Kagusuan Beach: Siquijor's Hidden Sunrise Gem

While most Siquijor visitors chase sunsets at Paliton Beach, a select few know about the island’s best-kept sunrise secret: Kagusuan Beach. This hidden gem on the southeast coast offers something rare in Siquijor—a pristine, uncrowded beach with dramatic rock formations, swaying palm trees, and the sun breaking over the horizon in spectacular fashion.

The Hidden Gem of Maria

Kagusuan Beach sits along the coastline of Maria municipality, on Siquijor’s southeast corner. Unlike the tourist-focused western beaches, Kagusuan retains an undeveloped, middle-of-nowhere ambiance that makes it feel like a genuine discovery.

The beach features fine white sand, clear aquamarine waters, tall coconut trees, and rock formations dotting different parts of the shore. It’s beautiful any time of day, but sunrise transforms it into something magical.

Why Sunrise at Kagusuan?

East-Facing Orientation

While Siquijor’s famous beaches face west (perfect for sunset), Kagusuan faces east—directly into the rising sun. This makes it the island’s premier sunrise location.

The Light

When the sun breaks the darkness of night over Kagusuan, the scene is breathtaking. The golden light illuminates the rock formations, dances on the water, and creates perfect photography conditions that last for the first hour of daylight.

The Solitude

At 5:30 AM, you’re likely to have the entire beach to yourself. No crowds, no noise—just you, the waves, and one of nature’s most spectacular daily shows.

The Composition

The combination of elements—palm trees, rock formations, powdery sand, and the endless ocean—creates natural frames and compositions that photographers dream about.

Getting There

The Challenge

Kagusuan Beach may be difficult to get to, but the effort it takes is worth it. The location is somewhat remote, with some rough roads and limited signage leading to the beach.

Directions

1. Head to Maria municipality on Siquijor’s southeast coast
2. Look for signs or ask locals for directions to Kagusuan Beach
3. The final approach may involve some unpaved roads
4. Park where the road ends and walk the remaining distance to the beach

Pre-Dawn Driving Tips

If you’re arriving for sunrise, you’ll be driving in the dark:

• Use a scooter with good headlights
• Drive slower than usual
• Consider doing a daytime reconnaissance trip the day before
• Bring a flashlight for walking

Photography Tips

Timing

• Blue hour (30 min before sunrise): Soft, cool light for moody shots
• Sunrise moment: Dramatic colors across the sky
• Golden hour (30 min after sunrise): Warm, directional light perfect for beach shots

Compositions to Try

1. Silhouettes: Palm trees and rock formations against the colorful sky
2. Long exposures: Smooth out the waves for ethereal water effects
3. Leading lines: Use the shoreline to guide the eye toward the horizon
4. Details: Shells, patterns in the sand, textures on rocks
5. Wide landscapes: Capture the full sweep of the beach and sky

Gear Recommendations

• Camera: Any camera with manual controls
• Tripod: Essential for low-light and long exposure shots
• Wide-angle lens: For expansive beach and sky shots
• Extra batteries: Cold mornings and long shoots drain batteries
• Lens cloth: Salt spray can mist your lens

Technical Settings

For sunrise photography, start with:

• Aperture: f/8-f/11 for maximum sharpness
• ISO: Start at 100, increase as needed
• Shutter speed: Varies with light; use tripod for slow speeds
• White balance: Auto or Daylight for natural colors

Beyond Sunrise

Beach Time

Once the sun is up, Kagusuan Beach is still worth exploring:

• Walk the shoreline and discover hidden coves
• Photograph the rock formations in detail
• Relax on the powdery sand
• Swim if conditions allow (always assess the water first)

The Rough Charm

Kagusuan Beach has what one visitor described as “a rough and charming appeal.” It’s not polished or resort-like—it’s wild and real. The powdery sand, rock formations, and sometimes rough seas all contribute to an authentic, untouched feeling.

The Vibe

With its middle-of-nowhere ambiance, Kagusuan offers an escape from Siquijor’s more visited spots. You’re likely to see few other tourists, making it perfect for those seeking solitude with their sunrise.

Planning Your Visit

Day Before

• Scout the route in daylight
• Charge all camera batteries
• Set multiple alarms (you don’t want to miss sunrise!)
• Prepare your gear the night before
• Check sunrise time (typically around 6:00-6:30 AM)

Morning Of

• Wake at least 1 hour before sunrise
• Leave with plenty of time for the drive
• Bring warm layer (mornings can be surprisingly cool)
• Pack water and snacks
• Arrive 20-30 minutes before sunrise

After Sunrise

Consider combining with nearby attractions:

• Salagdoong Beach: About 20 minutes away
• Cambugahay Falls: 30-40 minutes away
• Lazi town: 25 minutes away for breakfast

Weather Considerations

Dry Season (November-May)

• Best conditions for sunrise photography
• Calmer seas typically
• Clearer skies more likely

Wet Season

• Dramatic clouds can enhance sunrise photos
• Rougher seas
• Greater chance of rain (check forecasts)

Cloud Cover

Light clouds on the horizon can actually improve sunrise photos, catching the colors of the rising sun. A completely clear sky sometimes results in less dramatic images. Light cloud cover is often ideal.

Comparing East vs. West

Siquijor offers both sunrise and sunset opportunities:

Both experiences are valuable—consider catching sunrise at Kagusuan and sunset at Paliton for the complete Siquijor light experience.

Final Thoughts

Kagusuan Beach isn’t for everyone. It requires early mornings, some navigational effort, and the willingness to forgo creature comforts. There are no beach bars serving San Miguels, no loungers to relax on, no crowds to share the moment with.

But for photographers, solitude seekers, and those who love discovering hidden places, Kagusuan Beach is a treasure. Watching the sun rise over those rock formations, with the sound of waves and the cool morning air, is an experience that captures everything special about Siquijor—natural beauty, mystery, and the sense of being somewhere truly off the beaten path.

Set your alarm, charge your camera, and make the journey. The sunrise at Kagusuan Beach is waiting.