LAST UPDATE: MARCH 2022 This Moalboal Cebu Travel Guide curates all the Moalboal tourist spots that hit the spot. Get it? 😛

IMPORTANT NOTE: There are news circulating that the strip where Chilli Bar, Cafe Cebuano, Marina, and the entire Panagsama beachfront establishments will be demolished within this year for safety and proper zoning purposes. This has been done, and the coast of Panagsama is now much wider. While it affected the establishments, may we not forget that business happened because of the rich ecosystem that Moalboal is known for.

MPORTANT NOTE: Typhoon Odette caused a terrible damage in Moalboal. Some coral formations were damaged. Locals and expats alike have an undergoing efforts on replanting corals in Panagsama. If you are interested about it, join the Moalboal Locals and Foreigners group on Facebook and ask for the schedule. With Typhoon Odette and Covid-19, it is best to call your chosen resort first before booking anything.

CHECK HOTEL DEALS IN MOALBOAL

There is that place you frequent for many reasons. It is near, affordable, and has everything you need for a quick saltwater fix. Or simply you like the island vibe so much you want to live there. Siquijor [SIQUIJOR TRAVEL GUIDE], Siargao [SIARGAO TRAVEL GUIDE], and Malapascua [MALAPASCUA TRAVEL GUIDE] used to be that place for me. 

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Moalboal is that place for me. It is that convenient that early this year, I signed a piece of paper detailing the square meter of small land under my name. Yes, I got a tiny piece of land under my name, 5 minutes away from a nice beach. Yes, I can see myself living in Moalboal. Alone? Perhaps. With cats, dogs, books, garden, cameras, mask and fins, bikinis? Definitely.

I came here, normally alone. But this time around, I was with someone dear to show him my once midweek destination when I still lived in Cebu.  

“Blue means drunk in German.”

MY COMPLETE SOUTH CEBU TRAVEL GUIDE

“Blue is the color of sadness, in English,” I said, looking at the very blueness I bragged about some days ago. I never thought of it as something as sad. “Ah, the color of melancholia. Is it melancholia in English?” “Yeah, can be melancholy too. It is the color of distance,” I said, a Rebecca Solnit line forever engraved in my mind.

When I was in my 20s, I fell in love with the romance, sadness, and melancholia of blue according to Andre Aciman and Rebecca Solnit. I religiously followed their train of words. 

FIND AFFORDABLE DEALS ON AGODA

Now in my 30s, living in one of the grayest cities in Southeast Asia—-too gray I sometimes I forget blue sky exist—-blue is the color of longing, of something, of someone that perhaps doesn’t exist. But it indeed is the color of distance, of something too far, too out of reach.

But here I am in Moalboal, the very place that has witnessed the breaking, the healing, the happy in-betweens way too many times back then. 

Too many shades of blue that there is nothing much to do about it but embrace it with one’s eyes. At 33, I’m happy to report that blue is the color of home. Not of distance. Not of longing. Not of melancholia.

HOW TO GET FROM CEBU CITY TO MOALBOAL CEBU 

WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE PHILIPPINES? HERE IS AN HONEST PHILIPPINE TRAVEL GUIDE

FROM CEBU CITY BY BUS | TRAVEL TIME 3-4 HOURS

Moalboal is located in southern Cebu, and takes at least 3 hours by bus. Depending on the traffic situation, 3 hours can be stretched up to 5 hours. You have to go to South Bus Terminal, located at N. Bacalso Avenue, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu. You can simply put South Bus Terminal on Google Maps or Grab. If you’re not a local and have no idea how our jeepney route works, it is best, that you use Grab. Heck, I use it a lot to save some time.  Time is more valuable, I would say. 

AS OF JANUARY 2020: AIRCONDITIONED BUS (MORE LEGROOM) = PHP130-150.00
NON-AC/ORDINARY BUS (CRAMPED) = PHP110.

