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 The main thing that you have to remember on this journey is just be nice to everyone and always smile. Refreshingly, what was expected of her was the same thing that was expected of Lara Stone:...

 The main thing that you have to remember on this journey is just be nice to everyone and always smile. Refreshingly, what was expected of her was the same thing that was expected of Lara Stone:...

 The main thing that you have to remember on this journey is just be nice to everyone and always smile. Refreshingly, what was expected of her was the same thing that was expected of Lara Stone:...

 The main thing that you have to remember on this journey is just be nice to everyone and always smile. Refreshingly, what was expected of her was the same thing that was expected of Lara Stone:...

 The main thing that you have to remember on this journey is just be nice to everyone and always smile. Refreshingly, what was expected of her was the same thing that was expected of Lara Stone:...

 The main thing that you have to remember on this journey is just be nice to everyone and always smile. Refreshingly, what was expected of her was the same thing that was expected of Lara Stone:...

 The main thing that you have to remember on this journey is just be nice to everyone and always smile. Refreshingly, what was expected of her was the same thing that was expected of Lara Stone:...

Creating a good itinerary for the Philippines can be quite a challenge. The Philippines consists of over 7,000 islands, so you’ll always have to make choices. Furthermore, the most popular islands are often far apart, which means you’ll need to puzzle with flight tickets and dates to create your ultimate itinerary. We’ve visited the Philippines multiple times and have seen many of the islands. Some were fantastic, others were less so. With all these experiences, we’ve put together the perfect itinerary for the Philippines. This is the route we find the most beautiful and recommend to everyone. However, since everyone is different, we’ve also written about other islands that you can add to this itinerary at the bottom of the article. Feel free to mix and match if one of the other islands catches your interest. Wherever you go, a trip through the Philippines is always a unique experience full of surprises! In the Philippines, you can use tricycles, tuk-tuks, buses, and traditional jeepneys on the islands. Between the islands that are close to each other, you can travel by ferry, but there’s a very high chance that you’ll also visit islands that are far apart. This means that it’s almost inevitable you’ll need to book some domestic flights. Book domestic flights as early as possible because they are cheapest then. The longer you wait, the more expensive they become, and the price differences are huge in the Philippines. If you book early, you can get flights for $44 to $66, which can cost $121 or more if booked last minute. If you want to follow our entire itinerary, we recommend you set aside 3 to 4 weeks. If you have more time, you’ll find more great destinations at the very bottom to extend your trip. If you have less time, you can easily skip some islands that don’t appeal to you as much or are logistically convenient to skip. A quick time-saver, for example, is skipping Port Barton and flying directly from El Nido to your next destination. For each destination on this itinerary, we’ve also written a separate article with tips so that you can get a good idea of what there is to do and decide for yourself how many days you want to spend at each place. Manila Your trip through the Philippines will almost always start in the capital, Manila. This huge metropolis isn’t particularly beautiful or charming, and we recommend you move on as soon as possible. Of course, it’s nice to rest after the long flight, and Makati is the safest neighborhood to stay in. Lub d Philippines Makati is a great place to stay in Makati. There are nice communal spaces where you can play pool or foosball, and the rooms and dorms are very good. It’s quite popular, so it’s smart to book your stay as soon as you book your flight tickets. For great food in Makati, head to Cosmic Poblacion. Tip: If you have a morning or afternoon free in Manila, this fun bike tour is highly recommended! Hop on your bamboo bike and head out with an enthusiastic guide who’ll tell you all about Manila’s fascinating history and Filipino culture. A fun first introduction to the Philippines. Coron After a short flight, you’ll arrive in Coron, located at the northern tip of the Palawan region. You don’t come here for the city itself but for the nearby towering limestone