INTERESTING PLACES IN SIQUIJOR

 

 

We traveled to the Philippines with one dream – finding the perfect beach. Palm-fringed, white sand, pristine turquoise sea. You know, the works. The Philippines were on our radar for ages, after several of our friends visited and posted pictures of stunning beaches, world class dive sites and multicolored sunsets, we simply couldn’t wait.

The day after we finally hopped on the ferry and made the journey to Siquijor. As soon as we set foot on the island we were like ‘that’s it’. This is the kind of place we were looking for. There was a cute pebble beach right next to the ferry landing, with a few houses along the shore, and hills covered in forest. If this is just the harbor, we thought, the rest of the island must be seriously stunning.

Siquijor is famous around the Philippines for being the home of spirits, mysteries and sorcerers practicing voodoo and dark arts. The island was named ‘Isla del Fuego’ (the island of fire) by the Spanish, and Siquijor retains the nickname to this day. The name was related to the eerie glow surrounding the island when the conquistadores arrived, which were in fact in swarms of fireflies blinking in the twilight.

When we got to Coral Cay, the resort where we would be staying, the ‘that’s it’ feeling got even stronger. We were staying in a bungalow barely 20 meters from the beach – which seemed to have been taken straight from my dreams. White, soft sand. Azure wavelets lapping at the shore. Palms bowing at the sea. Hammocks strung between one tree and another. Bangka, traditional Filipino boats, moored in the shallows.

When sunset came, the sky turned multicolored – and every day, the show was different. One day the sky was bright and warm, the same color of a juicy orange. Another day it was blue-purple, streaked with highlighter-pink clouds. One day it was overcast, and the colors were muted – but as the sun approached the horizon it seemed to rip through the clouds, illuminating the shore with beams of light.

Yet, Siquijor will always be a special place, because it was the first time we found the Philippines we were looking for. Over the rest of our month in the country we would fall in love again and again, but Siquijor will always be our first love.  Read More:  http://www.thecrowdedplanet.com/siquijor-tourist-spots/

 

Bandilaan Nature Park

 

Photo from:  http://www.senyorita.net/2013/03/camp-bandilaan-conquering-siquijors-highest-peak/

 

We first went up Mt. Bandilaan, which is really just a fifteen-minute walk up – maybe even less. Though only 632 meters above sea level and a not-too-prominent peak, this mountain is culturally significant, being  the sacred place where healers and sorcerers take their herbs and perform their rituals during Holy Week – in the same vein as Mt. Banahaw.  Read More: http://www.pinoymountaineer.com/2014/09/hiking-matters-423-mt-bandilaan-and.html

 

Cambugahay Waterfalls

 

Photo from:  http://www.fredericpatenaude.com/blog/?p=1686

 

Cambugahay falls is a must-visit when you’re in Siquijor. It’s very easy to reach; no long hike needed. From the parking area, there’s a sign leading you to the waterfalls. You’ll just have to go down a flight of stairs. It will only take you around 5-10 minutes.

Cambugahay is a 3-tiered waterfall. We spent almost 2 hours of our tour here. The water is very clear and blue. At the lowest tier, there’s an improvised swing you could use for free. The water is very swim-able. You could also jump from the top of the falls since the base is deep enough. Make sure you ask the guides there where to jump. The lowest tier is where most tourists swim. It’s the biggest and probably the deepest as well. There are available makeshift tables and chairs free of use.  Read More:  https://thelostkids.ph/2015/12/08/cambugahay-falls-siqujior-enchanting-waterfalls-at-the-island-of-fire/

 

Cangbangag Falls

 

Photo from:  http://www.juan-ted.com/2015/07/cangbangag-falls-larena-town-siquijor.html

 

 

Cang-Isok House

 

Photo from: https://baldrunner.com/tag/siquijor/

 

The oldest known surviving house in Siquijor is the Cang-isok House in baraangay Libo, Enrique Villanueva or Talingting town. It is also called the Tejano House. Residents also tell of goosebump-generating stories about the house.

The Cang-isok House is said to be built by a Spanish man by the name of Mariano Tejano in the mid-1800’s. This explains why it is also called the Tejano House. It is known as Cang-isok because it is beside the Cang-isok village. But aside from these scant details about it’s history, little is known about what happened through time at the Cang-isok House.

