Island Gear Essentials for Your Siquijor Adventure

The journey to Secret Beach begins before you see the ocean.

You park your scooter at the edge of Liloan Forest in Barangay Liloan, Maria — and from that moment, the experience is already different from every other beach on the island. There is no resort entrance. No beach bar. No vendor stalls lining the path. Just a forest trail, a set of concrete stairs descending through the trees, and then — suddenly — turquoise water framed by dark volcanic rock.

This is why travelers call it Secret Beach.

Officially known as Bacong Beach and sometimes referred to as Kagusuan Beach by locals, this hidden coastal destination on the eastern side of Siquijor has become one of the island's most photographed spots — not because it is the easiest beach to reach, but because it rewards the effort.

If you are planning a scooter loop around eastern Siquijor, Secret Beach is not optional. It is the kind of place that makes the whole trip worth it.


30-Second Answer

What is Secret Beach Siquijor?

Secret Beach — also called Bacong Beach or Kagusuan Beach — is a hidden coastal destination in Barangay Liloan, Maria, Siquijor. Access requires a short forest walk and descent down concrete stairs. The beach is known for its dramatic rock formations, turquoise water and iconic drone photography experience. It is best visited by scooter as part of an eastern Siquijor loop, ideally arriving before 9 AM for photography and smaller crowds.


Quick Facts

📍 Location Brgy. Liloan, Maria, Siquijor
🌊 Also known as Bacong Beach / Kagusuan Beach
🛵 Best transportation Scooter (recommended) / Tricycle
💰 Entrance fee ₱50 locals · ₱100 foreign visitors · Free for residents
🚗 Parking fee Scooter ₱20 · Tuktuk/Tricycle ₱40 · Car ₱50
📸 Drone fee ₱300
Best time to visit 7:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Experience level Easy to moderate (forest walk + stairs)
🏊 Swimming Tide and weather dependent

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for you if:

  • ✅ You are visiting Siquijor for the first time and want to see the island's most iconic hidden spot
  • ✅ You are traveling by scooter and planning an eastern island loop
  • ✅ You are a photographer or content creator looking for the drone shot
  • ✅ You are a couple looking for a scenic, off-the-beaten-path experience
  • ✅ You are an adventure traveler comfortable with short forest trails
  • ✅ You want honest, local-level information before you go

This destination may not be ideal if:

  • ❌ You are expecting a developed beach resort with facilities
  • ❌ You require calm, guaranteed swimming conditions
  • ❌ You have mobility limitations that make stairs or uneven terrain difficult
  • ❌ You are visiting during peak afternoon hours and want a quiet experience

Getting There

Municipality: Maria, Siquijor
Barangay: Liloan
Island position: Eastern Siquijor

Secret Beach sits on the eastern coast of Siquijor, within the municipality of Maria. The access point is inside Barangay Liloan, reached via the circumferential road that circles the island.

From San Juan (most common starting point):
Follow the main circumferential road eastward through Lazi, then continue north toward Maria. The total distance from San Juan is approximately 25–30 kilometers. Travel time by scooter is roughly 45–60 minutes depending on stops.

From Siquijor Town (ferry port):
Head east along the circumferential road through Larena and Enrique Villanueva toward Maria. Distance is approximately 20–25 kilometers. Travel time by scooter is approximately 35–50 minutes.

Road condition:
The circumferential road to Maria is generally paved and in good condition. The access road leading into Barangay Liloan toward the beach entrance is narrower. Ride at a comfortable pace — the road has curves and some sections may be uneven after rain.

Transportation Options

Option Notes
🛵 Scooter Strongly recommended. Gives you full flexibility for the eastern loop.
🚗 Car / Van Accessible but parking is limited.
🛺 Tricycle / Tuktuk Available from town centers. Arrange return pickup or negotiate waiting time.
🚶 Walking Not practical from town.

Scooter Route

From San Juan, Secret Beach is best visited as part of an eastern Siquijor loop:

San Juan → Lazi Church & Convent → Cambugahay Falls → Lazi → Maria → Secret Beach → Salagdoong Beach → return via circumferential road


The Experience

You will smell the forest before you see the beach.

The trail from the parking area leads through a canopy of trees — a short but atmospheric walk that immediately separates Secret Beach from the island's more accessible coastal spots. The air is cooler here. The sound of the road disappears. By the time you reach the concrete stairs and begin your descent, the anticipation is already part of the experience.

At the bottom of the stairs, the forest opens onto a rocky coastline. The water is a deep, clear turquoise — the kind of color that looks almost unreal in photographs and somehow even more striking in person. Dark volcanic rock formations frame the beach on both sides, creating a natural enclosure that gives the place its secluded, discovered feeling.

The beach itself is not a wide, sandy stretch. It is intimate. Rocky in sections. The kind of place where you find a spot on the rocks, sit with the view and understand immediately why people make the effort to get here.

