Moalboal, located on the southwestern coast of Cebu in the Philippines, is a diver’s paradise renowned for its vibrant marine life, pristine coral reefs, and captivating underwater landscapes. This travel guide will lead you through the diving spots, natural wonders, and provide essential information on prices for accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities in Moalboal.

General Information

• Languages: Cebuano is the main language, and English is widely spoken.
• Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
• Diving Hub: Moalboal is famous for its coral-rich waters and the presence of the sardine run, attracting divers from around the world.
• Kawasan Falls: Explore the nearby Kawasan Falls, a stunning three-tiered waterfall with turquoise blue waters.
  

Main Attractions

1. Pescador Island: Begin your exploration with a boat trip to Pescador Island, known for its diverse marine life and underwater caves.
2. Sardine Run: Experience the breathtaking sardine run at Panagsama Beach, where millions of sardines create mesmerizing formations.
3. Kawasan Falls: Take a day trip to Kawasan Falls, enjoying the cool freshwater pools and the lush tropical surroundings.
   

Transportation Examples

• Tricycles: Tricycles are the primary mode of transportation within Moalboal, with fares starting from 20 PHP.
• Habal-habal: Motorcycle taxis, known as habal-habal, are available for short-distance travel, with fares ranging from 50 PHP to 150 PHP.
• Renting a Scooter: Scooter rentals are a popular option for exploring the area, with daily rates starting from 300 PHP.
  

Itinerary

Day 1-3: Diving Adventures and Ocean Marvels

• Explore Pescador Island through a diving or snorkeling excursion.
• Witness the mesmerizing sardine run at Panagsama Beach.
• Relax and enjoy the vibrant marine life at Moalboal’s various dive spots.
  

Day 4-6: Waterfall Retreat and Nature Exploration

• Take a day trip to Kawasan Falls, enjoying the cool cascading waters and natural beauty.
• Explore the underwater caves and coral formations around Moalboal.
• Visit the White Beach for a day of sun, sea, and sand.
  

Day 7-9: Local Culture and Coastal Relaxation

• Stroll through the Panagsama Beach area, known for its laid-back atmosphere and beachfront bars.
• Try local Cebuano dishes at the seaside eateries.
• Join a traditional fisherman’s tour for an authentic glimpse into the local way of life.
  

Prices

Accommodation:

• Beachfront Hostels: Budget accommodations start from approximately 500 PHP to 1,500 PHP per night.
• Dive Resorts: Dive resorts and mid-range hotels may cost between 1,500 PHP and 3,000 PHP per night.
• Oceanfront Villas:* Experience oceanfront villas or beachfront resorts, with prices ranging from 3,000 PHP to 7,000 PHP per night.
  

Diving and Activities:

• Diving Excursions: Diving packages vary but typically start from 1,500 PHP per dive.
• Sardine Run Snorkeling: Snorkeling to witness the sardine run may cost around 500 PHP.
• Kawasan Falls Tour: Kawasan Falls tour prices range from 1,000 PHP to 2,500 PHP.
  

Dining:

• Local Eateries: Enjoy budget-friendly meals at local eateries, with prices ranging from 100 PHP to 300 PHP per person.
• Seafood Restaurants: Indulge in fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, with prices starting from 300 PHP per person and going higher.
• Beach Bars:* Relax at beach bars with cocktails, with prices ranging from 100 PHP to 300 PHP per drink.
  

Transportation:

• Tricycles: Tricycle fares start from 20 PHP for short distances.
• Habal-habal:* Habal-habal fares depend on the distance, with prices ranging from 50 PHP to 150 PHP.
• Scooter Rentals:* Scooter rental prices start from 300 PHP per day.
  

Miscellaneous:

• SIM Cards: Prepaid SIM cards with data can be purchased for around 50 PHP to 100 PHP.
• Bottled Water: A bottle of water is typically around 20 PHP.
• Local Snacks or Street Food:* Enjoying local snacks or street food can range from 20 PHP to 100 PHP.
  

