Escape to Paradise: Coco Grove Beach Resort, Siquijor Island
Coco Grove: My Siquijor Slice of Heaven (and a Few Tiny Hiccups!) - A Review That's Actually Honest
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the beans (and maybe a little of the leftover buffet coffee) on Coco Grove Beach Resort in Siquijor. Forget the perfectly curated Instagram posts. This is the real deal, warts and all, because honestly, sometimes the imperfections are what make a place truly memorable.
(SEO Note: We're hitting all the keywords here, folks: Coco Grove, Siquijor, beach resort, Philippines, accessibility, WIFI, spa, dining, activities, etc. But we're doing it with personality!)
Getting There & Getting Around: A Tropical Tango of Ease (Mostly!)
So, getting to Siquijor is a journey, right? Fly into Dumaguete (convenient, I swear!), then it's a ferry ride. Coco Grove offers airport transfers – airport transfer is a lifesaver, let me assure you, especially after a long flight! They also have car park [free of charge] and car park [on-site]. Once there, navigating the resort is pretty smooth. The paths are generally well-maintained; however, I didn't see any specifically labeled facilities for disabled guests, so if you have mobility concerns, confirm specific needs beforehand. They did have an elevator, which is a definite plus! And if you want to explore outside, taxi service is available.
(Emotional Response: I'm a sucker for a smooth arrival! Grabbing that transfer after the ferry was a godsend. Otherwise, I was a little, okay, a lot green around the gills! )
Accessibility: Not Quite ADA-Compliant, But Considerate
While not a fully ADA-compliant resort (and I'm being honest here, none of the resorts in this region are, as far as I know! ), Coco Grove did seem thoughtful in a few areas. Facilities for disabled guests weren't explicitly stated, but pathways were generally wide, and the staff were incredibly helpful. I didn't personally need it, but I observed them assisting other guests with a grace that spoke volumes. Definitely call ahead if you have particular requirements, just to avoid any nasty surprises.
Rooms: The Sweet Spot Between Rustic Charm and Modern Comfort
Let's talk rooms! My room was a delightful blend of island vibes and comfort. Air conditioning was a must-have, and it worked like a charm. I had a perfectly acceptable mirror, hair dryer, and a refrigerator for those late-night snacks (important!). I even had a balcony, which was bliss for sipping my morning coffee! Now, here's the kicker - Blackout curtains!! This is a game-changer. Siquijor has that lovely sunlight that creeps into your room, ready or not, and with the blackout curtains, you can sleep until noon! I'm a fan.
Internet – The Eternal Struggle (But They Tried!)
Ah, the internet. Let's be real: island life and reliable Wi-Fi rarely go hand in hand. Coco Grove offers Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and the strength varied. I'm not going to lie; it was better in some spots than others, but I could still update my Instagram with all the fun I was having. However, the dedicated Internet access - LAN was much more stable. Public areas had Wi-Fi in public areas, too, but again, it wasn't always crystal clear. (Minor gripe: I really wish they had a more powerful signal!)
(Quirky Observation: Let's be real, no trip to the Philippines is complete without a little bit of internet frustration. It's part of the charm! And the resort had a little warning, giving a little bit of grace for the imperfections)
Dining: A Culinary Adventure for Every Palate (Mostly!)
Food, glorious food! And Coco Grove has it in spades. They have Restaurants and Poolside bars. I loved the Asian breakfast and Western breakfast Buffet in restaurant, which I got almost every day. The Coffee/tea in restaurant were also pretty top-notch. Room service [24-hour] was a savior after a long day of snorkeling. The Snack bar offers great snacks. A la carte in restaurant style was also available, with Desserts in restaurant to finish. Happy hour at the bar was a must-do. Bonus points for offering Alternative meal arrangement to accommodate dietary needs!
(Emotional Reaction: The breakfast buffet? Heaven. Absolute heaven. I may have gained a few pounds, but it was totally worth it. I love the desserts!)
