Siquijor
A small, easygoing island with turquoise waterfalls, a coral-stone church and a long reputation for magic.
Quick answer
- What it is: a small island province south of Cebu and east of Negros, easy to loop in a day by scooter.
- Don't miss: the turquoise tiers of Cambugahay Falls, Lazi Church and Convent, and sunset at Paliton Beach.
- Its reputation: folk healing and stories of magic, now part of the island's charm.
- Getting there: ferry from Dumaguete, the usual gateway, or longer crossings from Cebu and Bohol.
- Best time: the dry months, roughly December to May.
Why it is a wonder
Siquijor is small enough to circle in a day, and that is part of the pleasure: a quiet coastal road, villages, empty beaches and forest-covered hills inland. For generations it has had a reputation as an island of folk healers and magic, and you will still see herbal oils and remedies for sale.
Its best-known sight is Cambugahay Falls near Lazi, where clear turquoise water steps down through a forest in a series of swimmable pools. In Lazi itself, the San Isidro Labrador Church and its huge convent across the road are Spanish-era coral-stone buildings, both declared National Cultural Treasures. Evenings belong to the west coast, where Paliton Beach is a favourite sunset spot.
Beat the crowds
- Reach Cambugahay early. By late morning, tour groups and rope-swing queues build up.
- Loop the island against the flow of tour tricycles, which usually go one way round.
- Stay more than a day to enjoy the island at its own pace.
Getting there
Most people arrive by fast ferry from Dumaguete on Negros. There are also ferry routes from Cebu and Bohol. On the island, rent a scooter or hire a tricycle and driver for the day. See our guide to getting around the Philippines.
A perfect day
- Swim at Cambugahay Falls early in the morning.
- Visit Lazi Church and Convent nearby.
- Have lunch and a swim at Salagdoong Beach in Maria.
- Watch the sunset at Paliton Beach in San Juan.
Through the seasons
- December to May: the dry months, with calm seas for ferry crossings.
- June to November: wetter, with typhoon risk; heavy rain can turn the falls brown.
See our guide to typhoon season.
Respect the place
Ask before photographing healers or their remedies, dress modestly inside Lazi Church, and wear a helmet on the scooter. Take rubbish back with you from the falls and beaches.
Photo gallery
Frequently asked questions
Is Siquijor really an island of witches?
It has long had a reputation for folk healers and traditional remedies, and some visitors seek them out. Day to day, it is a friendly, quiet island, and the stories are part of its character rather than something to worry about.
What is the best way to get around?
By scooter or a hired tricycle. A coastal road circles the island, and you can see the main sights in a day.
Can I swim at Cambugahay Falls?
Yes. The falls step down into pools where you can swim, and there are rope swings. Go early before it fills up.
What is special about Lazi Church?
The San Isidro Labrador Church and its large convent across the road are Spanish-era coral-stone buildings and are National Cultural Treasures.
How do I get to Siquijor?
The usual route is a fast ferry from Dumaguete on Negros. There are also ferries from Cebu and Bohol.
Batanes
Wind-swept green hills, cliffs and lighthouses at the very top of the Philippines, where people built their homes from stone to survive the typhoons.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