FROM CEBU CITY BY PRIVATE CAR | TRAVEL TIME 2 HOURS

If you’re traveling with a group or you simply want to save a lot of time from going to the bus station, waiting for the bus, enduring the commute time, I highly recommend you book a private car. For as low as Php2290.00 and with up to 12 seats, you can have a comfortable and convenient ride to Moalboal. Yes, the driver is going to pick you up in your hotel in the city, either in Cebu, Mandaue, or Mactan. Perhaps you can also negotiate to pick you up at the airport and go right straight to Moalboal. Drop by at Carcar Public Market for some of the most delicious lechon in Cebu. 

BOOK YOUR RELIABLE CAR HERE

FROM CEBU CITY BY SHARED VAN | TRAVEL TIME 2 HOURS 

If you want to save an hour and your legs are not abnormally long, then shared van is the way to go. I have to emphasize the legroom. Normally vans can only accommodate 9 at the back and 2 beside the driver’s seat. But drivers have perhaps 10 mouths to feed that 11-12 seats can accommodate 15 people. 

TICKET PRICE = PHP100.00-PHP120.00

HOW MUCH IS IT FROM MOALBOAL TOWN TO PANAGSAMA OR BAS DAKU

Depending on your haggling skills, the price can vary. A semi-local, I usually pay Php30.00 for a motorbike ride, otherwise called habal-habal. For a private tricycle ride, it can be Php100-Php150.00 for two people. It greatly depends on the driver and your grit.

It costs Php30.00 for a shared tricycle ride to Bas Daku, otherwise called as White Beach.

ARE THERE ATMS IN MOALBOAL? 

Yes, there are three. And they all with internationally issued cards such as Mastercard and Visa. You have to bear in mind though that Moalboal is a country at heart despite its tourist volume. On some days, especially weekends, ATMs run out of cash. Better take extra precaution by withdrawing money from the city.

• PNB ATM is located in the lobby of Eve’s Kiosk at  Panagsama Beach, otherwise called as Bas Diot. 

• METROBANK ATM is located inside 360 Pharmacy in the center of Moalboal town. 

• Another PNB and METROBANK ATMs are located inside Gaisano Grand. 
• There are two new ATMs in Moalboal. But I don’t know their exact address.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MOALBOAL, CEBU, PHILIPPINES 

Well, being in the tropical country, any day is a good day. It is sunny most times of the year. Rainy season starts in June and ends in November. But it does not mean it rains 24/7. It simply means days are punctuated with rain shower. More often than not, it is very sunny, and the waters are calm, perfect for snorkeling, island-hopping, and diving. 

WHERE TO STAY IN MOALBOAL

PESCADORES SEAVIEW SUITES

For the service, the facilities, and the view, this place has everything. With my ten years of traveling, I haven’t experienced sheets so soft and well-chosen. I had to ask the staff where they bought their sheets, but they did not know. I have to ask the owner himself. Pescadores Seaview Suites is located in the far end of Panagsama, which makes a peaceful place to bunk for the night. 

It has its own entertainment room overlooking the sea. It is equipped with fun games such as billiards, football board game, retro games for the kids and kid’s at heart. It also has a playground for kids, perfect for families traveling with the little ones. 

It has a nice swimming pool overlooking the sea. 

TIP: Have a photo shoot come sunset time or early morning before anyone wakes up and uses the pool. 

The house reef (refers to the drop in front of the resort) is some of the most vivid I’ve seen as well. Pescadores Seaview Suites provides snorkeling gear for free. This is a must! You can even borrow an underwater camera. You only need to deposit Php2000.00 and you can bring the camera for your action-packed activities. 

CHECK PESCADORES SEAVIEW SUITES RATES HERE

TIP: Wanna see turtles? Snorkel in the morning, around 7 to 8 am in the house reef.  

Another unique character of Pescadores Seaview Suites is how the staff gather in the morning in the breakfast nook and synchronically greet everyone good morning. They then introduce themselves and assure the dining guests they are there in case they need anything. That’s sweet and thoughtful start of the day.   

