Moalboal Travel Guide 2025: Things to Do and How to Get There

If you're dreaming of a trip that combines crystal-clear waters, exciting adventures, and that slow, laid-back beach town charm, then Moalboal in southern Cebu deserves a top spot on your list. This coastal town has become one of the most talked-about destinations in the country, and for good reason. From the breathtaking sardine run to canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, there's no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

Moalboal | Moalboal Adventures Official Website

No matter if you're travelling solo, with a partner, or with friends, these are the top things to do in Moalboal.

Also read: Cebu Off the Beaten Path: 10 Hidden Gems to Explore

Why visit Moalboal?

Tucked away in southern Cebu, Moalboal offers a more relaxed alternative to busier beach towns. While it may seem sleepy on the surface, it’s a hidden hub of marine biodiversity and outdoor adventure. It's best known for the sardine run experience in Cebu, but that’s just the beginning. Think waterfalls, turtle watching, coral gardens, and delicious food—all wrapped in a friendly, small-town atmosphere.

For those who love nature but don’t want to go completely off the grid, Moalboal in Cebu strikes the perfect balance.

Top things to do in Moalboal

Witness the Moalboal sardine run

Moalboal sardine run | Lakshmi Sawitri via Flickr

No trip to Moalboal is complete without experiencing the Moalboal sardine run. What’s incredible is that you don’t need to book a boat tour. Just walk straight into the water from Panagsama Beach, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by thousands of shimmering sardines. Alongside the sardines, you might even spot sea turtles casually swimming by. For the best visibility, plan your snorkelling during the dry season, from November to May.

Go canyoneering and visit Kawasan Falls

Kawasan Falls | Shemlongakit via Wikimedia Commons

Located around 40 minutes from the town proper, Kawasan Falls is one of Cebu’s most iconic destinations. The turquoise water is picture-perfect, and the area has plenty to offer for thrill-seekers. Join a Kawasan canyoneering tour and explore jungle trails, jump off cliffs, and ride natural rock slides. Take note that as of 2024, the upper falls are accessible only via guided tours.

Snorkel around Pescador Island

Pescador Island | Ken Suarez via Wikimedia Commons

Another top activity you can try in Moalboal is snorkelling or diving at Pescador Island. Known for its coral gardens and colourful marine life, it's just a short boat ride from Panagsama. If you’ve already done the sardine run, this makes for the perfect follow-up adventure.

Enjoy turtle watching at Panagsama Beach

Panagsama Beach | Lakshmi Sawitri via Wikimedia Commons

Besides sardines, Moalboal turtle sightings are quite common. Head to the same beach and swim a little further out, and you'll likely find turtles peacefully grazing on seagrass or swimming alongside you.

Eat your way through Moalboal

If you're wondering where to eat in Moalboal, the beachside food scene won’t disappoint. Head to Chili Bar Moalboal for sunset views and a lively vibe. Try Ven’z Kitchen for affordable local and international meals, and grab a bite at Betsy’s Grill and Restobar for something more filling. For a quick meal, Hungry Monkeys offers casual eats that hit the spot after a day of adventure.

Best time to visit Moalboal

The best time to see Moalboal's sardine run and explore waterfalls or islands is during the dry season, November to May. These months offer clearer waters, better weather, and smoother travel conditions. Avoid the rainy season if you want to maximise your water activities and avoid tour cancellations.

How to get to Moalboal

The easiest way to reach Moalboal is from Cebu City. From the South Bus Terminal, hop on a Ceres Bus via the Barili route. The trip takes about three hours and costs roughly 150 PHP. Buses leave frequently, around every 30 minutes, so there's no need to book in advance.

Once you arrive, getting around Moalboal is simple. Renting a scooter is the most flexible and budget-friendly option, costing just a few hundred pesos a day. Tricycles are also available for short rides around town.

Travel tips for Moalboal first-timers

• Bring Cash: ATMs are mainly found in the town proper, especially around Gaisano Mall. Withdraw enough to avoid frequent trips.

• Stay Connected: The mobile signal is strong around Panagsama Beach. Resorts offer Wi-Fi, but it can be unreliable during peak hours.

• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles. Don’t touch marine life, and make sure to leave the beach as clean as you found it.

• Skip Oslob Whale Shark Tours: These may seem tempting, but they often involve unethical practices that harm the sharks. Choose responsible travel in the Philippines by avoiding wildlife encounters that feel staged or exploitative.

Also read: 20 Restaurants in Cebu City That Will Keep You Coming Back for More

Final thoughts

This quiet little town might not have the same buzz as other island destinations, but that’s exactly its charm. With so many things to do in Moalboal, from chasing waterfalls to swimming with sardines, it’s the kind of place that keeps surprising you. So pack your swimwear, bring a dry bag, and get ready to explore Moalboal, a true gem in the heart of Cebu Island.