The Cang-isok House is built to stand on stilts and uses local hardwoods such as tugas and molave. The stilts are probably to keep wild animals away from the house as most early Philippine houses are. Or it could be because of the changing tides in the area. Cang-isok House is built not very far away from the shoreline. The roof of the house is made of nipa. Read More: http://www.aroundphilippines.com/2015/11/cang-isok-house-in-enrique-villanueva.html

 

Cantabon Cave

 

Photo from:  http://www.thelonerider.com/2012/feb/cantabon_cave/pages/P2233683.shtml

 

One of the must-visit places in Siquijor is the Cantabon Cave. Location is in Barangay Cantabon, it is a 20-30 minute continuous ascend up the mountains of Siquijor. Adventure awaits you as you do spelunking at the 800 meter long cave. Also prepare to get wet and dirty as this cave is 100% alive. Too many things to see inside and lots of beautiful natural creations are in showcase for you.

Caving fee is Php 500 for a group of three persons inclusive of guide (mandatory), headlamps and helmets. Helmets are really required because the height of the cave is short, most of the time you have to vow down walking along the muddy, watery floors. So many stalactite formations inside that some of them may hit your head if you don’t wear helmets. Slippers are okay yet sandals or aqua shoes can be better. Waterproofing of your gadgets is a must. If you bring with you your phones and cameras, be wary that water drippings are abundant inside the cave so waterproofing is necessary.  Read More:  http://www.findinghenru.com/cantabon-cave/

 

Capilay Spring Park

 

Photo from:  https://thetravelvisionary.wordpress.com/2013/11/08/siquijor/

 

Siquijor province is home to many natural cold springs. One of them is Capilay Spring Park in the town of San Juan nestled on the southwest coast of the island-province.

Situated at the heart of San Juan town, Capilay Spring Park is among the well-known natural spring parks in Siquijor. This natural, open-to-the-public swimming pool is right in the middle of the town plaza where everyone is free to take a plunge into its refreshing spring waters.

This spring park has three main areas, such as the upper pool, the swimming pool and the laundry pool, all flowing into the nearby ocean. There is also a playground, kiosks, and booths around the park which are perfect for families or friends who want to have a picnic. To get a better view of the entire park, you can even do a little hiking and climb the hill that leads to the town’s church.  Read More:  https://www.lomography.com/magazine/59011-capilay-spring-park-in-san-juan-siquijor

 

Caticugan Marine Sanctuary

 

Photo from:  http://greedypeg.org/siquijor/Caticugan-Marine-Fish-Sanctuary.html

 

We enjoyed the activity greeting protected creatures of Caticugan. We saw colorful and camera-loving fishes, sophisticated corals and even sea snakes (or are they just eels). Just look at those creatures in these funny comic strips. We didn’t notice that we actually took a long time in those Siquijor waters. But we had to catch the only fast craft ride back to Dumaguete in the sea port few minutes away from the sanctuary. So we left the sanctuary but with high hopes. Caticugan Marine Sanctuary is just a preview of the marine biodiversity of the island. We would see more if we scuba dive next.  Read More:  http://jonas.ph/blog/tag/caticugan-marine-sanctuary/

 

Enchanted Balete Tree

 

Photo from:  http://www.ustory-siquijor.com/en/UStory-Siquijor-Resort-Hotel-Bungalows-Activity.html

 

You’ve seen them in Filipino horror movies. Balete trees, also known as balite or baliti in some provinces, are popular in the Philippines and have been associated with the supernatural. Due to its gargantuan size and entirely bizarre looks, folks believe that it is home to mythical and scary creatures like kapre and engkanto.

Also called as the Old Enchanted Balete Tree, the tree found in Siquijor is believed to be 400 years old. The old balete tree is located in Barangay Campalanas in the town of Lazi and has become a tourist spot for curious tourists who are visiting Siquijor province. Aside from the Filipino folklores such as aswangs and witches that the province is known for, Siquijor became a favorite setting for Pinoy horror movies because of this old, scary looking balete tree.  Read More: http://www.pinoytravelfreak.com/2012/10/siquijor-and-aurora-oldest-and-largest.html

 

Guiwanon Spring Park

 

Photo from:  http://bugzcollections.blogspot.com/2012/05/siquijor-escapade-maria-guiwanon-spring.html

 

This particular mangrove forest is located near the border of the two towns of Larena and Siquijor. Access is quite easy as its main gate is located right by the island’s circumferential highway.

