Siquijor: Pure Island Time
Pardeep Singh
| 24-04-2026
· Travel team
Lykkers, picture a palm‑lined ring road where beaches glow at sunset, springs cool the feet, and limestone caves hide glassy pools—Siquijor delivers isle days with just‑right adventure and simple logistics from ferry to tricycle to scooter.
Use this compact, practical guide to hit the highlights, know costs in advance, and keep every hour unhurried and beautiful.

Getting there

Fast crafts run Dumaguete–Siquijor in about 45–60 minutes, with fares commonly around ₱304–₱455 depending on operator and class. Typical RoRo fares are about ₱234, taking roughly 1.5–2 hours if seas are choppy. From Bohol (Tagbilaran), boats sail to Larena/Siquijor in about 2–2.5 hours, with fares often ₱700–₱1,200 by operator and seating. Tricycles to San Juan run roughly ₱200 from Siquijor Pier and about ₱400 from Larena; confirm price before boarding.

Island wheels

Scooters rent widely for ₱250–₱500 per 24 hours, ideal for the 72‑km ring road and short spurs to coves and falls. Many shops cluster near ferry piers and San Juan; expect simple paperwork and a quick test ride. If sharing, tricycle point‑to‑point fares are typically posted or fixed by the driver for standard sightseeing loops.

Balete tree

Drop by the roadside Old Enchanted Balete Tree for a quick fish‑spa foot dip beneath sprawling roots. Entrance is typically ₱20 per person, with posted hours commonly 6:00–18:00 and small add‑ons like parking. Some travelers also note a modest environmental fee near local checkpoints; carry small bills.

Salagdoong cove

At Maria’s east tip, Salagdoong Beach pairs two coves with cliff‑jump platforms and an easy entry cove for swimmers. Expect an entrance of about ₱50 per person plus ₱20 for motorbike parking; tide and swell determine jump safety. Facilities ebb and flow seasonally, so arrive self‑sufficient with water, sun cover, and reef‑safe protection.

Paliton sunset

Near San Juan, Paliton’s shallow, glass‑clear water and white sand make an easy day stop and sunset staple. A small local entrance fee (often ₱20) may be collected, and a short sandy track leads from roadside parking to the beach. Plan for late‑afternoon color, then a slow ride back with twilight views along the coastal road.

Tubod reef

Fronting Coco Grove, Tubod Marine Sanctuary is a protected patch of reef with posted snorkel fees (commonly ₱50–₱100 per person). Activity restrictions can change temporarily for coral recovery—check current notices if snorkeling is paused during reef maintenance windows. Bring fins and booties, follow the ropes, and avoid stepping on living structures to keep conditions pristine.

Lugnason falls

A short forest path leads to Lugnason’s turquoise pool, a favorite for a cool swim after beach hours. Entrance is often free, with occasional small parking or local guide tips requested at the trailhead. Water flow varies by season; go early on weekends for space and softer light on the pool.

Cantabon cave

Register in Cantabon village, then hike with a local guide into a limestone tunnel resembling an underground river. Budget ₱20 entrance plus a guided fee around ₱500 for up to three guests, including helmets and life vests (extra headlamps/shoes rented on site). Last entries typically cut off early afternoon, and heavy rain can close the system for safety.

More snorkel

For a guided drift in the island’s northeast, Tulapos Marine Sanctuary lists typical rates near ₱100 per snorkeler and about ₱250 per guide per two people. Conditions are best November–June, with dry‑season visibility and gentler seas for first‑timers. As always, stay inside set lines, follow the spotter, and pack water and a rash guard for mid‑day sun.

Costs & stays

San Juan concentrates guesthouses and resorts, many set a short walk from the shore and reef access. Mid‑range beachfronts like Coco Grove place rooms just steps from Tubod’s protected water and onsite rentals for masks and fins. Expect frequent deals throughout the year; book early for holidays and calm‑season weekends.

Practical tips

- From the port, agree on tricycle pricing to San Juan before rolling; posted estimates help frame fair quotes.
- Scooter rentals are widely available; start early and loop counter‑clockwise to catch shade and gentler traffic.
- Ferry times and fares change; check day‑of schedules with your operator and arrive 45–60 minutes early.
Friends, Siquijor shines when days stay simple: a morning ferry, scooter meanders, a mid‑day swim, and a sunset cove finish—what would be the first stop, and which fee‑friendly add‑ons belong on the plan?