Cebu Island in the Philippines is a popular tourist destination with beautiful beach resorts, but that's not all! Why not spend a luxurious time staying at a marine resort and go island hopping to the beautiful sea and sandbars? Marine activities such as snorkeling and diving, swimming with whale sharks, and playing in waterfalls are also popular. In addition, there are many attractions, such as churches that touch on the history of the country becoming a Christian nation, historical buildings such as forts that are legacies of colonial rule, night view spots popular observation decks, markets, and hot springs. We will introduce a carefully selected list of recommended spots on Cebu Island, which has a wide variety of attractions.
What is Cebu Island? Check out basic information, time difference, and safety!
Cebu, a popular beach resort, is one of the Philippines' largest cities, centered on Cebu Island, which lies more than 500 km southeast of the Philippine capital Manila. Cebu City is located on the eastern coast of central Cebu Island, which is long from north to south.
Mactan Cebu International Airport, the air gateway, is located on Mactan Island, which is connected to Cebu City by two bridges. It takes less than 30 minutes by car from the airport to Cebu City. Cebu's popular beach resorts are concentrated in the eastern part of Mactan Island, where the airport is located. The standard way to travel to Cebu is to stay at a resort hotel on Mactan Island and enjoy the beautiful sea and marine activities. Then, go to the waterfalls in the southern part of Cebu Island, swim with whale sharks, and enjoy the beautiful scenery you can imagine by island hopping. In addition, in Cebu City, you can enjoy sightseeing such as historical buildings from the Spanish colonial era, and enjoy markets, night views, and nightlife.
◆Security in Cebu
Compared to the capital Manila, the security situation in Cebu is good, so there is no need to worry too much. Please follow the basic precautions you should take when traveling abroad, such as keeping an eye on your luggage at all times, carrying a shoulder bag diagonally across your body in front of you, and avoiding dressing like a typical tourist, enjoy your trip to Cebu.
1. Oslob
Would you like to swim with whale sharks you have only seen at aquariums? Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, with some reaching up to 20 meters in length. In the waters of Oslob and Sumilon Island in the south of Cebu, there is a high chance of encountering wild whale sharks and seeing them up close. If you are going to Cebu, try snorkeling or diving and swim with them in the sea!
You are told to stay about 4 meters away from the whale sharks, but the staff, who are very helpful, keep feeding them, so the whale sharks keep coming closer and closer. They open their mouths so wide that you start to worry that they might swallow you in one gulp.
There is no need to worry as you will receive a lecture on the course and precautions beforehand, but if you are afraid of going into the sea, don't push yourself. The whale shark will approach you right next to the boat.
Whale shark tours are held early in the morning. It takes about 3.5 hours by car from Cebu city to Oslob. You will need to leave the hotel quite early, but most whale shark tours include hotel pick-up. You will be picked up at the hotel early in the morning and various services such as lunch, sightseeing, and underwater photography are included. Compare the conditions and prices and book the tour you like.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.463359,123.379734&z=12&t=m&hl=ja&gl=PH&mapclient=embed&cid=4917107982817371095
Name: Oslob
Address: Oslob Philippines Cebu
2. Sumilon Island
Cebu's wonderful beach resorts are concentrated on Mactan Island, but there are also some recommended beach resorts in the southern part of Cebu. About 15 minutes by boat from Oslob. Sumilon Island, with its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear emerald green and blue waters, is a paradise that boasts some of the best beaches in Cebu. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it safe for families with small children.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.433597,123.390656&z=11&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=12332948822740752007
If you want to go easily, choose a day trip with a whale shark tour. If possible, stay at Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort and enjoy resort life. If you can't stay, you can use the day-use plan, which includes most of the package such as round-trip boat, restaurant, activities, mask, and snorkel rental.
3. Kawasan Falls
Kawasan Falls, the largest waterfall in Cebu, has a fantastical pool that looks like paint. The crystal clear water is an unbelievably deep blue or emerald green!
At Kawasan Falls, you can not only swim freely in the wide pool, but you can also ride a raft to the bottom of the falls. You can even do some waterfall training by being hit by the thunderous waterfall. You may be surprised by the impact, but it's definitely something you should try. Be prepared for some training!
