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Cebu is sometimes overlooked compared to other islands in the Philippines. It is often used as a springboard to get to other islands in the area and while people pass through many miss out on what Cebu in the Philippines has to offer.
The secret has started to spread about the incredible experiences on offer on this island in the Philippines and this guide will share some of the best things to do and see on Cebu and will help you to plan your adventure to this underrated destination.
What is the Philippines known for?
There are a total of 7,641 islands in the Philippines. There are only 2,000 which are inhabited. The Philippines is the country with the second largest amount of islands in Southeast Asia after Indonesia.
Spectacular white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water and untouched nature are perfect for adventurers and beach bums.
Wildlife spotting including swimming with Whale Sharks, the tiny tarsier and Dugong.
Rich in culture, traditions and cuisine including a worthy mention of adobo the national dish which is a staple sauce featuring vinegar soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns
WHAT IS CEBU KNOWN FOR?
The name Cebu refers both to the island and to Cebu City. Cebu province is made up of 168 islands.
Cebu is the largest island in the Visayas group of islands and is located in the centre of the Philippines.
Cebu city is an alternative to Manila, as a gateway into the Philippines with easy access to many of the country's best islands.
Cebu boasts fantastic diving around its coastline, beautiful waterfalls that are world famous, paradisiacal white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water.
WHEN is the best time TO VISIT CEBU?
July to October - considered as the low season, this is the best time to visit if you’d like to avoid the crowds and have a good chance of finding cheaper deals. As a budget friendly destination, this is when prices are the cheapest as you are less likely to get dry weather that is more typical in January to April however temperatures are still relatively warm.
January to April - this is the dry season where temperatures average 30-34°C and is the best time for guaranteed good weather and less humidity. The Sinolog Festival or Santo Nino Festival is held on the third Sunday in January and is a very popular and celebrates the history with a parade of dance. Along with the better weather expect more crowds as this is the peak season to visit.
How to get to cebu?
FLYING
If you arriving as an international traveler, the Mactan-Cebu International Airport services various international flights. We flew to Cebu from Singapore with ease and the airport is now connected to over 21 international destinations. Cebu city is approximately a 20 minute drive from the airport depending on city traffic. If you’re unable to find a direct flight to Cebu, there is the option of getting a connecting flight from Manila airport (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) as this is the largest and busiest airport in the Philippines.
FERRY
As the Philippines is made up of thousands of islands, boats are sometimes the easiest way to get from island to island. Depending on where you are arriving from, there is a large port in Cebu city where you can get ferries to and from Manila, Tagbilaran (Bohol/Alona Beach), Negros (Dumaguete), Leyte and more. This is usually a much slower way of travel, so be prepared to take your time on the boat.
How to get Around cebu?
We used a mixture of taxis, motorbike hire and the local bus services that loop the island. If you are planning to visit some of the nearby islands then you will also be using the ferry services. We loved using the local buses to get around the main roads and from location to location. Once we had arrived somewhere we would then hire a motorbike to explore the local area. This turned out to be the easiest and most stress free way to travel with our baggage. It was also very affordable and easy.
Is Cebu worth visiting?
The island of Cebu is a great central location in the Philippines, ideal for exploring nearby islands and also has so much to offer from beautiful sandy beaches to pristine waterfalls. Nature is abundant in this part of the Philippines from mountains to nature reserves, there is plenty of adventure for thrill-seekers and it’s a good place to try local dishes.
what to see and do IN CEBU
Cebu City
The starting place for most people visiting Cebu Island. With access to transport links around the island and ferry access to islands such as Bohol it is a great place to arrive. We personally didn’t spend much time in the city as like most people the reason for visiting Cebu and the Philippines is to explore the beautiful beaches and nature of the country. Having said that Cebu City is a vibrant place to be and a couple of days to explore the city is worthwhile.
Moalboal
One of our favourite places on Cebu. We actually stayed longer here than we originally planned to. We spent our time snorkelling off the coast looking for sea turtles. Normally very common it took us two days to find one. The wait was worth it though and it was a big beautiful turtle. We hired a motorbike and stayed a little outside of Moalboal at a place called White Beach. It was relaxed and a great escape, yet we had access to everything we needed in Gaisano Town Center.
Kawasan Falls
If there is one thing that attracts visitors to Cebu then it is these waterfalls. It is the second most popular thing and place to do and see only behind swimming with Whale Sharks. You can read our guide to Kawasan Falls here.
Diving with Whale Sharks
It is controversial and the ethics surrounding swimming with Whale Sharks is very questionable but it is still a very popular experience and something that attracts many visitors to the island. It gets busier and busier every year and the idea of limiting numbers would be a great idea and benefit the Sharks that everyone comes to see. Read about our experience of swimming with these gentle giants in Oslob here.
Diving and SNORKELLING
Plenty of fantastic diving locations around the island of Cebu with Moalboal and the island of Malapascua off the Northern tip of Cebu being amongst the most popular locations. Large beautiful reefs teeming with marine life. The colours and diversity is incredible. If you don’t know how to dive then these locations are also fantastic for snorkeling as well.
Tumalog Falls
Another popular waterfall that is not far from Oslob. The cascading falls look like a watery umbrella falling down above you. The large blue pool is also popular for swimming.
Island Hopping NEAR CEBU
Bohol
A large beautiful island with fantastic beaches, wildlife and hills. Read our guide here to discover more about Bohol.
Siquijor
Add Siquijor into an island hopping loop with Cebu and Bohol. You will love your time on this small island and its very laid back lifestyle. It is said that the island used to be home to people practising witchcraft. Read about our visit here.
Malapascua
Famous for its reefs and diving a smaller island off the north tip of Cebu and well worth a visit. You will see some of the bluest water in the world here.
Negros
Home to Dumaguete, a vibrant city that is a port town and connection hub for your island hopping experience. Negros is the 4th largest island in the Philippines.
