This mystical island in the Central Visayas offers everything from luxury resorts to backpacker hostels, making it perfect for every type of traveler. Siquijor‘s reputation as the “Island of Fire” extends beyond its magical folklore – it ignites passion in every visitor with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm Filipino hospitality.
Best Places to Stay in Siquijor:
- Luxury: Salamangka Resort, Coco Grove Beach Resort, South Mountain Resort
- Mid-range: White Villas Resort, Dolce Amore Resort, Infinity Heights Resort
- Budget: Mad Monkey Siquijor, Blue House Backpackers, Little Nomads Eco-Guesthouse
Key Areas: San Juan (best beaches, restaurants), Lazi (peaceful, waterfalls), Siquijor Town (central, convenient)
Best Time: December-May (dry season)
Getting There: Ferry from Dumaguete (1 hour) or Bohol (1.5 hours)
Why Siquijor Makes the Perfect Island Escape
Picture this: you wake up to the gentle sound eeetimes of waves, step onto your private balcony, and watch the sunrise paint the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks. That’s just another morning in Siquijor. This small island province, measuring just 343.5 square kilometers, packs an incredible punch when it comes to natural beauty and accommodation variety.
Located in the Bohol Sea, 19 miles southeast of Negros Island, Siquijor has evolved from a mystical destination shrouded in folklore to one of the Philippines’ most sought-after tropical getaways. The island’s diverse accommodation scene means whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, family vacation, or solo backpacking adventure, you’ll find your perfect home away from home.
Premium Luxury: Where Dreams Meet Reality
Salamangka Resort – The Crown Jewel
Let’s start with the absolute best – Salamangka Resort takes the top spot among places to stay in Siquijor for luxury seekers. This boutique beachfront property on the mystical island’s sandy shores offers an unmatched blend of modern amenities and cultural immersion. Each room provides breathtaking sunset views over the horizon, while the infinity pool overlooking the shimmering sea creates the perfect setting for romantic evenings.
What sets Salamangka apart? The resort embodies the island’s magical essence – its name translates to ‘magic’ in the local dialect. Guests wake up to the soothing hum of the ocean and can step directly onto Siquijor’s pristine beaches. The property delivers both relaxation and adventure in equal measure, making it ideal for travelers craving the best of both worlds.
Coco Grove Beach Resort – 800 Meters of Paradise
Coco Grove Beach Resort stands as another premier choice among places to stay in Siquijor, boasting an impressive 800 meters of white beach surrounded by turquoise water. This luxury establishment in San Juan offers complete relaxation and rejuvenation with its multiple outdoor swimming pools, fitness center, and full-service spa.
The resort features 91 air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities, three restaurants serving local and international cuisine, and direct access to the Tubod Marine Sanctuary. Guests consistently praise the spectacular sunset views and the property’s pristine maintenance, making it a top choice for families and couples alike.
South Mountain Resort – Mountain Meets Ocean
For those seeking elevated luxury, South Mountain Resort provides a unique mountainside perspective while maintaining easy beach access. This boutique property offers spacious rooms with stunning panoramic views of the ocean and coastline, complemented by modern amenities and attentive service. The resort’s peaceful location makes it perfect for travelers wanting to escape the crowds while still enjoying world-class facilities.
Mid-Range Marvels: Perfect Balance of Comfort and Value
White Villas Resort – Ethical Tourism at Its Best
White Villas Resort represents one of the finest mid-range places to stay in Siquijor, combining comfort with social responsibility. This peaceful beach resort invests in the local community through job creation and livelihood support, making your stay meaningful beyond just relaxation.
The resort offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi (Starlink), a beachfront restaurant, and a swimming pool with kids’ area. While the beach isn’t ideal for swimming due to shallow waters, it’s perfect for sunset watching, walking, and kayaking. The property’s commitment to sustainable tourism and guest satisfaction earns consistent high ratings.
Dolce Amore Resort – Italian Flair in Paradise
Dolce Amore Resort brings a touch of European elegance to the tropical setting, featuring an on-site Italian restaurant that’s become locally famous. Located near Paliton Beach, guests enjoy easy access to Siquijor’s most stunning sunset views while having modern amenities like an outdoor swimming pool, garden, and terrace.
The resort’s strategic location near Siquijor town provides convenient access to shops and restaurants, while the peaceful atmosphere ensures a restful stay. Room amenities include air conditioning, minibars, and private bathrooms with quality toiletries.
