Cebu is one of the Philippines’ roughly 7,000 islands, and it is also one of the country’s busiest cities. In addition, it is the country’s oldest settlement and one of its most historic, retaining much of the flavor of its lengthy Spanish past.

Looking for some incredible waterfalls to see while on vacation? There are plenty to select from in Cebu, and you might tour them all in a single day. Do you want to go swimming with a friendly whale shark? No need to worry, Cebu Island has it! Cebu offers it everything, from mountain vistas to white-sand beaches.

Feel like Hiking? Tour These Breathtaking Mountain Views

Do you want to get away from the routine of everyday life in Cebu? Want to liven up a dull weekend? Hiking through these mountains will make you forget about the rest of the world. The breathtaking view of the sea from the peak will take your breath away. Now, let’s take a virtual tour of these mountains to assist you in picking where to go first when visiting Cebu.

Casino Peak

Casino Peak isn’t known as the “Chocolate Hills of Southern Cebu”. As you ascend the mountain, you will be rewarded with a divine view of high mounds and peaks with distinctive terrain. Hikers may also enjoy a panoramic view of Taon Strait and Badian from the other side of the mountain.

Mount Mauyog

It not only has incredible brain-like rock formations, but it also has a mind-blowing heart-pumping climb. To top it off, it boasts a calm mountain wind that provides a calming short respite from the rush and bustle of daily life.

Mount Tagaytay

Barangay Climaco, commonly known as Casoy, has a lot to offer the curious traveller. Mount Tagaytay is one of the most incredible must-see attractions in this isolated region of Toledo. Mount Tagaytay, known for its spectacular vistas and dazzlingly green meadows, is a magnificent sanctuary that will make you want to take thousands of photographs. It also offers pure mountain air, which will relieve tension and allow you to escape the Metro’s hustle and bustle.

Mount Mago

Looking for mountains in Cebu that are suitable for beginners? Then, don’t forget to do the Mount Mago trek. With its gentle rolling slopes and well-established path, Mount Mago provides a very simple and enjoyable climb, especially for inexperienced hikers. Believe it or not, even children and infants can finish the trek to Mount Mago with ease. The only actual obstacle of this hiking adventure is the rough habal-habal journey to the trailhead.

Mount Kan-Irag

With its fantastic city views and easy access to the metro, it’s no surprise that many mountaineers consider Mount Kan-Irag to be one of the most remarkable mountains in Cebu for hikers. It is a playground and practice place for hikers who wish to add an element of adventure to their trek, similar to Mount Babag.

Kandungaw Peak

Kandungaw Peak, commonly known as Candongao Peak, is Cebu’s highest point. It is one of the beautiful mountains in Cebu that would inspire you to become a better hiker. After you reach the peak, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of Cebu and its surrounding islands, including Bohol and Negros. Kandungaw Peak also offers views of Metro Cebu’s towering buildings on a clear day.

Osmeña Peak

Osmeña Peak must be included in any ranking of the highest mountains in Cebu. The summit offers some appealing vistas as well as refreshing, chilly alpine conditions. In addition, it’s one of the hills in the region where you may go hiking. You will witness a sight of a rock formation with sharp grey edges, and the hiker in you will be genuinely pushed going to the summit, but that is all part of the pleasure and adventure.

Beat the Tropical Heat with Cebu’s Waterfalls

After waking up early for that hike from the mountains, what better way to refresh than jumping in the calmest waters on the island? You can not visit Cebu without swimming in these waters. Grab a pen and paper because we will talk about the fantastic waterfalls because for sure you would want to take notes and add them to your list of places to go.

Kawasan Falls

Kawasan Falls is well-known for its multi-tiered waterfalls with blue water. You might spend hours exploring the region and yet not see everything or get acclimated to the hue of the water, which is produced by limestone deposits. The main pool features vivid blue water with a thunderous waterfall cascading into the center, and a bamboo raft is a favorite Instagram photo location.

Tumalog Falls

Tumalog Falls flows over a moss-covered, rocky wall, creating a foggy appearance as it plunges into a deep green pool below. The water cascading over the falls nearly appears to be showering, and a beautiful rainbow can be seen in the mist, adding to the enchantment of this spot. Bamboo, ferns, and other beautiful jungle vegetation surround the entire region.

Cambais Falls

When you visit Cambais Falls, you get the impression that you are in the middle of a forest. This waterfall in Cebu, with electric blue water similar to the famed Kawasan Falls but a little more remote, is one you won’t want to miss. Cambais Falls is concealed among ancient ferns and luxuriant palm trees in the tiny hamlet of Alegria in the southwestern section of the island.

Montpellier Falls

Montpellier Falls, located in the bush in Alegria in southern Cebu, just south of Cambais Falls, is a hidden beauty that most visitors are unaware of. It’s a beautiful option for those looking for a longer trek, and you’re almost sure to have it all to yourself.

Aguinid Falls

Aguinid Falls has eight tiers, five of which are accessible to tourists. The last waterfall on level five is the most beautiful—pure crystal streams cascading over a limestone boulder that the constant flow has organically polished. The granite surface has a bulbous form and appears to burst up, making it impressive.

Mantayupan Falls

The first leg of your trek takes you to a tiny 45-foot waterfall with a basin of seafoam green water. The route next crosses a suspended bridge to reach the main waterfall, a solitary stream tumbling into a vast, eggplant-shaped basin of milky blue water. The waterfall thunders down with such intensity that it is genuinely awe-inspiring to witness. You can even hire a bamboo raft for 100 pesos and pull yourself into the raging waters for a fantastic Instagram shot.