QUO VADIS RESORT | BOOK HERE

There are many reasons why you should stay at this resort, but the most important one is the location. THIS resort is situated right by the waterfront, so you can enjoy stunning views of the sea and amazing sunsets from your room or bungalow. Plus, the rooms are very affordable, so you can enjoy a luxurious stay without breaking the bank. There are many restaurants to choose from.

THE BLUE ABYSS | BOOK HERE

The hotel rooms are perfect for couples or small families. The garden setting ensures that you’ll have plenty of privacy, and all of the rooms come with air conditioning and a fan to keep you cool and comfortable. Each room also has its own private bathroom with hot water shower, and a balcony or terrasse where you can relax. Our rooms also come equipped with a refrigerator and a safety deposit box.

The hotel restaurant offers a variety of European, Asian, and local cuisine options, including many vegetarian dishes. They also have a big barbecue special every week, made on our home made grill. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a family-friendly dining experience, they have something for everyone.

PARROT RESORT | BOOK HERE

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Moalboal that’s close to the beach and has all the amenities you need, then our resort is the perfect choice for you. Our rooms are air-conditioned and come with a mini-bar, safe, and satellite TV. Plus, we offer free coffee and tea as well as drinking water to all our guests.

There are plenty of restaurants in Moalboal that offer both local and international cuisine. And if you’re looking for some nightlife, there are plenty of bars and pubs open until late. Plus, every Saturday night everyone comes together at Pacita’s for a good time.

Looking for more resorts to choose from? Check out our top 13 resorts in Moalboal to choose from.

QUIETER SIDE OF MOALBOAL

White Beach, I would say, is way more peaceful and inviting than Panagsama. It might not have the hype, the sardines, Pescador Island Panagsama Beach is known for, but if you’re the type that likes a calm and relaxing area, stay at Bas Daku/White Beach.

MOALBOAL TRAVEL GUIDE | THINGS TO DO IN MOALBOAL FOR NON-DIVERS 

Most of Moalboal’s visitors are actually non-divers. Seeing the resident turtles and sardine run and the remaining lively corals make Moalboal appealing to sea lovers. Moalboal, despite its tourist volume over the years, remain attractive.

SNORKEL 

Talisay Point 

It is right in front of Andi’s Talisay. This area has beautiful coral reefs and colorful fishes.

Sardine Run

The swirls of sardines can be found right in front of Cora’s Palm Court and Pizzeria Marina. It is better that you snorkel earlier as to avoid the throng of tourists struggling in their life vest.

Turtle Sanctuary

Turtles in Moalboal are not as friendly as the ones in Apo Island. [APO ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE]. The house reef is a marine sanctuary. I highly recommend you go snorkeling in the morning. You have more chances of seeing turtles.

Pescadores Island

One of the most popular snorkeling and diving destinations in the country. There is still a lot of colorful fish and slugs around. Some twenty years, sharks used to show themselves. But since human traffic has become a problem, sharks have not been sighted in within 30-40meters.

ISLAND-HOP

Hmm, island-hopping in Moalboal only involves one island that is Pescador Island. A boat costs Php2000.00, it is a bit cheaper if you can join with a group. Island-hopping in Moalboal includes the following.

• Pescador Island 
• Sardine Run
• Turtle-spotting

BOOK A ISLAND-HOPPING DAY TRIP TO MOALBOAL FROM CEBU CITY

BEACH-BUM 

• Bas Diot, the other name of Panagsama Beach, means Bas (Sand) Diot (Little) Little Sand, for precisely the reason that it is just a small beach. But come later in 2020, all establishments illegally constructed in the beach (Chilli Bar, Marina, Cafe Cebuano, and the rest in that strip) will be removed for safety zoning purposes. That area will soon a relaxing beach-bum destination.
• Bas Daku / White Beach is not as popular as Bas Diot, but it is a classic love for many Cebuanos. It has the stretch of white sand beach perfect for lounging and sunbaking.
• Lambug Beach in the neighboring Badian used to be my private spot some years ago. There were tooo few a soul who knew this place. It is located in a remote spot in Badian. But nowadays, a lot of people now know the secret. And that’s okay, I think.

