Things To Do
in Moalboal
Moalboal is a laid-back coastal town on Cebu's southwest coast with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. It lures snorkelers and divers, especially for the famous sardine run near Panagsama Beach. Alongside its reef-rich lagoons, the town offers simple guesthouses, friendly locals, and easy access to nearby waterfalls and island trips.
Whether you’re into underwater marvels, beach strolls, or quiet sunsets, Moalboal blends natural beauty with a relaxed Filipino vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at your resort, fueling up for an exciting adventure. Head to the dock and board a local boat to Pescador Island, famous for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. As you arrive, the clear blue waters invite you for a day of snorkeling among schools of colorful fish and sea turtles.
After an exhilarating morning in the water, enjoy a picnic lunch on the boat or at a nearby beach. Spend the afternoon snorkeling at various spots around the island, discovering unique underwater landscapes and more marine biodiversity. Capture the beauty of the underwater world with your camera while soaking in the sun on the boat between snorkeling sessions.
Return to Moalboal as the sun begins to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor fresh catch of the day while listening to the gentle waves. End your evening with a stroll along the beach, perhaps spotting bioluminescent plankton shimmering in the water.
Set out early for an adrenaline-pumping day of canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, known for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. After a quick safety briefing, embark on a thrilling trek through the canyons, jumping into natural pools and sliding down waterfalls. The lush greenery surrounding you adds to the excitement as you navigate the challenging terrain.
Take a break for a well-deserved lunch at a local eatery near the falls, relishing local specialties while enjoying the serene ambiance. Continue your canyoneering adventure, tackling more jumps and slides that lead you deeper into the heart of Kawasan Falls. The refreshing water and breathtaking scenery make every moment unforgettable.
After an exhilarating day, return to your accommodation for a refreshing shower and some relaxation. Head out to a nearby restaurant for dinner, enjoying local dishes and perhaps a cold San Miguel beer. Reflect on your day’s adventure under the stars, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🏖️Beach chair or hammock rental | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Hostel dorm bed | $10-25 |
| 🚗Tricycle taxi ride | $1-4 per ride |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful marine life and sardine run
- Relaxed, friendly vibe and easy access to sights
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger destinations
- Seasonal road access to inland areas like Kawasan Falls can be affected by weather
- "Maayong buntag" - Good morning
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pila ang presyo?" - How much is the price?
- "Gusto nako mu-order." - I would like to order
- "Nakahibalo ka mag-ingles?" - Do you speak English?
- "Asa ang CR?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Moalboal
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic coastline with calm water, perfect for silhouettes and long-exposure sea shots.
Close-up shots of shimmering sardine schools swimming above the reef, especially near low tide.
Rocky vantage point with turquoise water and boats; ideal for cliff shots and marine life.
Powdery sand and clear water with vibrant sunsets; great for wide beach compositions.
Bright emerald pools against lush jungle; striking for nature photography.
Food in Moalboal
Moalboal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Cebuano ceviche of raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi, chili, and onions; commonly found at Panagsama eateries and local markets.
Must-Try!
Dried salt-cured anchovy, typically fried until crisp and served with rice and egg or used as a topping in local meals.
Grilled fish, often danggit or other fresh catches, cooked over charcoal at seaside grills.
Crisp roasted pig served in many town restaurants, ideal with a tangy lechon sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and affordable eats; great for grabbing danggit or kinilaw ingredients.
Lively stalls along the beachfront offering quick bites, fruit shakes, and snacks after a day of snorkeling.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly hello and say please/thank you; use polite phrases such as po/opo when addressing elders. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Moalboal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service, typically 5-15% in restaurants. Small tips to guides or boatmen are customary; carry small bills for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May offers hot, dry days with calm seas ideal for snorkeling and boat trips; expect weekend crowds and bright, long days.
June to October can bring frequent showers and occasional rough seas; plan flexible itineraries and seek sheltered snorkeling spots.
November to February brings cooler temperatures and clearer seas, favorable for diving visibility and hiking around nearby highlands.
Moalboal at Night
Hiking in Moalboal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular Cebu hike with a grassy summit and sweeping views; a longer day trip from Moalboal.
Airports
How to reach Moalboal by plane.
Main international airport serving Cebu; about a 3-4 hour drive to Moalboal with road transfers and buses.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Fishermen, farmers, and families form the core community, with a growing presence of travelers and seasonal expats.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed in local communities and schools.
Popular activities with guides and rental gear readily available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Moalboal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Cebuano dishes center on seafood, but vegetarian options exist in most places. Ask for veggie sides, rice bowls, or vegetable kinilaw substitutes; look for fruit bowls and salads as alternatives.