Siquijor was once secretly feared by the locals. This island was the stuff of dark legends about everything from black magic to faith healings and witchcraft. The island is in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines and this dark history is now what draws so many travelers to its shores.
If you’re interested in magic, legends, and the past, then you should spend time on this island. There is also some world-class scuba diving in Siquijor! Unfortunately, whether it’s because of these legends or because Siquijor isn’t really on the usual travel trail, there isn’t a lot of information about it. So, you might have a bit of trouble trying to find the best areas to stay in Siquijor.
You can find them now with our Siquijor neighborhood guide. And then you can judge for yourself whether the legends are true, or if the island is just an ideal beach destination with a fascinating, dark history.
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Siquijor
- Where to stay in Siquijor first time – Maria Town
- Where to stay in Siquijor on a budget – Larena Town
- Best neighborhood in Siquijor for families – Siquijor Town
- Best area to stay in Siquijor for nightlife – San Juan Town
- The coolest place to stay in Siquijor – Lazi Town
Where to Stay in Siquijor
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Siquijor.
Best Hostel in Siquijor: Love Shack Hostel and Café
This hostel in Siquijor is perfectly positioned if you want to enjoy the beach and the relaxed vibe of San Juan. It has a restaurant, garden and a shared lounge where you can enjoy the company of other travelers and offers a simple breakfast every morning so you can get out early to explore.
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Best Airbnb in Siquijor: Glamping Siquijor
If you like the outdoors and you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siquijor for your first time, then why not try beach glamping? Suitable for 2 guests, each tent is completely private, and can even be adjusted for larger groups. There are hot showers nearby and you’ll even have Wi-Fi while you sleep under the stars.
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Best Hotel in Siquijor: Inifinity Heights Resort
This hotel is in one of Siquijor’s best neighborhoods if you want to be close to everything. It has a lovely infinity pool, kids’ pool, and a tour desk as well as air conditioned rooms that contain all the necessities. There are several attractions such as Paliton Beach close to the hotel, so you can easily explore during the day and return to your quiet base at night.
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Siquijor Neighborhood Guide
At this stage, there are no direct flights from Manila to Siquijor. You can get there by flying to Dumaguete and then taking a ferry from the Port of Dumaguete to Siquijor. This is the quickest way to get there. There are other transport options, but they can take up to ten times longer than this route. Once you’re there, you can get off the ferry at the port cities and start your holiday.
Maria Town is popular among locals looking for a weekend break. It’s a small town with a slow vibe and relaxed feel that makes for an ideal beach holiday.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siquijor on a budget, then try Larena Town. This is the island’s commercial center, so there are fewer resorts and more everyday life and prices.
If you want an easy holiday, starting where the ferry drops you off, then spend your time in Siquijor Town. This is a great choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siquijor with kids as it offers a good range of attractions, activities, restaurants, and hotels.
San Juan is the best choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siquijor for nightlife. This beach town has bars as well as a weekend disco. And the outdoor scenery and activities are amazing too.
And the final area on this list is Lazi Town, which is one of the coolest places to stay in Siquijor because of its seclusion and its surprising collection of attractions all close together.
Siquijor’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
This island isn’t huge, so it shouldn’t be too much trouble to find the best places to stay in Siquijor during your visit.
#1 Maria Town – Where to Stay in Siquijor First Time
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siquijor for your first time, then you should look at Maria Town. This is probably the most famous area on the whole island. It’s where the locals go on their weekend break and can get a little crowded on the weekend. But it also has the best range of accommodation options as well as things to do.
Maria Town is famous because of its cliff diving, but you don’t have to be a daredevil to enjoy this town. In fact, it’s famous for its relaxed vibe and small town feel as well as for its amazing beaches. And it’s surrounded by lush greenery that will give you plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, which makes it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Siquijor with kids.
Things to See and Do in Maria Town
– Pack a picnic with the family and eat on the beach.
– Go cliff diving at Salagdoong Beach Resort.
– Do your part for the planet by doing some tree planting at the Salagdoong Man-made Molave Forest.
– Check out the popular Saladoong Beach for cliff diving, water slides, and incredible views.
– Head down to Kagusuan Beach for a really isolated beach experience.
– You’ll find plenty to eat in this town at places like Smylen Dream, Les Eatery, Chef Joe’s Cuisine and Meatshop.
Best Airbnb in Maria Town: Gina kay’s Top Hill Guesthouse
This guesthouse has million dollar views across the ocean and natural surroundings which is why it has to be part of any good Siquijor neighborhood guide. The cabin has a single bedroom, suitable for 2 guests, fully equipped kitchen and bathroom, and offers complete privacy during your stay.
