2020 • 06 • 02

Siquijor is a small island in the Visayas – a quaint, bucolic and magical destination that has slowly grown in popularity over the years. This comes as no surprise because it has plenty of attractions that could fill your itinerary and keep you coming back for more. White sands line its shores, aquamarine waters that entice visitors to take a dip, and a laidback vibe that lets you relax and unwind. These are just some of the things that await you.

Salagdoong Beach is a popular place to try cliff diving. The beaches lining San Juan are ideal spots to laze the day away, go swimming, play volleyball or Frisbee, get a tan and watch the sunset. Cambugahay Falls’ turquoise waters will entice you to jump into it. The old balete tree is another popular attraction to add to your itinerary. The island also has a handful of old churches dating back to Spanish colonial times. The province has an eclectic mix of natural and historical destinations to fill your day.

Should you be planning a visit, here’s how you get to Siquijor.

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How to Get to Siquijor

The most convenient way to reach this province is via Dumaguete, but it is still possible to visit via Moalboal in Cebu as well.

From Dumaguete

There are regular flights to Dumaguete from Manila. Buy tickets during seat sales to get the lowest possible prices and save money. After arriving at the Dumaguete airport, you can hire a tricycle to take you directly to the port for around P100. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Another way to reach the port is to hail a city-bound jeep outside the airport for P10. After arriving at the city proper, you can walk or take a tricycle to the port.

At the port, you can either go by fast craft or ferry. Ferries are cheaper but slower. A one-way ticket costs around P120 to P130 and the trip may take approximately an hour and a half to two hours. The faster boat costs P250 to P380, depending on class, and takes about an hour to reach Siquijor. Most visitors will arrive at Siquijor, Siquijor but there’s another ferry that goes to Larena, which is another town on the island. This route costs P170. You also have to pay a P25 terminal fee before leaving the Dumaguete port.

Ferries depart as early as 5:30 AM and most last trips leave by 6:00 PM. Once you reach Siquijor, you can rent a motorcycle, hire a motorcycle taxi, or rent a tricycle to your accommodation.

From Cebu (Moalboal)

To get to Siquijor from Moalboal you have to catch the ferry or fast craft in Dumaguete. If you’re staying somewhere in Panagsama Beach, take a tricycle to the bus stop near Moalboal Market. The fare is approximately P50. From the stop, board a southbound bus and alight at Bato. The ride might take an hour or so. From Bato, get on a tricycle to Liloan Port for around P25. After arriving at Liloan, board a ferry bound for Dumaguete, this costs around P62 with the terminal fee included. The trip may take an hour and a half depending on the weather.

Once you arrive at Dumaguete, you’ll need to go to another terminal to catch a ferry to Siquijor. Get on a jeep and tell the driver you’re going to the ferry terminal to Siquijor. The fare is around P11.

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Exploring the Island

The island is small enough to cover the highlights in one day. In fact, you can go around the province in a couple of hours if you don’t take any pitstops. For those who know how to ride a motorbike, you can rent one for a day. This costs around P300 per day. You’ll have to fill it up with petrol every now and then.

If you’re traveling as a group, you can hire a tricycle and driver to take you around. The rate is from P1200 to P1500 and accommodates up to three people. For bigger groups, you can rent a multi-cab for P1800. This can accommodate up to 15 persons. Regardless of how you go around, you’ll have plenty of places to visit.

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Where to Stay in Siquijor

Siquijor’s rise in popularity has led to a mini tourist boom and with it comes an increase of hostels, guesthouses, and resorts dotting the island. Many visitors will likely stay somewhere in San Juan. This town is along the shore. Here, you’ll find plenty of beachfront (or at least near it) places to stay. Stay in this part of the island for easy access to the beach. Watch the sunrise and sunset, wade in the waters, or get a tan after exploring the province. You can find accommodation here regardless of your budget. There are cheap, mid-priced, and high-end prices. Book in advance, especially during peak seasons such as summer and national holidays.

You can find other accommodations near the port in Siquijor town, Lazi, and Larena. Lazi and Larena are good alternatives for those who want to get away from the crowds staying in San Juan. If you haven’t decided yet, here’s a list of some of the top accommodations in Siquijor as rated by Agoda users, in no particular order.

• Coco Grove Beach Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Infinity Heights Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• White Villas Resort. ✅CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Aquamare Beach Camp Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY

For more options, search here: Siquijor Hotels