
Siquijor Marine Sanctuary Siquijor
Discover Siquijor's underwater wonders! Explore vibrant coral gardens, swim with turtles, and witness barracuda schools in protected marine sanctuarie...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More marine life, calmer waters

Siquijor Marine Sanctuary Siquijor
Best Time
More marine life, calmer waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Siquijor's underwater wonders! Explore vibrant coral gardens, swim with turtles, and witness barracuda schools in protected marine sanctuaries.
"Dive into Siquijor’s hidden gem at Maite Marine Sanctuary! Crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life."

🐠 Hire a Local Guide
Guides enhance your experience, pointing out hidden marine life and ensuring safety. Worth the fee!
🤿 Snorkel or Freedive
Both offer incredible views! Many sanctuaries are shallow enough for snorkeling.

Quick Facts
Rating
4 · 71 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Barracuda School
Tulapos Marine Sanctuary
Witness mesmerizing schools of barracuda in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable underwater spectacle.

Vibrant Coral Gardens
Maite Marine Sanctuary
Explore a stunning underwater world filled with diverse and colorful coral formations. Perfect for divers and snorkelers.

Sea Turtle Encounters
Tubod Marine Sanctuary
Get a chance to swim alongside gentle sea turtles in their protected environment. A magical experience for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Marine Life
Gear Up for Underwater Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐠 Hire a Local Guide
Guides enhance your experience, pointing out hidden marine life and ensuring safety. Worth the fee!
🤿 Snorkel or Freedive
Both offer incredible views! Many sanctuaries are shallow enough for snorkeling.
💰 Respect the Fees
Sanctuary fees support conservation. Budget around 100-350 pesos per person.
🐢 Look, Don't Touch
Protect the delicate marine ecosystem. Admire from a distance and avoid touching corals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐠 Hire a Local Guide
Guides enhance your experience, pointing out hidden marine life and ensuring safety. Worth the fee!
🤿 Snorkel or Freedive
Both offer incredible views! Many sanctuaries are shallow enough for snorkeling.
💰 Respect the Fees
Sanctuary fees support conservation. Budget around 100-350 pesos per person.
🐢 Look, Don't Touch
Protect the delicate marine ecosystem. Admire from a distance and avoid touching corals.
☀️ Sun Protection
Wear reef-safe sunscreen or a rash guard to protect your skin and the ocean.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Siquijor's marine sanctuaries for their vibrant underwater life, particularly the coral gardens and opportunities to see turtles and barracuda. The affordability and the chance to engage in snorkeling and freediving are major draws. However, some reviewers noted fewer fish than expected in certain areas and expressed concerns about potential overfishing impacting marine populations.
"I went there to just check out the place . Lots of weeds at the shoreline. Some people were scuba diving & snorkeling. So I just swam, wade, & play in the water. It was fun !! Didn’t see any fish though unlike Paliton. Looked ordinary to me. Just gave a donation."
Xeres Dominguez
"A very beautiful place with a variety of fish rarely found elsewhere (not so many turtles though). Definitely worth a snorkeling session 👍"
Spinning Satellites
"Went at high tide. 350 pp to snorkle with guide. Two people per guide. Saw 2 turtles and many large coral formations. Not as many fish as some of the other santuaries. Suspect spear fisherman sneaking in and taking any large fish. For what we pay. They should keep the fisherman out."
Greco Tucker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most marine sanctuaries in Siquijor are accessible by motorbike or tricycle from major towns. Some, like Caticugan, are near the main road, while others might require a short trek.
Yes, local tricycles and habal-habal (motorbike taxis) are readily available. Negotiate your fare beforehand.
Absolutely! Renting a motorbike is a popular and flexible way to visit multiple sanctuaries at your own pace.
Many local guides offer tours, especially for freediving and snorkeling. They can arrange transport and provide valuable insights.
For flexibility, a rented motorbike is ideal. Otherwise, you can hire a tricycle for a day to take you to several spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees typically range from 100 to 350 pesos per person, depending on the sanctuary and activities like snorkeling or diving with a guide.
For most sanctuaries, advance booking isn't necessary, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure guides.
Often, there's a general entrance fee, and then additional charges for guides, equipment rental (mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket), and specific activities.
Fees usually cover access to the protected area. Guided tours and equipment rentals are typically separate costs.
While not always advertised, it's worth inquiring with local guides or sanctuary staff about potential group rates.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of fish, vibrant corals, sea turtles, and sometimes barracuda schools. Sightings can vary by sanctuary and season.
Both are fantastic! Freediving offers a more immersive experience, while snorkeling is accessible to everyone. Many sanctuaries are suitable for both.
Yes, local guides are usually available at the entrance and are highly recommended for the best experience and safety.
Essentials include a mask, snorkel, and fins. Life jackets are also available for rent. Some sanctuaries offer underwater camera rentals.
Yes, many sanctuaries have calm, shallow areas suitable for beginners. Guides can also provide basic instruction.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Most marine sanctuaries are in more natural settings, so dining options are usually limited. It's best to eat before or after your visit in nearby towns.
Bringing your own snacks and water is generally allowed, but be sure to take all your trash with you to keep the area clean.
Siquijor offers a range of local eateries and restaurants, from simple carinderias to more established dining spots, serving Filipino cuisine.
Some popular beaches near sanctuaries might have small cafes or bars, but don't expect extensive options directly at the sanctuary sites.
Try fresh seafood, kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), and local delicacies. Many restaurants offer delicious and affordable meals.
📸 📸 Photography
A GoPro or waterproof camera is ideal. Many sanctuaries offer underwater camera rentals for a fee.
Areas with abundant coral formations and marine life, like the barracuda school at Tulapos or the coral gardens at Maite, are excellent for photos.
While a dedicated underwater camera is best, even a good smartphone in a waterproof case can capture decent shots in clear water.
Early mornings often provide clearer water and softer light. Avoid midday sun which can create harsh shadows.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the marine life and avoid using flash directly on sensitive creatures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit