The Best Things To Do In Moalboal Cebu
Are you planning your trip to Moalboal? If so, you are in for an adventure of a lifetime! If you are familiar with our adventures, you will know we like to explore EVERYTHING a place has to offer, and Moalboal did not disappoint! We want to ensure you do not miss any of Moalboal’s hidden gems! From turquoise waterfalls to pristine beaches, hidden caves to epic viewpoints, and insane canyoneering, Moalboal really has it all!
In this ultimate travel guide, we detail the 12 best things to do in Moalboal Cebu, how to find these hidden gems and all the essential details for visiting! We will also cover our top tips for getting to Moalboal and some of our favourite places to stay! Let’s dive in!
We Value Your Time
We value your time! So, if you want to look at specific activities to do in Moalboal Cebu, then head to our table of contents below and select the activities best suited to your preference! Moalboal has it all, so there is something for everyone!
However, if you would like to get the full low-down of all the best things to do in Moalboal, where to stay, how to get there and the best time to visit, then we hope you will enjoy exploring our ultimate travel guide to Moalboal Cebu.
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You Can Also Check Out Our Complete Guide To Cebu On YouTube:
How To Get To Moalboal?
By far the easiest way to reach Moalboal Cebu is to fly into Cebu City Airport, which is the closest international airport to Moalboal. Likewise, if you are travelling from other areas in the Philippines such as Manila or Palawan, you can hop on a quick 1-hour flight to Cebu City. Flights between islands in The Philippines are typically very affordable.
Once you arrive at Cebu City airport, you will need to travel about 3 hours south to reach Moalboal. You can choose to pre book a private taxi from the airport or take one of the regularly running public buses.
If you choose to book a private taxi this will likely set you back £60 – £80, depending on the company you go with, the time of year and the number of people in your group.
Below you will find an easy way to pre book a private van/ taxi transfer from Cebu City Airport to Moalboal. Pick a date below and you will see multiple options to choose from and prices:
If you take a taxi at the airport rather than booking in advance, remember to haggle the price down!
If you choose to take the public bus then head in a taxi from the airport to Cebu South Bus terminal. Once there, ask for a ticket to Moalboal, there are buses running regularly throughout the day so no need to book in advance.
We have highlighted Moalboals location on the map below for your reference:
The Best Things To Do In Moalboal Cebu:
1. The Famous Moalboal Sardine Run
The Moalboal Sardine Run had been on our bucket list for a long time before we finally got to experience it… and it did not disappoint! The sardine run is a mesmerizing natural phenomenon that attracts divers and snorkelers worldwide. Located off the coast of Panagsama Beach in Moalboal Cebu, this underwater spectacle features millions of sardines moving in unison, creating a breathtaking display of synchronized swimming.
The sardines form massive, swirling bait balls that shimmer and glint in the sunlight, offering an unforgettable visual experience. This event occurs year-round, making it accessible to visitors at any time. The proximity of the sardine run to the shore allows even novice snorkelers to witness this awe-inspiring event up close, making Moalboal the perfect destination for all our fellow adventure seekers. This experience is one of our lifetime highlights and one you cannot miss in Moalboal Cebu! You can check out our first hand experience of the Moalboal Sardine run in This Youtube Video!
You can rent some snorkeling equipment from several shops right near the beach and head straight in from the shore, or alternatively, you can pre-book a guided tour that can pick you up from most places in Cebu! If you are a keen diver, you can also book the most magical scuba diving trip to dive amongst thousands of sardines! Here are our top tour recommendations:
2. Canyoneering Kawasan Falls
Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls is one of the most famous attractions in the Philippines! Before visiting Moalboal Cebu, we heard stories of Kawasan Falls being very busy and wondered if it would live up to the hype. Well, we can now say… it definitely does! Canyoneering here was one of our favourite activities throughout our entire trip! From start to finish, every minute was action-packed, incredible fun and saw us facing our fears in the most stunning surroundings!
You can check out our complete guide on Kawasan Falls here: Kawasan Falls Cebu | Avoid The Crowds – An EPIC Guide!
A trip to Kawasan will see you navigating a series of waterfalls, natural pools, and steep canyons as you journey downstream by jumping off cliffs, sliding down natural water slides, and swimming through crystal-clear turquoise waters. The highlight of the canyoneering adventure is reaching the majestic Kawasan Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall known for its stunning blue waters and lush surroundings. Guided tours ensure safety and provide the necessary equipment, making this adventure accessible to beginners and experienced canyoneers.
Kawasan Canyoneering can get very busy, so if you would like to pre-book your adventure, we have included some of our top tour recommendations below. You can only partake with a guide, so you need to book, but there are several companies to choose from. You can also choose to do the zipline beforehand, which we highly recommend.
Want To Get A Feel For Kawasan Falls?
Check Out Our Vlog On YouTube!
3. Busay Cave
Busay Cave is a hidden gem that is just a short scooter ride from Moalboal, Cebu! Before visiting, we had read mixed reviews, but this whole day was a fantastic adventure. We highly recommend visiting!
You can check out our complete travel guide on Busay Cave here: Busay Cave – Cebu’s Best Kept Secret | Ultimate Travel Guide
This details everything you need to know before you go from how safe the roads are, to the precautions that should be taken with bat guano (bat poop). However, we cover all the highlights below.
This captivating cave system looks deceptively small from the outside, but it is absolutely massive once inside!! The cave is home to thousands of bats and features stunning rock formations, intricate stalactites, and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years. The journey to Busay cave requires a short but beautiful scooter ride up into the hills near Moalboal, followed by a 10-minute trek. You will likely be greeted by several locals who often hang out by the beautiful blue pool at the cave opening.
Upon arrival, you will need to pay a small fee for parking. If you wish to explore the cave system, a local guide is available for a fee, which includes torches and all necessary equipment. Unlike other tourist attractions in Moalboal Cebu, Busay Cave is often less crowded, offering a truly tranquil experience.
We have highlighted Busay Caves location on the Map below if you would like to plan your adventure from Moalboal Cebu.
You Can Also Check Out Our Full Experience On YouTube!
4. Mantayupan Falls
In our opinion, Mantayupan Falls are two of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines and are definitely worth the hour-long journey from Moalboal Cebu. Located in the municipality of Barili, the largest of the two falls stands 98 meters tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in Cebu.
However, what is most spectacular about these falls is the stunning turquoise colour of the water! Both falls cascade down into crystal-clear pools that are amazing for swimming. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, creating a stunning backdrop that is perfect for photography and relaxation.
Given their beauty, Mantayupan Falls are a popular destination for both locals and tourists, so we recommend getting there early to experience them without many other visitors. If you don’t fancy the hour scooter ride, there are several different tours, which include a visit to Mantayupan Falls; we have highlighted our favourites down below:
5. White Beach
White Beach in Moalboal Cebu, is a stunning stretch of coastline known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This idyllic beach offers a serene escape, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. Visitors can bask in the sun, swim, or engage in various water activities, such as snorkelling and diving, as the nearby coral reefs are teeming with vibrant marine life.
The beach is also lined with palm trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls and sunset views. With its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, White Beach is an ideal spot for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat while enjoying the breathtaking scenery that Moalboal Cebu has to offer. White Beach is a short, scenic scooter ride from Moalboal, and your only expense will be a small parking/ entrance fee.
We have highlighted White Beaches location on Google Maps below to help you plan your trip:
6. Lambug Beach
Lambug Beach is a less well-known beach near Moalboal Cebu. It is a short scooter ride from the main center of Moalboal, but it is definitely worth the journey if you prefer a quieter slice of paradise!
Just like the more famous White Beach, Lambug Beach houses pristine white sands and stunning blue waters ideal for swimming! The sea is very calm here, making it a perfect spot to take a dip! Additionally, the sunsets here are absolutely out of this world, with the calm waters reflecting the stunning sunset colours in a mesmerising mirror image!