Kawasan Falls is a popular tourist destination, so it has facilities such as restaurants and coin lockers. It's a bit of a hike to the falls, so wear comfortable sandals.
Kawasan Falls, located in the southwest of Cebu, is not easily accessible, so it's best to combine it with a whale shark tour or snorkeling tour.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.803501,123.374332&z=10&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=3852998735112119503
Name: Kawasan Falls
Address: Badian, Moalboal 6031, Philippines
Official/related website URL: https://www.kawasanfalls.net/
4. Moalboal
Cebu has many beautiful beaches, but for those who want to indulge in marine sports, we recommend Moalboal in the southwest of Zebu Island. This is an area where many Westerners stay for long periods of time.
Panagsama Beach has many diving shops, restaurants, and accommodations, and is known for being able to encounter sea turtles while diving or snorkeling. If you use Ocean Grove, a diving shop, you can dive with peace of mind even if you are not confident in your language skills.
White Beach, located further north than Panagsama Beach, is a beach with dazzling white sand, as its name suggests, and is perfect for swimming.
Access to Moalboal is about 3 hours one way by car or bus from central Cebu. It is closer than the aforementioned Kawasan Falls, but if you are going there, it is a tourist spot in Cebu where you want to relax like Westerners.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.956423,123.40078&z=11&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=11353413298199243265
Name: Moalboal
Address: Panagsama Beach, Basdiot, Moalboal 6032, Philippines
5. Tops Observatory
After enjoying plenty of activities during the day, why not try a slightly different Cebu sightseeing experience at night? Tops is a famous night-view tourist spot in Cebu and is recommended for nightlife. As the name suggests, it is an observation deck at the top of a mountain over 600m above sea level, so the view is also great during the day! On a clear day, you can see Cebu City, Mactan Island, and Bohol Island. It is a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset and is popular among locals as a gathering place for friends and as a date spot for couples.
To access Tops, the shared van "GO TO TOPS" is reasonably priced. Flights to Tops run regularly from around 2 pm, and the last flight from Tops leaves at 11:30 pm, so you can rest assured. There are also great deals available, such as drink sets. If you have a large group, you can take a taxi round trip.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.370614,123.870871&z=11&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=3717501664575586721
Name: The Tops Lookout
Address: Cebu Transcentral Hwy, Cebu City, Cebu
6. Olango Island
There is a small island called Olango Island to the east of Mactan Island. There are resort hotels on Olango Island, but it is still underdeveloped as a tourist destination. That is why it is attracting attention because there are few tourists and you can spend a relaxing time there. To get to Olango Island, it is easy to use the Olango Island Tour, which includes marine activities such as snorkeling and diving, hotel transfers, and lunch.
Olango Island is close to Mactan Island, so you can go there on your own to keep costs down. If you go on your own, you can take a bunker boat that departs regularly from Hilton Port (Punta Engano Port) in the northeast of Mactan Island. The bunker boat is not for tourists but is an important means of transportation for the local residents. Listening to friendly people speaking Tagalog while being rocked on the beautiful sea on a boat will make you feel like you are in the Philippines, and it will be a memorable experience.
The entire island of Olango is a wildlife sanctuary. It protects the wetlands and mangrove forests registered under the Ramsar Convention and protects migratory birds. You can enjoy not only marine sports but also nature and bird watching.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.259445,124.047024&z=10&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&q=%E3%82%AA%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B4%E5%B3%B6%20%E3%83%95%E3%82%A3%E3%83%AA%E3%83%94%E3%83%B3%20%E3%83%A9%E3%83%97%EF%BC%9D%E3%83%A9%E3%83%97
Name: Olango Island
Address: Olango Island Cebu Philippines
7. Carbon Market
Carbon Market is a local market that is loved as the kitchen of Cebu residents. The mangoes and other fruits are excellent, and the miscellaneous goods are reasonably priced. It is a recommended sightseeing and shopping spot for those who like the unique Asian atmosphere.