Things to Do: Relaxation, Adventure, and Everything In Between
Okay, let's talk activities and relaxation! They have a Swimming pool [outdoor], which is perfect if you want to lounge around all day (I do!). There's the Fitness center and Gym/fitness if you desire to keep your workout routine! The Spa/sauna has Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage, and a Foot bath! If you're the adventurous type, snorkeling and diving are a must in Siquijor. For the kids, they have Family/child friendly. (Anecdote:) I spent hours in the Swimming pool, just floating and taking pictures. It was the perfect way to recharge after a day of exploring.
Cleanliness & Safety: Prioritizing Your Peace of Mind
In this day and age, safety is paramount. Coco Grove showed they cared. Anti-viral cleaning products were clearly used. I saw the Daily disinfection in common areas, and they had Hand sanitizer stations everywhere. Rooms sanitized between stays, and staff were Staff trained in safety protocol. I felt very safe and comfortable. Safe dining setup was there, too.
(Rambling Thought: It was reassuring to know that the staff took all the precautions. I was just really pleased to be away from my usual routines!)
Services & Conveniences: Making Life Easier
The little things make a difference! Coco Grove had a Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Dry cleaning, Facilities for disabled guests, and Laundry service. Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, and a Gift/souvenir shop are also available
(Honest Moment: The laundry service was a lifesaver. My clothes were perpetually sandy. I totally utilized those services!)
For the Kids
They have Babysitting service.
Areas Where They Could Improve (Because Even Paradise Has Its Quirks)
- Internet Strength: Seriously, improve the Wi-Fi signal, please!
- Accessibility Clarity: While the staff were helpful, more signage and information regarding accessible features would be beneficial.
- More Variety for Vegetarian Options: The vegetarian options, while available, could be expanded.
The Verdict: Book It, You Won't Regret It!
Here's the bottom line: Coco Grove Beach Resort is a fantastic escape. It's not perfect (nothing ever is!), but it's charming, comfortable, and offers a truly relaxing experience. The staff are super friendly, the location is stunning, and the overall vibe is pure island bliss. (Emotional Reaction: Honestly, I'm already dreaming of going back. The sunsets, the water, the food… it's all utterly magical! )
My compelling offer for Escape to Paradise: Coco Grove Beach Resort, Siquijor Island
Escape to Paradise: Coco Grove Beach Resort, Siquijor Island
Tired of the same old vacation routine? Craving a getaway that blends adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise? Then look no further than Coco Grove Beach Resort in Siquijor, Philippines!
Here's why you need to book your stay now:
- Breathtaking Location: Nestled on the pristine shores of Siquijor, Coco Grove offers stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to truly disconnect from the world (while still being able to update those Instagram stories!).
- Immerse Yourself: Indulge in a range of water activities like snorkeling and diving. Or pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa experience, including massages, body scrubs, and wraps.
- Culinary Delights: Savor delectable Asian and Western cuisine, and international dishes at the resort's restaurants. Enjoy room service for midnight cravings, and sip on refreshing cocktails at the poolside bar.
- Relaxation and Comfort: Unwind in comfortable rooms with air conditioning, and enjoy amenities like free Wi-Fi to stay connected (although, embrace the digital detox!). Take advantage of the resort's facilities, including a swimming pool and fitness center.
- Safe and Secure: Rest assured with safety protocols in place, clean and sanitized spaces, and a vigilant staff committed to your well-being.
Special Offer: Book your stay with us today and receive a complimentary welcome drink, and a discount on a couples massage!
Coco Grove Beach Resort: Ready for the perfect tropical escape? Book your trip to paradise today!
(Link to the booking website)
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Coco Grove & My Soul's Little Dance: A Siquijor Saga (aka, What Really Happened)
Okay, fine. You want a travel itinerary for Coco Grove in Siquijor? You got it. But fair warning: this isn't your glossy brochure, folks. This is me, mid-sunburn, probably covered in sand, spilling the honest-to-goodness truth about what went down. Buckle up.
Day 1: Arrival & Beach Bliss (aka, From Chaos to Calm…Maybe?)