The beach is also lined with some lovely local cafes if you want to grab some refreshments. We have highlighted the location of Lambug Beach on the map below to help you plan your trip:
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7. Osmena Peak
Located roughly an hour’s drive from Moalboal Cebu, Osmeña Peak is the most famous hiking trail on the island. Standing at approximately 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña Peak is one of the highest points on Cebu island. The peak offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including lush hills, valleys, and the distant ocean.
If you want to get the full low down on Osmena Peak including how to get there to the best times to visit and the safest route on a scooter, check out our complete travel guide here: Osmeña Peak – The Best Sunrise Hike In Cebu | Travel Guide.
The hike to Osmeña Peak is relatively short but can be steep, making it accessible for both novice and experienced hikers. Along the trail, visitors are treated to a picturesque scenery of rolling hills and unique rock formations that resemble a mini version of the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. The summit is particularly famous for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike. With its captivating beauty and serene atmosphere, Osmeña Peak is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Cebu.
You can choose to rent a motorbike and make your own way to Osmena Peak from Moalboal, but be mindful that the roads are quite bumpy and steep at times. You want to be a reasonably confident scooter rider to make this journey. Alternatively, you can choose from several different guided tours, which include transfer; here are our top recommendations:
8. Casino Peak
Casino Peak is also located roughly an hour away from Moalboal Cebu but is far less well-known than Osmena Peak. Having visited both Osmena and Casino Peak, we believe Casino Peak is better! Firstly, because it is far less well-known, it is much quieter; we had the entire peak to ourselves when we visited! Secondly, standing at approximately 1,200 meters, Casino Peak is actually taller than Osmena Peak, and in our opinion, the views are even better!
We cover the key bits here, but if you would like to get all the details on Casino Peak, including the safest way to get there on a scooter, then check out our free travel guide: Casino Peak Cebu | Why Don’t More People Come Here?!
The trek to Casino Peak is only about 20 minutes, but it is definitely more difficult than the trek to Osmena Peak and very steep at times. It was fine, but just be mindful if you are scared of heights, there can be steep drops at certain points! However, once at the top, you are rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. It was truly one of the best views we have seen in the Philippines.
There are very few, if any, guided tours to Casino Peak, as not many people have heard of it. So, in order to access this hike, you will need to take a scooter ride there. The journey is a little bumpy and steep at times but very doable, provided you are relatively confident on a scooter!
We have highlighted Casino Peaks location on Google Maps below to help you plan:
If you want to get a feel for the roads and everything to expect, you can check out our full experience at Casino Peak and Osmena Peak on YouTube
9. Explore Moalboal Town
Honestly, you could spend a few days just exploring Moalboal Town; it is full of great cafes and even better vibes. Moalboal Cebu has fast become a hub for travellers and digital nomads; it is a great place to meet other adventures. The town boasts a laid-back atmosphere, but there are plenty of places to party should you be inclined. Moalboal offers a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and local markets, providing a taste of authentic Cebuano culture.
Some of our favourite spots are:
9. Panagsama Beach
Panagsama Beach is the main seafront located right next to Moalboal town! It is most famous for being the location of the Moalboal Sardine Run. However, this seafront is a lovely place to spend a morning or afternoon. Lined with loads of lovely cafes and market stalls, there are plenty of places to relax after a day of snorkelling or diving! This beach is also particularly famous among divers and snorkelers due to its proximity to Pescador Island. No need to book any tours for this one; take a short walk to the seafront from your accommodation in Moalboal Cebu; everywhere will be close by!
10. Cancalanog Falls
Cancalanog Falls is an absolute hidden gem located roughly 40 minutes by scooter from Moalboal Cebu. This stunning location is more of a watering hole than a waterfall, but it is absolutely breathtaking! With crystal clear waters and vibrant blues, surrounded by lush greenery and massive butterflies flying everywhere, this place is truly magical. Once more, because it is not as well known, it’s often not busy at all, a true hidden gem!