cliffs, paradise beaches, rich underwater world, and crystal-clear lagoons. With a day of island hopping, you’ll visit the most beautiful places and discover the enchanting underwater world. End the day at Mt. Tapyas, a 200-meter (656 feet) high viewpoint where you can watch the sunset. You can quickly see all of Coron, so don’t spend too much time here, as the Philippines has many more beautiful and lively islands. Check out our tips for Coron to read about what to do, or see our comparison of the various island hopping tours in Coron. The Four-Day Expedition from Coron to El Nido The absolute highlight of a trip through the Philippines is the four-day expedition from Coron to El Nido. You’ll sail past the remote islands of northern Palawan, which has been named the most beautiful archipelago in the world multiple times. The days are filled with visiting paradise islands, snorkeling, socializing, and eating freshly caught fish with your feet in the sand. Every night, you sleep on a different island in a cute bamboo hut on the beach, and you’re completely away from the busy world. The crew creates a fun atmosphere and prepares the tastiest meals for the group. This expedition is for anyone who isn’t afraid of a bit of adventure and can do without wifi for a while. Want to know more about this adventure? Then read all the tips for the expedition from Coron to El Nido. El Nido After four days of sailing, you’ll arrive in El Nido, a coastal town that, like Coron, is a popular base for a day of island hopping. If you still want to go island hopping after the expedition, you’ll definitely enjoy it here. On day trips, you’ll visit different places than during the expedition, and while these spots are very popular, they’re incredibly beautiful and still quite different from those during the expedition. Off the coast is the stunning island of Cadlao, where you can kayak to the peaceful beaches when the wind is calm. In the evening, Pukka Bar is a fun place to have a drink and dance. Check out our tips for El Nido to see how many days you want to spend here. Port Barton The sleepy Port Barton is the perfect destination for travelers looking for peace after the lively atmosphere of El Nido. This small fishing village on the north coast of Palawan is nestled between lush jungle and pristine beaches. You won’t find crowds here, just friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere. In Port Barton, you’ll enjoy simple charm: there are no big hotels, the wifi is pretty slow, and don’t be surprised if the power goes out occasionally. It’s exactly this that makes the place so special. Port Barton is the perfect spot to slow down and recharge. There’s not much to do here, so you won’t need to stay too long. Check out our tips for Port Barton to get a good sense of the destination. Puerto Princesa (Only for Departing Flights) 2.5 hours (150 minutes) from Port Barton is Puerto Princesa. This isn’t an exciting destination, but there is an airport here, and you’ll fly to your next island from here. If you don’t book an early flight, you don’t even need to stay here and can go straight from Port Barton to Puerto Princesa Airport. Cebu (Moalboal) Cebu may not be at the top of the list for the best beaches in the Philippines, but this island absolutely excels in adventure and unique activities. Think of spectacular waterfalls that you can not only view but also climb through during amazing canyoning tours. Underwater, Cebu doesn’t disappoint either: you can snorkel among thousands of sardines that surround you like one giant cloud. The best place to stay on Cebu is the village of Moalboal, on the southwest coast of the island. It has a fun atmosphere, plenty of great restaurants, and there’s always something going on in the evening. Check out our tips for Cebu to get an idea of what to do. Tip: If canyoning and snorkeling with sardines aren’t your thing, or if you’re running short on time, it’s better to travel from Cebu City to Siquijor or fly directly to Siargao, depending on how much time you have left for the Philippines. Siquijor Siquijor is a favorite destination among travelers in the Philippines, and that’s because the island still feels authentic and relaxed while offering plenty to do. You come for turquoise waters, impressive waterfalls, and fun hotspots. You’ll hardly see cars here; most people zip around on scooters, breezing past palm trees and small villages—the ultimate island vibe! The island is also full of cozy restaurants, and you can spend your days relaxing on the beach and swimming in beautiful waterfalls. If you’re looking for socializing, there’s always a party somewhere on Siquijor in the evenings. Check out our tips for Siquijor to see if this is a good stop for your itinerary through the Philippines. Siargao Siargao is the perfect island to end your Philippines itinerary. This is the surf mecca of the country, and like any surf destination, the atmosphere is great, even if you don’t surf. The island has many long white beaches, a vibrant nightlife, vast mangroves, turquoise lagoons, and small islands off the coast begging to be explored. Everything on Siargao exudes that relaxed island vibe that travelers are looking for. It’s a place where, when you leave, you always feel like you should have stayed longer. Check out our tips for Siargao. Back to Manila After this amazing round trip where you’ve visited the most beautiful islands, it’s time to head back to Manila and fly home from there. The itinerary above is, in our opinion, the most beautiful route for a period of about 3 to 4 weeks. However, if you want to travel faster and see more, or if you have more time, there are other great places to visit in the Philippines. Therefore, below you’ll find two additional destinations that you can add to your itinerary or replace with one of the destinations already included in the itinerary. Batad The Philippines is, of course, primarily a destination for its paradise islands, but the country has more to offer. Batad is a very small, authentic village with the most beautiful rice terraces in Southeast Asia, and here you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. There’s almost no internet, often no electricity, and no luxury hotels. You stay in a simple guesthouse, but with a spectacular view. Be sure to read our tips for Batad in advance because there are a few things you need to know before you go, as things here work a bit differently. This way, you won’t run into any unpleasant surprises. Bohol and Panglao From Cebu, you can take a boat in an hour to Bohol and Panglao. Panglao has white beaches but can be a bit crowded. On the island of Bohol, you’ll find some hidden waterfalls, jungle, and of course the unique Chocolate Hills. It’s a cool destination to spend a few days and explore the island by scooter. Check out our tips for Bohol and Panglao. During our trips through the Philippines, we always look for the most beautiful and unique accommodations. The Philippines has a number of special places that make your trip extra special, but the selection is more limited than in many other Southeast Asian countries. Therefore, it might be smart to book your accommodations earlier than you normally would. We’ve already compiled our favorite places in the Philippines so you can easily plan your trip with unique stays. How about a bamboo bungalow right on the beach or a cozy surf hostel? At these accommodations, you’re guaranteed to have a great time!

A trip through the Philippines is all about tropical beaches, colorful coral gardens, and friendly locals. With over 7,000 islands, no day is ever the same, and you’re constantly surprised by the changing nature and relaxed atmosphere. From the azure blue lagoons of Palawan to the green rice terraces of Banaue – every place is unique and has its own charm. Traveling in the Philippines is different from home, and the culture is also different from other Southeast Asian countries. That’s why it’s nice to be well-prepared. We’ve visited the Philippines several times and have gathered 13 practical tips and handy information for you. This way, you can make the most of your trip through the Philippines! The Philippines has different seasons, and the weather can vary significantly by region. In general, the period from December to May is the best time to visit the Philippines. This is the dry season, with the most chances of sun, clear skies, and calm seas. From June to October, there’s the most rain, and typhoons can occur, especially in July and August. November is a transition month; if you’re lucky, the sun will show itself, but there’s also a chance that a lot of rain will fall. Keep in mind that during the periods around Christmas, Chinese New Year, and Easter, some places will be extra crowded. Note: The climate on the island of Siargao differs slightly from the rest of the country because the dry season starts later there. The best months to visit Siargao are from March to June. Before heading to the Philippines, you must register online via an etravelcard. This is mandatory for all travelers and replaces the old paper form that you previously had to fill out on the plane. The process is simple: create an account, fill in your personal details, and a short health declaration. After registering, you’ll receive a QR code that will be scanned at immigration. You can complete your registration up to 72 hours