8 Best Things To Do In Moalboal, Cebu, Philippines 2024
Moalboal is situated on the island of Cebu, one of the larger islands of the Filipino archipelago and home to the vibrant Cebu City. 3 hours south from the main city, you can find the small town of Moalboal which holds some of the best snorkelling just a stones throw away from the beach. The epic sardine run has made Moalboal a popular tourist destination and a must on any backpackers route., here's the best things to do in Moalboal.
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Here's 8 Of The Best Things To Do In Moalboal
Moalboal Sardine Run - Snorkel With Millions Of Sardines
Just a stone throw away from the shores of Moalboal is a natural phenomenon that can only be seen in a handful of places around the world, the Moalboal Sardine Run. Snorkel amongst millions of sardines which form a bait ball as a defense mechanism from predators, this truly is a once in a lifetime experience. You can do this activity on your own from Panagsama Beach however we wish we hired a guide to get the most out of the experience. Location 📌
White Beach - Beautiful White Sand Beach, Perfect For Relaxing
If you’re looking for a calm relaxing day at the beach, then White Beach is far better for its silky smooth sand and shallow blue water compared to Panagsama. For a quieter experience visit on a weekday, we also recommend heading early to avoid the midday heat. Location 📌
Panagsama Beach - Grab a Sunset Drink After a Long Day Snorkelling
Home to some of the world's best nature activities, Panagsama Beach Moalboal is an adventure seekers paradise. Although the name ‘beach’ is a bit misleading as it is more of a rocky shoreline, the underwater life just off the coast is unmatched; snorkelling with sardines, turtles, large fish & seeing beautiful coral.
If diving, free diving or snorkelling isn’t your thing then make sure to visit just before sunset, the town comes alive and everyone gathers on the beach with a drink, the vibe is unmatched. Location 📌
Osmeña Peak & Casino Peak Hikes - A Hike To The Chocolate Hills Of Cebu
Just a short trek up to the top of a rocky ridge, Casino Peak is one of the best viewpoints in all of Cebu, overlooking what could be described as the Chocolate Hills of Cebu. It feels like a million miles away from the stunning coastline, snorkelling with sardines and whale sharks, but perfect if you’re into hiking. Similarly Osmeña Peak offers a chance to hike above the hills and offers an amazing opportunity to stretch the legs and see a different side to what Cebu has to offer. Location 📌
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering - An Adventurous Trek Through A Beautiful Canyon
For sure a highlight of our time in The Philippines, Kawasan Falls Canyoneering is definitely worth the hype with a 3 to 4 hour adventure through the rainforest of Cebu. Every step of the way feels like you’re immersed in the jungle, with the high canyon walls either side of you it feels like you’ve been transported to another world. Make sure to do this guided tour early as the vibrant blue water will be clear and you won’t have to queue for any of the cliff jumps. Location 📌
Waterfall Chasing - Some Of The Best Waterfalls The Philippines Has To Offer
There are endless waterfalls to explore throughout Cebu, way more than just the famous Kawasan Falls, each are full of the unique vibrant blue coloured water surrounded by dense tropical jungle. We recommend hiring a driver or scooter for the day as some of these are quite far from Moalboal however can also be combined with the Osmeña Peak Hike.
Here are just 11 of Cebu’s top waterfalls:
Inambakan Falls
Kabutongan Waterfall
Dao Waterfall
Cambais Falls
Montpellier Waterfall
Mainit Hot Spring In Malabuyoc
Binalayan Waterfall
Aguinid Falls
Cancalanog Falls
Mantayupan Falls
Lusno Falls
Pescador Island - A Snorkel & Dive Haven
Just a short boat ride away from Panagsama Beach is Pescador Island, a Snorkel and Dive haven with rich marine life, one of the best in all of the Philippines. Most travel providers offer an Island Hopping Tour which stops off at Pescador Island however you can also book a dedicated Dive Boat. Location 📌
Diving In Moalboal
With no shortage of dive centers the whole way along Panagsama Beach, Moalboal is a true diving hotspot. Whether you’re learning and would like to gain your PADI certification or an intermediate diver, you’ll find something in Moalboal. Definitely don’t miss out on the opportunity to dive with millions of sardines! Location 📌
Best Time To Visit Moalboal
How To Get To Moalboal?
For most people visiting Moalboal, you will most likely fly into Cebu City which is the main city on the island of Cebu. From here you have multiple options:
Catch The Bus To Moalboal from the South Bus Terminal for ₽200 (£2.85) each, taking 2-3 hours weaving through the mountain towns after escaping the city traffic.
Private Taxi which is the more expensive option but better suited for groups or families
If you’re travelling from the south of Cebu such as Oslob or the port of Lilian, just catch the bus North towards Cebu City via Moalboal or Book a Private Taxi.
Best Places To Eat In Moalboal
My Greek Taverna - If you need a western fix then we loved the Greek food here. It's also great for a quick gyros for lunch.
El Mercado de Moalboal - A local food court with lots of variety including vegetarian and vegan options.
Breeze View Bar and Restaurant - If you're looking for a nice dinner with a view of the beach and maybe a cocktail head to Breeze View Bar and Restaurant.
Best Places To Stay In Moalboal
Moalboal has lots of accommodation to choose from, whether you’re looking for a dive school, a luxury resort or a budget hostel you’ll be able to find somewhere. We recommend staying close to Panagsama Beach or on Panagsama Road, this is where most of the restaurants are located as well as easy access to most of the island's attractions.
We use Booking.com and HostelWorld for all of our stays around the world!
Below is a list of top accommodations we recommend for Moalboal, Cebu:
Essential Travel Items You Need
 | Lifestraw - Filtered Water Bottle Allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind plus you’re helping the environment! |
 | Jungle Formula - High Deet Mosquito Spray The weak sprays will not work! Make sure to bring a high deet percentage spray made for the tropics. We also use Mosquito Wipes. |
 | Water Shoes - Lightweight with Protection Stay protected from Sea Urchins with these, also useful for snorkelling, waterfall hikes and more. We also love our Microfibre Towels and Dry Bag. |
 | Universal Travel Adaptor With Multiple USBs Life while travelling will never be the same again! Charge multiple devices all at once in any country... game changer. |
Top Tips For Travelling The Philippines
If you’re visiting the Philippines here are our top travel tips:
Book flights in advance - they can become expensive if you leave it last minute… oh and check your luggage allowance to skip expensive check in fees at the airport. Don't forget your Apple Airtags to track your bags
Bring a Lifestraw - allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind plus you’re helping the environment! We also love our Water Shoes, Microfibre Towels & Eye Mask for travel days
Bring Mosquito Repellent with a high Deet percentage
Embrace the chaos and get stuck in the locals are friendly and love to help and share information about their home!
For a checklist of what's needed to pack for your trip, read: How to Pack for Backpacking to South East Asia: Backpacking Essentials and Accessories
We love our DJI Mini for all of our drone shots!
Travel Tools To Help You Plan
These are some of the travel tools we love and use daily, by booking through our links you support our blog and help us grow, thank you.
Thank you for reading and enjoy your Philippine adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
For our Filipino friends: Maraming salamat sa pag babasa, hangang sa susunod nating pag kikita, mamimiss namin kayo, mabuhay ang pilipinas! Salamat
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