Travel constraints such as time and budget are real issues for most travelers. When we are faced with a dilemma to choose just one more island to visit, making a decision is extremely difficult. With 7,641 Philippine islands to explore, choosing just one is a REAL challenge.
We have put together a comparison of two unique islands in different locations, both offering unique island experiences.
What to Expect: Siargao vs. Siquijor
Siargao is located in the northeast Pacific coast of Mindanao and is dubbed as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines”.
It is most known for massive waves that attract surfers worldwide. It attracts the young, adventurous and like-minded travelers who enjoy a laid back atmosphere, chill island vibe and a vibrant nightlife.
Its sudden popularity has paved way to many developments and the rise of many accommodations, restaurants and bars in the island. Siargao has now become not just a surfer’s paradise but also a favorite island destination to many.
The Cloud 9 Boardwalk, the most popular spot at Siargao | Photo by kudla | stock photo ID: 1122028376
Siquijor on the other hand is located in the Central Visayas region and is dubbed as the “Mystical Island”, most known as the land of witchcraft, sorcery and shamans. But there is so much more to this island than just these trivial stories.
Siquijor is an amazing island destination with raw natural beauty, an incredible underwater world and a romantic vibe that knows how to enchant guests, you might never want to leave! Those few people who are able to experience the beauty of this island easily make it their favorite, and often wishes to extend a longer stay.
Siquijor is one of the best-kept secret gems in the Visayas and still remains absent from a typical tourist itinerary.
The divine sunset and the powdery white sand at Tubod Beach, Siquijor
Siargao Island: Philippines’ Surfing Capital
Whether you are a die-hard surfer or not, Siargao has always something to offer for everyone.
Here is a guide to show you some places you may want to visit in Siargao as well as helpful tips about how to get there, where to stay and more. You can also read more about Siargao here.
How to Get to Siargao
Via Siargao Airport (Sayak Airport)
Flights to Siargao
Sayak Airport (more popularly known as Siargao Airport) is a small and efficient airport that offers a direct flight from the following major Philippine cities:
- Manila to Siargao
- Cebu to Siargao
- Davao to Siargao
- Clark to Siargao
Via Surigao Airport
Fly to Surigao City then Take a Ferry to Siargao
Surigao City is the capital city of Surigao del Norte. There are only two airports that offer flight to Surigao:
- Manila to Surigao
- Cebu to Surigao
Upon arrival at Surigao City, you will have to board a ferry to reach Siargao. Travel time from Surigao Port to Dapa Port, Siargao is approximately 3-4 hours by ferry. If you decide to take this route, it is recommended that you take a morning flight to Surigao to allocate ample time in the afternoon for the ferry transfer.
The practical and adventurous traveler usually takes this route. The travel time is longer but they can save more. Airfare going to Surigao is relatively cheaper than flying direct to Siargao. Experiencing the local ferry is also a unique experience that adds up to a more authentic trip for the adventurous traveler.
Via Dapa Port, Siargao
Siargao’s main port is called Dapa Port. There is a regular schedule of ferries going to and from Siargao. There are a few routes that you can explore if you wish to travel by ferry:
- Surigao to Siargao
- Cebu to Siargao
- Davao to Siargao
Siargao Island Tourist Spots: Places to Visit in Siargao
General Luna, Siargao
General Luna is considered the tourism hub in Siargao where surfing, tourism activities, bars, restaurants and hotels are centered. It is 45 minutes away from the airport and 30 minutes from Dapa Port.
Cloud 9 Siargao Island
Cloud 9 boardwalk has become the iconic landmark of Siargao. This is also the site of the annual Siargao Cup, a domestic and international surfing competition sponsored by the provincial government. Here, a wooden walkway allows surfers to get out to its powerful 9 wave formation. For the non-surfers, it is also offers a picturesque view of sunrise and sunset.
Getting ready for a perfect wave | Photo by Khaye
Siargao Beach: Best Beaches Siargao
Daku, Naked and Guyam Island – these are three most popular islands in Siargao that are the traditional destination for island-hopping day trips.
