Moalboal Sardine Run
Dive into crystal-clear waters, surrounded by millions of shimmering sardines swirling in a mesmerizing underwater dance. This is the Moalboal sardine run, a breathtaking natural phenomenon that draws thousands from around the world. But what if you arrive at the wrong time, miss the best spots, or find yourself lost in a sea of tourists instead of sardines? Don’t let your dream of experiencing this incredible spectacle turn into disappointment!
In this guide, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of the Moalboal sardine run, helping you avoid common pitfalls that can ruin your experience. We’ll reveal the secrets to timing your visit perfectly, finding the sweet spot between peak sardine activity and minimal crowds. We also discuss the ways to capture the absolute best footage to ensure your adventure with the sardines is nothing short of extraordinary!
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Where Is The Moalboal Sardine Run Located
The sardine run is located off the shoreline of Panagsama Beach in Moalboal, Cebu, Philippines. This vibrant underwater spectacle unfolds in the clear waters just off the coast, making it easily accessible without venturing far from shore.
We have highlighted Panagsama Beach’s location on Google Maps for reference:
How Do You Get To The Moalboal Sardine Run?
If you are staying in Moalboal, getting to the Sardine run is super easy! Just make your way down to the main seafront (Panagsama Beach) on foot! Nearly all accommodation in Moalboal is within walking distance of the sardine run, making it super accessible!
If you are coming from further afield, you can choose to hire a scooter or take a traditional Filipino tricycle for a small fee!
If you are coming from very far afield, for example, Cebu City or Oslob, you could consider booking a day tour, which includes pick up/ drop off. This is a great way to do the sardine run for those on a tighter schedule. However, we highly recommend spending a few days in Moalboal if you have the time. You can check out our top recommendations for things to do and where to stay in Moalboal here:
Moalboal Cebu – 12 Best Things To Do | Ultimate Travel Guide.
Best Moalboal Sardine Run Tour
Here are some top day tour options if you are staying outside of Moalboal:
Best Time Of Day To Do The Moalboal Sardine Run
By FAR the best time of day to see the sardines is as early morning as you can face waking up! As soon as the sun rises!
Having done the sardine run in the early hours and the afternoon, we would go as far as to say don’t even bother in the afternoon! The difference is THAT massive! This is one of the main reasons why staying in Moalboal would be so beneficial!
There are several reasons the early bird gets the worm:
- The sardines are far deeper in the afternoon, so you won’t see as much unless you are a good freediver!
- The water visibility in the afternoon is terrible compared to the morning when it was crystal clear.
- There are, of course, very few other people in the early morning compared to mid-afternoon, meaning more one-on-one time with this incredible phenomenon!
So, for the best all-round experience, we recommend going around 5 am if you can face the early start!
Moalboal Sardine Run Snorkelling
Snorkelling is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to see the Sardines. The school is very close to the surface, especially in the early morning, making the sardines easily visible from the surface. For this reason, beginner snorkellers can also enjoy this extraordinary phenomenon; if you are not a confident swimmer, you can rent a life jacket right near the beach for a small fee.
Moalboal Sardine Run Scuba Diving
For the adventurous, scuba diving with the sardines is also an option. This offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in one of nature’s most spectacular displays. The experience also allows you to witness the diverse marine life that thrives alongside these shimmering fish, including colourful reef fish and the occasional sea turtle.
Furthermore, as the Sardines are close to the surface, you do not have to be an advanced scuba diver to enjoy this incredible spectacle. Several diving packages exist for all abilities. Here are some of our top pics:
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Do You Need To Book In Advance To Do The Moalboal Sardine Run
If you are staying in Moalboal, there is no need to book in advance to do the sardine run; just walk straight down to Panagsama Beach at the time that best suits you!
If you are coming from further afield and booking a tour or considering a scuba diving adventure, you may wish to book a few days in advance, to ensure availability during high season.
Moalboal Sardine Run Price
If you own your own snorkelling equipment, then the Moalboal Sardine Run is completely free. There is no entrance fee to the beach, so just head straight on in! For this reason, you can easily experience this phenomenon multiple times!
If you don’t own your own equipment, don’t worry; you can rent some right near the beach for a very small fee, usually less than £2-£3 ($3-$4).
How Deep Is The Moalboal Sardine Run?
The depth of the ocean where the sardines are located ranges from 2–15 meters (7–40 feet), making it accessible for snorkelers, freedivers, and scuba divers of all levels.
Is The Moalboal Sardine Run Dangerous?
The Moalboal sardine run is generally considered a safe and accessible experience for most ages and fitness levels. The sardines themselves are harmless, and as mentioned, the phenomenon occurs in relatively shallow waters close to the shore, making it easy for swimmers of various skill levels to observe.