On most mornings, a small queue forms near the drone launch area. Visitors wait their turn for the aerial shot — the image that has made Secret Beach one of the most shared travel photos from Siquijor. The wait is part of the ritual.


Fees & Budget

Secret Beach Fees (2026)

Item Price
Environmental Fee — Local ₱50
Environmental Fee — Foreign Visitor ₱100
Environmental Fee — Resident Exempted
Scooter Parking ₱20
Tricycle / Tuktuk Parking ₱40
Car Parking ₱50
Drone Shot ₱300

⚠️ Fees may change without prior notice. Confirm current rates at the entrance before visiting.

 

Estimated Budget Per Person

Traveler Type Estimated Cost
Local visitor (scooter) ₱70–₱100
Foreign visitor (scooter, no drone) ₱120–₱150
Foreign visitor (scooter + drone shot) ₱420–₱450
Foreign visitor (tricycle + drone shot) ₱460–₱500

Safety & Local Advice

Swimming conditions: Swimming at Secret Beach depends heavily on tide and weather. The rocky coastline and wave exposure mean conditions can change. On calm days with low tide, the water near the rocks can be clear and inviting. On days with stronger swell, swimming is not advisable. Always assess conditions when you arrive.

Wave awareness: Strong waves can occur, particularly during the rainy season (June–November) and on days with strong wind. Rocks near the waterline can be slippery. Move carefully near the water's edge.

Footwear: The forest trail and rocky coastline require appropriate footwear. Sandals with grip or water shoes are recommended. Flip-flops are not ideal for the descent.

Personal belongings: There are no lockers or secure storage facilities. Keep valuables in a dry bag or leave them secured on your scooter. Bring only what you need for the visit.

Road safety: The road to Barangay Liloan has curves and narrow sections. Ride at a controlled pace, especially if you are unfamiliar with the route. Avoid riding after dark on unfamiliar roads.

Signal: Mobile signal can be limited in the Liloan area. Download your offline map before leaving your accommodation.


Best Time to Visit

Time Conditions
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM Best light for photography. Smaller crowds. Cooler temperature. Drone queue is shorter.
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Still good. Crowds begin to build. Light remains workable for photos.
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM Peak crowd period. Overhead light is harsh for photography. Warmer.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Crowds thin. Afternoon light can be good for wide shots. Check tide before swimming.
After 4:00 PM Beautiful golden light but check closing hours. Avoid riding back on unfamiliar roads after dark.

Seasonal note: The dry season (December–May) generally offers calmer seas and more reliable swimming conditions. The rainy season (June–November) brings stronger waves and occasional closures.


Photography Guide

The drone shot: The aerial view of Secret Beach is the image most associated with this destination. A drone operator is typically present and charges ₱300 for the shot. You do not need to bring your own drone. Arriving early reduces your wait time.

Best angle for ground photography: The elevated rock formations on either side of the beach offer strong vantage points. The contrast between dark volcanic rock and turquoise water is most vivid in morning light.

Best time for photography: 7:00 AM – 9:30 AM. The light is soft, directional and flattering.

Clothing tips: Bright, solid colors photograph well against the dark rock and blue water. White, coral and ocean tones are popular choices.

Waiting time for drone shot: Expect 15–45 minutes depending on the queue. Bring water and enjoy the view while you wait.


Nearby Attractions

Recommended Eastern Siquijor Route:

🛵 San Juan (start) → ⛪ Lazi Church & Convent → 💦 Cambugahay Falls → 🏖 Secret Beach (Brgy. Liloan, Maria) → 🏊 Salagdoong Beach → 🌅 Maria Viewpoint → 🛵 Return to San Juan

Estimated full-day loop time: 6–8 hours including stops, swimming and meals.

  • Salagdoong Beach — 10–15 minutes from Secret Beach. Developed beach with cliff jumping platform.
  • Lazi Convent — One of the oldest convents in Asia. Worth a 20-minute stop.
  • Cambugahay Falls — Freshwater tiered falls with rope swings. Popular morning stop before heading to the coast.

🧭 SiquiRide Smart Trip Assistant

Before You Go — Your Secret Beach Checklist

🛵 Reserve Your Scooter
The eastern side of Siquijor is best explored with your own transportation. A scooter gives you the freedom to combine Secret Beach, Salagdoong, Cambugahay Falls and Lazi in a single day — on your own schedule, without waiting for tricycles or negotiating fares.

🗺 Download Your Offline Map
Signal can be limited in Barangay Liloan and along parts of the eastern road. Download Google Maps offline for the Maria and Lazi area before leaving your accommodation.

🌦 Check the Weather Guide
Secret Beach is a coastal destination. Wave conditions, tide levels, and weather directly affect your swimming experience. Check conditions the evening before and the morning of your visit.