8:00 AM: The Cebu Adventure (aka, The Pre-Siquijor Panic)
- Landing in Cebu was… well, let's just say it involved a near-miss with a rogue baggage cart and the overwhelming urge to scream into a pillow. The airport felt like the Wild West. Immigration was a sweaty, frantic dance. Seriously, I'm pretty sure I aged five years just trying to navigate the chaos.
- Anecdote: Saw a kid with a Pikachu backpack. Instantly felt better. Small victories, people. Small victories.
10:00 AM: Ferry Fiasco (aka, Sea Legs, Schmsea Legs)
- Took a ferry to Siquijor. The "fast craft" lived up to its name, mostly because I think the captain treated it like a speedboat. My stomach did not appreciate the waves. I may or may not have contributed to the sea's general saltiness. (Spoiler: I did.)
- Emotional Reaction: I swear, during that boat ride, I went through all five stages of grief for my breakfast.
1:00 PM: Coco Grove Check-In (aka, Paradise…with a Slightly Murky Pool)
- Holy moly. Coco Grove. Pictures do not do it justice. The beach is gorgeous. The water? Crystal clear. The air? Thick with the scent of salt and impending relaxation.
- Impression: The resort itself is a bit…tired. Definitely showing its age. My room had a slight musty smell, and the pool, while pretty, seemed to have a permanent film of something on the surface. But honestly? I didn't care. The view from my balcony was enough to make me forget everything, and I was already planning to spend 90% of my time in the ocean anyway.
2:00 PM: Beach Bumming & Sun-Kissed Bliss
- Spent a glorious afternoon doing absolutely nothing. Reading a book, occasionally glancing from the pages to the waves.
- Quirk Observation: Witnessed a small crab attempting to steal a discarded french fry. He was very ambitious for such a tiny creature. He got away with it.
- Messy Thought: This is it. This is why I travel. This is why I suffer through baggage cart near-death experiences. This is the sun on my skin, the sand between my toes, and the utter stillness in my soul.
- Opinionated: The hotel sun lounger cushions are a bit… old and stained, but the view makes up for it.
6:00 PM: Seafood Dinner with a View (aka, The Sunset That Stole My Damn Heart)
- Dinner at the resort's restaurant. Fresh seafood. Cold beer. And a sunset that was so ridiculously beautiful it actually made me tear up a little. No joke.
- Double-Down on the Experience: The colours were insane. Pinks, oranges, purples, all melting into the horizon. I sat there, shell-shocked, just staring. It was… transcendent. I felt completely connected to something bigger than myself. It was pure magic. All I wanted to do was stay there - forever.
- Rating: 5/5 sunsets. (Would have been 6, but the service was a little slow.)
8:00 PM: Evening Stroll & Early Bedtime (aka, The Sweet Surrender to Slumber)
- A slow walk along the beach under the stars. The air was warm, the waves gentle. Then, bed. Exhausted but utterly content.
Day 2: Island Exploration and Waterfall Wows (aka, Becoming a Waterfall Worshipper)
8:00 AM: Breakfast Blues (aka, The Great Coffee Conundrum)
- Hotel breakfast was…adequate. The coffee was a watery disappointment, but the mangoes? Sublime.
- Rant: Why is good coffee so hard to find sometimes?!
9:00 AM: Scooter Adventure! (aka, Almost Dying a Thousand Tiny Deaths)
- Rented a scooter. First time. I'm not going to lie - I was terrified. Driving on the wrong side of the road, dodging potholes, and fighting off stray dogs made me feel like I'd entered an actual video game.
- Honest Reaction: I screamed a lot. My palms were sweaty. But I. Survived.
- Category: Transportation & Safety Consider the roads really really rough.
- Suggestion: Consider hiring a driver.
10:00 AM: Cambugahay Falls (aka, Falling in Love with Waterfalls)
- Oh. My. God. Cambugahay Falls. Pure, unadulterated, waterfall perfection. Turquoise water. The perfect temperature. The rope swing? Ridiculously fun. This is where I became a full-blown waterfall worshiper.