The white sand beach and clear water at Naked Island | Photo by Khaye
Sea of Palm Trees, Siargao
Sea of palms is one of the most instagrammable spot in Siargao. Many IG enthusiasts have probably struck a pose in this beautiful view of endless palm trees. You will pass by this site on your way to Magpupungko Rock Pools.
The sea of palms from atop | Photo by Khaye
Magpupungko Rock Pool, Siargao
Surrounded by limestone and granite sculptures facing the Pacific Ocean, Magpupungko Rock Formation and Tidal Lagoons reveal natural pools of assorted shapes and sizes resembling basins, barrels, tubs, and ponds during low tide.
The natural rock pool of Magpupungkol | Photo by Khaye
Maasin Village with Bent Palm Tree
Over time, this has become a favorite spot not only for the locals but as well as curious travelers who simply want to enjoy. Here you find a palm tree that bends over a river where locals have attached a swing so you can enjoy a playful leap into the water. Nothing fancy, just a humble authentic activity and spot. You can also rent a boat to paddle down the river.
Sugba Lagoon, Siargao
Sugba Lagoon is located northwest of Siargao, nestled in the middle of a mangrove area offering majestic blue lagoon where you can enjoy fun activities such as swimming, snorkeling, SUP, rafting, kayaking, diving, etc. Travel time is approximately 1 hour by land to the port and another 45 minutes by boat.
A woman enjoying the calm waters of Sugba Lagoon in her SUP | Photo by kudla | stock photo ID: 1315694558
Sohoton Cove Surigao
Sohoton Cove National Park in Bucas Grande is a mysterious cove. It features natural wonders such as numerous caves, and lagoons. It is a favorite destination for the adventurous nature lovers because of the varied natural attractions and activities found within.
The turquoise blue water of Bucas Grande and some tiny jellyfish
Secret Island Siargao
As the name suggests, Secret Beach or also called Guyan Beach is about 30 minutes away from General Luna. It is home to great waves that are not as big or as crowded as the Cloud 9. From the main road, you’ll need to walk through lush palm trees to reach this hidden spot.
Siargao Tours
There are many local operators that offer authentic and exciting tour packages in Siargao. Some of the most trusted names include:
Galatea Siargao
Fb page: https://www.facebook.com/GalateaSiargao/
Email Address: galatea.tours.siargao@gmail.com
Contact Number: +639209093725
Kermit Siargao
Website: https://www.kermitsiargao.com/activities
Email Address: info@kermitsiargao.com
Contact Number: +639176550548
Siargao Island Resorts: Best Place to Stay in Siargao
Nay Palad Hideaway
Read more about Nay Palad Hideaway at: https://kapwatravel.com/blog/best-boutique-hotels/.
Address: Malinao, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
Website: https://www.naypaladhideaway.com/
Email Address: home@naypaladhideaway.com
Contact Number: +639177017840
Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa
Address: Tourism Rd, General Luna, Surigao del Norte
Website: https://siargaobleu.com.ph/home/
Email Address: info@siargaobleu.com.ph
Contact Number: +639177724188
Isla Cabana Siargao
Address: Brgy. Cambutuanon, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
Website: https://www.islacabanaresort.com/
Email Address: islacabanaresort@gmail.com
Contact Number: +639285595244 / +639778440618
Siargao Island Villas
Address: Tourism Road Barangay Catangnan General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
Website: https://siargaoislandvillas.com/
Email Address: inquiries@siargaoislandvillas.com
Contact Number: +639214886765
Sandy Feet Siargao
Address: Malinao Rd, General Luna, Surigao del Norte
Website: https://www.sandyfeetsiargao.com/
Email Address: inquiries@siargaoislandvillas.com
Siargao Inn
Address: Pangpang, Sta. Ines, Siargao Island, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
Website: https://www.siargao-inn.com/
Email Address: info@siargao-inn.com
Bravo Beach Resort Siargao
Address: Tourism Rd, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
Website: https://www.bravosiargao.com/
Email Address: stay@bravoresort.com
Contact Number: +639998778518
Soul Tribe Siargao
Address: General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
Website: https://www.soultribebeachretreat.com/
Contact Number: +639996453324
The Mystical Island of Siquijor Island, Philippines
Siquijor is located in the Central Visayas and is just a short ferry ride from the more popular destinations such as Bohol (1.5 hour) and Cebu (4 hours connecting ferry).
