Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
18/08/2025
Matthias Oben, Pexels
Moalboal, Philippines, offers exceptional marine encounters, most notably the world-famous sardine run and abundant sea turtle sightings, making it a prime destination for divers and snorkelers. It also serves as a gateway to thrilling land-based adventures, including canyoneering and exploring waterfalls.
Panagsama Beach stands as the main social nexus, where a variety of restaurants, bars, and dive shops create a lively atmosphere. Hostels in the area, such as Chief Mau and MoHo Hostel, are particularly conducive to meeting other travelers, offering communal spaces and organized social activities.
Top 5 Things to do in Moalboal
Visitors to Moalboal can explore vibrant underwater worlds, undertake challenging land-based adventures, and unwind on tranquil beaches.
1. Sardine Run & Turtle Snorkeling/Diving
Witnessing the world-famous sardine run is a truly mesmerizing experience, where millions of sardines form colossal bait balls just meters from the shore of Panagsama Beach. This natural phenomenon is visible year-round. Nearby, sea turtles can be observed gracefully swimming in their natural habitat, offering memorable encounters. Whether snorkeling or diving, encountering these vast schools of fish and serene turtles provides an unparalleled marine experience.
Cost: For snorkeling, an environmental fee of approximately ₱100 per person is required to access Panagsama Beach. Renting snorkel gear typically costs around ₱100-₱200. Guided snorkeling tours, which often include gear and a local guide, range from approximately ₱300-₱1000 per person. Scuba diving rates vary by dive shop.
Transport: The sardine run and turtle spotting areas are directly accessible by swimming or a very short boat ride from Panagsama Beach, which is the main tourist area.
2. Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
Embark on a thrilling canyoneering adventure through the turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls, located in nearby Badian. This activity involves hiking, climbing, wading, swimming, and even jumping from cliffs as high as 15 meters, culminating in the stunning multi-tiered Kawasan Falls. Professional guides ensure safety, and all necessary equipment like helmets and life jackets are provided. It is an exhilarating way to experience Cebu's natural landscapes.
Cost: Canyoneering tours typically cost around ₱1900-₱2000 per person. Some tours may include lunch and transportation. An optional zipline to the starting point can be added for approximately ₱600 per person.
Transport: Kawasan Falls is located in Badian, approximately 45 minutes to an hour's drive from Moalboal. Many tours offer pick-up and drop-off services from Moalboal accommodations.
3. Relax at White Beach (Basdaku)
White Beach, also known as Basdaku, offers a serene contrast to the lively Panagsama Beach with its nearly kilometer-long stretch of soft, white sand and clear blue waters. It is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing under the sun, particularly appealing to families and those seeking tranquility. The beach is popular for its beautiful sunsets.
Cost: There is usually a small entrance fee to White Beach, which can range from ₱10 to ₱50-₱100 per person, depending on the purpose of visit and a separate environmental fee.
Transport: White Beach is approximately 15 minutes north of Panagsama Beach. A tricycle ride from Panagsama to White Beach typically costs around ₱150-₱300 for the whole tricycle, depending on bargaining.
4. Pescador Island Hopping
Embark on an island hopping tour to Pescador Island, an uninhabited island known for its magnificent coral reefs and abundant marine life. It is considered one of the best dive and snorkel sites in the Philippines, offering opportunities to spot diverse fish species, colorful corals, and often sea turtles. The rich underwater ecosystem makes it a fantastic destination for marine enthusiasts.
Cost: Island hopping tours that include Pescador Island typically cost around ₱1500 per person, often including multiple stops like the sardine run and equipment rental. Private tours can range from ₱2800-₱6000 per person depending on group size.
Transport: Pescador Island is a short boat ride from Panagsama Beach, which serves as the main jump-off point for these tours.
5. Hike to Osmeña Peak
For those seeking panoramic views, a day trip to Osmeña Peak, the highest mountain in Cebu, offers stunning 360-degree vistas of the island's unique jagged hills and surrounding landscapes. The hike is relatively accessible, providing a rewarding experience with breathtaking scenery at the summit.
Cost: The entrance fee to Osmeña Peak is typically around ₱30. Transportation costs (motorbike rental or private hire) would be additional.
Transport: Osmeña Peak is located about a two-hour drive from Moalboal. Visitors typically hire a moped or a car to get there, as it is a significant distance from the town center.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