before departure. It’s best to do this before your flight, as Wi-Fi at airports in the Philippines is often slow, and after a long trip, you’ll want to avoid extra hassle or waiting in line. Traveling through the Philippines requires a bit more planning than you might be used to in other Asian countries. To get the most out of your trip, here are some practical tips for traveling through the Philippines. Book your domestic flights in advance – Because the Philippines consists of thousands of islands and the distances are often greater than expected, you can’t avoid domestic flights. If you book them a few months in advance, you can often get tickets for around $44-$66. If you wait longer and book last-minute, prices can go up. Book popular accommodations in advance – Unlike countries like Thailand or Bali, the availability of really good accommodations in the Philippines is much more limited. Especially the popular, atmospheric hostels and small hotels often fill up well in advance, especially during peak season. If you want to stay at the best accommodations, it’s better to book them in advance. We’ve made an overview of our favorite accommodations in the Philippines. These are places where we’ve had a great time ourselves or that we were recommended by followers. This way, you’re sure to have a pleasant stay. Book your expedition between Coron and El Nido in advance – Even for the multi-day expedition between Coron and El Nido, it’s worth reserving in advance. This activity is so popular that it’s often fully booked months ahead. By thinking ahead, you not only secure the best places, but you’ll also travel much more relaxed. You won’t have to search, wait, or make compromises once you’re there. Traveling through the Philippines means alternating between boats, buses, scooters, and everything in between. Between some islands, you’ll take a ferry, which operates daily on many routes, and for long distances, it’s best to book a domestic flight. On the mainland, you can travel very cheaply by bus or jeepney; an old-fashioned bus often painted in bright colors where you can hop on for just a few pesos. The system seems a bit chaotic at first since there are no clear routes indicated, but if you ask which jeepney to take, it’s a fun way to travel. For short trips, there are tuk-tuks and tricycles everywhere. Tricycles are motorcycles with a covered sidecar. Once at your destination, you can easily rent a scooter through your accommodation or a rental company. Step into a local eatery, called a carinderia, and you’ll see rows of steaming pots filled with delicious homemade dishes. Let your plate be heaped with everything that looks tasty: roasted pork, fried fish, eggplant omelet, hot dog sausages, vegetables, or a spoonful of stew. Along the road, you’ll also find barbecues where skewers of chicken or pork are sizzling over the fire. A few classic dishes you must try: Adobo – A stew made with soy sauce and vinegar. Sisig – Finely chopped meat served on a sizzling cast iron platter. Kinilaw – The Filipino version of ceviche with coconut milk. The culture of Filipinos is a unique mix of influences and customs. The Philippines is the only predominantly Catholic country in Southeast Asia, a legacy of Spanish colonization. This influence is not only visible in churches but also in names, language, and even in the money: the currency is still called peso. What might stick with you most during your travels is the warmth of the people. Hospitality is deeply embedded in the culture here. You’ll be greeted with a smile, helped on the street, or spontaneously invited to eat with a local family at their home. There’s also a good chance that there will be singing, as karaoke is an inseparable part of Filipino daily life. It’s even a social tradition. You’ll see karaoke setups everywhere; in living rooms, restaurants, on the beach, and in parks. Birthdays, family gatherings, Sundays: any moment is a good excuse to grab the microphone. Singing is a way to express emotions and have fun together. The official languages are Filipino and English, but in each region, you’ll also hear local dialects. It’s this combination of language, music, and warm traditions that makes Filipino culture so lively and accessible to travelers. Most people speak excellent English due to the American colonial influence. The Philippines is known for its paradisiacal beaches and beautiful underwater world. This is why many travelers have the Philippines on their bucket list. Enjoy it to the fullest, but do so in a conscious and respectful way. Avoid excursions where whale sharks are fed to tourists, and don’t touch coral. Always keep a safe distance from turtles and other