However, as with any water activity, there are some precautions to keep in mind. Strong currents can occasionally occur, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and swimming abilities. While predators like thresher sharks or tuna might occasionally be spotted feeding on the sardines, they typically pose no threat to humans and often keep their distance. As always, it’s recommended to follow local guidelines and use proper equipment. If you’re not a confident swimmer, consider joining a guided tour or using a life jacket to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can You Do The Moalboal Sardine Run If You Are Not A Confident Swimmer?
Yes, we would say the Sardine run is an accessible activity for all swimming abilities. If you are not a confident swimmer, we recommend wearing a life jacket, which is easy to rent right near the beach.
How To Capture The Best Footage Of The Moalboal Sardine Run
The number one top tip we can give for capturing the best footage of the sardines is to go early in the morning. The sardines are more active and closer to the surface and, therefore, far easier to capture on film. Secondly, the water visibility is far clearer in the morning, making the footage far better!
A decent underwater camera certainly helps the situation. We filmed on a GoPro HD Hero 12, but you should be able to rent one locally if you don’t want to make a purchase just for the sardines. Generally, the better you are at free diving, the more time and flexibility you will have underwater to get the best shots. That being said, you don’t have to be great at freediving to get some incredible clips, and if in doubt, you can always hire a guide to help you shoot! You can check out the awesome footage we were able to capture in our YouTube video.
Top Tips For The Moalboal Sardine Run
Here are some top tips for experiencing the Moalboal sardine run:
- Go Early in the Day: Early morning is often the best time to see the sardines, as they are more active and the waters are typically calmer, providing clearer visibility.
- Choose the Right Spot: Head to areas just off Panagsama Beach or nearby dive sites like Pescador Island, where the sardines are known to gather in large schools.
- Use Proper Gear: Whether snorkelling or diving, ensure you have well-fitting gear. A wetsuit can help with buoyancy and warmth, and a mask and snorkel that fit well will enhance your experience. If you want to consider purchasing your own equipment, you can see our top recommendations in our Philippines Packing List.
- Stay Calm and Still: When you encounter the sardines, try to remain calm and avoid splashing. Sudden movements can scare them away, so floating quietly will give you a better chance to enjoy the spectacle.
- Respect Marine Life: Avoid touching or disturbing the sardines and other marine creatures.
- Watch for Predators: While sardines are harmless, larger fish like thresher sharks may be present. Keep an eye out for their movements, but remember that they usually avoid humans.
- Capture the Moment: If you want to take photos or videos, consider using an underwater camera or GoPro. Be mindful of your surroundings to avoid missing out on the experience while focusing on filming.
- Join a Guided Tour: If you’re unsure about navigating the area or want to enhance your experience, consider joining a guided tour. Local guides can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety.
- Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: Bring water and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun while enjoying your time in and out of the water. You could also consider wearing a rash vest for sun protection.
- Be Patient: The sardine run can be unpredictable, so be patient and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings while waiting for the right moment to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.
Where To Stay In Moalboal
Looking for where to stay Moalboal? Here are our top recommendations depending on your budget and the vibe you are going for!
Hostels:
Hotels:
Looking for a more relaxing experience away from the hustle and bustle of hostels? Here are our top hotel recommendations in Moalboal from Agoda:
When To Visit – Moalboal Sardine Run Season
The ideal time to do the Moalboal sardine run is during the dry season, as it offers less rainfall and more reliable weather conditions. However, the shoulder seasons can also be a good option for your visit. Below, we have outlined the best months to consider.
Dry Season: Typically extending from November to April, this period brings clearer skies, calmer waters, and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. However, bear in mind that this period also sees a surge in tourist activity, resulting in larger crowds and increased accommodation prices.
Shoulder Seasons: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or October when the weather is still pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Avoid planning your trip during the rainy season, from June to September, as heavy downpours and choppy waters can hinder your plans.
Below we have included a table of average monthly rainfall in the Philippines to help you plan the perfect time to visit. Hover over the bars to also see average monthly temperature.
Average Monthly Rainfall In The Philippines
Conclusion – Is The Moalboal Sardine Run Worth It?
Experiencing the Moalboal sardine run can be one of the most exhilarating adventures of your life, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial to making the most of this incredible phenomenon. By planning your visit at the right time, choosing less crowded spots, and being mindful of your surroundings, you can fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking spectacle of millions of sardines swimming in harmony. Remember to respect the marine environment and prioritize safety while capturing unforgettable memories. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to enjoying a seamless and awe-inspiring encounter with one of nature’s most remarkable displays.
Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
Big Love As Always
Beth and Denz
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