Cliff Jumping in Siquijor: Best Spots for Thrill Seekers

Why Siquijor is Perfect for Cliff Jumping

Siquijor’s dramatic limestone coastline, crystal-clear waters, and relatively uncrowded spots make it an ideal destination for cliff jumping enthusiasts. Unlike more commercialized destinations, you won’t find massive crowds waiting in line here. The island offers everything from beginner-friendly platforms to heart-pounding natural cliffs that’ll test even experienced jumpers.

Whether you’re looking for your first cliff jumping experience or chasing bigger thrills, Siquijor delivers.

Best Cliff Jumping Spots

1. Salagdoong Beach (Most Famous)

The Iconic Platform Experience

Salagdoong Beach is Siquijor’s most famous cliff jumping destination, featuring two purpose-built diving platforms overlooking a stunning cove with crystal-clear turquoise water.

The Platforms:

• Lower Platform (5 meters/16 feet): Perfect for first-timers or warming up. The jump feels significant but manageable.
• Higher Platform (10 meters/33 feet): The real deal. This jump provides serious airtime and requires commitment. Not for the faint-hearted.

What to Expect:

• Concrete platforms with ladders for easy climbing
• Deep, clear water below (checked regularly for safety)
• Other jumpers cheering you on
• Stunning photo opportunities

Practical Details:

• Location: Maria municipality, east coast
• Entrance Fee: ₱50 per person
• Travel Time: 40-50 minutes from San Juan
• Best Time: Mid-morning (10-11 AM) for best lighting and water clarity

Tips for Salagdoong:

• The drive is long and winding—account for this in your plans
• Weekends get crowded; weekdays are quieter
• There’s a resort and restaurant on-site for post-jump refreshments
• The beach itself is rocky but swimmable

Why Some Travelers Skip It: Honest assessment: The 1+ hour drive from San Juan can feel long, and some find the beach underwhelming compared to western beaches. However, if cliff jumping is your priority, it’s absolutely worth the journey.

2. Pitogo Cliff (Local Favorite)

Mediterranean Vibes Meet Philippine Adventure

Pitogo Cliff is a local favorite that many travelers describe as reminiscent of Mediterranean coastlines. Limestone cliffs drop into impossibly clear water, creating a stunning natural swimming area.

The Experience:

• Natural cliff formations rather than built platforms
• Various jumping heights from 3-8 meters
• Crystal-clear cove perfect for swimming
• Panoramic ocean views
• Far fewer crowds than Salagdoong

What Makes It Special: The raw, natural beauty here is exceptional. You’re jumping into a genuine cove carved by the ocean, not a man-made platform. The limestone cliffs create a dramatic amphitheater effect, and on calm days, you can see straight to the bottom of the water.

Practical Details:

• Location: San Juan municipality
• Entrance Fee: ₱30 per person
• Travel Time: 15-20 minutes from San Juan center
• Best Time: Mid-morning to early afternoon

Tips for Pitogo:

• Scope out your jump point carefully—some areas are shallower than others
• Water shoes are helpful for navigating the rocks
• Bring your own refreshments (limited facilities)
• Allow 30-40 minutes for a satisfying visit
• Great for photography during golden hour

Skill Level: Best suited for confident swimmers comfortable with natural (unmarked) jumping points. Test depths before committing to bigger jumps.

3. Cambugahay Falls (Waterfall Jumping)

Rope Swings and Natural Pool Jumps

While not ocean cliff jumping, Cambugahay Falls offers exhilarating rope swing jumps into turquoise freshwater pools—and it’s often the highlight of visitors’ Siquijor adventure experience.

Jump Options:

• First Tier Rope Swing: The iconic Tarzan swing launching into the main pool
• Second Tier Rope Swing: Higher launch point, deeper pool
• Rock Jumps: Various informal jumping points from rocks (2-4 meters)

Why It Counts: The adrenaline rush is real. Swinging out over turquoise water and releasing at the perfect moment delivers that same cliff-jumping thrill in a freshwater setting.

Practical Details:

• Location: Lazi municipality
• Entrance Fee: ₱30 (rope swing access ₱50 additional)
• Life Jacket: Required for rope swings (₱50 rental)
• Travel Time: 25-30 minutes from San Juan

Pro Tips:

• Arrive before 8 AM to avoid rope swing lines
• Release at the peak of your swing for maximum air
• Bring a waterproof camera for action shots

For complete details, see our Cambugahay Falls Guide.

4. Kagusuan Beach (Hidden Gem)

Off-the-Beaten-Path Jumping

Kagusuan Beach offers small natural cliff formations and jumping rocks that most tourists never discover. It’s not extreme, but it’s perfect for those wanting a more intimate experience.