marine life, no matter how tempting it may be to get close. Also, leave the beautiful seashells on the beach. Shells may seem abandoned, but they’re still an important part of the ecosystem. Hermit crabs regularly switch to a bigger shell, and the minerals in the shells contribute to the health of the beach and the sea. Everything in nature has a purpose, even when it’s lying still in the sand. When visiting waterfalls, viewpoints, or other natural spots, it’s often required to go with a local guide in the Philippines. This isn’t because the route is complicated, but rather for safety reasons. Some paths can be slippery or steep, and accidents have occurred at some locations in the past. Additionally, it’s a way to support the local economy and create jobs in the villages. Often, you only pay a few dollars for a guide or contribute through a donation. Think of it as a great opportunity to learn more about the surroundings and contribute to the community. Good to know: In many places, an environmental fee is also requested to protect and maintain nature. This usually ranges between 20 and 200 pesos. Sunscreen is essential in the Philippines, but be cautious about what you buy and where. Sunscreen with a whitening effect is more of a rule than an exception in the Philippines, and many local stalls sell products that aren’t what they seem. Fake products from well-known brands like Nivea often pop up. These counterfeit products may not protect you or sometimes not protect at all. The safest places to buy sunscreen are at pharmacies like Watsons, 7-Eleven, or a reliable dive shop. Even better: bring your trusted brand from home. Choose a reef-safe version so you protect not only yourself but also the coral and marine life. The underwater world of the Philippines is a true paradise filled with beautiful coral reefs. The ocean harbors incredible biodiversity, from colorful starfish and tropical fish to majestic manta rays. The waters around the Philippines are some of the most beautiful in the world! The chance is high that you’ll do a lot of snorkeling during your trip through the Philippines. That’s why it’s a good idea to bring your own snorkel set. It’s cheaper and more hygienic than renting one each time. Plus, your own snorkel fits your head the best, and you can jump right into the water wherever you are. Tip: Also bring baby shampoo to rub a drop on the inside of your diving mask before snorkeling. This helps prevent fogging and won’t sting your eyes. The currency in the Philippines is the Philippine peso (PHP). It’s handy to withdraw some cash at the airport right after arrival. Keep in mind that a fee is charged, and it can vary by bank. The BPI bank is often the cheapest option. You can withdraw up to 20,000 pesos per transaction, while other banks typically allow a maximum withdrawal of 10,000 pesos. You can often pay with your credit card at large hotels and restaurants, but you’ll still need cash at many other places. ATMs are commonly found in touristy areas, but this can be more challenging on smaller islands. ATMs may sometimes be empty or temporarily out of service. Therefore, make sure you always have enough cash on hand. Tipping is not mandatory but is certainly appreciated. Wages are low in the Philippines, so a little extra goes a long way. In restaurants and cafés, a 10% tip is common. Guides often work on a donation basis or receive a small fee. If you’re happy with the tour or guidance, a tip is definitely in order. In the Philippines, you’ll need a world plug adapter in many places. The country uses plug types A, B, and sometimes C. Types A and B are the same as in the United States: flat, rectangular pins. Sometimes the European type C plug will also fit, but that’s not always the case. Therefore, bring a world plug adapter so you can charge your devices anywhere and everywhere. A model with multiple USB ports is quite handy, especially if you want to charge several devices at once, like your phone, camera, and power bank. Traveling through the Philippines may sound like a logistical challenge with all the islands, ferries, and flights, but it’s very easy to organize your trip yourself without the help of a travel agency. We’ve made multiple trips through the Philippines, and with the help of our tips, you can easily plan your trip. We’ve outlined the ideal itinerary through the Philippines and written a separate article on each destination. In these articles, we describe how to get there, what to do, and give tips for the best restaurants and accommodations. Additionally, we’ve created a list of our favorite spots in the Philippines. This way, you can easily plan your own trip to the Philippines. Enjoy your travels!

