Best Things to Do on Siquijor Island, Philippines
Siquijor is widely considered to be the most mystical island in the Philippines. It is an island of magic and potions, of enchanted locations and a local lore of it’s own. It also happens to be one of the top travel destinations in the Philippines, with plenty of activities to make your time on Siquijor Island a memorable experience.
Old Enchanted Balete Tree
The Old Enchanted Balete Tree is a popular tourist stop on the southern coast of Siquijor Island, about 30 minutes from San Juan. Locals believe the 400 year old Balete Tree holds magical powers, with fairies and other spiritual beings said to appear after dark.
Whether fairies are present or not, the tree is an impressive sight with it’s massive roots draping the ground. A natural spring at the base of the tree provides a fish massage and vendors outside the entrance offer coconuts and other refreshments. The tree is easily visible from the main road with parking right outside the entrance, making it ideal for a quick stop on your way to or from the area’s beaches or waterfalls.
Siquijor Waterfalls
Siquijor Island has many waterfalls to explore, but a few are worthy of special mention. Among these is Cambugahay Falls, accessible by a short hike through lush jungle. Vibrant blue waters cascade down a three-tiered waterfall, landing in a beautiful natural swimming pool.
Another of Siquijor’s beautiful waterfalls is Lugnason Falls. The area around the falls has been landscaped to peel back the jungle and reveal the falls in all their glory. Areas have also been created to safely jump into the pool below the falls.
Lagaan Falls is another must-visit location during your visit to Siquijor Island. Lagaan Falls are not as tall as the others, but the surrounding jungle provides welcomed relief from the sun, and the falls empty into a natural swimming pool, complete with rope swings and rock jumps.
Siquijor Beaches
Like most of the islands in the Philippines, Siquijor Island has a number of beautiful beaches to choose from. Paliton Beach and Salagdoong Beach. With white sands backed by gently leaning coconut trees, Paliton Beach is considered to be the island’s most beautiful beach by locals and visitors alike. Salagdoong Beach, with it’s waterslide and diving platforms, tends to be the more adventurous beach on Siquijor Island.
In addition to spending time on Siquijor’s recreational beaches, it is also worth taking the time to visit the local wildlife sanctuaries. The Tubod Marine Sanctuary and the Tulapos Marine Sanctuary both offer some of the most scenic beaches you will ever encounter, making it the ideal place to snap that perfect InstaGram photo, and the nominal admission fee helps fund local conservation efforts.
JJ’s Beach Party
Of all the beach events available on Siquijor Island, one that is definitely worth special mention is the weekly beach party at JJ’s Backpacker’s Village.
Originally started as a weekly event every Friday night, the event has recently been expanded to Saturday night’s as well. To say this is the most epic beach party in Siquijor would be an understatement. Your 250 peso admission gets you access to a full evening of live music, the cheapest drinks in town and exclusive access to JJ’s section of the beach.
Cantabon Cave
Cantabon Cave is by far the most popular cave on Siquijor Island, and once inside, you’ll easily see why. The subterranian creek that runs the length of the cave adds to the ambiance, while large geologic formations create a visually appealing environment.
Before entering the cave you will need to visit the local Barangay Hall, where you will pay a 500 peso registration fee. This fee includes a guide, as well as helmet and flashlight to give you a safe caving experience. The cave is 800 meters deep and the tour to the deepest section and back to the entrance will take approximately 2 hours. It is recommended to use a dry bag for your electronics and clean t-shirt. One can be rented at the cave entrance for just 50 pesos.
Sambulawan Underground River
The Sambulawan Underground River is a relatively new attraction to Siquijor Island, having first opened to the public in 2018. The 200m cave river is a unique experience and one you will not regret.
Similar to Cantabon Cave, before entering Sambulawan Cave you will first need to visit the local Barangay Hall and pay a registration fee of 250 pesos to have a guide assigned to you. A life jacket and waterproof flashlight will be provided to you at the cave entrance. While you can walk through much of the river, there are a few sections that require swimming so the life jacket comes in handy. Come wearing swimwear and have some means of protecting your electronics from water.
