Cebu South Tourist Spots

WHAT TO DO AND EXPLORE ON SOUTH OF CEBU

Come and explore with us on our Cebu South Tourist Spots adventure and discover fun-filled adventure while swimming with the whale shark watching, hike to Osmena peak. Cebu is known as the “queen city of the south” in the Philippines. Our trip will be going to the places of Cebu South which is part of Cebu island where a list of nature and adventure experiences awaits for each traveler or tourist. There are a lot of places to discover and unwind in Cebu from beaches, food, tourist spots, and history. One of the highlights is to witness the gentle whale sharks that swim on a nearby coast of Oslob, to climb the mountain peaks of Dalaguete and visit white sand beaches. These are a few of the many places to visit. However, you can also drop by to different towns along the way going to the south and indulge in their local variety of food specialty.</p>

TABLE OF CONTENTS CEBU SOUTH TOURIST SPOTS

  1. Where Is Cebu South
  2. How To Get There Cebu South
  3. Cebu South Bust Terminal
  4. