the Philippines.
These months fall during the dry season, so the weather is pleasant enough to do plenty of outdoor activities.
While the peak season, which falls between December and March, maybe overcrowded, this is still another great time to visit tourist attractions.
It ultimately depends on whether you want to avoid the crowds or not.
Where To Stay in Siquijor
Luxury
Atmosphere Resorts & Spa
Stay in the lap of luxury at the Atmosphere Resorts and Spa. With tropical villa vibes, ocean views, and stunning pools, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Treat yourself to the full-service spa onsite, work off those cocktails in the gym, and enjoy the amenities.
These include room services, poolside bars, yoga classes, a wine-tasting room, snorkeling, and more.
Check it out here
Mid-range
Mandala Tribe Treehouses
The Mandala Tribe Treehouses offer a unique stay among beautiful scenery.
Showcasing a pared-back design, the treehouses are stylish with outdoor showers and natural decor.
Each room has air conditioning, balconies, and free Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included, and several restaurants and beaches are nearby.
Check it out here
FIG Sunset View Resort
Staying at the FIG Sunset View Resort will reward you with fantastic ocean views, elegant rooms, and great amenities.
This beachfront resort has a large pool and lounge area, a restaurant, and spacious gardens to roam.
Enjoy a unit with sea views, a kettle, a fridge, and free toiletries.
Check it out here
Best Things to Do Siquijor
Without wasting another moment, here’s what to do in Siquijor.
Watch the Sunrise at Mount Bandilaan
Is there anything better than starting the day with an amazing sunrise?
Short answer: no, especially if you’re viewing it from not only the highest point but also the center of Siquijor.
Towering 1827 feet (557 meters) above sea level, the peak can be reached in just fifteen minutes by hiking.
Expect to do a bit of climbing and tackle a tricky path, but it shouldn’t be too challenging.
Enjoy the nice, fresh air of the forest that surrounds you on your way to the top.
There is even a picnic area, and the roads leading to the attraction are in good condition.
Fun Fact: Mount Bandilaan possesses great cultural significance. It is a sacred place where healers and sorcerers come to collect herbs used to perform rituals during Holy Week.
Grab a Freshly Brewed Cup at a Trendy Café
Hunting down aesthetically pleasing coffee shops should always be on the table when visiting new destinations.
And boy-oh-boy, Siquijor did not fail to impress me.
Plus, we all know that a breakfast pic in a cute café is a must, right?
Here’s where to go:
- Kape De Guyod: Enjoy an impressive coffee selection at this modern café, giving you tropical Bali vibes. It’s also a comfy spot to catch up on work (if needed) in a relaxing atmosphere, with fast Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets.
- Luca Loko: Come here for the iconic Luca Loko smoothie bowl, resembling a beach with shells, made from fresh fruits and ingredients. They also have vegan and vegetarian dishes and other healthy options to heal you from within.
- BuCafé: It is quite rare to find affordable options with mountain and sea views. But BuCafé gives you these and delicious dishes, from fresh fruit shakes to coffees and brunch.
I have more recommendations in my complete Siquijor guide!
Pop in at Marelle’s Seashell Museum
While most popular museums are usually about people and their culture, this charming seashell museum is all about remembering Siquijor’s marine life.
It’s an adorable museum to browse through when you need to idle away or if shells have always intrigued you.
Regardless of your reason, you’ll have a good time learning about all the different shell and seastar families, thanks to their huge collection.
There is also a quirky souvenir shop where you can collect small gifts for your loved ones.
Watch the Sunset and Have a Picnic at Paliton Beach
Paliton Beach is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Siquijor after a long day.
And, while you’re here to admire the vibrant sky, you might as well have something to eat.
So, I recommend bringing your picnic basket, a blanket, and a bikini (and don’t forget the sunblock).
The palm-fringed beach has fine white sand, crystal blue waters, and a calm atmosphere.
Often crowded with local fishermen and visitors, it’s still worth your while for a wonderful sunset moment.