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Best Hotel in Maria Town: Buco Beach Resort
This hotel is one of the best places to stay in Siquijor if you’re on a tight budget. It offers plain but comfortable rooms that have been recently refurbished, massage services, a private beach, and babysitting services. The rooms are all air conditioned and fully equipped with a shower and ceiling fan.
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Best Luxury Hotel in Maria Town: Jelly Sea Resort
This hotel is located in the best neighborhood to stay in Siquijor if you want an isolated, peaceful beach experience. It’s located on an isolated beach surrounded by turquoise waters and the rooms offer stunning views and comfortable, modern furnishings.
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#2 Larena – Where to Stay in Siquijor on a Budget
There are two seaports on the island and one of them is in Larena. This is the island’s commercial center and a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Siquijor on a budget. This is where the locals live and work, so you won’t find as many inflated prices or resorts. Instead, you’ll find everyday life, shops, eateries, and accommodation. And that’s usually the best way to save money when you’re on holiday.
There’s a lot to do in Larena and staying there will allow you to get a look at the authentic way of living. You’ll find big markets where you can pick through fresh food and souvenirs as well as local shopping areas and beaches. Basically, if you want to travel like a local, then this is the best area in Siquijor to stay. And you can always take day trips to other areas if you want to see the top attractions.
Things to See and Do in Larena
– Take day trips to San Juan or Lazi Town to see the island’s top attractions.
– Go swimming or diving to explore the local marine life.
– Do some shopping at the Prince Hypermarket Larena.
– Look for local farmer’s markets for the freshest produce.
– Have a cup or a meal at the famous Larena Triad Coffee Shop and Restaurant.
– Try the local dishes at Coastline Restobar or Café Jose.
Best Airbnb in Larena: King’s Corner
This home is in a local area that’s the best neighborhood to stay in Siquijor if you want a local experience. It’s a peaceful community with sea views from the balcony, and you’ll have the entire space to yourself. It’s close to local shops and restaurants and had 3 bedrooms and 1 and a half bathrooms, suitable for up to 4 guests.
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Best Hotel in Larena: Floras Dive and Resort
This hotel is one of the best places in Siquijor to stay if you’re on a tight budget but still want to be close to the beach. It has a private beach, massage services, and room service and is close to local restaurants and cafes as well as to landmarks like the Tulapos Marine Sanctuary. There are 2 recently refurbished and comfortable rooms available.
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Best Luxury Hotel in Larena: Kalachuchi Beach Resort
Located in the best neighborhood in Siquijor to stay in, this luxury offering has an outdoor pool, and rooms with modern, welcoming décor. They include a seating area, fridge, air conditioning, and all the usual amenities you’ll need during your stay. The hotel is just moments from the beach, offering the perfect beach vacation experience.
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#3 Siquijor Town – Best Neighborhood in Siquijor for Families
Siquijor Town is the capital of the island and the best choice if you’re deciding where to stay in Siquijor for families. The island’s second port is in this town, which is surprisingly small considering that it’s the capital. There are several interesting attractions near this town, so you’ll be able to keep even the smallest member of your family happy and occupied in this area.
Siquijor Town has a little of everything. It has great attractions, a range of hotels for every budget point, some interesting restaurants, and great access to beaches. And if you take the ferry to the island, then it will drop you off at Siquijor Town. This makes it the best area in Siquijor to stay in If you want an easy holiday.
Things to See and Do in Siquijor Town
– Have a meal at Bellview, Alberto’s Pizza, or Dolce Amore Italian Restaurant and Resort.
– Sing some karaoke at Hyperbox KTV.
– Enjoy a quiet drink at the Cockatoo Bar or Bellview Kuzzina Bar.
– Go hiking in the Guiwanon Spring Park.
– Hire a guide for the day and explore the Cantabon Cave.
Best Airbnb in Siquijor Town: Samson’s Cozy Hut
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siquijor for one night or for a longer visit, this hut is a good choice. It’s close to the city and 3 minutes from the port, but offers a local experience in a natural area. You can rent a scooter from the owner to make it easier to get around and the hut has its own bathroom and is only 3 minutes drive from the nearest beach!
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Best Hotel in Siquijor Town: Garden Bungalows Resort
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siquijor for one night or for a longer visit, this hotel is a good choice. It’s reasonably priced and offers pretty surroundings, massage services, and room service. There’s a common use sitting area where you can hang out with friends and a swimming pool that you can use as well.
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Best Luxury Hotel in Siquijor Town: Isla Inn
This comfortable hotel offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, cable TV, and private showers as well as internet throughout the property. It’s in one of the best areas to stay in Siquijor if you want to be close to the beach and all the attractions of town, with Paliton Beach just a short drive away.