The Experience:

• Natural rock outcrops for jumping (2-4 meters)
• Secluded beach setting
• Clear water with good visibility
• Often completely empty

Practical Details:

• Location: Maria municipality, near Cantabon Cave
• Entrance Fee: Free (though donations appreciated)
• Travel Time: 45 minutes from San Juan

Best For: Travelers who’ve “done” the main spots and want something more secluded, or those who find bigger jumps intimidating but still want the experience.

Cliff Jumping Safety Guide

Before You Jump

Assess the Spot:

1. Check water depth: Wade in or watch others before jumping
2. Look for submerged rocks: Clear water makes this easier
3. Note the current: Can it push you into rocks?
4. Verify your exit: How will you get out of the water?

Physical Readiness:

• Be a confident swimmer
• Start with lower heights and work up
• Don’t jump if exhausted or dehydrated
• Never jump under the influence

Proper Technique

The Jump:

1. Take a confident leap (don’t hesitate mid-air)
2. Keep legs together and slightly bent
3. Arms crossed over chest or at sides
4. Enter feet-first, never dive headfirst
5. Point toes slightly to slice into water

After Entry:

• Let momentum carry you down, don’t fight it
• Begin swimming to surface once descent slows
• Clear the landing zone quickly for next jumper

When NOT to Jump

• After heavy rain: Debris and changed conditions
• During rough seas: Applies to ocean spots
• When alone: Always have a buddy
• If unsure about depth: When in doubt, don’t
• Late afternoon: Fading light makes hazard assessment difficult

Comparing the Spots

Best Itinerary for Adventure Seekers

Full Day Adventure Route

Morning:

1. Start early at Cambugahay Falls (7-9 AM)
2. Rope swings and waterfall pools before crowds

Mid-Morning: 3. Head to Pitogo Cliff (10-11 AM) 4. Swimming and natural cliff jumps

Afternoon: 5. Drive to Salagdoong Beach (arrive by 1 PM) 6. Platform jumps, lunch at resort, beach time

Evening: 7. Return to San Juan for sunset at Paliton Beach

This route maximizes adventure while respecting driving distances across the island.

What to Bring

Essential Gear

• Water shoes: Rocks are slippery everywhere
• Waterproof phone case or GoPro: For action shots
• Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect yourself and the environment
• Dry bag: Keep valuables safe
• Towel: Quick-dry microfiber recommended
• Cash: For entrance fees and snacks

Nice to Have

• Underwater camera: Better than phone for action shots
• Extra clothes: For the ride to next location
• First aid basics: Bandages for minor scrapes

Photo Tips for Cliff Jumpers

Getting the Shot

For Jumpers:

• Wear bright colors that contrast with blue water
• Coordinate with your photographer on timing
• Strike a pose mid-air (arms out works well)
• Practice your jump a few times before “the shot”

For Photographers:

• Position with sun behind you
• Use burst mode to capture the perfect moment
• Aim to catch the peak of the jump
• Include the cliff for scale

Drone Note: Drones are increasingly restricted at popular spots. Check local rules before flying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cliff jumping safe in Siquijor?

When done responsibly at known spots, yes. The main dangers are misjudging depth, hitting submerged objects, or poor technique. Stick to established jumping points, assess conditions, and don’t exceed your comfort level.

What if I’m nervous about the high platforms?

Start low. At Salagdoong, the 5-meter platform feels significant but manageable. At Pitogo, you can find 2-3 meter jumps easily. There’s no shame in staying at comfortable heights—it’s still fun.

Can non-swimmers enjoy these spots?

At Salagdoong and Pitogo, you can enjoy the scenery and swimming in shallow areas without jumping. Cambugahay requires life jackets for the rope swing, making it accessible to weaker swimmers.

Best time of year for cliff jumping?

Dry season (February-May) offers the best conditions—calmer seas, clearer water, and better visibility for assessing depths. Avoid heavy rain periods when runoff affects water clarity.

How do I get to Salagdoong from San Juan?

Rent a scooter and ride clockwise around the island (scenic route) or counterclockwise (shorter but less scenic). The ride takes 40-50 minutes. Alternatively, hire a tricycle for a full-day tour (around ₱1,500).

Final Thoughts

Siquijor’s cliff jumping scene offers something rare: genuine adventure without the crowds and commercialization found elsewhere in the Philippines. Whether you’re launching from Salagdoong’s iconic platforms, discovering Pitogo’s Mediterranean-style cliffs, or swinging into Cambugahay’s turquoise pools, you’ll find moments of pure exhilaration.

The key is respect—for the locations, for safety, and for your own limits. Start smaller than you think you need to, work your way up, and remember: the best jump is the one you walk away from with a huge grin.

See you at the edge.

Planning your adventure? Check out Getting Around Siquijor for transport tips, and Cambugahay Falls for the complete waterfall experience.