How to Get To Siquijor
Flights to Siquijor
Siquijor Airport is not operational at the moment. You can reach Siquijor by flying to the nearby islands then take a short ferry ride to reach the island of Siquijor.
Manila to Siquijor
The easiest route is to take a flight from Manila to Dumaguete. From Dumaguete Airport you will transfer to Dumaguete Port which is only around 15 minutes travel by public transport. From here, you then board a ferry going to Siquijor Port with only a 1-hour travel time.
Another option could be, from Manila you may take a flight to Cebu or Bohol. Then take a fastcraft ferry to Larena Port, Siquijor. Traveling time is 4 hours for Cebu-Siquijor and 1.5 hours for Bohol-Siquijor.
Ferry to Siquijor
Bohol to Siquijor
You may take a fast-craft ferry from Tagbilaran Port, Bohol to Larena Port, Siquijor. Travel time is approximately 1.5 hour. Ferry transfers are operated daily.
Cebu to Siquijor
You may take a fast-craft ferry from Cebu Pier going to Larena Port, Siquijor. Travel time is approximately 4 hours. Please note the ferry will have a stopover at Bohol to unload passengers ending their trip at Bohol and to board passengers going to Siquijor. If you intend to go directly to Siquijor then there’s no need to get off at stopover.
Dumaguete to Siquijor
Ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor also takes an hour and has a scheduled fleet daily. It is a short trip and gives you the authentic experience of boarding a typical ferry in the Philippines.
Places to Visit in Siquijor
Cambugahay Falls Siquijor
Cambugahay Falls has grown to be one of the most instagrammable waterfalls in the country. It is a three-tier falls in turquoise water that attracts all types of tourists. The water is captivating and the location puts you at the center of lush forest shaded by trees. Locals directly benefit from these natural attractions by providing them a source of income from selling bottled water, tour guiding, bamboo raft rental and entrance fee. You can read more about Cambugahay on our blog about the 10 Best Waterfalls in the Philippines.
The majestic beauty of Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor
Siquijor Beach
Siquijor is home to some of the most underrated beaches in the country. Expect a long stretch of powdery white sand beach at Paliton Beach, an incredible underwater world plus divine sunsets at Tubod Beach and the adrenaline-pumping cliff jumping attraction at Salagdoong Beach Siquijor. One will definitely never run out of a good place to chill on this island – areas that feature raw natural beauty and away from mass tourism.
A beautiful white sand beach in Siquijor
Apo Island
This charming isle is a beautiful gemstone in the Visayas. The waters surrounding Apo Island is considered a model of biodiversity and is home to more than 650 species of fish and over 400 species of coral, making it one of the 10 Best Dive Spots in the Philippines.
The protected sea turtles are usually waiting in the shallows, and the variety of soft and hard corals is something to behold. This is definitely a must-visit to diving and snorkeling enthusiasts!
Swim with charming sea turtles at Apo Island
Cantabon Cave
Cantabon is one of the popular attractions for the adventurous traveler who can withstand the 3-hour spelunking and wonder its untouched stalactites, stalagmites and white rocks. It has a refreshing stretch of natural swimming pool so better be ready to get wet along the way. Getting a local guide is required and safety helmets and torch are provided upon payment of the entrance fee. This attraction is definitely not for the faint-hearted so be ready for the underground adventure that awaits.
