Things to do in Cebu, Philippines: guide to beaches, waterfalls and diving

The best time to visit Cebu is during the dry season, from December to May. April and May are the hottest months, ideal if you want guaranteed sun. At this time of year the weather is more stable and perfect for enjoying the beaches, waterfalls and hikes.

⚠️ Try to avoid typhoon season, from August to October, since the rain can ruin tours and ferry transfers.

Cebu is one of the most accessible islands in the Philippines thanks to its international airport, which gets flights from Manila, El Nido, Coron, Siargao and other international destinations. It's an excellent gateway into or out of the country.

💡 Tip: If you're traveling between islands, Cebu has direct ferry connections to places like Bohol, Siquijor and Negros Oriental. We recommend using platforms like 12Go Asia to see prices and schedules and to book ahead.

Getting around Cebu is easy if you know which option suits your travel style:

🛵 Scooter rental

The most common and cheapest option. You can rent a motorbike for about 350 PHP a day and freely explore waterfalls, beaches and viewpoints. The distances between sights are usually 1 hour or more, so if you're up for it, it's the most flexible option.

🚗 Car rental

Ideal if you don't feel comfortable on a motorbike and you're traveling with more people. It also gives you independence and the comfort of moving at your own pace.

🚐 Public transport and the yellow bus

There's a yellow bus that makes stops along the coast. It's cheap and connects towns, although it tends to take quite a while. It works if you have time and want to save money.

🚕 Tricycle or taxi

Tricycles (the Filipino tuk-tuk) and taxis cost more, but they're comfortable for short distances within towns or for getting to more out-of-the-way places to stay.

🚌 Long-distance transport

For longer trips, such as:

• Cebu City to Moalboal: we took a 4-hour bus that cost 240 PHP per person.
• Cebu City to the north (Malapascua, Bantayan or Kalanggaman): a trip of more than 4 hours, but also cheap.

💡 In our Moalboal guide we explain step by step how to get there from Cebu City.

Cebu is an incredibly varied island in the Philippines, with activities ranging from diving and waterfalls to idyllic beaches and mountains with panoramic views. In this guide we tell you what to do in the island's main areas so you can plan your itinerary around your interests and the days you have.

Southern Cebu

1. Moalboal: snorkeling, waterfalls and diving

Moalboal is one of the best all-around destinations in southern Cebu. There you can snorkel with thousands of sardines a few meters from shore, dive at Pescador Island, go canyoneering at Kawasan Falls and visit some of the island's most impressive waterfalls, like Inambakan and Dao. It's also the ideal starting point for climbing Osmeña Peak and the lesser-known but beautiful Casino Peak.

📍 For more details on each of these activities, places to stay and how to get there, read our complete guide 👉 Things to do in Moalboal

2. DON'T swim with the whale sharks in Oslob

One of the most popular tourist activities in Cebu is swimming with whale sharks, the biggest fish in the world. Sadly, in Oslob this encounter doesn't happen naturally all year round. Instead, the whale sharks are fed to attract tourists. This practice has altered the migration and feeding habits of these marine creatures. You only have to look at a few images of the scene, with dozens of tourists swimming right next to the animal, to see how unethical this activity is.

There are other places in the Philippines where you can see whale sharks naturally. So if you want a more ethical and authentic experience, we recommend looking into these alternatives and considering a visit to one of them.

Northern Cebu

1. Malapascua Island:

Famous around the world as a diving paradise and for the chance to swim with thresher sharks.

Malapascua Island is in the Visayan Sea, about 7 km north of Cebu. To get there, you can take a 4-hour bus from Cebu City and then a 30-minute boat to the island.

2. Kalanggaman Island

Kalanggaman Island is a slice of paradise off the northeast coast of Cebu. It's famous for its sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear water and a palm grove.

3. Bantayan Island

It's off the northwest tip of Cebu and easy to reach by boat from Malapascua Island. It has white-sand beaches, saltwater lagoons, mangroves, caves and old ruins. It's perfect for spending 2 or 3 days.

Cebu has many areas where you can stay, depending on which part of the island you want to explore. These are the most recommended:

• Cebu City: Ideal if you arrive late or need to spend a night before heading to the south or north of the island.
• Moalboal: Perfect for snorkeling with sardines, waterfalls and adventure activities. There are lots of options for every budget.
• Samboan: A good base for visiting several waterfalls in the south. Few restaurants, but plenty of peace and quiet.
• Malapascua: Recommended if you want to dive with thresher sharks or rest on a small, relaxed island.
• Bantayan Island: If you're looking for quiet beaches.

💡 Cebu has options for every travel style: from cheap hostels to boutique hotels on the beach.