Asia
Moalboal: Cebu’s adventure capital and what to do there
Dec
Moalboal Cebu is arguably the best place to base yourself on the island of Cebu if you are looking to experience its stunning nature. While it is most famous for the balls of sardines, and turtles, and also a (relatively) short distance to see the whaleshark in Oslob, you can also go see waterfalls, island hop, and see a stunning vista on limestone mountains.
If you are wondering what to do in Moalboal or just general price information, I’ve got it all done for you:
Table of Contents
FAQ on Moalboal
First off, we’re here to answer some frequently asked questions and paint the picture of Moalboal for you:
What makes Moalboal famous?
Moalboal is most famous for the sardine runs – aka thousands of sardines swimming together as dancing balls – that you can see right off the coast of Panagsama Beach.
It is also close to other famous attractions like Kawasan Falls, whale shark in Oslob, and the mountains.
It also has the best tourist infrastructure in the area.
Cebu to Moalboal: How to get to Moalboal from Cebu City?
The best way to get to Moalboal from Cebu City is by bus or by private car, and you can see how to get from Cebu City to Moalboal here.
It takes 3-6 hours depending on traffic to travel between the two cities, with Moalboal on the south-west coast.
Is Moalboal worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s a good hub to base yourself in if you are looking to explore the countryside of Cebu island. You can also get diving or free diving certificates at a very reasonable price if you have time to spare.
I was most impressed with the stunning sea life, and it honestly rivals the underwater world in the best atolls in the Maldives, and in the Gili Islands in Indonesia.
How many days should I spend in Moalboal?
How much time you spend in Moalboal depends on your focus on the trip. If you want to do everything, I’d suggest 5 days. Otherwisem 3 days is enough to get down and back up, see the sardine runs, and do canyoneering and see the whale shark.
That said, if the weather condition isn’t ideal – which can happen even during dry season, you might not be able to do all the activities.
Getting Around Moalboal
Before we dive into the many attractions of Moaboal, let’s talk about how to get around Moalboal. The easiest way to do that is to rent a scooter or motorbike and drive around yourself. However, that is not the safest way to do it if you are venturing into the mountains, but it does give you the most flexibility.
Renting a motorbike in Moalboal
Renting a motorbike can be as cheap as 290 pesos a day (excluding petrol) and give you the flexibility to roam around the region.
However, I won’t recommend doing this unless you are an experienced motorbike driver or plan to get around short distances around Moalboal.
The mountain roads are still in the process of being paved, and can be extremely dangerous if it rains or is wet. And it can be confusing trying to get up.
Most places, including your accommodation, should be able to help you with motorbike rental. Be sure that you have a valid license and insurance in case of any accidents.
Joining day trips in Moalboal
The best way to get around Moalboal if you don’t want to drive is to join day trips. Most of the popular destinations would have a day trip that can take you there, which I’ll go into more detail below.
The best thing to do before committing to a day trip is to check when you depart and get back, and the price. I asked around and went with the tour guide that could answer me immediately and has the best price, his name is David and you can find him through this Whatsapp: +63 906 055 7060, and tell him that you came from Nam’s blog.
Hiring an easy rider in Moalboal
If you want to go somewhere that tours don’t seem to cover, and you don’t want to drive a motorbike, you can hire an easy rider. David drove me up to see Osmena and Casino Peak on his motorbike and it was a great trip.
Alternative destinations include waterfalls, and you can also hire a habal habal if you’re more than 1 person. But the sidecar won’t be comfortable for long distances.
Beaches in Moalboal Cebu
A lot of people come to the Philippines to find pristine beaches. I wouldn’t say that I have personally found it in Moalboal, but that was because it was not the focus of my trip. Here are the top 3 beaches in Moalboal area.
Panagsama Beach Moalboal Cebu
The Panagsama Beach is where the tourist area is for Moalboal and the location to see the famous sardine runs. It is, however, not a picture perfect beach.