Moalboal, with its underwater wonders and coastal beauty, invites you to dive into its marine treasures and experience the laid-back charm of Cebu. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and budget, ensuring you make the most of your time in this diving haven. Moalboal awaits, ready to offer you an underwater adventure and a taste of local Filipino hospitality.

Basically, you should do:

• Snorkel or Dive in Pescador Island:
  • Explore the underwater beauty of Pescador Island, known for vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters.
    
• Swim with Sardines at Panagsama Beach:
  • Experience the unique opportunity to swim with millions of sardines at Panagsama Beach, a mesmerizing natural spectacle.
    
• Visit Kawasan Falls:
  • Enjoy the stunning Kawasan Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, offering a refreshing swim.
    
• Dive in Moalboal’s Marine Sanctuaries:
  • Dive in the marine sanctuaries of Moalboal, such as Basdaku and Tongo Point, to discover coral gardens and diverse marine species.
    
• Explore White Beach:
  • Relax on the pristine White Beach, a serene stretch of white sand with clear blue waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
    
• Go Canyoneering in Badian:
  • Experience the thrill of canyoneering in Badian, featuring cliff jumps, natural water slides, and trekking through scenic canyons.
    
• Take a Boat to Sumilon Island:
  • Visit Sumilon Island by boat for its beautiful sandbar, coral reefs, and the chance to enjoy a day of island hopping.
    
• Visit the Moalboal Church:
  • Explore the St. Joseph the Worker Parish Church, a historic church in Moalboal with a unique architectural style.
    
• Relax at Ronda Beach:
  • Unwind at Ronda Beach, a less crowded alternative with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
    
• Experience the Sardine Run at Tunga:
  • Witness the mesmerizing sardine run at Tunga, another location where large schools of sardines gather.
    
• Try Local Seafood Dishes:
  • Indulge in delicious local seafood dishes at the various seaside restaurants and eateries in Moalboal.
    
• Hike to Montaneza Falls:
  • Embark on a trek to Montaneza Falls, a less-explored waterfall offering a tranquil escape into nature.
    
• Take a River Tour at Matutinao River:
  • Enjoy a river tour at Matutinao River, where you can go river trekking, swimming, and explore natural pools.
    
• Visit the Moalboal Fish Market:
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Moalboal Fish Market, where you can witness local life and find fresh seafood.
    
• Explore the Moalboal Boardwalk:
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Moalboal Boardwalk, offering scenic views of the coastline and the sea.
    
• Attend the Tostado Festival:
  • If visiting in September, join the Tostado Festival, a local celebration featuring street dancing, cultural events, and food fairs.
    
• Try Canyoneering in Matutinao:
  • Experience another canyoneering adventure in Matutinao, which includes cliff jumps and natural water slides.
    
• Visit the Bugho Waterfalls:
  • Explore the Bugho Waterfalls, a less-known natural attraction surrounded by lush greenery.
    
• Take a Dive at The Airplane Wreck:
  • Dive at The Airplane Wreck site, a sunken airplane submerged off the coast of Moalboal, attracting divers and marine life.
    
• Discover Busay Cave:
  • Adventure into Busay Cave, a hidden gem offering spelunking experiences with stunning rock formations.
    
• Attend the Panagsama Beach Fire Show:
  • Enjoy the mesmerizing fire show performances at Panagsama Beach, adding an exciting element to the evening.
    
• Take a Kayaking Trip:
  • Explore the coastal beauty of Moalboal by taking a kayaking trip, allowing you to paddle along the shores and enjoy the scenery.
    
• Relax in Lambug Beach:
  • Visit Lambug Beach, known for its powdery white sand and calm waters, offering a serene environment away from the crowds.
    
• Participate in Underwater Photography:
  • If you’re into photography, participate in underwater photography sessions to capture the vibrant marine life and coral formations.
    
• Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding:
  • Experience stand-up paddleboarding along the coastline of Moalboal, providing a different perspective of the seascape.

Moalboal, with its underwater wonders, natural beauty, and adventurous activities, offers a perfect blend for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.