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Best things to do in Cebu

Find out more about those top places in Cebu

Things to do in Cebu - Philippines

Cebu, Philippines: Where Beaches & Beats Collide (Think Island Hopping, Underwater Wonders, and Maybe a Karaoke Serenade!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Visayan Vacation Hotspot!

Mabuhay from Cebu, the dazzling heart of the tropical Visayas! This island paradise in the Philippines is like a choose-your-own-adventure novel, with something guaranteed to tickle the fancy of every kind of visitor. Now, let's be honest, most folks who land on Cebu's shores make a beeline for those legendary white sand beaches that hug the island's rugged interior like a perfectly tanned embrace. The most popular (though, ahem, perhaps not the most serene) stretches are conveniently located near Cebu City, the Philippines’ bustling second-largest metropolis. But for those willing to venture a little further afield, oh boy, are you in for a treat! Islands like Malapascua and Bantayan offer beaches so completely unspoiled, you'll feel like you've stumbled onto your own private slice of paradise. Prepare for some serious beach bumming, folks!

But Cebu's allure goes way beyond just sun-kissed shores. Underneath those crystal-clear waters lies an underwater wonderland, offering some of the finest scuba diving and snorkeling in all of Asia. Get ready to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, encounter majestic whale sharks (if you're lucky!), and discover hidden underwater caves that will make you feel like a true marine explorer. Diving and snorkeling here are definitely top things to do and offer incredible sightseeing beneath the waves!

Now, while Cebu’s breathtaking natural wonders are undeniably the island's main draw, don't underestimate the vibrant energy of Cebu City itself! This bustling metropolis is a treasure trove of excellent restaurants serving up everything from mouthwatering local delicacies to international cuisine, and energetic bars where the good times flow as freely as the local rum. Exploring Cebu City is a fantastic way to experience the local culture, indulge in delicious eats, and maybe even belt out a tune or two at a karaoke bar (it's practically a national pastime!). This urban exploration offers a different kind of sightseeing and plenty of things to do beyond the beaches.

Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this Visayan vacation hotspot. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from lounging on pristine beaches and diving into underwater paradises to exploring a vibrant metropolis and indulging in delicious Filipino flavors, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Cebu a truly special and hilariously diverse destination. So pack your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and maybe your best karaoke voice – Cebu's waiting to wow you!

Top Attractions: Beaches, Underwater Wonders, and City Buzz!

Cebu offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty and urban excitement:

Malapascua Island: Unspoiled Beaches & Thresher Sharks

Discover the pristine beaches of Malapascua Island and the incredible opportunity to dive with thresher sharks. A top place to visit for beach lovers and divers.

Bantayan Island: Tranquil Shores

Relax on the tranquil and beautiful beaches of Bantayan Island, offering a more laid-back island experience. A key place to visit for ultimate relaxation.

Cebu City: Urban Exploration

Explore the vibrant metropolis of Cebu City, with its historical sites, excellent restaurants, and energetic nightlife. A must-do thing to do for a taste of local life.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Underwater Paradise

Dive or snorkel in Cebu's crystal-clear waters, renowned for their vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. A must-do thing to do for incredible sightseeing beneath the waves.

Kawasan Falls: Multi-Tiered Beauty

Visit the stunning Kawasan Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall offering canyoneering adventures and refreshing natural pools. A popular place to visit for adventure seekers.

Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this Visayan vacation hotspot!):

Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Cebu vibe:

  • Island Hopping Tours: Explore the numerous smaller islands surrounding Cebu.
  • Visit Historical Sites in Cebu City: Discover Magellan's Cross and Fort San Pedro.
  • Indulge in Filipino Cuisine: Sample local delicacies like lechon (roasted pig) and sinigang (sour soup).
  • Explore Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and find unique souvenirs.
  • Go Canyoneering in Badian: Experience the thrill of navigating the canyons of Kawasan Falls.

So, if you're looking for places to visit in the Philippines that offer a perfect blend of stunning beaches, incredible underwater adventures, and a vibrant city life, Cebu is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to fall in love with the island's charm – and maybe learn a few Tagalog phrases to impress the locals! Mabuhay and happy travels!

  • Island Hopping

    Cebu is a city that has a lot of water hence, many islands. You can go on a tour from one island to the other by boat. That is exactly what this tour is all about, hopping from one island to another. The islands have their unique and exquisite features and all have a gorgeous landscape. While hopping from island to island, have a taste of the local delicacies which are native to these islands.

    Cebu Island Hopping

  • Kawasan Falls

    Kawasan Falls is a 3-stage waterfall and a place you shouldn't miss. The whites waters splashing on the base of the waterfall combines well with the beautiful scenery around to make this location very picturesque. You can also swim in the falls to cool off.

    Kawasan Falls Canyoneering and Cliff Jump Tour

  • Whale Shark Swimming

    Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime swimming experience with whale sharks. Your private guide will take you on a scenic journey from Cebu's East Coast to the town of Oslob to capture a sight of this magnificent fish. Snorkel and swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

    Whale Shark Swimming

  • Mactan

    Mactan Island can be found Southeast of the Philippines lying across the Mactan Channel. Although it is a pretty modern place, it still retains some great spots for diving, its lush green and a number of beautiful sandy beaches. Mactan Island also has its share of history, one of which is the Battle in Mactan in 1521 that killed Ferdinand Magellan who was a Portuguese born explorer. 

    Twin City Culture and History Tour

Best places to stay in Cebu

Philippines tours featuring Cebu