Tinubdan Falls

Tinubdan Falls is about 35 miles north of Cebu City and is a fantastic place to visit if you are staying in the city and want to see one of Cebu’s most stunning waterfalls. The route to the falls is flanked with tall palm trees and located among beautiful farmlands, while the falls themselves drop from various angles into a single primary pool at the bottom.

Need a Tan? These are Cebu’s Best White Sand Beaches

If you’re searching for an excellent tropical hideaway for your next vacation, Cebu should be on your list. The most intriguing aspect is that the Visayan region has the most white sand beaches due to the coralline deposits that formed the islands. They readily compete with some of Asia’s greatest beaches, and because they are less well-known, they are less crowded. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best beaches on the island of Cebu.

Malapascua Island

Malapascua Island is one of the most stunning beaches in Cebu, if not the entire Philippines. This Island has a beautiful stretch of white sand beach. This island has become well-known for its thresher shark dives, which draw divers worldwide. However, you don’t have to be a diver to appreciate this slice of heaven; Bounty Beach is a beach lover’s utopia. It is a great location because of its swaying palm palms, warm tropical clear blue seas, and soft beach.

Sumilon Island

Sumilon Island is a fantastic island in Cebu’s south with a beautiful small sandbank. It’s a great spot to swim and enjoy this beautiful beach. The azure blue seas here are stunning and the island is also close to Oslob, where you may swim with whale sharks, a famous tourist attraction in Cebu.

Tingko Beach

This lovely small beach in Alcoy, southern Cebu, is popular with locals. It looks gorgeous in the summer months when the weather is nice. You can get a clearer sense of what I mean in the video. However, keep in mind that it might get a little boisterous on weekends and holidays.

White Beach (Moalboal)

Panagsama Beach and White Beach are the two central beach locations in Moalboal. The Panagsama is a rocky beach, but White Beach is a beautiful sandy beach. Not only are the seas beautiful, but there is some excellent snorkeling offshore. A reef surrounds Moalboal, and there is a plethora of sea life to be discovered. If you’re lucky, you might be able to snorkel with turtles.

Paradise Beach (Bantayan Island)

Bantayan Island is a lovely small place that everyone should visit while on the island. It’s in a quiet, remote region of Bantayan, just outside of Santa Fe Town. You could be fortunate enough to have the location to yourself to appreciate the beauty and quiet.

Bakhaw Beach (Camotes Island)

There are many palm trees to provide cover from the sun or let you cool down in the beautiful waters. While there are a few tiny resorts here, it is more popular as a day excursion, making it easy to travel to.

Virgin Island (Bantayan Island)

This island is a must-see when on Bantayan Island. It’s about a 30-minute boat journey from Bantayan and makes for an excellent day excursion. The beauty of the island astounds many visitors and even the locals too. From its lovely white beaches to the magnificent colors of the sea, this place feels like heaven. It’s quiet and uncrowded.

Interesting Facts about Cebu

Cebu is one of the Philippines’ major economic hubs, and its fast expansion as an industrial, trading, commercial, and educational powerhouse does not appear to be slowing down anytime soon. Furthermore, there are several natural things to view and enjoy around the island.

Oldest City in the County

After then-ruler Rajah Tupas signed the Treaty of Cebu, Cebu became the Philippines’ first Spanish colony in 1565.

Has the Biggest Festival in Asia

The Sinulog Festival, a big, colorful, world-famous event held every third week of January, lasts nine days and attracts millions of tourists around the world each year. The celebration includes street dance and novena services.

Cebu is Home to the Country’s Smallest and Oldest Fort

The first fort constructed during the Spanish conquest was Fort San Pedro. It was designed to defend against assaults and subsequently functioned as a stronghold for revolutionaries. After serving as a barracks for American soldiers during WWII, it was converted into an army camp.

Home of the World-Famous Lechon

The roasted pig entrée is available almost everywhere here. Lechon is practically associated with Cebu, and it is a perennial favorite among both residents and visitors.

Queen City of the South

Cebu is located in the center of the Philippines. It has a rich history, a dynamic culture, and people who enjoy themselves. This is the province’s capital and the seat of government, yet it is administered independently and separately.

It used to have its Own Railway System

Back in the day, trains were the primary mode of transportation. The main track extended 90 kilometers, but due to heavy damage during World War II, Cebuanos were forced to find alternative modes of transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it safe to visit Cebu in the Philippines?

A: Cebu is usually safe, and violent crime, like muggings, is uncommon; nonetheless, remain cautious when roaming around the city late at night.

Q: Is Cebu less expensive than Manila?

A: Cebu City is 26% less expensive than Manila.

Q: Is it worthwhile to visit Cebu?

A: Cebu is a fantastic area to visit, and it’s strongly advised that you look up a list of tourist attractions while you’re there or before you arrive. Traveling around Cebu is an adventure you will never forget, and you will undoubtedly find new and fascinating things you have never experienced before.

Q: What is Cebu well-known for?

A: Cebu is also well-known for its abundant marine life and surreal coral reefs. Divers go to Pescador Island, Moalboal, for the sardine run and turtle point, then to Oslob to swim with whale sharks.

Q: Is it true that Cebu has beautiful beaches?

A: Yes, Cebu has several lovely white sand beaches that are ideal for an island escape.

Q: What was Cebu’s original name?

A: The name “Cebu” is derived from the old Cebuano term sibu or sibo, which means “trade” and is a shorter version of sinibuayng hingpit (“the place for trading”). It was first used to the harbors of Sugbu, the old name for Cebu City.

Final Words

So, there you have it; I hope this list has given you some ideas for places to visit and stay in Cebu. And Even if Cebu was not on your itinerary, perhaps will inspire you to visit this area of the Philippines. Cebu does not receive as much attention as it should. More people visit Palawan and Boracay.