Are you looking for an island that still feels authentic and relaxed, but where there’s still plenty to do? Then definitely add Siquijor to your itinerary through the Philippines! This magical island is known for its legends about witches and healers, which is why it’s also called the Island of Magic. At the same time, Siquijor is loved for its turquoise waters, impressive waterfalls, and fun hotspots. You rarely see cars here; most people zoom by on scooters with the wind in their hair, passing palm trees and small villages – the ultimate island vibe! There are also plenty of cozy restaurants, and you can spend your days relaxing on the beach and swimming in beautiful waterfalls. For those looking for a good time, there’s always a party somewhere on Siquijor every evening. Most people travel to Siquijor from Cebu or Bohol. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how this journey looks. From Cebu to Siquijor Step 1: In Moalboal, take the bus to Bato. The journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Step 2: Once in Bato, take the tricycle to Liloan Port. The drivers are waiting when the bus arrives. Step 3: Take the ferry from Liloan Port to Sibulan Seaport. Step 4: Once at Sibulan Seaport, take a taxi to Dumaguete Pier. This is a 15-minute drive. Step 5: From Dumaguete Pier, take the ferry to Siquijor. Ferries depart throughout the day. The fast ferry takes 45 minutes, and the regular ferry takes 1.5 to 2 hours. From Bohol to Siquijor There are daily direct boats from Bohol to Siquijor. The trip takes about 2 hours by speedboat and 3 hours by large ferry. Check the current departure times for the boats. Despite being a small island, there’s plenty to do. Here are the 13 best things to do in Siquijor! Watch the Sunset at Paliton Beach Paliton Beach consists of two parts separated by a large rock. These two parts are also called Big Paliton Beach and Little Paliton Beach. Big Paliton Beach is a popular spot to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand during the day. On the white sandy beach, you’ll find tall palm trees, large swings, and cozy restaurants. In the evening, you can enjoy freshly caught fish from local fishermen. On the other side of the rock is Little Paliton Beach, officially called Cangbusyo Beach. This is a smaller beach that comes to life towards the end of the afternoon. Many people gather here to watch the sun slowly set into the sea. Order a cocktail, relax in the sand, and enjoy the island vibe. Good to know: If you follow the sign along the road to Paliton Beach, you’ll end up at Little Paliton Beach. This can make the small beach quite crowded at sunset. If you prefer a bit more space while watching the sunset, head to Big Paliton Beach. Enjoy the View at LA Canopée Bar & Restaurant La Canopée Bar & Restaurant is a unique spot in Siquijor where you can enjoy the sunset in style or relax by the pool. This upscale restaurant is located at the top of a mountain and offers a stunning view over Siquijor’s green countryside and the sea in the distance. During the day, you can relax in large nets floating above the landscape, cool off in the infinity pool, and in the evening, enjoy a cocktail by the fire pit during sunset. Good to know: La Canopée is slightly more expensive than the average restaurants in Siquijor, but the luxurious setting and the breathtaking view make it worth every peso. A minimum spend of 200 pesos is required, which can easily be met with a drink and a snack. If you want to swim, there’s an additional charge of 300 pesos. Visit Siquijor’s Most Beautiful Waterfall – Cambugahay Falls Cambugahay Falls is one of the most famous and most visited waterfalls in Siquijor – and for good reason. This tropical waterfall has three levels that cascade into each other, each with a clear turquoise pool perfect for swimming. For a bit more adventure, you can float on bamboo rafts or swing yourself into the water using a rope. Local guides, who call themselves living drones, will happily take photos and videos of you swinging on the ropes with your own phone. There’s a small fee for using the rafts and rope swings. Tip: The waterfall opens at 8:00 AM, and because it’s the most popular waterfall in Siquijor, it’s best to go early in the morning as it gets crowded quickly. After your visit, head to Twenty4, about 2 kilometers away, for a meal. They serve delicious dishes with their own freshly baked bread. Lagaan Falls Located about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Cambugahay Falls, you’ll find another beautiful waterfall called Lagaan Falls. Just like Cambugahay Falls, you can swing into the water using ropes here, but without the fee. Additionally, this waterfall has a natural slide, where you can literally slide