8 Best Things to Do in and Around Cebu
The Philippines is a country that has plenty to offer. From gorgeous beaches to incredible adventures to experience, it is truly a country in which you can never run out of things to do. Among the many cities and areas that you may want to visit, of course, Manila makes the list. However, a lesser-known area of the Philippines is Cebu. This is a province in the Philippines which is known as being the center of trade, commerce, as well as tourism in the Visayas (one of the three key geographical divisions of the Philippines).
Whether you are traveling to Cebu for a short trip that is a part of a longer trip all around Asia, or are looking for the next place to spark your adventures, Cebu has a lot to offer. Throughout this article, you can read all about the best things to do in and around Cebu. With Covid-19, things have changed, so we have outlined the best things to do in Cebu in 2023 specifically. Let’s get started!
1. Whale Shark Diving in Oslob
Okay – there are two ways to look at this adventure. If you are a fan of adrenaline-triggering, exciting and slightly scary experiences, this may be the perfect adventure for you. Cebu is an island that has many whale sharks, and they do not pose a threat to humans. Hence, you can do whale shark diving on the island. For this, Oslob Whale Sharks is a great place to head over to. If you are not a fan of jumping into the sea and being surrounded by whale sharks (even if they are harmless, you may rather look at them from a distance), you can also experience whale shark watching. Definitely one of the best things to do in Cebu in 2023!
2. Sardine Dive in Moalboal
If sharks aren’t something you are interested in, there are other aquatic activities that you can take part in. In Moalboal, you can dive with sardines! Seeing as this is near the top of our list of the top things to see and do in and around Cebu, we absolutely recommend it. While there are tours that you can do to experience it, you can also do it by yourself for free. The sardines run only 20 meters away from Panagsama Beach in Moalboal. Each school of sardines has over 1 million sardines, which makes snorkeling or swimming with sardines an out-of-this-world experience.
3. Hiking Casino Peak
For those who prefer staying on land, you can also go on a hike in Dalaguete, a different part of Cebu. Casino Peak offers incredible views. You can arrive there by motorbike, which is typically the preferred mode of transport in Cebu. Otherwise, you can also take a bus from Cebu city to Mantalongon. Be aware, however, that this is not a tourist spot, so you may stand out quite a bit! You will need to pay 50 pesos to enter. The trek itself is very short – only 20 minutes! However, just 5 minutes into the walk, depending on the weather, you are able to see clouds floating at eye level, and you will then begin to see some of the nicest views in Cebu. Casino Peak definitely makes our list of the top things to see and do in Cebu and around Cebu!
4. Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
After the trek, give yourself a day or two to relax! The ride there can be quite long. Once you are ready, why not head over to Kawasan Falls? The place is well-renowned as being one of Cebu’s top attractions. Hence, it has made its way on our list of the best things to do in Cebu in 2023. You can enjoy a whole day of canyoneering down waterfalls and cliff jumping. Enjoy the rocky trip and the turquoise water!
5. Bantayan Island, Paradise Beach and Virgin Islands
Yes, there are many islands to visit. It is the Philippines after all! These islands have picturesque looks. When you think of a beach that has everything you are looking for, think of Paradise beach. It is in a more secluded area, which helps you avoid the many tourists you may otherwise find on different parts of the island. Virgin Islands is also a notable place to visit on an off day! Why not head over there after a long week of hikes, diving with sharks, and canyoneering?
6. Dive with Thresher Sharks on Malapascua Island
Did we tell you that Cebu has many sharks all around it? Indeed, Malapascua island is another place where you can dive with sharks. Thresher sharks, like whale sharks, are not a threat to us as long as we don’t touch them unexpectedly. In fact, there was only one attack documented and it resulted from someone grabbing the shark’s tail. Steer clear of this and you’ll be able to enjoy one of the best things to do in Cebu!
7. Day Trip to Kalanggaman Island from Malapascua Island
A picturesque island with clear water and magnificent sights, Kalanggaman island is one for the books. On your trip, you can book a tour of the island. You can also book a day tour of both Kalanggaman Island and Malapascua Island with private transportation. Bring your bathing suit, lots of sunscreen and make sure to consider one of Kalanggaman island’s many activities. For example, you can swim, of course, but you can do much more: kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, aquabiking, and sandbar exploring are all possible.
8. Visit Siquijor Island
Finally, take a quick trip to Siquijor and enjoy the many activities it has to offer. On our end, we especially enjoyed diving with barracudas, visiting Cambugahay Falls, relaxing at Paliton beach, and the Cantabon cave. To read more on our various experiences, take a look at our article right here.
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