Cancalanog Falls is also conveniently located on the route to Osmena and Casino Peak, making it the perfect stop off if you are making your way to these hiking trails by scooter! When we visited, a few local children were also daring massive jumps from the surrounding cliffs into the pool; it was fantastic to watch!
We have highlighted Cancalanog Falls location on the map below so you can plan your trip:
11. Cambais Falls (Dried up when we visited)
Cambais Falls is another stunning spot on the route to Osmena and Casino Peak! This multi-tiered waterfall features cascading waters that plunge into clear, inviting pools, making it ideal for swimming and relaxation. Unfortunately, when we visited Cebu in late May, it had dried up! This was due to an especially long dry season called El Niño. The best time to visit and ensure there is plenty of water is earlier in the year, between November and April!
We have highlighted Cambais Falls’ location below. It is another great stop on the way to or from Osmena and Casino Peak!
12. Day Trip To The Huge Waterfalls In The Samboan Region
A day trip from Moalboal to explore Dao Falls, Inambakan Falls, and Binalayan Hidden Falls offers an exhilarating adventure through some of Cebu’s most stunning natural wonders. This journey will take you over an hour south of Moalboal to the municipality of Samboan, where these three magnificent waterfalls are located, but trust us, it’s worth it!
With its 40-meter drop, Dao Falls provides a challenging trek through bamboo forests and river crossings, but the reward is a stunning waterfall cascading into an outrageously blue pool, perfect for swimming! You can read our complete guide on Dao Falls here: Dao Falls Cebu | A Complete Travel Guide To This Hidden Gem.
Inambakan Falls, the tallest of the three at 100 meters, features multiple tiers and a large catch basin with an epic rope swing and beautiful blue swimming holes. Binalayan Hidden Falls, also known as Triple Drop Falls, offers a more secluded experience with its three-tiered cascade surrounded by lush vegetation. This waterfall-hopping excursion combines hiking, swimming, and breathtaking scenery, making it an unforgettable day trip for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers visiting Moalboal.
You can choose to visit these three waterfalls by scooter, but it is quite a long journey! Alternatively, you can book a guided tour to these epic spots! These are our top recommendations:
Check Out Our Vlog On YouTube To Get A First Hand Look At All Three Amazing Falls:
How Long Should You Stay In Moalboal
We recommend staying in Moalboal Cebu for at least 4 days to enjoy all the hidden gems this idyllic destination has to offer. And if you want to see everything it will be a busy 4 days, so even longer would be better if you have the time!
Moalboal is a great central location to base yourself at and rent a scooter for some epic day adventures if you have more time to spend!
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:
The Best Time To Visit Moalboal Cebu
The best time to visit Moalboal, as with nearly all of the Philippines is within the dry season. The dry season typically spans from December to April. During this period, you can expect 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.
Average Monthly Rainfall In The Philippines
Shoulder Seasons: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting Moalboal during the shoulder seasons of May or November when the crowds are fewer and the weather is still pleasant. It’s best to avoid planning your trip during the rainy season, from June to September, as heavy downpours and choppy waters can hinder your plans.
When we visited: We visited in the shoulder season in May and we were very lucky with the weather. However, bear in mind May is very very hot and sometimes the waterfalls can dry up this time of year!
Conclusion
Moalboal Cebu is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both relaxation and excitement. From the mesmerising sardine run to the stunning views from Osmeña and Casino Peak, the experiences listed in this ultimate travel guide showcase the best that Moalboal has to offer.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant marine life while snorkelling, basking in the sun on pristine beaches, or embarking on thrilling canyoneering adventures, each activity promises unforgettable memories. As you plan your trip, remember that Moalboal’s charm lies not only in its breathtaking scenery but also in the warm hospitality of its locals. Embrace the spirit of adventure, immerse yourself in the rich culture, and discover why Moalboal Cebu is a must-visit destination in the Philippines. Happy travels!
Don’t hesitate to let us know any questions you might have in the comments below!
Big Love
Beth and Denz
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