from the rocks into the clear water. From the entrance, it’s just a few minutes’ walk through nature before you reach the waterfall. Kawasan Falls We’re not done with waterfalls yet, because a bit further along, you’ll find Kawasan Falls. This waterfall, along with the two waterfalls mentioned above, is close together and easily combined. Kawasan Falls is also beautiful, yet surprisingly often overlooked by travelers. If you want to have a waterfall almost entirely to yourself, this is the place to go. From the entrance, you’ll ride a short distance on the scooter to the parking lot. Then, there’s a steep 4-minute descent to the waterfall. But once you’re there, it feels like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden jungle oasis. At the top, you’ll find small pools, but be sure to walk along the side to the base of the waterfall, where the basin is perfect for swimming. Even more fun, if you swim under the waterfall, you can enter a hidden cave. Want to jump into the water? Climb up at the small waterfall and jump into the refreshing water from a few meters (yards) above. Special Overnight Stay in Nature Want to make your visit to Siquijor extra special? Stay at the beautiful Jungle KingDomes. Hidden in the greenery, you’ll sleep in a fantastic dome with creative shapes and a cozy interior. The domes are fully equipped: a comfortable bed, an outdoor shower, and a private terrace. It’s wonderfully peaceful – no traffic, only the sounds of birds and crickets. The atmosphere is relaxed, and there’s a large shared space with plenty of comfortable seating where you can enjoy the beautiful view over the jungle. Admire Butterflies at the Butterfly Sanctuary When driving through Siquijor’s countryside, it’s nice to stop by the Butterfly Sanctuary. This small butterfly garden is hidden in the backyard of a local family who are passionately committed to the local nature. The route through the countryside is beautiful in itself, but this short stop makes your ride even more enjoyable. You’ll admire the most beautiful butterflies in the garden, about 40% of which are later released back into the wild. The Best Snorkeling Spots in Siquijor Want to explore Siquijor’s underwater world up close? Dive into the water at Tulapos Marine Sanctuary. Here, you can encounter blacktip reef sharks, turtles, and lionfish while snorkeling. Tubod Marine Sanctuary is also one of the best snorkeling spots in Siquijor. Located off Tubod Beach, here you can spot colorful corals and tropical fish like parrotfish, clownfish, and scorpionfish. With luck, you may also see turtles and sometimes even reef sharks. After snorkeling, the wide sandy beach of Tubod Beach is perfect for relaxing. A small entrance fee is charged for the preservation of the reef. It’s also important to avoid touching the coral and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral. Tip: The beautiful Coco Grove Beach Resort is directly located on Tubod Beach, making it a great place to stay if your budget allows. With the beautiful house reef right at the door, you can snorkel here any time of the day. The resort also has a lovely pool, a tropical garden, and beautiful luxury bungalows. Adventure at Lugnason Falls Lugnason Falls may seem like a simple waterfall at first glance, but there’s much more to it than meets the eye. The lower pool is a clear blue bath, perfect for swimming and cooling off. For real adventurers, it has a fun challenge; climb along the rock face and take a jump into the deep! What many people don’t know is that behind this lowest waterfall, there are 12 hidden waterfalls. If you’re up for it, you can do a river trek with a guide, climbing up along the waterfalls for 30 to 40 minutes. Along the way, you can enjoy a natural water massage under the flowing water and follow a route through the jungle. After this trek, you’ll come out completely refreshed at the entrance at the top. The guides can be found at the entrance to the waterfall. Relax at Solangon Beach Solangon Beach is one of the quieter beaches in Siquijor. The vast coastline is an ideal place for a beach walk or to relax. During the day, Solangon Beach is calm, but in the evening, the beach at Lalao Bridge comes to life. Many people gather on the edge of the bridge to watch the sun sink into the sea. Order a snack and drink from the vendors and enjoy the colorful sunset. Cliff Jump at Salagdoong Beach Salagdoong Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Siquijor, and it’s perfect for those who love a bit of action. Besides the fine white sand and clear water, this beach is known for its high cliffs, where you can jump from. The turquoise sea invites you for a refreshing dip, and on clear days, it’s great for snorkeling. Since Salagdoong Beach is part of a resort, there’s a small entrance fee. Climb and Crawl through Cantabon Cave Looking for a fun challenge? Go on an adventure in Cantabon Cave! This cave, located inland in Siquijor, contains dramatic rock formations, stalactites, and underground streams. This is no simple walk; with a guide, you’ll venture 600 meters (1,968 feet) into the cave. You’ll climb over rocks, walk through water, and squeeze through narrow passages. The total journey takes about 1.5 hours, taking the same route back. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet and dirty, as staying dry is not an option! You can arrange the tour through Cantabon Cave at this office. Tip: A few kilometers (miles) from Cantabon Cave is the Observation Tower, the highest point in Siquijor. Although the tower looks a bit run-down, the 360-degree panoramic view at the top is well worth it. On clear days, you can admire Siquijor from all angles! Take a Day Trip to Apo Island Apo Island is a small volcanic island located 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) off the coast of Siquijor. The island is best known for its impressive marine biodiversity and is a popular destination for divers and snorkelers. The waters around the island are home to over 400 species of coral, making Apo Island one of the most diverse coral ecosystems in the world. It’s also one of the best places in the Philippines to spot sea turtles. There are a few basic homestays on the island, but most travelers make a day trip. It takes about an hour by boat to get to Apo Island, where you might encounter dolphins along the way. Once there, you can snorkel at multiple spots around the island, and for enthusiasts, two dives are available. Island Vibes Explorers is a great organization to take the day trip to Apo Island. Rent a Scooter and Explore Siquijor Siquijor is perfect for exploring by scooter. You can drive around the entire island in about three hours, but chances are you’ll stop so many times at beautiful spots along the way that it will take much longer. The roads on Siquijor are surprisingly good, with a wide paved road that takes you along the coast and through the hilly interior. Only a small section inland is a bit rough and unpaved, but overall, it’s great cruising. Along the way, you’ll pass tropical landscapes, small villages, and viewpoints where you can sometimes see all the way to the sea. Good to know: Many scooter rentals will ask to see your driver’s license before giving you a scooter, so make sure to have it with you! Wakanda Restaurant & Bar – A cozy spot where you can enjoy tapas from 6 PM and where parties are often held. Shaka – Here, you can eat delicious smoothie bowls and other healthy dishes right on the beach. Baha Ba’r – A charming restaurant with live music, perfect for a night out. Y Road Restaurant – A great option for a local meal after visiting the three waterfalls. LA Canopée Bar & Restaurant – An upscale setting with beautiful views and delicious dishes. Wonderland – A top choice for vegan food and great coffee. They even have Dutch poffertjes! Sawadee – A great restaurant serving Asian dishes. Aroi Makmak Thai Station Café & Restaurant – The place for authentic Thai food. Dolce Amore – Delicious Italian food, a bit pricier but absolutely worth it. Reservations are recommended for dinner. El Kabron – Popular among both locals and travelers. It’s right on the beach, with a great vibe and delicious cocktails. Twenty4 – This restaurant is close to Cambugahay Falls, so it’s great for a meal after your visit. They serve delicious dishes with their own freshly baked bread. The southwest coast of Siquijor is the best place to stay. In and around the village of San Juan, you’ll find many accommodations, great restaurants, and bars where there’s something to do every day of the week. Here are three great places to stay in San Juan. For the ultimate vacation experience, Dolce Amore Resort is the perfect spot. This small-scale resort is part of the Dolce Amore restaurant, which we mentioned earlier in the article. Not only can you eat great here, but you can also stay in style. The resort has a lovely pool, luxurious rooms, and a very central location. Nakabalo Guesthouse also offers a great stay. Situated higher up on the mountain, the views here are fantastic. The infinity pool is the perfect place to relax, especially during sunset. There’s also a pool table, a pétanque court, and the restaurant serves delicious food. Traveling on a smaller budget? The cute cottages at Hola Beach Resort are perfect for a stay. The location is beautiful, right on the beach. You can relax between the palm trees in one of the many hammocks and dive into the sea in between. You’ll sleep in a cozy bamboo bungalow or in the dorm.