There is a narrow stripe of sand until you get close to the sardine runs, but otherwise, it was mostly concrete and restaurants spilling towards the sea.
Note: if you want to go snorkel with sandy entry – go towards Amigos Dive Center and there’s a small alley that leads to a beach.
White Beach
The White Beach is about 15 minutes’ drive north of Panagsama. Before you think you can walk, that would take 1.5 hours. It is a much larger beach than Panagsama Beach and more sandy.
It’s a great place to chill and sun bath, but be warned that it gets very busy with local crowds during Friday and Saturday afternoons and evenings. According to my guide, they’ll stay there and party overnight.
You can get a habal habal to take you there for around 150 pesos depending on your haggling skills. But since it’s in a different area, you’d have to pay 25 pesos for the environmental fee.
Lambug Beach
Lambug Beach is another popular beach but it is in Badian, not Moalboal. It is about 20 minutes away from Moalboal by car or motorbike, and it is not as crowded or commercialized as other beaches in the area. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing on the beach, or rent a cottage or a tent for a relaxing stay. Lambug Beach is also known for its stunning sunset views, so make sure to catch it before you leave.
Things to do in Moalboal Cebu
Whether you are a nature lover, a thrill seeker, or a beach bum, you will find something to enjoy in Moalboal. Here are some of the best things to do in Moalboal Cebu:
Sardine Run
One of the most unique and amazing experiences in Moalboal is to witness the sardine runs, where millions of sardines form a huge ball and swim in the water.
You can see this phenomenon all year round, just a few meters from the shore of Panagsama Beach.
You can snorkel or dive with the sardines and watch them change shapes and patterns as they move. You might also spot some turtles along the way – but it’s not as easy to find as the sardines.
Cost: 400-500 pesos per person, including entrance fee, gear, and a guide who will help you take photos and videos
Whaleshark Oslob
Another popular activity in Moalboal is to visit Oslob, a nearby town where you can swim with the gentle giants of the sea, the whale sharks. These are the largest fish in the world, and they are harmless to humans. You can join a tour from Moalboal to Oslob, where you will have 30 minutes to snorkel with the whale sharks.
You can also visit some other attractions in Oslob, such as the Tumalog Falls. The cost for whale shark watching is 1500 pesos per person for join-in tours, or 2500 pesos per person for a private car with a minimum of 2 persons. The price includes transportation, entrance fee, gear, and guide.
If you’re interested in the ethics of the experience and exactly what happened, I have a separate guide here (coming soon).
Canyoneering in Moalboal
If you are looking for some adrenaline rush, you can try canyoneering in Moalboal. Canyoneering is an activity where you hike, jump, slide, and swim through canyons and waterfalls. There are many waterfalls within easy reach from Moalboal, but there’s only one that has earned name-recognition internationally!
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
The most popular canyoneering spot is Kawasan Falls, now with a zipline option plus a lot of jumps, slides, and the famous Kawasan Falls itself.
I’ll detail what canyoneering is like in Kawasan in a separate post (coming soon).
Kabutongan Falls Canyonerring
The alternative option is Kabutongan Waterfall, which is also a beautiful and fun place to explore. There were 5 jumps that range from 1m to 7m, although the 7m one can be substituted to 5m. The guides are also very good at taking photos of you, so make sure you have enough phone storage.
You can join a canyoneering adventure tour from Moalboal, which includes transportation, entrance fee, gears, guide, and lunch.
The cost of canyoneering range from 1700 to 2500 pesos per person depending on your tour operator and which one you go to.
Island Hopping
Pescador Island
Another fun thing to do in Moalboal is to go island hopping and visit some of the nearby islands and marine sanctuaries. One of the most popular destinations is Pescador Island, a small island off the coast of Moalboal that is famous for its rich coral reefs and marine life.
You can snorkel or dive around the island and see a variety of fish, turtles, sardines, and even sharks. You can also explore the underwater cave called ‘the Cathedral’, which is a popular dive site. You can join an island hopping tour from Moalboal, which includes boat, snorkeling gear, and guide.