📦 What to Pack

  • Water shoes or sandals with grip (for rocky terrain and stairs)
  • Dry bag for valuables
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Sufficient water (no vendors on-site)
  • Cash for entrance fee, parking, and drone shot (₱300 if you want the aerial photo)
  • Light snacks if combining with a full-day loop

🏝 Explore More Attractions
Secret Beach pairs naturally with Salagdoong Beach, Cambugahay Falls and Lazi Church. Plan your eastern loop before you go.


Plan Your Visit

Most travelers visit Secret Beach as part of a full eastern Siquijor loop — combining it with Cambugahay Falls, Salagdoong Beach and the heritage stops in Lazi. Doing this loop by tricycle means negotiating fares, waiting for drivers and working around someone else's schedule.

Renting a scooter gives you the freedom to leave early, stay as long as you want at each stop, and return when you are ready — not when your driver is.

Reserve your SiquiRide scooter before arriving in Siquijor.
Availability is limited during peak season. Booking in advance guarantees your unit.


🚀 Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Everything you need to make your Siquijor visit seamless — in one place.

🛵

Rent a Scooter

Explore Secret Beach and the full eastern loop on your own schedule. Reserve your SiquiRide scooter before arriving — availability is limited during peak season.

Reserve a Scooter →

🏨

Where to Stay

Find accommodation close to the eastern loop. Staying in San Juan or Lazi puts you within easy scooter distance of Secret Beach, Salagdoong and Cambugahay Falls.

Browse Accommodation →

🗺️

Book a Tour

Prefer a guided experience? Join an eastern Siquijor island tour that covers Secret Beach, Salagdoong, Cambugahay Falls and Lazi — with a local guide who knows the island.

Book a Tour →

📍

Offline Island Map

Signal is limited in remote areas like Barangay Liloan. Get the SiquiRide offline map before you leave — navigate the eastern loop with confidence, no internet required.

Get the Offline Map →

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Secret Beach Siquijor located?
Secret Beach — also known as Bacong Beach or Kagusuan Beach — is located in Barangay Liloan, in the municipality of Maria, on the eastern side of Siquijor Island, Philippines.

How much is the entrance fee at Secret Beach Siquijor?
As of 2026, the environmental fee is ₱50 for local visitors and ₱100 for foreign visitors. Residents are exempted. Parking fees are separate: ₱20 for scooters, ₱40 for tricycles/tuktuks, and ₱50 for cars. Fees may change — confirm at the entrance.

How do I get to Secret Beach Siquijor?
Follow the circumferential road to the municipality of Maria, then proceed to Barangay Liloan. From San Juan, the drive is approximately 45–60 minutes by scooter. From Siquijor Town, allow 35–50 minutes.

Can I visit Secret Beach by scooter?
Yes — a scooter is the recommended way to visit Secret Beach. It gives you the flexibility to combine the destination with other eastern Siquijor stops like Salagdoong Beach and Cambugahay Falls in a single day.

Is Secret Beach Siquijor safe for swimming?
Swimming conditions depend on tide and weather. On calm days, the water near the rocks can be clear and swimmable. On days with strong swell, swimming is not advisable. Always assess conditions on arrival.

How much is the drone shot at Secret Beach?
The drone shot costs ₱300. A drone operator is typically present at the site. Arriving before 9 AM reduces your waiting time.

Is the drone shot at Secret Beach worth it?
For most visitors — yes. The aerial view is one of the most iconic travel images from Siquijor. Expect to wait 15–45 minutes depending on the queue.

What should I bring to Secret Beach Siquijor?
Bring water shoes or sandals with grip, a dry bag for valuables, reef-safe sunscreen, sufficient water (no vendors on-site) and cash for the entrance fee, parking and drone shot. Download an offline map before leaving — signal can be limited in the area.

What is the best time to visit Secret Beach Siquijor?
The best time to visit is between 7:00 AM and 9:30 AM. Morning light is ideal for photography, crowds are smaller, and the drone queue is shorter.

What is Secret Beach also called?
Secret Beach is also known as Bacong Beach and Kagusuan Beach. All three names refer to the same destination in Barangay Liloan, Maria, Siquijor.

Are there facilities at Secret Beach Siquijor?
Secret Beach is a natural destination with minimal facilities. There is a parking area and an entrance fee collection point. There are no beach resorts, restaurants, or vendor stalls on-site. Bring everything you need before arriving.

Can I combine Secret Beach with other Siquijor attractions?
Yes — Secret Beach is ideally visited as part of an eastern Siquijor loop. Recommended stops: Cambugahay Falls, Lazi Church and Convent, Salagdoong Beach and the Maria viewpoint. A scooter rental makes this loop practical and flexible.


Last updated: July 2026 · SiquiRide — DIY Siquijor Travel Guides & Scooter Rental Hub