- Double-Down on the Experience: I spent hours there. Swinging, swimming, laughing until my stomach hurt. It was pure, unadulterated joy. The energy of the place was infectious. It washes over you.
- Flawed Note: Okay, the pathway down is a bit treacherous. Seriously. Wear shoes that have decent grip. And watch your step.
- Final Opinion: If you don't go to Cambugahay Falls, you haven't really been to Siquijor.
1:00 PM: Lunch in the Village (aka, Authentic Food, Questionable Sanitation)
- Ate lunch at a small, local eatery near the falls. The food was delicious, but the flies… well, let's just say I developed a newfound respect for the concept of "fly-swatting".
- Rambling Thought: It's amazing how differently cultures experience simple things, like eating. I wonder how often tourists get ill from the food, who knows, but it's something that is part of travelling, part of life. You'll probably get a little sick, and that's okay.
- Important Reminder: Always bring hand sanitizer.
2:00 PM: Exploring San Juan (aka, Finding My Happy Place)
- Drove along the coast. Saw a bunch of little villages, colorful houses, and more stunning scenery that I could possibly process.
- Quirky Observation: So many goats. They were everywhere. Just goats, goats, goats.
- Emotional Reaction: There's something so peaceful about this island. It's like time slows down. Like everyone is just… happier.
4:00 PM: Paliton Beach (aka, Sandy Feet and Soulful Vibes)
- Visited Paliton Beach. Said to be a smaller, less-visited beach than those in Coco Grove. It was beautiful, quiet, and a total escape from the busier part of the island.
- Opinionated: The sand is pristine. The water is crystal clear. It's the perfect place to just chill.
6:00 PM: Return to Coco Grove & Dinner (aka, The Evening's Anticipation)
- Back to the resort and got ready for the evening.
7:00 PM: Dinner at the Coco Grove Restaurant
- Some entertainment and good ambiance.
Day 3: Snorkelling! Last Day! (aka, Farewell to Paradise… Sob)
9:00 AM: Snorkelling & Coral Reefs (aka, Underwater Wonderland!)
- Snorkelling! The reef was amazing, so colorful. There were so many fish!
- Messy Thought: So many beautiful things, and I forget to take the correct photos or videos.
12:00 PM: Packing and Departure (aka, The Grief of Goodbye)
- Checked-out and headed back to the mainland.
- Honest Reaction: Leaving Siquijor was hard. I wanted to stay forever. I would go back in a heartbeat.
Final Thoughts (aka, The Truth About Coco Grove)
Coco Grove is a good base for exploring Siquijor, but it's not perfect. The resort is a bit dated. Sometimes, the service is a little slow. But the location? Unbeatable. The beach? Gorgeous. The island itself? Utterly enchanting.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. Just go with realistic expectations. And for goodness sake, go to Cambugahay Falls. And pack your adventure shoes, bring the hand sanitizer, and be prepared to fall in love with this slice of Filipino paradise.
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Sun House Awaits in Hua Hin/Cha-am!
Is Coco Grove *really* paradise? Ugh, the big question...
Okay, let's get real. Is it paradise? The photos? Yeah, those are pretty. The reality? Well... it *leans* towards paradise, after a few margaritas. Look, it's stunning. The beach? White sand, turquoise water... postcard material. I mean, picture this: I'm strolling along the beach, the sand squishing between my toes (seriously, AMAZING feeling, by the way), and BAM! A frickin' starfish, bright orange, like it was posing for me. That's the good stuff.
But… (and there's always a but, isn't there?). I had this one afternoon where a rogue wave (that snuck up on me, I swear!) completely soaked my Kindle. Talk about a mood killer. So… paradise? 85% of the time, yes. The other 15%? Dealing with the realities of island life. Expect some power outages – embraced it, honestly. The lack of AC in the cottages on the first night sent me into a mild panic. But, with the sea breeze and the sound of waves, was a memorable experience.
What's the food situation like? Because if I'm hangry, things get ugly.