The cost for island hopping is 3500 pesos for 1-5 persons, 4500 pesos for 6-7 persons, or 5500 pesos for 8-10 persons, plus 100 pesos per person for environmental users fee.
You can also join a boat dive there – I went with Amigos Dive Center which has a Fun Dive package of a shore dive to see sardine runs, and 2 boat dive that usually includes Pescador Island.
Osmeña Peak
Osmeña Peak is the highest point on Cebu Island, standing at 1013 meters above sea level. It is located in the Badian mountain region, about 1 hour 20 minutes away from Moalboal by car or motorbike. Osmeña Peak is famous for its unique jagged hill formations that resemble a cluster of green, sharp-pointed hills.
The view from the summit is breathtaking, as you can see the nearby rolling hills, the coastline, and the neighboring islands. The hike to Osmeña Peak is short but on smooth limstone and mud, taking only about 20-30 minutes from the jump-off point. You can also combine it with a visit to the nearby Casino Peak, which has a similar landscape but is less crowded.
Read here for my guide to hiking Osmena Peak (coming soon).
Casino Peak
Casino Peak (also known as Lugsangan Peak) is another stunning viewpoint in the Dalaguete mountain region, just a few kilometers away from Osmeña Peak. It is less popular and more adventurous than Osmeña Peak, as the trail is steeper and more rocky.
If you don’t have time to go to Bohol, this is like the Chocolate Hills with a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and the sea.
The hike to Casino Peak takes longer and is slippery in rainy weather, about 30-40 minutes from the jump-off point, and you will need to pay a small entrance fee of 30 pesos. They also have walking sticks they can lend you.
Osmeña Peak and Casino Peak Trekking
If you want to experience both Osmeña Peak and Casino Peak in one day, you can hire an easy rider that will take you to both viewpoints. The tour costs 1800 pesos per person, including transportation, entrance fee, and guide by motorbike. If you prefer to go by car, the cost is 3000 pesos per person.
The tour will start from Moalboal and take you to the jump-off points of both peaks. You will have enough time to enjoy the views and take photos at each peak. The trip can take as long as 5-6 hours depending on weather condition and traffic.
Waterfalls hopping from Moalboal
Another fun activity to do in Moalboal is to go waterfalls hopping and visit some of the most beautiful and refreshing waterfalls in Cebu. There are many waterfalls near Moalboal, each with its own charm and attraction. You can swim, jump, slide, or just relax in the clear blue water of these natural wonders.
Do note that driving to most of these places isn’t the easiest since they are not well signposted. But I want to make a drop down list for you to have an overview and decide.
Tumalog Falls – a good add on for Oslob
Tumalog Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Cebu, located in Oslob, about an hour and a half drive from Moalboal. It is also known as the “Toslob Falls” or the “Mag-ambak Falls”.
It features a curtain of water that cascades from a height of about 100 meters, creating a misty and magical atmosphere. The pool below is shallow and calm, perfect for a refreshing dip. Although you’d be there with about 50+ new best friends as well, as this is an optional add on for those waiting for their whaleshark excursion.
To get to Tumalog Falls, you will need to take a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) from the main road, as the road is steep and rough. Our tour organised it for us and even I would say please don’t walk it.
Inambakan Falls
Inambakan Falls is a hidden gem in the town of Ginatilan. It is a multi-tiered waterfall that has five levels, each with its own pool and cascade. The main waterfall is about 30 meters high and has a large and deep pool that is ideal for swimming and cliff jumping.
The other levels are smaller and more secluded, and you can explore them by following the trail upstream. You can also find some caves and rock formations along the way.
The entrance fee to Inambakan Falls is 50 pesos per person, and you can also rent a cottage or a table for a picnic.
