Moalboal Island: Day Trips and Tours from Cebu

Moalboal Island is a paradisiacal spot that provides tranquility for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of Cebu City. Famed for its Sardine Run, the island is home to glistening sands, swaying palm trees and endless azure waters filled with a plethora of tropical fish.

Moalboal Island day trips from Cebu showcase the diversity of the region and provide you with opportunities to challenge yourself, from swimming among whale sharks to canyoning along steep ravines.

Here's all you need to know about Moalboal Island, one of the most exciting day trips from Cebu.

How to get to Moalboal Island from Cebu?

Despite being referred to as an island, Moalboal Island is in fact a peninsula on the southwestern side of Cebu in the center of the Philippines. It is just under 90 kilometers southwest of Cebu City, the capital city of the Cebu Island province.

From Cebu to Moalboal Island by car

The journey to Moalboal Island by car from Cebu City takes just under 3 hours and begins by following the Cebu S Road south of the city, and along the coast. You’ll follow the road as it heads inland to Valladolid and merge onto the Carcar - Barili Road followed by the Santander - Barili - Toledo Road to reach Moalboal Island.

From Cebu to Moalboal Island by bus

Those without access to a car can make the jaunt to Moalboal Island via public transportation instead. While you can take a taxi between the two destinations, a cheaper way to travel is via a direct public bus from the South Cebu Bus Terminal. There are several operators offering this route and buses run regularly from 9 AM to 2 AM.

Guided tour to Moalboal Island from Cebu

An easier way to travel is via a guided excursion to Moalboal Island. These organized day trips take care of all transportation details for you and begin with a convenient accommodation pickup service.

You’ll simply select your hotel from a dropdown menu upon booking and, on the day of your tour, await collection from your friendly guide in the lobby at a predetermined time. Then, once your adventure is over, you’ll be returned to the same spot so that you can spend the rest of the day relaxing or sightseeing.

These excursions typically last between 11 and 15 hours, and start early, between 4 AM and 5 AM.

What is the typical itinerary?

The itinerary on each Moalboal Island day trip differs. However, they generally all share some similarities. After pickup from your guide, you’ll travel south of Cebu City to reach your main destination.

The locations you visit around Moalboal Island depend on the tour you select and you may start by exploring Kawasan Falls or alternatively, Oslob. Regardless of which Moalboal Island day tour you choose, you’ll hop between a number of destinations throughout the day, enjoying the area’s sparkling seas and spectacular scenery.

In the middle of the day, you’ll stop for lunch, provided by your operator, before continuing on with your activities. Your guide will be with you throughout every part of your trip, meaning that you can feel at ease, knowing that you’re in safe hands throughout each activity.

After a tiring but exciting day, you’ll enjoy a comfortable journey back to Cebu City where your Moalboal Island day trip ends.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Moalboal Island?

There are several different types of day trips to Moalboal Island available for you to choose from, depending on your personal interests. Whether you’re into snorkeling, scuba diving or canyoning, there’s an excursion to suit you.

Guided tours to Moalboal Island plus Kawasan Falls from Cebu

You’ll begin this Moalboal Island day tour with a visit to the tumbling Kawasan Falls, after hiking through the diverse greenery of the Philippines. Make a splash into the vibrant turquoise waters and admire the scenery as you swim in the falls’ enchanting pool.

Moving on, you’ll head to Pescador Island where you’ll have the opportunity to don a snorkel mask and slip under the ocean’s surface to discover a bustling world of colorful marine creatures, including stone fish, lion fish, and turtles.

Before returning to Cebu, you’ll discover Sardine Run just meters from the shore of Panagsama Beach. Here, you can be awed by the movements of colossal schools of sardines or, if you’re feeling adventurous, dive in and become surrounded by thousands of silvery fins.

Day trip to Moalboal Island plus whale shark interaction from Cebu

Thrill seekers and nature lovers should consider participating in this Moalboal Island day trip with shark diving, which travels to Oslob where you’ll slip into the waters alongside your guide to discover a myriad of harmless whale sharks. These gigantic fish are distinguished by their spotted backs and can grow over 10 meters long.

Continuing on, you’ll make your way to Badian where you’ll get your adrenaline pumping as you try out canyoning. Whether you’re a connoisseur of scrambling through ravines or have never visited a canyon, this beginner-friendly tour is suitable for all skill levels.

How much does a day trip to Moalboal Island from Cebu cost?

Moalboal Island day tours vary significantly in their activities, and because of this, you can expect variation in their prices too.

A day trip to Moalboal Island and Kawasan Falls with a private tour costs between US$160, and US$170 as a solo traveler. However, the price per head decreases with each member added to your party, and with five people, you’ll each pay US$90. Children under 4 benefit from traveling free if accompanied by two paying adults.

If you wish to participate in a whale shark experience, you can expect to pay US$200 per person. The excursion is private and has a minimum booking requirement of two travelers. The price per person varies depending on the group size and, with the maximum of 14 members in your party, you’ll each pay between US$120, and US$130.

What will you see and do?

Moalboal Island covers 120 square kilometers on the western coast of Cebu and is one of the most popular destinations on the island for both national, and international visitors.

The history of this area can only be described as colorful, as the founder of Moalboal escaped to this corner of Cebu after killing a member of the Guardia Civil who abused him.

Today, the region is widely known for its remarkable Sardine Run just 20 meters off the shores of Panagsama Beach. Here, you’ll see thousands of fish swimming side by side in great bait balls — spherical formations used for protection. While watching the sardines is fascinating, what makes this attraction so special is the ability to experience a bucket list moment by immersing yourself in these busy waters.

Other popular spots on Moalboal Island include White Beach and Lambung Beach, both known for their pristine silky sands, and inviting turquoise waters, as well as the snorkeling haven of Pescador Island, just off the coast of Moalboal.

When is the best time to visit Moalboal Island?

The best time to visit Moalboal is during its dry season, which usually lasts from November to May. This is the peak season for tourists, so expect more crowds but the weather is generally good for outdoor activities and water excursions.

Which other day trips can you enjoy from Cebu?

• Bohol Island Day Trips from Cebu
• Sumilon Island Day Trips from Cebu
• Olango Island Day Trips from Cebu

Travel tips

• While there are ATMs in Moalboal, it's always a good idea to carry enough cash, especially when visiting remote areas or smaller establishments.
• Be a responsible tourist by not touching marine life, not stepping on corals, and avoiding the use of harmful sunscreens that could damage the marine ecosystem.
• Wi-Fi can be hit or miss in some accommodations, so if staying connected is essential, consider getting a local SIM card with a data plan.