Cebu is a popular travel destination in the Philippines. It is also one of the largest islands. As it was our first stop on our first backpacking trip, we have a lot to say about what we might have done differently. You won’t make the same mistakes as we did, which is great!
Let me describe the situation. Kate’s luggage was missing, it was 30°C, and we had just landed from an 18-hour journey. We jumped into a white taxi and headed towards our traditional nipa. Let me tell you, traditional nipa huts are great… on the beach, not in the city down a dodgy backstreet. As we became familiar with the cockroaches, mozzies and rats, we quickly realized that we were rookies.
We have a wealth knowledge to share about Cebu. Please don’t let me introduce you. Cebu is a diverse island that has something to offer every traveller. Cebu City is a vibrant city, while Moalboal is an adventurous place and Malapascua is a diving paradise.
Why Visit Cebu
Cebu, thanks to Mactan Cebu International Airport, is a major travel hub. Most backpackers in the Philippines will visit Cebu at some stage, as it is a gateway island to other islands including Siquijor or Bohol. Cebu is a natural part of any itinerary, and it has a lot to offer.
Cebu Island is one of the Philippines’ most exciting destinations. It has a variety of natural wonders, amazing marine life, and historic sites. There are so many things to do in Cebu, from swimming with the sardines of Moalboal and hiking to stunning waterfalls to canyoneering in Kawasan.
Cebu’s Best Time To Visit
The Philippines’ best months for visiting are December to February. The temperatures are at their lowest and there is very little rain. It is also the busiest season for tourists in the Philippines. So depending on your type of traveller will determine the best time to visit.
We visited the Philippines in April and June. This was during the shoulder seasons, just before wet season started. If you like less crowds, we recommend visiting these months. It is less touristy than January/February but also has less rainfall than July/August, the perfect combination.
How to Get To Cebu
Cebu can be reached by flying into Mactan Cebu International Airport, which is a hub for both domestic and international flights. Internal flights are common from Manila, Palawan & Siargao. Cebu has a large port that welcomes ferries from Bohol and other destinations.
Cebu City & Mactan Island
Cebu City has many neighbourhoods. If you arrive at Mactan International Airport, you will be on an island that is connected to the city. This area is great to stay in before or after your flight. If you recall earlier, I mentioned that the yellow taxis were airport taxis. They charge a higher fare. So if you want to save money, take a white taxi.
As you cross the bridge to the main island, you will see vibrant jeepneys and bustling shopping centers. There are also countless fast-food restaurants. We recommend the famous Lechon.
If you are visiting for the first time, we recommend taking a tour and experiencing the culture of the city. Or, head to the large malls to do some shopping! We always suggest increasing your budget to stay in a nicer place and not have rats in the bathroom like we did! Mango Square has a great nightlife. Here you will find a wide variety of bars and clubs.
Moalboal
Moalboal, our favorite place in Cebu. Panagsama Beach is a popular destination for tourists who are travelling to Cebu. The coral wall is just metres from the shore and you will find beachfront hotels, diving communities, and backpacker hostels. Snorkel with turtles or tropical fish, and even the famous sardines. Kawasan falls, a canyoneering adventure of breathtaking beauty that has attracted backpackers all over the globe, is another notable highlight. For us, this was the best place on Cebu Island.
Malapascua
Malapascua Island lies in the North of Cebu and is known for its world-class diving. The island attracts underwater enthusiasts from around the world as the water offers the unique opportunity to swim with threshers sharks year-round.
Oslob
We felt that we had not spent enough time at Moalboal, and we missed Oslob. Not only did we disagree with the unethical feeding of whale sharks, but we also thought we had not spent enough time there. As backpackers it’s hard to leave an area you love.
Further research has revealed that the whale-sharks are not the only attraction in Oslob. You can visit Tumalog Falls, explore the Cuartel Ruins, & head to the nearby private Sumilon Island.
Cebu’s Best Attractions
Snorkel with Millions of Sardines (Moalboal)
Snorkeling in Moalboal is one of our favorite things to do. Moalboal’s Sardine Run is a natural phenomenon found only in a few places around the globe. You can do this activity by yourself from Panagsama Beach, but we wish we had hired a guide so we could get the most of the experience.
Osmeña Peak & Casino Peak Hikes (Central Cebu)
Casino Peak offers one of the most spectacular views in Cebu. It looks out over what can be called the Chocolate Hills of Cebu. You’ll feel like you’re a million years away from the stunning coastline. Snorkelling with sardines, whale sharks and other marine life is a great experience.
Kawasan Waterfall Canyoneering Moalboal
Kawasan falls is a must do for any adrenaline junkie. Spend the morning jumping into rivers & lagoons and make your way down to the famous Kawasan Falls. This tour is best started on the zipline. Tour guides are brilliant; they constantly take pictures in different, interesting ways. Mike thought this was his highlight, perhaps the best thing he had done in the Philippines.
Pescador Island (Moalboal)
Pescador Island with its rich marine life is just a short boat trip away from Panagsama Beach. It is one of the most popular snorkeling and diving destinations in the Philippines. Pescador Island is usually included in an Island Hopping Tour, but you can also opt for a Dive Boat.
Try House of Lechon in Cebu City
Our first taxi driver recommended House of Lechon in Cebu City. We had just landed, and were immediately thrown into the chaotic traffic, bird’s nest wires, and colourful island life. We were stranded in McDonalds on our first night, my luggage was lost and we stayed in a 1-star hostel. The next morning we decided to do what the locals did and went to find Lechon. This is better than McDonalds, I promise! If you want to explore the entire city, we recommend hiring a driver.
Dive with Thresher Sharks in Malapascua
You can dive with threshers all year long in the waters surrounding Malapascua Island. If you’ve been to the Philippines to dive, we recommend not missing this rare opportunity!
Waterfall Chasing (All Over Cebu)
There are countless waterfalls to discover in Cebu. These are more than just Kawasan Falls. They all have the same vibrant blue-coloured water, surrounded by lush tropical jungle. As the waterfalls are some of Moalboal’s best hidden tourist spots we recommend hiring a driver or scooter for the day as some of these are quite far from town however can they can also be combined with the Osmeña Peak Hike.