Dao Falls
Dao Falls is another stunning waterfall in the town of Samboan, about 2-3 hours drive from Moalboal. It is the tallest waterfall in Samboan, with a height of about 90 meters. It has a unique and narrow shape, resembling a snake that slithers down the cliff.
The pool below is turquoise and inviting, surrounded by lush greenery and rocks. To get to Dao Falls, you will need to hike for about 30 minutes from the registration area, passing by some rice fields, bamboo bridges, and streams. The hike is easy and scenic, and you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the waterfall.
The entrance fee is 60 pesos per person, and you can also hire a guide for 100 pesos.
Hidden Falls (Binalayan Waterfall)
Hidden Falls, also known as Binalayan Waterfall or Triple Drop Falls, is a secret waterfall in the town of Samboan, about 2-3 hours drive from Moalboal. It is called Hidden Falls because it is not visible from the road, and you will need to hike for about 20 minutes from the parking area to reach it.
The waterfall has three tiers, each with its own pool and cascade. The main drop is about 15 m high and has a wide and deep pool that is great for swimming and jumping. The other drops are smaller and more serene, and you can relax on the rocks or the bamboo rafts.
The entrance fee is 40 pesos per person.
Cambais Falls
Cambais Falls is a beautiful waterfall in the town of Alegria, about 1 hour or so drive from Moalboal. It is a two-tiered waterfall that has two pools and cascades. The upper pool is smaller and more shallow, while the lower pool is bigger and deeper.
Both pools have clear and cool water that is perfect for swimming and jumping. You can also find some caves and rock formations around the waterfall. To get to Cambais Falls, you will need to hike for about 20 minutes from the registration area, passing by some coconut trees, banana plants, and streams.
The hike is easy and enjoyable, and you will be greeted with a refreshing sight of the waterfall. The entrance fee is 50 pesos per person, and you can also rent a cottage or a table for a picnic.
Montpellier Falls
Montpellier Falls is a hidden waterfall near Osmena Peak about 1 hour from Moalboal, but it can be difficult to find. It is a single-drop waterfall that has a height of about 30 meters. It has a small and shallow pool that is good for a quick dip. The waterfall is surrounded by rocks and trees, creating a peaceful and relaxing ambiance.
To get to Montpellier Falls, you will need to hike for about 10 minutes from the parking area, passing by some corn fields and bamboo groves. The hike is easy and short, and you will be amazed by the beauty of the waterfall.
Aguinid Falls
Aguinid Falls is a popular waterfall in the town of Samboan, but it is a 2-3 hours drive from Moalboal. It is a multi-level waterfall that has eight levels, each with its own pool and cascade. The waterfall is known for its limestone formations that create natural steps and slides, which reminds me of the Sticky Waterfall in Chiang Mai. The water is clear and fresh, and you can swim, climb, or slide on the rocks.
To get to Aguinid Falls, you will need to register at the entrance and pay 60 pesos per person. You will also be assigned a guide who will assist you throughout the hike, who get paid with what you tip. The hike is moderate and adventurous, and you will get wet and dirty along the way. However, the fun and thrill of exploring the waterfall is worth it.
Cancalanog Falls
Cancalanog Falls is a secluded waterfall in the town of Alegria, about 1 hour’s drive from Moalboal. It is also known as Cangcalanog Falls or Kangkalanog Falls. It is a single-drop waterfall that has a height of about 60 meters. It has a large and deep pool that is ideal for swimming and diving.
The water is turquoise and crystal clear, and you can see the bottom of the pool. The waterfall is surrounded by green hills and trees, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. To get to Cancalanog Falls, you will need to hike for about 30 minutes from the registration area, passing by some rice terraces, coconut trees, and streams. The hike is easy and scenic, and you will be mesmerized by the beauty of the waterfall. The entrance fee is 50 pesos per person.
Mantayupan Falls
Mantayupan Falls is a majestic waterfall in the town of Barili, about 3-4 hour drive from Moalboal. It is the tallest waterfall in Cebu, with a height of about 98 meters. It has two levels, each with its own pool and cascade.
