Kawasan Falls on the beautiful island Cebu in the Philippines has become one of the top attractions to visit in the country. In many ways, Instagram is responsible for this increase in popularity. These twinkling turquoise falls are featured on nearly every Instagram or travel blog by anyone who has visited the Philippines.
After visiting Kawasan Falls a few times, I decided to write a detailed blog about the experience. Mainit Hot Springs is also a lesser-known but equally interesting attraction. Mainit Hot Springs is often overlooked for Kawasan Falls. I found them to be delightful and well worth visiting while in this part of Cebu.
Here is my guide to Kawasan falls and Mainit Hot Springs. It includes all the information you need before visiting Cebu island. Please read on and let me know if there are any questions.
How to reach Kawasan Falls
Kawasan Falls can be found in Badian which is on the southern side of Cebu Island. To get to Kawasan Falls from Cebu City take a South Bus Terminal bus that has Bato as its final destination. You can either swim with whale-sharks in Oslob or Barili.
A ferry service from Dumaguete will also bring you to Bato. You can reach Kawasan Falls by taking a bus heading towards Moalboal from Bato. If you’re coming from Moalboal, you can take the bus in the opposite direction.
Ask the driver to stop at Kawasan falls. All bus drivers will understand where you mean. You’ll find it opposite the carpark and church where the path to Falls begins.
Kawasan Falls can be visited in just one day, even if you are staying in the area for a few days. You’ll find locals pushing cooler boxes and picnics along the path. This walk can take up to 30 minutes.
When is the best time of day to visit Kawasan falls?
Kawasan falls is best visited early in the morning. We made the mistake of going to Kawasan falls at 2pm. However, we had to wait until after 4/5pm before we could enjoy the water. I was shocked at how crowded the picnic area and the water were. It was very crowded and not a nice place to spend the afternoon.
The photos may seem idyllic, but in reality I waited until there were no people to take the photo. Kawasan Falls are a popular destination not only for tourists, but also for locals. You’ll also find lots of children playing around, so you won’t be able to find peace and zen at midday.
Mainit Hot Springs
This wonderful little spot, often missed by tourists, is located at the stop of Malabuyoc along the road that leads to Kawasan falls from Oslob.
Mainit Hot Springs is easily accessible
The 1.5km walk from the main stop on the road will take you to the springs. The path takes you through lush vegetation and peaceful villages before you reach the hot springs. There were about 30 locals in each of the three pools. Some of them were submerged in the pools. One of which was over 40c!
Exploring the Springs
We continued climbing up away from the main area and discovered the most gorgeous (cool), pools to jump into, and huge boulders that we could climb on. This was an amazing spot, with no other tourists around and a peaceful atmosphere. Do not miss out.
Where to stay near Kawasan Falls and Mainit Hot Springs
Oslob, a nearby town (home to a local population of whale sharks), can be a great base from which to explore this area.
Here are some suggestions for Oslob:
- GingGing Hotel & Resort
- Casa Solmar
- Casa Bonita Inn
