Despite recent natural events, it is definitely worth visiting the beautiful province of Cebu. In the aftermath of the past natural disasters, the Department of Tourism announced that domestic and international travel remains open for tourism. As recovery continues, many tourist spots near Cebu City maintain their operations to provide a comfortable and pleasant stay for guests. Visiting Cebu during this period also helps sustain the local economy and livelihood, and most importantly, contributes to the rebuilding of communities.
If you have plans to visit the city and its surrounding towns, consider a core tourist spot near Cebu City. Here are ten worthwhile ideas to get you started on your itinerary.
10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots Near Cebu to Complete Your Trip
Places to Visit Near Cebu City
-
Sardine Run (Moalboal)
Moalboal buzzes with its vibrant marine life, which you can experience for yourself during the Sardine Run. At Panagsama Beach, you will be assisted by accredited guides and divers in boarding a small boat to the designated area. Once you dive in, witness a school of sardines surround and engulf you.
-
Pescador Island (Moalboal)
Pescador Island is a rocky islet and a popular snorkeling spot in Moalboal, located 30 to 40 minutes from the shores of Panagsama Beach. It is also known for its sea turtles, corals, and other kinds of fish. Once you arrive at the island, you are allowed to snorkel and free dive for a certain period, during which you can get up close and personal with its rich marine biodiversity.
-
La Joya Farm Resort and Spa (Aloguinsan)
If you’re looking for a tourist spot near Cebu City where you can relax for a few days, consider La Joya Farm Resort and Spa in the municipality of Aloguinsan. It can be reached in just less than two hours from the city proper, and features numerous leisure and wellness facilities, such as outdoor pools for kids and adults, a game room, bar, and lounge. Their dome tents and dome oasis rooms offer the ultimate glamping experience, surrounding you with the beauty of nature the moment you wake.
-
Carcar City Museum (Carcar)
Once built in 1929 as the Carcar Dispensary, this impressive structure was repurposed into the city’s museum in 2008. Its design reflects the American colonial period, with intricate lattice railings and glass windows. The museum houses several historical artifacts that date back to the 19th century, woven with an art exhibit by the locals, all of which tell the story of Carcar City.
-
Camp Joehey Forest by the Sea (Carcar)
Looking for a seaside forest escape? Camp Joehey is one of the places to visit near Cebu City that provides an adventurous but comfortable way for you to camp. Equipped with a vast campground, motocamping site, tennis and volleyball court, yoga deck, wall climbing structures, the camp doesn’t fall short of activities for you to try. Rest by the scenic sea and mangrove views, and who knows, maybe you’ll spot a few fireflies between the trees.
-
Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary (Olango, Lapu-Lapu)
The Olango Island Group is another marine wildlife paradise tourist spot near Cebu City. The main island houses a wildlife sanctuary and observation deck on separate areas. This place is highly recommended for families with children, adventurers, and even bird watchers. Various recreational activities, like camping, kayaking, and biking are also available at the venue.
Tourist Spots Near Cebu Province
-
National Museum of the Philippines – Bohol (Tagbilaran, Bohol)
Taking a day trip to Bohol can show you a famous tourist spot near Cebu City. At Tagbilaran City, you can visit their very own branch of the National Museum. It features three exhibits that introduce the province of Bohol to visitors, including its historical figures, rich biodiversity, and local craftsmanship. The museum itself is also housed in a heritage building — the former provincial capitol. Best of all, it’s completely free of charge!
-
Baclayon Church (Baclayon, Bohol)
Just a short ride from Tagbilaran City will take you to the historic Baclayon Church. This church was built in the 16th-century by Jesuit Friars and completed by the Agustinian Recollects. Its stone coral facade, intricate carvings, and imposing bell tower truly take you back in time. Besides its iconic heritage, it is also known to be a pilgrimage spot and a solemn place for Catholic faithfuls to hear mass.
-
Sal’s Pineapple Plantation (Ormoc City, Leyte)
Explore a vast pineapple field and taste the famous queen pineapples of Ormoc City, another tourist spot near Cebu City, Cebu. Sal’s Pineapple Plantation is open to visitors year-round. Bask in the sun and fresh air while walking through rows of pineapple plants. Depending on the time of your visit, you can see the fruits being harvested or newly planted. You can also enjoy a charming view of the Ormoc coastline from the road leading through Sal’s.
-
Ormoc Mangrove Ecopark (Ormoc City, Leyte)
The Ormoc Mangrove Ecopark offers a safe and serene way to explore the mangrove forests. The facilities are free of charge and managed by the local community and government. Each wooden pathway is well-constructed and lit, weaving through the mangroves and opening up to the Bay of Ormoc. It is also a romantic tourist spot near Cebu City where you can witness a breathtaking sunset.
Travel To and From Cebu via Fast Ferry
If you’re looking for a fast and scenic way to travel to Cebu and nearby provinces, fast ferries are the way to go. SuperCat has high-speed catamarans designed for speedy sailing to places like Cebu, Tagbilaran, and Ormoc, to ensure you arrive without delay.
You can book online via Chelsea Travel or at any of our designated ticketing outlets here.
- Visit the Chelsea Travel website.
- Select ‘Ferries’ and input your Origin, Destination, Travel Date, and number of passengers. Click ‘Search’.
- Choose your preferred travel time and seat class.
- Fill in the passenger details and proceed to online payment.
- Once you have paid, you will receive an e-voucher in your email inbox.
- Arrive at the port at least 3 hours before your departure. Present the e-voucher at the port. You will receive your actual ticket and boarding details.
- Board the fastcraft at the designated boarding gate and time, and enjoy your trip.
Visiting Cebu and your favorite tourist spot near Cebu City gives you a change to explore beyond the urban jungle and its bounds. Significantly, it also lets you help uplift the local community and boost the recovery of the province, especially in the aftermath of dire natural events.
ALSO READ: 12 Tips for Traveling to Cebu on a Budget
SuperCat offers continuous, safe, and speedy ferry travel to top Philippine tourist destinations, like Batangas, Calapan, Cebu, Ormoc, and Tagbilaran. View our updated ferry schedule here and zoom with us today.
META DESCRIPTION
The spirit of Cebuano hospitality can be experienced in key places to visit near Cebu City, like Lapu-Lapu, Moalboal, Alonguinsan, Carcar, and nearby provinces.