Best Things To Do In Cebu
Cebu is one of my favourite Philippines’ islands, not only for its beaches and waterfalls but also for unforgettable wildlife encounters in the ocean and jungle. From swimming with whale sharks to snorkelling vibrant coral reefs and spotting rare tarsiers, there are plenty of opportunities to experience Cebu’s natural side.
Here are some of the best thing to do in Cebu…
1. Oslob Whale Shark Watching with Turtles & Island Hopping
Tour Type: Full-day tour from Cebu City or Mactan
Highlights: Swim with whale sharks in Oslob, snorkel with sardines and turtles in Moalboal.
Why Go: This is one of Cebu’s most iconic experiences – although very jam packed. It is a very well organised itinerary though and the chance to see marine life up close, including giant whale sharks in their natural environment.
Swimming just a few feet away from a whale shark was surreal, the gentle giants moving so gracefully beside us. Snorkelling with sardines and turtles in Moalboal was the perfect way to wrap up the day.
Oslob is located on the southeastern coast of Cebu Island, about 3.5 to 4 hours by car from Cebu City. It’s most famous for its early morning whale shark encounters, which take place just offshore. Many travelers visit as part of a day tour, but staying overnight in Oslob or nearby Tan-awan gives you a head start on the early queues. The area also features scenic spots like Tumalog Falls and white sand beaches for relaxing after your tour.
2. Moalboal Sardines Run & Turtles
Tour Type: Half-day marine tour
Highlights: Snorkeling off Moalboal’s shore, sardine run, coral reefs, and sea turtles
Why Go: Ideal for ocean lovers and snorkelers, this tour lets you witness Cebu’s rich underwater life just off the coast of Moalboal. Many travelers report seeing turtles and massive bait balls of sardines.
I’ve snorkeled in a few places around Southeast Asia, but the sardine run here was something else, thousands of fish swirling around us like a living tornado. We even spotted two sea turtles gliding past the reef!
Moalboal is a laid-back coastal town on the southwest coast of Cebu, about 3 hours from Cebu City by private van or bus. It’s best known for its sardine run, where millions of sardines swim close to shore, along with sea turtle sightings and coral reef snorkeling around Pescador Island. The town has plenty of dive shops, beach resorts, and guesthouses, especially around Panagsama Beach, the main tourist hub.
3. Bohol Day Tour: Tarsiers, Chocolate Hills & Loboc River Cruise
Tour Type: Full-day tour (may or may not include ferry)
Highlights: Visit the world’s smallest primate, the Philippine tarsier, plus Chocolate Hills and a jungle river cruise
Why Go: While technically on nearby Bohol Island, this day trip from Cebu is an easy way to see tarsiers and unique landscapes. Perfect for travellers wanting to mix wildlife with scenery.
Seeing a real tarsier up close was a dream come true, they’re absolutely tiny and incredibly cute. The Chocolate Hills were even more impressive than I expected, and the Loboc River cruise was peaceful and scenic. A great change of pace from Cebu.
Although it’s a separate island, Bohol is just 2 hours away by fast ferry from Cebu City, making it a popular day trip. The island is home to the Philippine Tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates, which you can see at the Tarsier Conservation Area. Bohol also offers natural wonders like the Chocolate Hills, Loboc River, and man-made mahogany forest. Many tours include hotel pickup in Cebu and round-trip ferry tickets.
4. Kawasan Falls Canyoneering Adventure
Tour Type: Full-day active adventure
Highlights: Waterfalls, river trekking, cliff jumping, jungle landscapes
Why Go: This adrenaline-filled canyoneering trip immerses you in Cebu’s wild natural surroundings. It’s one of the most popular outdoor adventures on the island.
Jumping off cliffs into turquoise water was both terrifying and exhilarating, but the guides were awesome and made sure everyone felt safe. The scenery through the canyon was stunning, with jungle, waterfalls, and natural rock slides.
Both attractions are located in southern Cebu, with Osmeña Peak near the town of Dalaguete and Kawasan Falls in Badian. It takes about 3 hours by car from Cebu City. Many full-day tours combine a sunrise hike to Osmeña Peak with a refreshing jungle walk or canyoneering adventure to Kawasan Falls. There are small inns and eco-lodges near Badian and Alegria for those wanting to stay overnight.
5. Island Hopping Tour in Mactan with Snorkeling
Tour Type: Half-day island-hopping
Highlights: Snorkeling, tropical islands, white sand beaches, coral reefs
Why Go: A relaxing way to enjoy the ocean just minutes from Cebu City. Includes snorkel gear, lunch, and stops at islands like Hilutungan, Nalusuan, or Pandanon, depending on weather.
Each island felt like its own little paradise, white sand, palm trees, and warm, clear water. The snorkelling was fantastic, with tons of colourful fish and coral. Plus, the grilled lunch on the beach was a nice touch.
Mactan is connected to Cebu City by bridge and is home to the island’s international airport (CEB). It’s also where many island-hopping tours begin, taking you to nearby spots like Hilutungan, Nalusuan, and Pandanon islands. Mactan has a wide range of beachfront resorts, snorkeling spots, and dive centers, making it a convenient base if you’re short on time but still want to experience Cebu’s marine life.
Conclusion
From underwater spectacles like swimming with whale sharks or sardine runs, to jungle river cruises and tropical island hopping, Cebu offers a wide range of nature and wildlife experiences. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a relaxed snorkeler, there’s a tour to match your style.
