The Paradise Island of Siquijor

July 15, 2014 Travel

Captivating. Mesmerizing. Enchanting. These are just some of the words used online to describe Siquijor, yet this island province still remains one of the country’s unspoiled wonders.


Wonder why? Stories of witches still linger, leaving many still wary of visiting the island. But Siquijor is bewitching in so many other ways. Imagine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life filling its 102-kilometer coastline. Plus, waterfalls, churches, and other equally enthralling sites


What lures me is its laid-back beach life. It is actually one of my favorite destinations for quiet retreats and even solo travels. The first time I visited Siquijor, we spent one whole day exploring the island. During my most recent stay, it was difficult to pull myself off my beautiful veranda. How can I, with this view?


.. and with this hammock always calling my name


I stayed at Coral Cay Resort, which was recommended by a friend who also frequents Siquijor.


What I like about Coral Cay?

Its structure offers an almost authentic island life experience. I stayed at the beachfront duplex. Despite its proximity to the bar, I still enjoyed a quiet stay.

The resort also has a swimming pool, a gym, and, as mentioned, a restaurant/bar that offers good food at moderate prices.

Getting around the island

But should you decide to see the rest of the island, you can easily do so in just one whole day. There's a 72 km coastal road that circumnavigates the island and also offers fantastic views.

From San Juan, the beach area, go to Lazi to visit the church, but on the way, watch out for the Capilay Spring Park and the Balete Tree with a small pool that locals say can also be a fish spa.



The Lazi Church is also known for its huge convent, declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines. It was also nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage list under the collective group of Baroque Churches of the Philippines.

Don't miss the Cambugahay Falls for a refreshing dip and Salagdoong Beach and Forest Reserve for fantastic photo backdrops.

Salagdoong Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Siquijor.




Just be sure to come back for sunsets because sunsets anywhere on the island are always beautiful.

How to get there and around?

There are several ferries available at Dumaguete Port. Tricycle rental from the airport to the port is 120.00. Ocean Jet boat fare is Php 210.00. GL is cheaper. The fare is only Php 140.00. Terminal Fee is Php 15.00.

From Siquijor port, I chartered a tricycle and paid Php 250.00 to the hotel. The chartered island tour ranges from Php 800 - Php 1,000.00. Here are the other published rates.



Here also is a map of the island, for reference.

Kelly is a public relations professional and entrepreneur whose projects have assisted multinational organizations, small and medium enterprises, government officers, international organizations and non-governmental organizations. She is partner-consultant of RubyComm-K.Austria, a public relations management and consultancy company. Kelly is also a former government employee having served at the Department of Tourism for two years. Being mountaineers, Kelly and her friends travel by land, sometimes on rough roads and trek for hours to give a new lease of hope to students. She is co-founder of the group TREK or Trails to Empower Kids.

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