400-year Old Balete Tree
The Old Balete Tree (Banyan tree) is a 4-century old attraction in Siquijor. It is an intriguing attraction especially that in the Philippines, Balete trees have earned the reputation of being inhabited by spirits. At the foot of the Balete tree is a fish spa where you can enjoy the tickling treat from a playful pool of fish. Souvenir shops are also mostly concentrated here, selling items such as voodoo dolls, love potion, herbs, therapeutic oils and other unique mystical items.
Some tourists enjoying the fish spa at the foot of Balete tree | Siquijor Souvenir Items sold in the area
San Juan Siquijor
San Juan is the busier spot in Siquijor – home to most restaurants, bars, guest houses, hostels, B&B, dive shops and local stores. Here you can find a good mix of both local and international restaurants that all types of travelers. Some of the most popular go-to place are Baha Bar and Monkey Business Siquijor.
St. Isidore de Labrador Church and Lazi Convent
The Neoclassical style of San Isidro Church and its adjacent Lazi Convent built in 1884 is considered the biggest and among the oldest convents in Asia. It is likewise recognized as a National Historical Landmark making it truly an iconic structure in Siquijor. You will come across these attractions on the way to Cambugahay Falls. Its nostalgic architecture is so inviting that one will always want to pause and enjoy a few minutes to admire the beautiful architecture and the surrounding lush trees in the area.
St. Isidore de Labrador Church and Lazi Convent
Bolo-bolo Healer / Siquijor Shaman
One of the most interesting highlights in Siquijor is the visit to the Bolo-bolo Healer. Here you get to participate in a healing ritual that involves the use of a clear glass of water, black stone and pipe. Using the pipe, the healer blows into the glass of water, moving it across the affected area of the patient’s body. The curious traveler never misses to try this unique experience in Siquijor.
Read more about Siquijor here.
Siquijor Day Tour
Siquijor is just a small island which you can easily tour in a day or two. There are many local transport operators that offer Siquijor Day Tour at a very practical price. You can choose from unique Filipino transportation such as Multicab, Tricycle (also known as Tuktuk) or motorcycle.
Unique transportation vehicles for your Siquijor day tour – Multicab and Tricycle (also called Tuktuk)
Siquijor Beach Resorts, Hotels and Accommodation: Best Place to Stay in Siquijor
Coco Grove Beach Resort Siquijor
Address: Tubod, San Juan, Siquijor Island
Website: https://www.cocogrovebeachresort.com/
Contact Number: +639399155123
White Villas Siquijor
Address: Siquijor Circumferential Road, San Juan, Siquijor
Website: https://www.whitevillasresort.com/
Email Address: white.villas@yahoo.com
Contact Number: +639081656277
U-Story Siquijor
Address: Siquijor Circumferential Road, San Juan, Siquijor
Website: https://www.ustory-siquijor.com/en/
Email Address: contact@ustory-siquijor.com
Contact Number: +639173377151
Siquijor Eastern Garan Seaview Resort
Address: Siquijor Circumferential Road, San Juan, Siquijor
Contact Number: +639669658683
Charisma Resort Siquijor
Address: Solangon, San Juan, Siquijor
Website: https://charismabeachresort.com/
Email Address: resortcharisma@yahoo.com
Contact Number: (035) 481 5033 / +639088619689
Glamping Siquijor by the Beach
Address: San Juan, Siquijor
Website: https://glampingphilippines.com/
Email Address: glampingphilippines@gmail.com
Contact Number: +639085319763 / +639276117303
Siargao or Siquijor: Beautiful Islands to Visit
Whether you are looking for an adventure island destination like Siargao or a quiet romantic getaway like Siquijor, there are always great options to enjoy your Philppine vacation. Here are sample itineraries to help you plan your trip.
IndividualizeD Philippine Travel Package
We can also create a customized tour package to Siargao or Siquijor, a combination of both or suggest other equally beautiful islands. Contact us! Our team of travel experts will be happy to assist you.
We can help you design your own individualized tour to the Philippines. 🙂
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