Infinity Heights Resort – Panoramic Views
Infinity Heights Resort offers something truly special among places to stay in Siquijor – a guitar-shaped infinity pool with stunning panoramic ocean views. Located in the hills, this resort features modern rooms, spa services, and a restaurant serving both local and international cuisine.
The elevated location provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding coastline, making it particularly popular for Instagram-worthy photos and romantic getaways. The resort caters to travelers seeking a more luxurious experience while maintaining reasonable pricing.
Budget-Friendly Gems: Comfort Without Breaking the Bank
Mad Monkey Siquijor – Backpacker Central
For budget-conscious travelers, Mad Monkey Siquijor represents the gold standard among affordable places to stay in Siquijor. This well-established hostel chain brings its signature social atmosphere to the island, perfect for solo travelers looking to meet fellow adventurers.
The hostel features dormitory-style accommodations with air conditioning, communal areas for socializing, and organized activities that help guests explore the island’s attractions. Its central location provides easy access to beaches, restaurants, and transportation hubs.
Blue House Backpackers – Beach Vibes on a Budget
Blue House Backpackers in San Juan offers the perfect combination of affordability and location. Steps away from bars, restaurants, and shops, this beachfront hostel keeps you in the heart of the action while providing peaceful mornings and epic sunsets.
The hostel features air-conditioned rooms, a communal kitchen for budget-conscious cooking, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary tea and coffee. The property’s beach location and social atmosphere make it ideal for young travelers and digital nomads seeking community vibes.
Little Nomads Eco-Guesthouse – Sustainable Budget Stay
Little Nomads Eco-Guesthouse proves that budget accommodations can be both environmentally conscious and comfortable. This eco-friendly property offers dormitory beds and private rooms with a focus on sustainable tourism practices.
Located within walking distance of Islandia Beach, the guesthouse features shared lounges, gardens, and bike rentals for exploring the island. The property attracts environmentally conscious travelers who appreciate its commitment to preserving Siquijor’s natural beauty.
Where to Base Yourself: Siquijor’s Best Areas
San Juan – The Social Hub
San Juan emerges as the most popular area for places to stay in Siquijor, particularly along the western coast. This picturesque town offers the perfect combination of stunning beaches, vibrant restaurant scenes, and easy access to the island’s best sunset viewing spots.
The area around Paliton Beach and Solangon Beach provides numerous accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget hostels. San Juan’s central location makes it ideal for exploring the entire island, with most attractions within 30 minutes by motorbike.
Key advantages of staying in San Juan:
- Best sunset views on the island
- Highest concentration of restaurants and bars
- Easy access to Paliton Beach and Tubod Marine Sanctuary
- Good variety of accommodation options
- Social atmosphere perfect for meeting other travelers
Lazi – Peaceful Retreat
Lazi offers a more tranquil alternative among places to stay in Siquijor, perfect for travelers seeking peace and natural beauty. This area provides easy access to the famous Cambugahay Falls and other mountain attractions while maintaining a slower pace of life.
Lazi Beach Club Resort serves as the area’s flagship accommodation, offering beachfront rooms with sunrise and sunset views. The resort features multiple room types, from intimate beachfront cottages to larger family accommodations, plus an outdoor pool and full-service restaurant.
Benefits of choosing Lazi:
- Closer to major waterfalls and nature attractions
- Less crowded than San Juan
- Beautiful mix of beach and mountain scenery
- Authentic local culture experiences
- Better value for money
Siquijor Town – Central Convenience
Siquijor Town (the capital) provides the most convenient base for exploring the entire island, with easy access to the main port and local amenities. This area works best for travelers who prioritize practical considerations over beachfront locations.
The town offers several mid-range hotels and guesthouses, plus easy access to banks, medical facilities, and transportation hubs. While not directly beachfront, most coastal areas remain within 15 minutes by tricycle or motorbike.
Unique Accommodation Experiences
Glamping and Eco-Lodges
Glamping Siquijor By The Beach offers a unique twist on traditional accommodations, combining camping vibes with modern comforts. Located directly by the sea, this eco-friendly option provides tents with proper beds, private bathrooms, and beach access.
The glamping site features barbecue stations, a bar, and various water activities like kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling. It’s perfect for travelers seeking adventure without sacrificing comfort.
Traditional Filipino Hospitality
Several family-run guesthouses throughout the island provide authentic Filipino hospitality experiences. Nakabalo Guesthouse & Restaurant exemplifies this category, offering clean, comfortable rooms with personalized service and home-cooked meals.
