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Cebu
Visayas • Philippines

Cebu

The Queen City of the South and vibrant island-hopping powerhouse of the central Visayas.

4.5/ 5.0

Based on 144 traveler reviews

9

Featured Hive Areas & Islands

9

Handpicked Attractions & Spots

2,500

Est. Daily Travel Budget

Gateway:Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
Best Season:December to May (Dry Season & Fiesta Month)
Top Festival:Sinulog Festival (3rd Sunday of January)
Signature Cultural Festival & Fiesta

Sinulog Festival (3rd Sunday of January)

Experience the vibrant traditions, colorful street parades, and infectious warmth of Cebu's most celebrated cultural event.

Featured Hive Areas

Destinations in Cebu (9)

Mactan Island

Mactan Island

9 curated spots

Located in the east of Cebu Island lies the Mactan Island. This Island is divided into the municipality of Cordova and the city of Lapu-Lapu. Additionally, Mactan Island is adjacent to Carmotes Sea and Cebu Strait.Mactan is known as Coral Island and thus, one of the major tourist destinations of Cebu. Mactan offers a variety of underwater and cultural activities that you will surely enjoy!

Kadaugan sa MactanView Hive
Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island

9 curated spots

Bantayan Island is a beautiful island that is known as one of the most breathtaking islands in the world. Though it is only no more than 100 square miles in size, it also serves as Cebu’s fishing grounds. It is situated in the Visayan Sea, at the northern tip of Cebu. It is best known for its powdery white sand and immaculately clear waters.This island with unspoiled white sand beaches is called Bantayan Island after the term “Bantayan sa Hari” which translates to “Watchtowers of the King”. The story behind this is that 18 watchtowers stood on this island as Governor-General Sebastian Hurtado de Corcuera’s defense against Moro pirates.Nowadays, apart from being a large supplier of fish for different parts of the Philippines, Bantayan Island has also become a sanctuary for beach lovers and island hoppers alike. Popularized by the movie “Camp Sawi”, one of the famous places on Bantayan Island, it is now known as a perfect getaway. So, if you’re chasing for the sand, sea, and sun, you must go and try activities on Bantayan Island.

Palawod FestivalView Hive
Oslob Cebu

Oslob Cebu

1 curated spots

The quaint town of Oslob rapidly skyrocketed into the spotlight when it became a famous spot for whale shark diving. However, the attention has shifted to other tourist attractions as we focus on saving these gentle giants. A coastal municipality with a population of 30,000 people, Oslob has been buzzing with tourists ever since.A paradise on Earth—the universe has blessed Oslob with the captivating beauty of nature. This town is home to a majestic sandbar, vibrant coral reefs, gorgeous waterfalls, mystical secret caves, and solemn heritage sites. Here is a quick guide to help you explore every inch of Oslob’s allure. Take note of these pointers to make the most of your Oslob getaway.

Toslob FestivalView Hive
Malapascua Island

Malapascua Island

9 curated spots

Malapascua Island, yet another beauty in the northern part of Cebu, just makes it more alluring to visit the Philippines. This dreamlike island is well-known for its famous diving spots that give you the chance to dive with thresher sharks. If you’re not that into marine life, Malapascua still offers the promise of sand, sun, and fun.Throughout the years, it has been a popular destination for local and foreign tourists because it is the perfect weekend getaway from the busy city life. The best time to travel to Malapascua Island is during December up to June. This allows you to enjoy the beach during dry season and with less people around.

Kandaya FestivalView Hive
Camotes Islands

Camotes Islands

5 curated spots

Located within the vicinity of the Queen City of the South, the Camotes Group of Islands is a must-see destination. It is composed of three main islands - Pacijan, Poro, and Ponson - and one minor islet, Tulang. Four municipalities are distributed across the 236 square kilometer area of Camotes, and their registered residents tally to more than 100 thousand.The beauty of nature emanates from the various beaches and farms found in Camotes. You can bask in the warmth of the tropical sunshine while sipping a cold bottle of booze. But, if you are keen on chilling throughout your vacation, you may also discover an abundance of restaurants and spas on the islands.It does not matter whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation. In Camotes Islands, there is no reason for you to choose. You can always have both.

Solili & Cassava FestivalView Hive
Cebu City

Cebu City

5 curated spots

Cebu City, also known as the “Queen City of the South,” is considered the oldest city in the Philippines. It is the most visited place by tourists in the Visayas region, with the busiest seaports and one of the largest air hubs.With several historical accounts pointing to this place where Ferdinand Magellan died, Cebu City is also considered a historic place. The cross Magellan brought from Spain 500 years ago and other ancient forts can also be found in this city.Today, Cebu City continues to flourish in business, trade, food, and tourism.

Sinulog FestivalView Hive
Moalboal

Moalboal

10 curated spots

Just a few hours from Cebu City, you can find the small town of Moalboal, packed with several activities and sights in its abundant waters. Their pocket beaches are ideal for a lazy midday to their vibrant marine life. Moalboal indeed comes with everything for the ocean and beach lovers.Image: Moalboal sardine runMoalboal obtained its popularity among tourists exploring the Philippines for their underwater gems of sardines circling and swimming off-shore, more popularly known as "sardine run." Despite expanding attention among backpacker travelers and divers, the small town still retained its vibe and charm.