Okay, food. This is IMPORTANT. There are a few restaurants at Coco Grove. The main one, Al Fresco, is good and convenient. The food is usually pretty good... the adobo was the best I've had in a while. Prices are a bit on the "resort" side, which, honestly, is to be expected. Expect to spend some money or eating.
My tip? Venture outside the resort. Seriously. Get a tricycle (more on those little gems later) and explore. There are some *amazing* little eateries nearby. I found this tiny place, completely off the beaten path, that served the freshest grilled seafood I think I've ever tasted. It was so good I actually went back three times. The only downside? The guy who owned it kept trying to sell me a local bottle of rum that I was afraid to open. But, hey, part of the adventure, right?
Breakfast? They do a buffet, and it's... adequate. Don't expect Michelin-star quality. Expect eggs, some fruit, and coffee that may or may not be strong enough to wake you up. But hey, you're on vacation! Embrace the slightly-less-than-perfect breakfast. It's part of the charm.
Where is the place located exactly?.
Coco Grove is located in Siquijor Island, Philippines. They're not that far from each other, so depending on what your transportation is, you can definitely reach them.
The exact address is:
San Juan, 6227 Siquijor, PhilippinesThe rooms...are they as dreamy in real life as they look online?
Okay, deep breaths. Rooms. Some are dreamy. Some are… functional. It depends on what you book. The beachfront bungalows? YES, dreamy. Waking up and literally stumbling onto the sand? Priceless. I had a moment, (okay, a LOT of moments), where I just sat on my porch, staring at the ocean, thinking, "This is the life."
But my friend booked what he thought was a beachfront bungalow, based on a blurry photo he found online. Turns out, it was *behind* the beachfront bungalows and, while still perfectly nice, didn't have the same "wake up to paradise" vibe. Lesson learned: double-check those room descriptions and look for reviews that specifically mention the location. Also, if you are looking for a modern hotel and the room is a bit dated, well, adjust your expectations.
And the AC... ah, the AC. As mentioned previously, I was a little worried about no AC but I quickly learned that once you open the windows up, the sea breeze is a blessing. Bring a room fan. It's not a resort that's trying to be something it's not and that's something to be appreciated.
What is the best way to get to Coco Grove? And is it a hassle?
Okay, transportation time. Getting to Siquijor is a bit of an adventure, but honestly, part of the fun. Most folks fly into Dumaguete and then hop on a ferry. The ferry is fine, about 1 to 2 hours.. Then, when you reach Siquijor Island, you'll most likely take a tricycle to the resort. Some of the trip can be rough but the staff in Coco Grove will help you!
What are the activities like? Besides, you know, breathing in the fresh sea air and contemplating life.
Oh, there's stuff to do! Snorkeling and diving are HUGE. The coral reefs around Siquijor are amazing, so bring a snorkel or rent one. I saw a turtle, a real-life, actual, honest-to-goodness sea turtle! Almost peed my wetsuit (kidding… mostly).
You can rent kayaks. Visit the Cambugahay Falls – a must-do! You'll wade through the water, swing from a rope, and feel like a kid again. Just… watch out for the slippery rocks. I took a tumble. A majestic, graceful tumble that involved a lot of splashing and a bruised ego.
I doubled down on the snorkeling because there was no chance I'd brave the diving. (I'm a terrible swimmer... shhh, don't tell anyone). You can also go on a tour around the island. The whole island is worth exploring, even if some of the roads are a bit... bumpy.
Coco Grove can help you arrange all the activities, but you can often find better deals by arranging things yourself. So, be prepared to negotiate a bit. And tip well – the locals are incredibly friendly. And after my water-logged Kindle incident, I decided to spend more time doing more things I just couldn't do at home.
What's the vibe? Chill? Party? Somewhere in between?
Chiiiiill. Mostly chill. It's not a party resort. It's more of a "relax and recharge" kind of place. There's a bar, and they have some music occasionally, but don't expect Vegas-level craziness. It's more about sunsets, quiet conversations, and the sound of the waves. Which, honestly, is exactly what I needed. But if you are looking for parties or loud activities, then look elsewhereTravel Stay Guides