These smaller properties often provide the most memorable experiences, with owners sharing local knowledge, arranging island tours, and treating guests like family members.
Practical Considerations for Your Stay
Transportation and Accessibility
Most places to stay in Siquijor offer motorbike rentals, the preferred method for exploring the island. The 72-kilometer perimeter road makes circumnavigation easy, with well-maintained secondary roads providing access to hidden beaches and attractions.
Ferry connections operate regularly from Dumaguete (1 hour) and Bohol (1.5 hours), with most accommodations offering pickup services or easy tricycle access from the ports.
Seasonal Considerations
The dry season (December to May) represents peak time for visiting Siquijor, with accommodations booking up quickly. The monsoon season (July to October) brings occasional rain but fewer crowds and better rates.
Most places to stay in Siquijor operate year-round, though some budget options may close during slow periods. Advance booking is recommended, particularly for luxury properties and during Philippine holidays.
Budget Planning
Accommodation costs vary significantly across Siquijor:
- Luxury resorts: $100-300+ per night
- Mid-range hotels: $30-100 per night
- Budget accommodations: $10-30 per night
Most properties include breakfast, Wi-Fi, and basic amenities in their rates. Additional costs include island tours, activities, meals, and transportation.
Making Your Choice: What Type of Traveler Are You?
The Luxury Seeker
If budget isn’t a concern and you want the absolute best, Salamangka Resort offers unmatched beachfront luxury with personalized service. Combine this with Coco Grove Beach Resort for variety, spending part of your stay at each property to experience different aspects of Siquijor’s luxury offerings.
The Value Hunter
Mid-range travelers should consider White Villas Resort for its excellent balance of comfort, location, and social responsibility. Dolce Amore Resort provides great alternative with its Italian restaurant and sunset access.
The Budget Backpacker
Mad Monkey Siquijor delivers the classic backpacker experience with social atmosphere and organized activities. Blue House Backpackers offers better beachfront location for similar prices.
The Family Vacation
Families benefit most from Coco Grove Beach Resort with its multiple pools, kid-friendly facilities, and beach access. White Villas Resort provides good alternative with its community pool and family-friendly atmosphere.
The Romantic Getaway
Couples should prioritize Salamangka Resort for its intimate beachfront setting and sunset views. Infinity Heights Resort offers dramatic hilltop romance with panoramic vistas.
Beyond Accommodation: Why Siquijor Captivates
Understanding why Siquijor has become such a beloved destination helps explain the variety of places to stay in Siquijor. The island’s compact size (about 133 square miles) means you’re never far from stunning beaches, mysterious waterfalls, or fascinating cultural sites.
The island’s mystical reputation stems from centuries of traditional healing practices and folklore, earning it the nickname “Island of Witches”. Modern visitors find this adds intrigue rather than fear, with many seeking out traditional healers and cultural experiences.
Siquijor’s natural attractions include:
- Cambugahay Falls– Multi-tiered waterfalls with rope swings
- Salagdoong Beach– Cliff diving and snorkeling paradise
- Paliton Beach– Powder-white sand and spectacular sunsets
- Old Enchanted Balete Tree– Natural fish spa experience
- Tubod Marine Sanctuary– World-class snorkeling and diving
Planning Your Perfect Siquijor Stay
Success in finding the right places to stay in Siquijor depends on matching your accommodation choice with your travel style and priorities. The island’s small size means you can’t really go wrong with location – everywhere offers easy access to beaches, attractions, and experiences.
Consider these final tips:
- Book early for dry season visits (December-May)
- Choose San Juan for nightlife and social scenes
- Pick Lazi for nature and tranquility
- Rent a motorbike regardless of where you stay
- Try at least one meal at a resort restaurant, even if you’re not staying there
- Leave time for unexpected discoveries – Siquijor rewards spontaneous exploration
Whether you choose luxury beachfront bliss at Salamangka Resort, mid-range comfort at White Villas, or budget-friendly adventure at Mad Monkey, Siquijor’s magic will work its spell. This mystical island offers something truly special for every traveler, from those seeking ultimate relaxation to adventure enthusiasts ready to explore underwater worlds and hidden waterfalls.
The key to a perfect Siquijor experience lies not just in choosing among the many excellent places to stay in Siquijor, but in embracing the island’s slower pace and natural beauty. Here, morning coffee tastes better with ocean views, afternoon swims feel more refreshing in crystal-clear waters, and evening sunsets create memories that last a lifetime.
Your island paradise awaits – now you just need to decide which amazing accommodation will serve as your home base for this unforgettable adventure.