However, there are many pickpockets, so do not carry large amounts of money. Be careful not to walk while using your smartphone or carry a bag with a thin strap. Although it is a resort area, it is easy to let your guard down, but please follow the general precautions for traveling abroad and avoid anything that will make you stand out as a tourist, such as hanging a camera around your neck. Visit during the daytime when it is bright, and make it a fun and accident-free part of your Cebu trip.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.291439,123.899131&z=13&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=18205750631427072655
Name: Carbon Market
Address: Quezon Boulevard, Cebu City
8. Nalusuan Island
Island hopping tours are a Zebu activity where you rent a boat and travel to multiple remote islands in the sea off the coast, enjoying snorkeling and lunch. This tour is an essential part of Cebu resort life, with wide white sand beaches called sandbars, endless shallow waters, coral reefs, and tropical fish. There are also spots where you can encounter sea turtles.
One of the most recommended spots is the uninhabited island of Nalusuan Island. It is a beautiful tourist spot with a long pier. It is perfect for snorkeling as it is filled with colorful fish. Nalusuan Island, with its endless shallow waters over which the pier hangs, is also perfect for families with small children. Tours that include a barbecue lunch are common.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.190501,124.00026&z=12&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&q=%E3%83%8A%E3%83%AB%E3%82%B9%E3%82%A2%E3%83%B3%E5%B3%B6%20%E3%83%95%E3%82%A3%E3%83%AA%E3%83%94%E3%83%B3%20%E3%82%B3%E3%83%AB%E3%83%89%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A1
Name: Nalusuan Island
Address: Nalusuan Island, Cordova
9. Santo Niño Church
The Philippines is the only Christian country in ASEAN, and over 90% of the population is Christian. Here are two places in Cebu City where you can get a real feel for Christianity.
Built-in 1565 at the birthplace of Christianity in the Philippines, the Santo Niño Church is the oldest church in the country. After being burned down twice, it was rebuilt in 1740 to its current building, and the bell tower, which collapsed in the October 2013 earthquake, has also been restored.
The Santo Niño is the child Jesus Christ, and the church's name comes from this statue.
In 1521, the first people in the Philippines to be baptized and become Christians were King Humabon, the ruler of Cebu Island, and his wife Queen Juana. The Portuguese adventurer Magellan, who spread Christianity in Cebu, gave the Santo Niño statue to Queen Juana. Today, the Santo Niño can be seen through glass in the church, where believers offer prayers.
Santo Niño dolls are also sold at the church's gift shop, and believers keep them as talismans in their homes and taxis. It's a very familiar presence that can be seen in many places in Cebu.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.294023,123.902502&z=16&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=16342060308789441076
Name: Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu
Address: Pilgrim's Center, Osmeña Blvd, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines
Official/related website URL: https://santoninodecebubasilica.org/
10. Magellan's Cross
South of the Santo Niño Basilica, you can find Magellan's Cross, a must-see for tourists in Cebu. Magellan erected a wooden cross at the place where King Humabon and Queen Juana were baptized. This is Magellan's Cross. It is a representative tourist spot in Cebu, where the king and queen, as well as 400 of their subjects, are said to have been baptized.
Magellan's Cross is now carefully protected in an octagonal hall. Believers light red candles and make wishes. When the sun goes down, it is lit up, creating a different atmosphere than during the day.
*The downtown area at night is not very safe, so please avoid traveling alone when sightseeing.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.293563,123.901955&z=16&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=2620745587914958587
Name: Magellan's Cross
Address: Magallan Street, Cebu City
11. Ruins of Fort St. Peter
Fort San Pedro is one of the oldest Spanish forts in the Philippines, built on the coast as a defense against rebellious indigenous peoples who attacked from the sea.
The fort is triangular in shape with a square in the middle. It is surrounded by a stone wall about 6m high and 2.4m thick. You can walk on top of the wall and get a panoramic view of Independence Park and the ocean. It is now a museum that displays the history of Fort San Pedro and artifacts salvaged from sunken ships, so be sure to stop by.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.292457,123.905636&z=16&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=14806423460367083778
Name: Fort San Pedro
Address: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu, Philippines
12. Heritage of Cebu Monument
At Parian Square, there is a heritage monument called "Heritage of Cebu" that expresses the hundreds of years of history of Cebu Island in a magnificent monument. The monument, which was created by Cebu artists over about three years, is very impressive, and includes San Juan Bautista Church, Cebu Cathedral, Santo Niño Church, Fort San Pedro, Magellan's Cross, a Spanish sailing ship, as well as statues of Magellan and battle scenes.
