Siquijor

Often called the 'Island of Fire' for its mystical folklore, Siquijor is a serene diving paradise in the Philippines' Visayas region. The island is encircled by vibrant marine protected areas, showcasing incredibly healthy hard and soft coral gardens, dramatic walls, and gentle sandy slopes. With over 30 dive sites, most of which are easily accessible from the shore or via a short boat ride, Siquijor is celebrated for its remarkable macro life, offering a treasure trove for underwater photographers and keen-eyed divers seeking rare critters like frogfish and ghost pipefish.

The diving conditions in Siquijor are generally calm and suitable for all experience levels, from beginners completing their first open water dives to seasoned veterans. Consistently warm water and good visibility throughout the year make it an inviting destination anytime. Divers should visit Siquijor for its uncrowded dive sites, relaxed atmosphere, and the sheer density of marine biodiversity packed into its coastal waters. It offers a more tranquil and intimate diving experience compared to some of its bustling neighboring islands.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Siquijor, Philippines?
Tubod Marine Sanctuary is the most famous dive site in Siquijor, Philippines. It's a well-established protected area featuring a gently sloping reef blanketed in pristine hard and soft corals. Its popularity stems from its incredible biodiversity, including vast schools of fish, numerous anemonefish, and common turtle sightings. The easy shore access and calm conditions make it a perfect spot for divers and snorkelers of all levels.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Siquijor, Philippines?
Well-known sites include Paliton Wall for its dramatic drop-offs and Maite Point for its vibrant coral gardens. For a less-crowded experience, explore hidden gems like Sawang, known for its unique rock formations and macro life, or the artificial reef at Caticugan Marine Sanctuary. These sites offer a more secluded dive with equally rewarding marine encounters, including frogfish and unique nudibranchs.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Siquijor, Philippines?
Water temperatures in Siquijor, Philippines, are consistently warm, ranging from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F) year-round. The warmest months are typically from March to June, while the coolest period is from December to February. The minimal temperature fluctuation ensures that diving is comfortable at any time of the year, making it a reliable tropical destination.
When is the best time to visit Siquijor, Philippines?
The best time for diving in Siquijor, Philippines, is during the dry season, from November to May. This period offers the calmest seas, sunniest weather, and optimal underwater visibility. The peak season runs from December to April. While diving is possible year-round, the rainy season from June to October can bring occasional storms that may affect conditions.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Siquijor, Philippines?
Underwater visibility in Siquijor, Philippines, is generally excellent, typically ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet). During the prime dry season from November to May, visibility can often exceed 30 meters on clear days. It may be slightly reduced during the rainy season or after heavy rainfall, but usually remains good enough for enjoyable diving.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Siquijor, Philippines?
Siquijor, Philippines, is not a primary destination for large pelagic migrations like whale sharks or manta rays. Its main attraction is the incredible resident marine life and pristine reefs available year-round. While you may encounter occasional passing barracuda or jacks, the focus here is consistently on world-class macro diving and vibrant coral ecosystems rather than specific seasonal megafauna events.
What marine life can I expect to see in Siquijor, Philippines?
Expect rich coral reefs teeming with parrotfish, angelfish, and schools of fusiliers. Siquijor, Philippines, is a macro haven, with frequent sightings of frogfish, ghost pipefish, ornate sea horses, and a huge variety of nudibranchs. Green and hawksbill turtles are very common. Moray eels, cuttlefish, and reef squid are also regularly spotted amongst the healthy coral gardens and walls.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Siquijor, Philippines?
With water temperatures in Siquijor, Philippines, staying between 27-30°C (81-86°F), a 3mm shorty or full wetsuit is typically sufficient for most divers. Many find a simple rash guard and shorts to be enough, especially in the warmer months. For those who get cold easily or plan on multiple dives per day, a 3mm full suit provides the perfect balance of warmth and flexibility.
How do I get to Siquijor, Philippines?
The most common way to reach Siquijor, Philippines, is to fly to Dumaguete Airport (DGT) on neighboring Negros Island. From the airport, take a short tricycle ride to the port, where several daily ferries make the 45-60 minute crossing to Siquijor. Ferries are also available from other islands like Bohol (Tagbilaran) and Cebu, connecting it to the wider Visayas region.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Siquijor, Philippines?
Staying on shore is the recommended way to dive in Siquijor, Philippines. The island's dive sites are clustered close to the coastline and are easily reached by short boat trips or from the beach. This provides more flexibility and the chance to enjoy the island's unique culture. Liveaboards rarely focus exclusively on Siquijor, usually visiting it only as part of a much larger Visayas itinerary.
All Dive Sites in Siquijor (30)
Bahura Dive House ReefBalas BalasBalayang KugtongBogo Marine SanctuaryCampalans WallCandaping B SanctuaryCangmunag SanctuaryCaticugan WallDaquit ShoalGabayan BayGabayan ReefLazi Bay PierLiloan CornerLiloan LighthouseLower Cabangcalan SanctuaryLusaranMaiteNonoc SanctuaryNonoc ShoalOlang SanctuaryPaliton WallPasihagonSabas SlopeSalagdo OngSandugan SanctuarySawangTalayong SlopeTambisan WallTubodTulapos Marine Sanctuary