Read Next: Amazing beaches in Siquijor you have to visit at least once.
Explore the Cantabon Cave
The Cantabon Cave will likely always be among the top ten Siquijor tourist spots.
Why? It’s a fascinating cave filled with many geological wonders and the most famous of its kind on the island.
A freshwater stream runs through the cave, along with icicle formations and stalactites and stalagmites hanging from the chamber.
You’ll follow a pitch-black trail through the cave with flashlights and helmets to help you explore it.
Cantabon Cave is in the central part of the island, surrounded by lush jungles and quaint villages.
Touring the cave will take about one hour and 30 minutes, which includes all the gearing up before entering.
Take Some Photos at the Pitogo Cliff Nature Park
The Pitogo Cliff Nature Park in San Juan boasts some incredible views you simply have to see.
It’s an area filled with dramatic cliffs that offer many viewpoints overlooking the ocean.
It’s the ideal place for some new Instagram snaps or cliff diving if you’re feeling a bit daring.
Offering a stunning backdrop to ease your nerves before you dive, just know the highest point reaches 40 feet (12 meters).
I recommend diving here during high tide as it’s safer.
Go Snorkeling at Tubod Marine Sanctuary
While the Philippines and Siquijor specifically have many excellent snorkeling spots, you can’t go wrong with Tubod Marine Sanctuary.
It’s a must-visit site with the most awe-inspiring and well-preserved coral reef.
Tubod has turquoise waters with hundreds of ocellaris clownfish (aka Nemo), some sea turtles, and many other colorful fish.
You can reach Tubod Marine Sanctuary by visiting Tubod Beach in San Juan, on the southwestern coast of Siquijor Island.
For the best experience, I suggest entering the water from the beach in front of Coco Grove Beach Resort.
Hike the Lugnason Falls Loop
What about a refreshing hike to a heavenly waterfall?
Hop on the Lugnason Falls Loop to see one of the best waterfalls on the island.
Truly one for the adventurous spirit, the fall has a deep natural pool to jump in from the Tarzan swing above.
But before you beat your chest and yell out loud, you’ll have to finish a one-hour, moderately challenging hike to reach Lugnason Falls.
You may also encounter wildlife and views along the way.
See the Sambulawan Underground River
If there’s one cool experience you can’t miss, it would be a tour of the Sambulawan Underground River.
This is one of the newest tourist attractions on the island, and it opened to the public in 2018.
The underground river consists of fresh water that runs through a cave system with three branches.
It continues for 656 feet (200 meters) in gloomy conditions through small stalactites and stalagmites.
Watch out for the bats, spiders, and cockroaches that frequent this cave.
And yes, you’ll have to swim from the entrance point onwards to reach the end of the cave.
But you’ll have a guide and a life jacket.
Take Photos at the Old Enchanted Balete Tree
Experience nature’s very own spa thanks to the Old Enchanted Balete Tree.
Situated in Lazi, this ancient 400-year-old tree is huge, with a crystal-clear spring at its base.
Now, if you were looking for something magical to admire, this would be it.
However, as suggested in the beginning, it’s also a place to have an ‘interesting’ spa experience.
You come here to relax in the pool under the enchanting old tree while fish nibble on your feet’s dead skin cells. Mind-blowing.
Have Dinner at an Iconic Restaurant
It’s time to discover more culinary delights from this tiny island.
And trust me, Siquijor is a foodie’s paradise with diverse dishes and vibrant flavors.
But where to begin?
Start with these places:
- Baha Bar: This is the place to be for a chilled night out with tropical cocktails and artsy decor. They blend Filipino and international cuisine for an unforgettable experience.
- Twenty4 Restaurant and Burger Bar: This trendy restaurant offers a creative menu of gourmet burgers, which has made them quite famous. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere as you dig into classic and local dishes with a modern twist.
- Dagsa Resto Bar: An oasis for seafood lovers where you get to feast on the freshest seafood dishes right by the ocean.
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