Cebu & Nearby Islands

Sea life, island hopping, and unique landscapes

Country: Philippines 🇵🇭

Overview

This itinerary covers Cebu and nearby islands, one of the most accessible and rewarding regions of the Philippines.

Why start here:

  • Cebu has a major international airport
  • No need to transit through Manila
  • Good ferry connections to nearby islands
  • Excellent sea life: whale sharks, sardines, coral reefs
  • Mix of culture, beaches, and unique landscapes

This route works well for 10–14 days, and can be easily extended.

Arrival – Cebu City ▾


Cebu City is one of the main gateways to the Philippines and a practical starting point.

Highlights:
• Magellan’s Cross
• Basilica del Santo Niño
• Fort San Pedro

Cebu City itself is busy and congested, but offers useful context and logistics.

Recommended stay:
• 1 day or overnight only

From here, travel onward across the island by bus or private transfer.

Moalboal ▾


Southern Cebu offers some of the best sea life in the country.

What to do:
• Famous sardine run directly from the shore
• Coral reefs and snorkeling
• Relaxed coastal atmosphere

How to get around:
• Public buses run frequently along the island (good option)
• Travel is slow but reliable

Recommended stay:
• 3–5 days total

Oslob ▾


Oslob:
• Known for whale shark encounters
• Nearby waterfalls such as Tumalog Falls

How to get around:
• Public buses (need to change buses at Samboan)
• Transfer (usually more expensive)

Recommended stay:
• 1 full day

Cebu → Bohol (Ferry) ▾


Travel by ferry from Cebu to Bohol.

Recommended route:
• Public bus to the Cebu City
• Cebu City → Tagbilaran (Bohol)

Important warning:
• Avoid ferries operating directly from Oslob to Panglao — service quality and safety are poor

Panglao Island – Beaches & Relaxation ▾


Panglao is connected to Bohol by bridge and offers the region’s best beach conditions.

Highlights:
• White-sand beaches
• Calm, clear water
• Easy access to snorkeling and diving

Panglao works well as:
• A base for exploring Bohol
• A place to relax between excursions

Recommended stay:
• 2–4 days

Bohol Island – Unique Landscapes & Wildlife ▾


Bohol is one of the most unique islands in the Philippines.

Highlights:
• Chocolate Hills – unusual cone-shaped formations
• Tarsier Conservation Area – tiny endemic primates
• Loboc River Cruise – scenic jungle river

Activities:
• Countryside tours
• Light hikes and viewpoints
• Cultural and natural sightseeing

Recommended stay:
• 1–2 days (usually as day trips from Panglao)

Optional Extensions – Siquijor or Negros ▾


If you have extra time, consider adding one more island.

Siquijor:
• Calm atmosphere
• Waterfalls and coastal snorkeling
• Spiritual and low-key vibe
• Reachable by ferry from Bohol or Cebu

Negros (Dumaguete area):
• University town with relaxed pace
• Access to Apo Island (excellent snorkeling)
• Good ferry connections

These islands are optional and best added only if you have additional days.

Transport notes

  • Buses on Cebu are reliable and affordable
  • Ferries are the main way to move between islands
  • Always choose well-reviewed ferry companies
  • Sea conditions can cause delays — plan buffer time

Best season

Best time to visit:

  • December–May – drier weather and better sea conditions

Less ideal:

  • June–October – rainy season, rougher seas

Visibility for snorkeling depends strongly on weather.