MOALBOAL TRAVEL GUIDE | DIVE SPOTS IN MOALBOAL 

The main reason we were in Moalboal was to dive. Finally! Despite coming here countless of times, I have never attempted to dive its waters. I was more than contented with snorkeling and free-diving up to five meters (haha). But this time around, I dove twice: once in the house reef and the second was in Pescador Island.

• Moalboal House Reef
• Pescador Island
• Ronda Marine Sanctuary
• Airplane Wreck
• White Beach
• Lo-oc
• Tuble Marine Sanctuary
• Kasai Reef
• Ludo
• Oscar’s Cave
• Savedra House Reef / Panagsama Beach
• Mandarin Fish Observation Point
• Talisay Wall
• Tongo Marine Sanctuary
• Sampanguita Reef

MOALBOAL CEBU TRAVEL GUIDE | WHERE TO EAT IN MOALBOAL

ISLAND WOK

If you’re up for some Chinese-Filipino fusion food, Pescadores Seaview Suites’ Island Wok answers your cravings.

VENZ KITCHEN 

One of the best places to dine in Moalboal. Expansive menu. The people who run it love food and love cooking. You can tell it from the menu itself. Can be really packed. And at times, you have to wait. 

ARISTA SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 

Best place for a semi-fancy dinner in an elegant setting with ambient lights and wooden furniture. Arista Seafood Restaurant is always packed, so you better call in advance. 

LITTLE CORNER RESTAURANT 

The most affordable beachfront restaurant in Panagsama stretch. They serve everything, everything that the locals or foreigners like. Expect their version of pasta or pizza, anything non-local disappointing.

CEBUANO CAFÉ

Their coffee is good. They also serve mango float, a typical Filipino dessert. It is the perfect girlfriend for black coffee. There is nothing special about their food. A bit pricy. 

CHILLI BAR 

Best spot for some drinks. Not a huge fan of their food. 

SHAKA

Oh well, Shaka does not look like too chaka. Haven’t tried it, but judging from their smoothie bowls photos, they have Instagram and the Instagram audience in mind. I’ve heard though their smoothies look and taste yum. 

PIZZERIA MARINA

Haven’t tried this place. I keep on passing by this place. Nice romantic vibe in the evening. I should try it one of these days. 

THE PLEASURE PRINCIPLE RESTOBAR

Good coffee and croissant. I love the perverse, almost hedonistic, visuals on the wall. Perfect place for European breakfast. 

LANTAW

Just across Chilli Bar. Not quite popular, but it is a good spot for some quite time overlooking the sea. Try their Filipino dishes.

ANDI’S TALISAY

Best spot to have some drinks while watching sunset. 

MOALBOAL CEBU | POSSIBLE DAY TRIPS FROM MOALBOAL

SWIMMING WITH WHALE SHARKS IN OSLOB

This is unethically done, but many people, sadly, do not really care the sad treatment of whale sharks. They are not chained, but they are fed, which alter their generations-old habits and routines. Some whale sharks have cuts from the boats machine. Many of them tend to get too close to boats thinking it is the bearer of food. If you want to do ethically, go to Sorsogon. They do it better there.

KAWASAN CANYONEERING IN BADIAN

This, I love. I have done this at least three times now. There are several changes, but it still wakens up the adrenaline junkie hidden in my wobbly arms and belly.

BUMMING AT LAMBUG BEACH IN BADIAN

WATERFALL CHASING

Barili, Samboan, Badian, Ginatilan, Alegria have some of the most stunning waterfalls in Cebu. Especially Samboan. If you can find your way down, give it a try. Of course, there is always Kawasan Falls.

SNORKELING WITH THE TURTLES IN APO ISLAND