The upper level is about 14 meters high and has a small and shallow pool, while the lower level is about 84 meters high and has a large and deep pool. The water is clear and cool, and you can swim, jump, or raft on the pools.
It’s a short walk but there is a hanging bridge so be mentally prepared if you’re afraid of heights. The entrance fee is 40 pesos per person, parking 20 pesos and you can also rent a raft for 100 pesos.
Lusno Falls
Lusno Falls is a hidden waterfall in the town of Ronda, about an hour and 30 minutes drive from Moalboal. It is also known as Lusong Falls or Ronda Falls. It is a single-drop waterfall that has a height of about 25 meters. It has a small and circular pool that is surrounded by rocks and trees. The water is clear and fresh, and you can swim or relax in the pool. The waterfall is not very popular, so you can enjoy the tranquility and privacy of the place.
To get to Lusno Falls, you will need to hike for about 20 minutes from the registration area, passing by some fields and hills. The hike is easy and enjoyable, and you will be surprised by the beauty of the waterfall. The entrance fee is 20 pesos per person, and you can also hire a guide for 100 pesos.
Diving in Moalboal
Moalboal is also a paradise for divers, as it has some of the best dive sites in Cebu. You can explore the colorful coral reefs, the amazing marine life, and the spectacular underwater landscapes. Some of the dive sites you can visit are:
Pescador Island
Pescador Island is one of the most famous dive sites in Moalboal, as it offers a variety of diving experiences. You can dive around the island and see the walls, caves, tunnels, and slopes that are covered with corals and sponges. You can also see a diversity of fish, turtles, sardines, and even sharks.
You can also dive inside the island and explore the underwater cave called ‘the Cathedral’, which is a large chamber with a hole on the ceiling that lets the sunlight in. Pescador Island is suitable for all levels of divers, and you can join a dive tour from Moalboal to visit the island.
Panagsama Beach
Panagsama Beach is the main beach in Moalboal, where you can find most of the dive shops, resorts, and restaurants. It is also a great dive site, as it has a long and shallow reef that is home to many fish and corals.
Sunken Island
Sunken Island is another popular dive site in Moalboal, as it is a submerged island that rises from a depth of about 40 meters to about 18 meters below the surface. It is a plateau that is covered with soft and hard corals, and attracts a lot of fish and other marine creatures. You can see barracudas, jacks, snappers, groupers, and sometimes sharks or rays. You can also see some interesting rock formations and crevices. Sunken Island is suitable for advanced divers, as the current can be strong and the visibility can be low. You can join a dive tour from Moalboal to visit the island.
Moalboal Cebu Hotels
Now that I’ve covered everything there is to do in Moalboal, time to see where to stay. Staying by Panagsama Beach is the easiest option for transport and for dining and entertainment option since it is the tourist town. But there are nice resorts further north of the area along the beach.
Cebu Moalboal Resort
There are quite a few resorts in Moalboal Cebu. Here are some suggestions:
Dolphin House Resort Moalboal is by White Beach and makes for a good quiet escape with a pool as well. But Wifi isn’t as good and it is on the older side.
Quo Vadis Dive Resort faces the ocean and the sunset with individual bungalows and big pool. It is a little further from main town if you walk but only about 15 mins.
Marcosas Cottage Resort is a cottage resort that has rooms with kitchens and a pool. It is closer to town and with its own pool as well.
Cheap beach resort in Moalboal Cebu
Looking for affordable beach resorts in Moalboal Cebu? I can’t say that these should be classified as resort, but they are definitely cheaper:
D’Gecko Hotel is around the corner from the beach leading down to the sardine runs with more modern rooms. But getting to the hotel can be difficult on bumpy roads in.
Sunset Paradise is in the heart of Moalboal with modern bedrooms – my friend has stayed there and says it’s very comfortable. There are cats on the premises just in case you’re allergic.
