Best Beaches in Siquijor: Complete Guide to Island Shores

Siquijor’s Beach Scene

Let’s be honest: Siquijor isn’t primarily a beach destination. The island is better known for waterfalls, mystical traditions, and laid-back vibes. But that doesn’t mean it lacks beautiful shores.

Siquijor’s beaches are intimate, uncrowded, and often backed by coconut palms swaying in the breeze. You won’t find the powdery white sand of Boracay, but you will find something increasingly rare: beaches you might have entirely to yourself.

Top Beaches by Category

Best for Sunset: Paliton Beach ⭐

The most photogenic beach on the island, Paliton is famous for its coconut palm silhouettes against fiery sunset skies.

The Scene:

• Crescent-shaped cove
• Rows of leaning palm trees
• Calm, shallow waters
• Local fishing boats

Details:

Pro Tips:

• Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset for best photos
• Bring a sarong and drinks
• The northern end has the best palm clusters
• More crowded on weekends

Who It’s For: Sunset chasers, photographers, romantics

Best for Swimming: Solangon Beach

Just south of San Juan, Solangon (also called Solangon Beach Resort) offers the best combination of facilities and nice sand.

The Scene:

• Longer stretch of light sand
• Calm, clear waters
• Mix of resorts and public access
• Good for families

Details:

Nearby Resorts:

• Coco Grove Beach Resort
• Salamandas Beach Resort
• Various budget options

Who It’s For: Swimmers, families, those wanting beach + facilities

Best for Adventure: Salagdoong Beach

The famous cliff-jumping beach. Even if you don’t jump, the dramatic coastline and crystal-clear water are worth the trip.

The Scene:

• Rocky coastline with platforms
• Two diving boards (5m and 10m)
• Natural rock pools
• Resort atmosphere

Details:

The Cliff Jump:

• 10-meter platform: For experienced jumpers only
• 5-meter platform: Beginners can try (still scary!)
• Lifeguards on duty
• Deep water = safe landing

Cottage Rentals: ₱200-500

Who It’s For: Adrenaline seekers, cliff jumpers, Instagram enthusiasts

Best Hidden Gem: Kagusuan Beach

A secluded cove on the eastern coast that requires effort to reach—your reward is a beach you might have completely to yourself.

The Scene:

• Small, intimate cove
• White coral sand
• Crystal-clear water
• Local fishing village nearby
• Almost no tourists

Details:

Getting There:

• Park your scooter at the top
• Walk down steep (but manageable) stairs
• About 10-15 minutes down
• Same effort back up

Bring: Water, snacks, trash bag (pack out what you pack in)

Who It’s For: Adventure seekers, solitude lovers, photographers

Best for Snorkeling: Tubod Marine Sanctuary

Not a beach for sunbathing, but the best place on the island to see marine life.

The Scene:

• Protected coral area
• Fish, sea turtles, varied marine life
• Rocky coastline
• Scientific monitoring station

Details:

What You’ll See:

• Healthy coral formations
• Reef fish (parrotfish, butterflyfish, clownfish)
• Occasional sea turtles
• Sea urchins (don’t touch!)

Who It’s For: Snorkelers, marine life enthusiasts, eco-travelers

Best Local Favorite: Paliton Sunken Cemetery Beach

A different section of Paliton, near the sunken cemetery (visible at low tide). Less touristy, more authentic.

The Scene:

• Local families on weekends
• Interesting geological features
• Old Spanish cemetery remnants offshore
• Casual atmosphere

Details:

Who It’s For: Cultural explorers, locals seekers, history buffs

Beach-by-Beach Quick Reference

More Beaches Worth Visiting

Sandugan Beach (North)

• Rocky but interesting
• Near Larena port
• Good for sunset views
• Basic facilities

Tontonan Beach (East)

• Remote east coast
• Virgin coastline
• No facilities
• For explorers only

Guiwanon Spring Park Beach (West)

• Mangrove + beach combo
• Marine sanctuary
• ₱30 entry
• Good for families

Beach Tips for Siquijor

What to Bring

• Reef-safe sunscreen (protects coral)
• Water and snacks (limited vendors)
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Sarong or beach towel
• Trash bag (pack out what you pack in)
• Cash (no card facilities)

Safety Notes

• Currents can be strong during monsoon season
• Watch for sea urchins on rocky areas
• Jellyfish occasionally present (ask locals)
• Most beaches don’t have lifeguards
• Wear reef shoes for rocky entries

Respect the Environment

• Don’t touch or stand on coral
• Don’t feed fish
• Don’t take shells or coral
• Don’t leave trash
• Use eco-friendly sunscreen

Best Time for Beaches

Dry Season (February - May)

• Calmest waters
• Best visibility for snorkeling
• More tourists
• Higher accommodation prices

Shoulder Season (June, December)

• Good conditions usually
• Fewer tourists
• Possible afternoon showers
• Better prices

Rainy Season (July - November)

• Rougher seas
• Some beaches less accessible
• Afternoon storms common
• Lowest prices

Beach Day Itinerary

Morning

• 8:00 AM: Solangon Beach for swimming
• 10:00 AM: Tubod Marine Sanctuary for snorkeling

Lunch

• 12:30 PM: Beachside restaurant in San Juan

Afternoon

• 2:00 PM: Salagdoong Beach for cliff jumping
• 4:00 PM: Drive to Paliton

Sunset

• 5:30 PM: Paliton Beach for sunset photos
• 6:30 PM: Dinner with a view

Comparing to Other Philippine Beach Destinations

Let’s be real about what Siquijor offers:

The Verdict: Come to Siquijor for uncrowded beaches, amazing sunsets, and authentic island vibes—not for resort-style beach facilities or white powder sand.

Final Thoughts

Siquijor’s beaches reward those who appreciate subtlety over spectacle. You won’t find beach clubs or water sports operators. What you will find are coconut palms casting shadows on warm sand, locals casting fishing nets at sunset, and the kind of peace that’s becoming increasingly hard to find.

Pack light, bring your sense of adventure, and let Siquijor’s shores surprise you.

Combine beaches with waterfalls: Check out our guide to Cambugahay Falls.