From its humble entrance, a wooden stairs led us to a gently curving elevated pathway made from bamboos and what seemed like halved wooden trunks—probably actual mangroves harvested from the area. It was as I imagined it to be years ago; a lush mangrove forests surrounding an elevated rickety pathway.

A few meters on, we saw wooden houses set precariously on trees, apparently, these are available for rent. Guiwanon Spring Park has three of such, cutely named as Pawekan, Kunalom and Bolok-Bolok. The first two would only set a visitor back PHP250.00 a night, while the last one is at PHP350.00. With those prices, don’t expect a imperial accommodations, their rooms are quite spartan and the toilets are located outside.  Read More:  http://www.lakadpilipinas.com/2016/06/guiwanon-spring-park-siquijor.html

 

Hambilica Firefly Hatchery And Sanctuary

 

Photo from:  http://www.hambilicasiquijor.com/

 

“The only place in Siquijor with a firefly hatchery by the sea!”

Hambilica is a rare merge of sunshine, ocean and greenery in the serene island of Siquijor.

It is in the center of the tourist belt and easy access to other destinations around the island. The sunset view is part of its charm.

We have beachfront cottages and guestrooms. Each cottage is provided with a boutique kitchen and a private balcony with garden and ocean views.  We have internet connection  and cable TV available.

A grove of rare trees not only cool the breeze but also make Hambilica a natural bird sanctuary!  We take pride in our flower garden designed to be visited by butterflies and a habitat of fireflies.  Read More:  http://www.hambilicasiquijor.com/

 

Kagusuan Beach

 

Photo from:  http://marxtermind.com/alone-in-the-mystic-island-of-siquijor/

 

Located further down south from Maria town proper and just before the town of Lazi, secluded Kagusuan has often been described as a deserted beach. Getting here is a bit tricky (there are no road signs to guide the first-time visitor) but fortunately good old Dondon knew the place quite well. It is located off the main highway; the last stretch of road we had to negotiate is not paved and barely wide enough for even a tricycle. There is a paved parking area for vehicles and a series of concrete steps from there will take you down to the beach.

With its rock formations, long stretch of white sand, turquoise waters and nary a resort or even a hut in sight, Kagusuan is perfect for moments of solitude. The crystal-clear waters also make it ideal for swimming and snorkelling. As with many beaches we visited in Siquijor during this trip, we were again the only people here until a European tourist on a motorbike arrived just as we were about to leave.  Read More:  http://shoestringtravelers.com/?q=node/80

 

Kanheron Ranch

 

Photo from:  http://socialsta.com/tag/kanheron

 

Are you ready to broaden your horizon & time travel back to the wild American west?  Behind those gigantic rock gates with huge rustic iron wheel gateposts and prancing stallion horses , this 5,000+ square foot eco-friendly facility sits in a sprawling, private and peaceful American old west ranch style setting .  Immerse yourself in the museum & exclusive rustic elegance decor.   And with Kanheron just a thoroughfare away from the towns of Larena & Siquijor, you can soon feel your transformation of the American old west dream.  Read More:  http://kanheron.org/visitor-information.html

 

Photo from:  https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g664445-d1549926-i30475721-Siquijor_Butterfly_Sanctuary-Siquijor_Island_Visayas.html

 

While roaming around Siquijor island crossing back north through the mountains from a trip to the southern side of the island something caught my attention. At the highest point just before the decline down a few locals waved their hands and pointed me in some vague direction indicating that I should go check it out. I hesitated for a while, but the two locals practically pushed my motorbike down a narrow unconstructed path facing east. One of them, it turns out, was the person in charge of the butterfly sanctuary they were pointing towards.  Read More:  http://www.visionsoftravel.org/siquijor-butterfly-sanctuary/

 

Lazi Church and Convent

 

Photo from:  http://lexicalcrown.blogspot.com/2013/08/location-central-visayas-philippines.html

 

The San Isidro Labrador Parish and Convent in Lazi, Siquijor are reminiscent of the old Spanish settlement in the province. Constructed by Augustinian Recollects, the Baroque church was established in 1857. The convent, one of the oldest and biggest in the country was erected in 1887.

