Cebu Travel Guide: Islands, Waterfalls, and Historical Sites
Source:
@Island Hopper TV
22 attractions in Central Visayas featured in a youtube post by Island Hopper TV, verified on Google Maps: Kawasan Falls, Malapascua Island, Fort San Pedro, and 19 more.
Kawasan Falls
Place
4.5
Kawasan Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Philippines, known for its stunning turquoise waters and canyoneering activities. While access to the waterfalls is limited to level one, it's a beautiful spot for a refreshing swim, though the water is quite cold.
Malapascua Island
Place
4.6
Malapascua Island, located on the far north point of Cebu, is renowned for its exceptional diving opportunities, including swimming with sharks. It boasts white sand beaches, abundant coral reefs, and is a must-visit for diving enthusiasts, especially from January to May.
Fort San Pedro
Museum
4.2
Fort San Pedro, originally built in 1565, is a military defense structure built by Spain in Cebu City. It reflects Spain's heavy influence on the Philippines and offers a glimpse into colonial history. The entrance fee is 30 pesos, and visitors can spend 30 minutes to an hour exploring the grounds.
Magellan's Cross
Historical landmark
4.4
Magellan's Cross is a popular historical landmark in Cebu City, located next to the Basilica of the Holy Child. It commemorates Ferdinand Magellan's arrival in the Philippines and the planting of the cross, a significant event in the country's history.
Mactan
Place
4.2
Mactan Island is known for its resorts and is a great place to explore if you're looking for luxurious accommodations and access to private beaches. While public beaches are limited, resorts like Plantation Bay offer beautiful filtered saltwater lagoons and ocean access, perfect for honeymoons or family vacations.
Temple of Leah
Landmark
4.1
The Temple of Leah is a grand tribute and monument of love located in the mountains above Cebu City, inspired by Greek architecture. Built by Teodorico Adarna for his late wife Leah, it offers stunning views and a glimpse into a heartfelt dedication.
Sirao Garden
Landmark
4.4
Sirao Garden, also known as "Little Amsterdam," is a beautiful garden located in the highlands above Cebu City, about a 30-minute drive from the Top of Cebu. It's a picturesque spot with colorful flowers, various props for photos, and great views above the clouds.
Cebu Ocean Park
Amusement park
4.4
Cebu Ocean Park is a cool aquarium located next to the SM Seaside area, perfect for families visiting Cebu. It features a variety of marine animals and a giant aquarium where visitors can dine while watching fish. The park offers weekday and weekend packages, with prices varying.
SM Seaside City Cebu
Shopping mall
4.6
SM Seaside Mall is one of the biggest malls in the Philippines and the largest in Cebu, located in a rapidly developing area. It offers extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options, with ongoing real estate and condo investments in the surrounding SM Seaside area.
Yap-San Diego Ancestral House
Historical landmark
4.4
The Yap San Diego Cultural House in Cebu City is an ancestral house built by the Chinese, offering an interesting piece of Filipino history. Visitors can learn about the history of the Philippines and the life of Filipino people within this preserved historical home.
Monastery of the Holy Eucharist
Church
4.7
Simla Monastery is a beautiful architectural site located in the mountains between Oslob and Cebu City. It features stunning architecture, a garden area, and a pond, offering a serene and picturesque experience for visitors.
Bantayan Island
Place
4.6
Bantayan Island is located in the northern part of Cebu and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches. It's about an hour ferry ride from Cebu mainland, making it a perfect destination for island hopping and relaxing on pristine shores.
Top of Cebu
Restaurant
4.4
The Top of Cebu offers panoramic views of Cebu City from the mountains. It's a great spot to visit alongside the Temple of Leah due to their proximity. The entrance fee is 100 pesos (approximately 2 USD), and it provides a refreshing escape with scenic vistas.
Moalboal
Place
Moalboal, on the southwest side of Cebu, is famous for its sardine runs, offering incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities. The village has a relaxed atmosphere with friendly locals, making it a must-see for those visiting Cebu.
Oslob Whale Shark Watching
Tour agency
4.4
The Oslob Whale Sharks offer a unique opportunity to swim with gentle giants. This original whale shark excursion in the Philippines costs 1000 pesos for tourists and 500 pesos for locals. Visitors can swim alongside these magnificent creatures, but are advised not to get too close.
Fili Hotel NUSTAR Cebu
Hotel
4.2
Nustar Resort is a luxurious mall, casino, and resort complex in Cebu, offering a high-end experience for visitors. It's a great place to stay, with beautiful rooms and amenities, and is part of the growing development in the SM Seaside area.
Tumalog Falls
Landmark
4.6
Tumalog Falls is a beautiful cascading waterfall in Cebu, known for its impressive height and blue lagoon. The water is freezing cold, offering a refreshing experience for those seeking nature's original cold plunge. Visitors are driven up to the falls on motorbikes for a short adventure.
Dao Falls
Landmark
4.3
Dao Waterfall is another beautiful waterfall in Cebu, perfect for waterfall chasing. It features a tall cascade into a clear blue pool, surrounded by lush greenery. It's a great spot for nature lovers looking to explore Cebu's natural beauty.
Sumilon Island
Island
4.5
Sumilon Island, located just south of Oslob, is easily accessible by a 15-20 minute boat ride. It features a sandbar and beautiful clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and relaxing. There's also a resort on the island for those looking to stay overnight.
Camotes Islands
Archipelago
4.6
The Camotes Islands are an underrated destination between Leyte and Cebu, accessible by a 1.5 to 2-hour ferry ride from Danao Port to Consuelo Port. The islands offer island hopping, caves, and beautiful sunsets, making them a hidden gem for visitors.
Kalanggaman Island
Landmark
4.8
Kalanggaman Sand Bar is considered one of the most scenic places in the Philippines, known for its pristine white sandbar stretching into clear turquoise waters. It's a popular spot for island hopping, often visited from Malapascua Island, offering stunning natural beauty.
Lapulapu Monument
Monument
4.4
The Lapu Lapu Monument on Mactan Island commemorates the spot where Ferdinand Magellan was killed by Lapu Lapu and his men. It's a significant historical pit stop for those interested in the history of the Philippines and the first European contact.