It is lit up at night, but it is located about 500 meters northeast of Santo Niño Church and is not a safe area, so it is best to visit during the day.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.298847,123.903575&z=14&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=12280961141698115997
Name: Heritage of Cebu Monument
Address: Sikatuna St, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines
13. Mactan Shrine Park (Magellan Memorial & Lapu-Lapu Statue)
The Magellan Monument and Lapu-Lapu Statue can be found in Mactan Shrine Park in the northeast of Mactan Island.
The magnificent Magellan Monument stands in the park because it was thanks to Magellan that the Philippines became a Christian country. However, on the other hand, Magellan stopped in the Philippines on his way around the world and asked the king and residents to convert to Christianity and submit to him. While Magellan is revered for spreading Christianity, he also seems to have a negative side as a colonial pioneer.
Lapu-Lapu, a Muslim who was the chief of Mactan Island at the time, fought Magellan without giving in. It is said that he ended up defeating Magellan's army and killing Magellan. There are various theories on this, but in any case, Lapu-Lapu is an eternal national hero for Cebu.
If you come into contact with this history when you visit Cebu, you can discover a different side of Cebu. This place is known for being able to buy affordable T-shirts and miscellaneous goods, so check it out as a souvenir. By the way, when you get out of the car, there will be a kind person who will hold an umbrella for you even though you didn't ask... but be careful because they will ask for money!
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.310869,124.01523&z=12&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=3363660540183445733
Name: Magellan's Marker & Lapu-Lapu Monument
Address: Punta Engano Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
14. Simala Parish Church
The magnificent Simala Parish Church is known as the "church where miracles come true." It is about a two-hour bus ride south of Cebu city. Go through the gate with the words "AVE MARIA!" written on it, and you will find a magnificent church with a beautiful palace-like appearance across a vast garden. If you climb the long staircase, you can see not only the entire garden but also the sea.
The candlesticks inside the church are lit with colorful candles such as gold, green, blue, and violet. There are 13 candle colors in total. Each color has a different wish, so buy a candle of the color you want to pray for, place it on the candlestick, and pray.
Although many tourists visit this church for sightseeing, it is a sacred church. Since it is a resort area and you tend to expose your skin, be sure to dress modestly.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=9.979449,123.599664&z=9&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=3981625855956802147
Name: Simala Parish Church
Address: Barangay Simala, Natalio B. Bacalso S National Hwy, Sibonga, Cebu, Philippines
15. Esoy Hot Springs (Katumun Hot Springs)
About a three-hour bus ride north from central Cebu, you'll find Esoy Hot Springs (Katumun Hot Springs), where you can soak in natural hot springs in the middle of nature.
The water is lukewarm, colorless, and transparent. It's an authentic, hidden hot spring with a sulfur smell.
There are places to play in the river, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge that looks like it could collapse at any moment, so you can enjoy a full-scale adventure. Life jackets are available for rental.
It's surprising that hot springs are in Cebu, but it is good manners to wear a swimsuit when bathing.
Reservations are required, so it's convenient to use a tour. Refresh yourself in the hot springs full of negative ions.
https://maps.google.com/maps?ll=10.715367,123.975274&z=9&t=m&hl=ja&gl=JP&mapclient=embed&cid=7937834107671332331
Name: Esoy Hot Spring
Address: Catmon, Cebu
Summary
A direct flight takes about an hour from Manila. Cebu Island is popular as a resort that is easy to get to and can be visited without jet lag.
Cebu in the Philippines is a place where you can enjoy snorkeling, island hopping, and other activities unique to beach resorts. Cebu is full of a variety of attractions where you can feel the history and culture of churches and markets, and many people are captivated once they go there and visit dozens of times. It is easy to stay because English is spoken, and the secret to its popularity is that many people are friendly and easygoing.
There are many hotels in Cebu in the center of Cebu and on Mactan Island, where Mactan Cebu International Airport is located, and they are scattered along the coast of Cebu.
Skyticket allows you to book not only air tickets but also overseas hotels at the same time!
Why not book your next holiday in Cebu using the easy and convenient Skyticket?