The church complex is among the Baroque Churches of the Philippines list submitted by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) to UNESCO as candidate for  World Heritage Site.

The National Historical Institute declared the church and convent as national landmarks due to its religious, historical and architectural importance, not only to the province of Siquijor, but to the entire Philippines.  San Isidro Labrador Parish and Convent in Lazi is half an hour away from the provincial capitol, Siquijor.  Read More:  https://www.lakwatsero.com/spots/san-isidro-labrador-parish-and-convent-lazi-siquijor/#sthash.1acS21o2.dpbs

 

Lugnason Falls

 

Photo from:  http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/599401/take-the-plunge-for-free-on-island-of-fire

 

The recently ‘made-over’ Lugnason Falls in the hills behind Napo (take the junction off the Government Road at Coco Grove into the hills and look for the signs or ask anyone) are beautiful. The pool was dredged in July by a dedicated group of volunteers and combined with a bit of man-made enhancement it is now a deep several metre pool, possibly 20 metres across. Locals have taking to jumping in to the main pool from 10-15m cliffs (or even the odd tall coconut tree!) and there is also an amazing rope swing that propels the brave high into the air before catapulting them into the main pool. Well worth a visit and part of the appeal is that it is a bit more off the beaten track than Cambugahay Falls and no car park etc, just a sign on the side of the road. You can get water and drink in the nearby village of Napo.  Read More:  http://siquijor-island.com/lugnason-falls/

 

Salagdoong Beach

Photo from:  http://insights.looloo.com/siquijor-destinations/

 

Want to try cliff diving? Salagdoong Beach is the perfect place to indulge your thrill-seeking self. The blue waters and the beautiful beach create a serene and magical atmosphere for visitors. Although not blessed with fine white sand, Salagdoong Beach boasts breathtaking views of the sunset and an ideal location for holiday goers.  Read More:  http://insights.looloo.com/siquijor-destinations/

 

Marelle’s Underwater World Museum

 

Photo from:  https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g3175044-d10021229-Reviews-Marelle_s_Underwater_World_Museum-San_Juan_Siquijor_Island_Visayas.html

 

Our beautiful Marelle’s museum displays our stunning collection of exotic sea shells that are found in the clear tropical waters of the Philippines. There is no place on the planet that has the diversity of shells that the Philippines has. Enjoy the vast diversity of nature from both salt and fresh waters. Sit and relax and watch our flat screen TV, engulfing yourself in video of the Philippines Underwater World. We also have a beautiful postage stamp collection of both fish and marine life from all over the world. We also have many educational displays for you to enjoy. 

Phone Number : 011-63-905-221- 6651
E-mail Address : marellesuwwm@gmail.com.
Website : marellesunderwaterworldmuseum.com

Read More:  http://siquijor-island.com/underwater-world-museum/

 

Paliton Beach

 

Photo from:  https://designthinktravel.com/siquijor-beaches-philippines-paliton-tubud/

 

Solangon beach opposite Coral Cay was lovely, but when we visited (November) the tide was really low during the day, and it was necessary to grab a kayak and paddle away from the shore to find a good swimming spot. Apparently this issue is prevalent in November and December, while during the rest of the year you can swim no problem.

I asked the lovely staff from Coral Cay if there were any other nearby beaches, and they recommended Paliton, a couple of kilometers down the road. It was a beautiful, secluded crescent of white sand, surrounded by trees, with a few bangka lying in the sand. There was nowhere to eat or drink, and no one else besides us for most of the afternoon – and the sea was considerably deeper than Solangon beach, making swimming much easier.  Read More:  https://www.thecrowdedplanet.com/siquijor-tourist-spots/

 

Salagdoong Forest Reserve

 

Photo from:  https://www.flickr.com/photos/storm-crypt/2477754243

 

Mr. Agripino Lumunggo, a local agriculturist during the administrations of late Philippine presidents Ramon Magsaysay and Carlos P. Garcia, started the initiative of planting molave trees in the area. This was later on sustained by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) with the help of a people’s organization within the locality.  Read More:  http://www.aroundphilippines.com/2015/11/salagdoong-forest.html

 

Solangon Beach

 

Photo from:  https://thelostkids.ph/2015/12/08/sunset-beaches-of-siquijor/

 