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#4 San Juan Town – Best Area to Stay in Siquijor for Nightlife
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siquijor for nightlife, then San Juan is a good bet. This is only a small island, so you can’t expect lots of nightlife, but on the weekends there’s a local disco in this town as well as a vibrant bar scene that many travelers love simply for the reason that it’s smaller and more intimate than other areas in Asia.
San Juan Town is located on the coast and boasts lots of resorts and a few budget Siquijor accommodation options. The beach scenery on this part of the island is simply stunning, a match for almost any other beach destination you’ve ever seen. There are also some good local eateries as well as restaurants, so you shouldn’t go hungry when you stay in this area.
Things to See and Do in San Juan Town
– Make sure you check out the isolated and often forgotten Paliton Beach.
– If you’re looking for some nightlife, show up for the weekend local disco.
– Grab a meal at Luca Loko, Marco Polo Italian Restaurant, or Miles Eatery.
– Go bar hopping from Baha Bar to Get Wrecked Beach and Sports Bar to the Republika Beach Bar.
– Make sure you visit the Old Enchanted Balete Tree with its long, magical history.
– Visit the old trees at the Bulakaw Forest Reservation.
– Visit Lugnason Falls for a dip in the pristine water.
– Learn more about the ocean at Marelle’s Seashell Museum.
Best Hostel in San Juan Town: Pawikan Eco Dive Resort
This hostel in Siquijor offers seaside bungalows that are environmentally friendly and made from locally sourced materials. Each room has a balcony and breakfast is offered every morning at the hostel. The hostel has comfortable dorm rooms and offers eco-educational courses and dive courses to all guests.
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Best Airbnb in San Juan Town: North Windjammer
This comfy apartment is one of the best places in Siquijor to stay if you want to be close to San Juan. It’s only 40 meters from the beach and offers enough space for 5 guests with two bedrooms, a private bathroom, and fully equipped kitchenette. There’s also a deck and a mall garden on the property, so you can be surrounded by nature while you’re there.
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Best Hotel in San Juan Town: Coco Grove Beach Resort
This hotel in Siquijor is close to Paliton Beach and has an outdoor pool and a comfortable living area where you can get to know your fellow travelers. The rooms are air conditioned and cozily decorated and the staff are always happy to help guests book tours or other activities on the island.
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#5 Lazi Town – The Coolest Place to Stay in Siquijor
Lazi Town is one of the coolest places to stay in Siquijor because it’s so secluded. Not too many travelers visit this town, which is why it offers the perfect beach experience. After all, when you dream of a beach vacation, you dream of perfect stretches of pristine sand. Not many people dream of hundreds of people dotting the sand and blocking the view.
Despite its seclusion, there is still a good range of accommodation options in this town for a variety of budgets. Lazi Town also has some good resorts, which makes it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Siquijor for families who have a little extra money to spend and want an all-inclusive holiday experience.
Things to See and Do in Lazi Town
– Head out to see the famous Cambugahay waterfalls.-
– Have a meal and a drink at the Hidden Valley Glamping Bar and Resto, Hakbal Bato, or Dayon Restobar.
– Marvel at the delicacy of the creatures at the Butterfly Sanctuary.
– Learn more about the island’s dark history at Hapitanan.
– Get a guide to explore the Sambulawan Underground River.
Best Airbnb in Lazi Town: Seaside Cabin and Gazebo
This peaceful cabin is in one of Siquijor’s best neighborhoods, close to local shops and within walking distance of the beach. It’s also 16 minutes from the center of Lazi and offers a deck and gazebo on the top of a cliff with lovely views. The cabin is suitable for up to 2 guests and offers complete privacy and all the amenities.
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Best Hotel in Lazi Town: Ocean Front Beach Resort
Close to the beach and to local attractions, this hotel is one of the best places to stay in Siquijor on a budget. It offers plain but comfortable rooms with all the necessary amenities and is also close to local attraction.
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Best Luxury Hotel in Lazi Town: Lazi Beach Club Resort
This hotel in Siquijor has a swimming pool, private beach, a terrace, and a bar where you can have a quiet drink. The hotel is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and local restaurants and eateries. The rooms are cozy and contain a fridge, dining room, and private bathroom plus all the essentials for your stay.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Siquijor
The legends about this island shouldn’t keep you away. In fact, they’re just another reason to experience and explore this island for yourself. And once you’re there, you’ll find interesting and traditional Siquijor accommodation options, a fascinating local history, good food, and a welcoming and fascinating culture. And what more could you ask for from any holiday destination?
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