Pescar Festival (Sardine Run Fiesta)View Hive
Kawasan Falls

Kawasan Falls

12 curated spots

So, they say, cascading waters attract a soul; it tends to dazzle first then freefall into a mass of noisy rattles before shattering into thousands of sprays of turquoise hue. Waterfalls are hidden forces of jewels, and one ever-so-famous on the island of the Philippines is the Kawasan Falls —a multi-layered oasis stashed away in the wilderness right at the foot of Mantalongon Mountain Range wrapped around in limestone Canyon walls and gorgeous scenery, in the thriving province of Cebu.Undoubtedly, the gushing rapids of Kawasan have become one of Cebu’s main attractions. Jet-setters from around the globe and even locals flocked the water systems of the falls; its 40 meters-deep natural cascade and the uncrowded but refreshingly cool, 20 meters pool —a vacationer’s dream come true!

Badian Banig & Waterfalls FestivalView Hive
Sumilon Island

Sumilon Island

9 curated spots

Situated gracefully amidst the cerulean waters of the Visayan Sea, Sumilon Island allures adventurers with its unspoiled shorelines, transparent waters, and awe-inspiring scenery. Found off the southeastern shores of Cebu, Philippines, Sumilon Island offers a secluded haven for travelers in search of an idyllic tropical retreat.Sumilon Island features pristine beaches that rank among the Philippines' finest, adorned with soft, white sands and inviting turquoise waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The island's primary beach, aptly named the Sandbar, spans over 200 meters, providing sweeping vistas of the encompassing sea and neighboring mainland Cebu.

Sumilon Sandbar & Marine ThanksgivingView Hive
Must-Visit Attractions

Tourist Spots & Activities (9)

Magellan's Cross
4.5
Spot

Magellan's Cross

Situated in Plaza Sugbo, Magellan's Cross Pavillion is a top-spot destination in Metro Cebu. It houses the Cross planted by Spanish explorers led by Ferdinand Magellan on April 21, 1521.

SpotDetails →
Sinulog Festival
4.5
Festival

Sinulog Festival

Sinulog festival is an annual religious festival in honor of the patron saint Sto. Niño. It is well-known for its vibrant street dance performances. Sinulog festival is held every 3 rd Sunday of January every year.

FestivalDetails →
Buglasan Festival
4.5
Festival

Buglasan Festival

The Buglasan Festival in Dumaguete City is more than just a celebration; it's a vibrant showcase of culture, tradition, and community spirit. Whether you're captivated by the colorful parades, tantalized by the delicious food, or inspired by the cultural performances, the Buglasan Festival offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of life in Negros Oriental.

FestivalDetails →
Simala Shrine
4.5
Church

Simala Shrine

Simala Shrine, also known as The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist. It is one of the most visited religious places in the Philippines, with magnificent outer landscapes and interior design.

ChurchDetails →
Osmeña Peak
4.5
Spot

Osmeña Peak

Osmeña Peak is the highest point on Cebu Island located in Badian. This tourist spot is one of the best adventures to try in the Southern part of Cebu! This spot is also near to beach towns Moalboal and Oslob.

SpotDetails →
Pahiyas Festival
4.5
Festival

Pahiyas Festival

Immerse yourself in the lively festivities of the Pahiyas Festival, an annual celebration that transforms the town into a colorful spectacle of local produce decorations. Marvel at the artistry, join street parades and revel in the cultural performances.

FestivalDetails →
Sirao Garden
4.5
Park

Sirao Garden

The Sirao garden is popularly called a ‘Mini Amsterdam’ by visitors because of the world-famous ‘Keukenhof’ flower garden. It's one of the bucket list spots when you visit Cebu City.

ParkDetails →
Little Santa Cruz Island
4.5
Spot

Little Santa Cruz Island

Little Santa Cruz Island is part of the Great Santa Cruz Island, renowned for its pink sand beach. While its larger counterpart often steals the spotlight, Little Santa Cruz Island has its own unique charm. With its untouched beauty and serene ambiance, it beckons travelers seeking a more secluded retreat. As you set foot on the shores of Little Santa Cruz Island, prepare to be embraced by the velvety softness of its powdery white sands, stretching endlessly before you. The gentle rhythm of turquoise waters caressing the shore creates an irresistible invitation, coaxing visitors to immerse themselves in its refreshing embrace or delve into thrilling water activities like snorkeling and swimming.

SpotDetails →
Tumalog Falls
4.5
Spot

Tumalog Falls

Tumalog Falls will leave you speechless—after all, it is one of the most magical waterfalls in Oslob. Tumalog Falls is a horsetail waterfall, with descending waters ever in contact with the rocks they fall on. This phenomenon creates a picture-perfect veil effect you should see for yourself!

SpotDetails →
Travel Guides & Stories

Travel Guides & Blogs for Cebu

Traveler Handbook & Insights

About Cebu: Travel Planning & Highlights

Cebu is a dynamic province blending metropolitan urban energy with pristine tropical coastlines. From the historic colonial heart of Cebu City to the idyllic white sand shores of Bantayan and Malapascua, and the adrenaline-pumping canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, Cebu offers every facet of Philippine travel in a single island province.

Island Group & Region
VisayasCentral Visayas (Region VII)
Primary Airport
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
Signature Food
Cebu Lechon & Danggit (Crispy Dried Fish)

Frequently Asked Questions about Cebu

January to May is the driest and most popular window. January is especially vibrant due to the world-famous Sinulog Festival celebration.