Siquijor’s magic lies in its natural wonders such as its beautiful beaches. One of the beaches of note is along San Juan’s shore, Solangon Beach. The latter has some of the finest sand and clearest waters in the region. It is the ideal getaway for those who want to leave the hustle and bustle of the city and a place of respite after exploring the island’s attractions. You won’t regret adding Solangon Beach to your itinerary.  Read More:  https://www.philippinebeaches.org/solangon-beach-siquijor-important-tips/

 

St. Francis de Assisi Church

 

Photo from:  http://www.adventurousfeet.com/2014/01/part2-trip-to-siquijor-day-2-things-to.html

 

The faith of the people of Siquijor truly runs as deep as their history, and their churches, like the Saint Francis De Assisi Church, has also persevered from the past to the present. 

Saint Francis De Assisi Church in Siquijor was established by secular priests under Patron San Francisco de Asis on February 1, 1783. It was administered by secular priests on February 1, 1783 and the construction of this stone church was initiated by P. Setten, a secular, and it was managed by P. Alonso de los Delores during the period of 1795-1831.  The convent was built to be a hiding place from pirates.  Read More:  https://www.vigattintourism.com/tourism/articles/Saint-Francis-De-Assisi-Church-in-Siquijor

 

 

Tubod Marine Sanctuary

 

Photo from:  https://www.bluehorizons.travel/activity_lists/tubod-marine-sanctuary/

 

Tubod Marine Sanctuary one of the best dive sites in Siquijor and a good place to spot mating mandarin fishes at dusk.

Situated on the southwestern side of the island, this 7.5 hectare protected area was originally declared in 1989 through Municipal Ordinance 07-1989. A series of amendments in the ordinance and changes in the management body re-established it as a protected area in 2003 through Municipal Ordinance 15-2003. This fringing reef is characterized by a long stretch of white sand, a large algal and sea-grass bed in the flat reef and followed by a slope dominated by branching growth forms of live hard corals. This MPA is also houses the Coco Grove resort and Sea Explorers dive shop.  Read More:  https://greedypeg.org/siquijor/Tubod-Marine-Sanctuary.html

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary

 

Photo from:  http://www.beautyofcebu.com/2013/03/tulapos-marine-sanctuary-siquijor.html

 

My friend and I had rented snorkeling equipment in our hotel and talked to the owner, who recommended Tulapos Marine Sanctuary for seeing sharks (black tip sharks) and barracudas when snorkeling – so we took our first stop on our scooter tour on the coastal main road here.

From the road, there is only a sign in one direction, so keep an eye out if your finding it yourself.  The beach is not very big, but big enough for staying some time and my friend and i haf it all to our selves apart from a handling of locals.  There is a fee of 25P Per person for snorkling, and a guide can be hired for 150P.

Our original plan was to just snorkel on our own, but we ended up hiring a guide to find sharks and barracudas easier which turned out to be a good decision. The locals know the animals in the sea and are way more faster in spotting things. I don’t think I would have seen sharks without them. So snorkeling here, my friend and I saw two-three black tip sharks, a sea turtle an lots of barracudas in 10 m deep water. We also saw giant clams.

I would definitely recommend a visit here if you are in to snorkling – and you will have it all to yourselves.  Read More:  https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Attraction_Review-g664445-d1575673-Reviews-Tulapos_Marine_Sanctuary-Siquijor_Island_Visayas.html

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

Unravel the Secrets of Small But Mystical Siquijor

How to Get to Siquijor

Interesting Places to Visit in Siquijor

Colorful Festivals to Enjoy in Siquijor

Enjoy Many Fun Activities in Siquijor

Siquijor Photo Gallery

Siquijor Video Collection

 

 

Other Visitors Also Viewed:

 

 

Palani Beach Boasts of a 10 Km-Long White Sand Beach

San Isidro Labrador / Pahiyas Festival in Quezon

Colorful and Exciting Festivals in Nueva Ecija

Top Tourist Destinations in Aklan

Embajada Festival – a Re-Enactment of Christianization

Bird Watching at the Olango Wildlife Sanctuary

The Small Paradise in Agho Island in Iloilo

Sugbo Festival Honors the Humble Tiger Grass

Kabila / Kibila White Beach is Famous for Diving and Snorkeling

The Unspoiled Beauty of Aroroy Beach

Aurora Is Host to Philippine Surfing Cups

 

 

 

 

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