Have you ever imagined swimming through sardine run, alongside shoals and turtles, squid, and fish? This is just a small sample of the marine life that you can see in Moalboal. This marine life is one of the best things you can do in Moalboal, and it should be on every Filipino’s bucket list.
Moalboal’s ocean is home to a variety of marine life, some of which can be found just a short distance from the shore. Divers from around the world check into the dive resorts on Panagsama Beach, before heading out to the ocean for long days of ocean diving.
Moalboal, being centrally located in Cebu, is often combined with a visit to other places, such as Oslob Island, Malapascua Island and Bantayan Island. If you’re wondering what the best activities are in Moalboal, if looking for a Moalboal guide or places to see in the Philippines, if even just wondering if you should visit Moalboal, let me persuade. There’s so much you can do in Moalboal, from the sardine race to canyoneering at Badian. You should put it on your Philippines bucket list.
Where is Moalboal located?
Moalboal, a small seaside municipality in the Philippines’ central Visayas region, is located to the south west of Cebu.
In my opinion, there are two ‘main areas’ of Moalboal, one being the accommodation and dive strip which lies on the ocean front (Panagsama Beach), and the other being on what is locally known as the highway (main road). On the main road, you’ll find a 711, McDonalds and a fruit store. It is also where the buses pick up and drop off.
Moalboal: How to get there
If you’re traveling from Cebu City to Moalboal (north to south), you can take a bus at the South Terminal. It will take you 3-4 hours, and cost around 100PHP. (Or 130PHP if you want an air-conditioned bus).
Two routes are available for buses heading south. The one that you want is Bato by Oslob. The other is Bato by Barelli. Every 30 minutes buses run.
I believe that it is only about 1-1.5 hours to drive from Oslob to Moalboal (south-to-north). You’ll need a bus heading to Cebu via Moalboal. (I haven’t taken this route myself, so double-check before you board). Cebu International Airport is the airport you can use if you are flying into Cebu from another international destination.
Accommodation in Moalboal
If you are coming to Moalboal to dive, one of the most popular activities, you will probably choose to stay in Panagsama Beach. But there is also White Beach (if you’re looking for a beach-beach).
I was travelling alone and hostels were the most economical option for me. I stayed at Vivianne’s Nipa Huts for 300PHP per bed, per night. The place was clean, had electricity and WiFi. It was in the tourist area so I wasn’t alone! It was fine for my two-day visit. It was advertised as having hot water but there was none. It wasn’t very aesthetically pleasing either.
The best things to Do in Moalboal
1. Pescador Island is a great place to dive and see turtles, corals, and the infamous Sardine Run!
The crystal clear water of Moalboal and its ecosystem are among the best things to see. Pescador is a completely uninhabited island. (Well, except for the cats!) It is considered to be one the best diving sites in the Philippines. If you prefer snorkeling, it’s one of the best sites in the Philippines.
2. Snorkeling through the Sardine Run
Don’t worry if diving is out of your price range. The sardine race is one of the most popular events in Moalboal. It’s also one of the top things to do. This viewing spot (or one of them) is located just a short swim from Panagsama Beach. While I was having dinner at the waterfront, I saw an amazing display of water. Rent a snorkel at one of the many vendors around town, put on your cossie, grab your GoPro and swim out to sea from the beach.
3. Hire a motorbike and head up to Osmena Peak (the highest peak in Cebu)
Osmeña Peak is the highest mountain in Cebu and one of the best things to do in Moalbaol (well, near Moalboal!). You can enjoy a 360-degree view of the island. Cebu’s most famous and beautiful view point. It’s a two-hour trip from Moalboal, but it’s worth the day!
4. Visit White Beach
White Beach is one the best beaches at Moalboal. It is about 15 minutes from the centre and worth the trip to soak in the sun and swim.
5. Malabuyoc Hot Springs – Mainit Hot Springs
A day trip to Mainit Hot Springs in Moalboal is one of the most enjoyable things to do. You can take the bus to the roadside where the springs are located and then walk up the hill for 20 minutes. You’ll be greeted by the sound and sight of several hot springs, each marked with the temperature. Enjoy a day of pure relaxation.
6. Take a roadtrip and visit Mantayupan Falls
Mantayupan Falls are the highest and most beautiful waterfalls in Cebu. Take a day trip from Moalboal to visit these falls! Ambakan Falls, also known as Ambakan in local dialect, are easily accessible. It takes about an hour to drive to Moalboal from a parking lot with a path leading down to the base. You can rent rafts, swim in the falls, and cliff jump. If you want to avoid crowds, go early in morning!
7. Canyoneering is available in Badian
This active adventure will take you through the gatorade like waters and waterfalls in the Philippines, including Kawasan Falls. You will need to get up early, as the trip takes 4-5 hours and you must be finished by sunset.
