Lugnason Falls

Lugnason is the waterfall to go to when Cambugahay is too busy. It is a small fall in San Juan, a short ride inland, where two streams drop about 5 metres over a mossy limestone wall into a round, blue-green pool with forest all around.

Prices, fees and schedules in this guide were checked in October 2026. They change often, so use them as a guide and confirm with the operator or venue before you go.

You will also hear it called Zodiac Falls, after the chain of smaller cascades on the same stream, and some locals say "Lugnasan". It gets a fraction of Cambugahay's visitors, which is the main reason to come.

Lugnason suits anyone staying in San Juan who wants a quick, quiet swim, and anyone who found Cambugahay too crowded. The walk in is short and mostly easy, so it fits into a morning without much planning.

If you want rope swings, rafts and snack stalls, go to Cambugahay. And come at the very end of the dry season with low expectations: the falls can slow to a trickle and look nothing like the photos.

The falls are about 15 minutes by scooter from the San Juan strip or Paliton Beach. Drop a map pin on Lugnason Falls before you set off, because the turning is easy to miss. A tricycle or habal-habal from San Juan is usually ₱100 to ₱150 each way, depending on how well you bargain.

Park by the road where the trail starts. A dirt path runs down through the forest and reaches the falls in about 15 minutes. It is marked, so you do not need a guide, though locals sometimes offer.

Photo: Jonny Melon (jonnymelon.com)

For ferries and the departure fee, see the Siquijor travel guide.

Entry is ₱20 per person. Older blogs describe Lugnason as free, which is out of date. Bring small change, plus a little extra in case there is a parking charge.

The main pool

The pool under the falls is deep enough to swim and properly blue on a sunny day. Some people jump from the top of the falls. If you do, check the depth and look for rocks first, and do not jump when the water is murky after rain.

Photo: Jonny Melon (jonnymelon.com)

Downstream: the water chutes and cold spring

Carry on down the trail and you reach concrete water channels built along the stream, then a cold spring that is great for a dip. Steep wooden stairs near the spring climb back to the main road, so you do not have to retrace your steps. Turn right at the top to get back to your bike.

The Zodiac Falls hike

Behind the main pool, the stream keeps going through a chain of smaller cascades. Ask at the entrance about a guided hike if you want to see more than the main pool.

Go in the morning, when the light is on the pool and there is hardly anyone around. The falls are open 8am to 5pm.

Lugnason lives on rainfall. One blogger who came in the dry season found it almost dry, while after heavy rain the pool turns cloudy and the path gets slick. The months just before and after the driest stretch are usually the best balance.

Footwear

Wear water shoes or sandals with real grip. The trail is dirt and roots, and the rocks around the pool are slippery.

Pair it

Do Lugnason in the morning, then spend the afternoon at Paliton Beach and stay for sunset.

Bring

Water, insect repellent, small cash and a dry bag.

Want another quiet one?

Lagaan Falls is the other low-key option. It is ₱50 plus a tip for the guide, who is mandatory, and it is open 8am to 5pm.

Is Lugnason Falls free?

No. Entry is ₱20 per person.

Is Lugnason Falls the same as Zodiac Falls?

Mostly, yes. Zodiac Falls is the name for the smaller cascades along the same stream, and people often use it for Lugnason as a whole.

How long is the walk to Lugnason Falls?

About 15 minutes along a dirt trail from the roadside parking.

Lugnason or Cambugahay?

Cambugahay is bigger, with swings and rafts, but much busier. Lugnason is smaller and quieter. If you have time, see both, and go early to each.

Back to the Siquijor travel guide. Nearby: San Juan, Paliton Beach and Cambugahay Falls.