Things To Do
in Santander
Santander, Cebu is a coastal municipality at the southern tip of Cebu Island along the Tañon Strait. It offers a laid-back vibe with sun-kissed beaches, mangrove-lined creeks, and a friendly, fishing-community atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to nearby islets, river tours, and simple seafood-focused dining that showcases Cebuano flavors.
Visitors can enjoy quiet sunsets, affordable seafood, and the feeling of authentic rural island life away from the bustle of larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Mactan-Cebu International Airport and take an early ferry to Santander. Upon arrival, settle into your beachfront accommodation and enjoy the stunning ocean views. Grab a leisurely breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the adventure ahead.
Explore the nearby beaches, including the pristine Tambuli Beach, where you can swim and sunbathe under the tropical sun. Engage in some water sports such as snorkeling or paddleboarding to appreciate the vibrant marine life. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Dine at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while listening to the gentle waves. Take a romantic stroll along the beach as the sun sets, painting the sky in brilliant colors. Conclude your evening with a refreshing cocktail as you relax by the shore.
Rise early to board a boat for the thrilling experience of whale shark watching in nearby Oslob. Admire these gentle giants as they glide gracefully through the water, a breathtaking sight for any animal lover. Don your snorkeling gear and dive into the water for an unforgettable encounter with these magnificent creatures.
After whale shark watching, visit the nearby Tumalog Falls, a stunning cascade surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the falls, and enjoy a packed lunch in this picturesque setting. Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic trails and snapping photos of the beautiful landscape.
Return to Santander and treat yourself to dinner at a local eatery, sampling regional specialties like lechon or sinigang. Reflect on the day’s experiences over a quiet meal, enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. Consider attending an evening festival or cultural show if available to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚗Taxi starting fare | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, welcoming locals
- Fresh seafood and affordable prices
- Quiet, laid-back coastal vibe
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Public transport can be sparse in rural areas
- Weather can be affected by typhoons during season
- "Maayong adlaw" - Good day
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Asa ang kasilyas?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Tagpila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Pwede ko mangayo og tubig?" - May I have water?
- "Gusto ko og pagkaon nga walay karne." - I would like a vegetarian meal.
- "Pwede mag-picture?" - Can I take a photo?
Places to Visit in Santander
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm morning light over the fishing boats and the open sea, with soft silhouettes of palm trees along the promenade.
Mangrove-lined inlet with reflections and birdlife, ideal for wide-angle and nature shots.
Coastal vantage point along the strait offering dramatic sunsets and distant silhouettes of Negros Island.
Colorful boats, market activity, and local life along the town’s main waterfront.
Food in Santander
Santander Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Cebuano icon—crispy, seasoned roasted pig served with a rich skin crackle; widely available in local eateries and roadside grills.
Must-Try!
Sun-dried anchovy often enjoyed fried with rice, eggs, and a squeeze of calamansi for a salty, satisfying breakfast.
Ceviche-style dish of raw fish cured in vinegar, lime, onions, and peppers; a popular starter at seaside restaurants.
Rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves, typically eaten with grilled seafood or kinilaw.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market where locals buy and sell fresh seafood, produce, and everyday staples; a great place to sample street snacks.
Casual stalls along the waterfront offering grilled fish, kinilaw bites, and lumpia-style snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people politely, dress modestly around churches, ask before photographing individuals, and queue patiently in markets.
Safety
Tipping in Santander
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% at nicer establishments is common.
Cash is widely accepted; some larger restaurants may take cards, but ATMs are more common in nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and hot with elevated humidity; best for beach days and outdoor activities but stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Expect more frequent showers and occasional strong winds; plan indoor activities or flexible outdoor plans.
June to November can bring tropical storms; monitor weather forecasts and follow local advisories for safety.
Santander at Night
Hiking in Santander
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cebu's highest peak with grassy slopes and expansive views, popular for a moderate hike.
A scenic waterfall trek offering a refreshing swim and bamboo raft experiences nearby.
Airports
How to reach Santander by plane.
Main international gateway to Cebu; reachable by road from Santander via Cebu City.
Bohol-Panglao International link; feasible for travelers combining trips to nearby islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant local community with fisherfolk and farmers as a major presence.
A mix of long-time residents and travelers who visit for coastal getaways.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played and watched sport in local schools and communities.
Played on local fields and school grounds; popular among younger residents.
Coastal waters offer opportunities to explore reefs and marine life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santander.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many eateries; look for vegetable dishes, tofu, or egg-based meals, and ask for no meat stock or fish sauce.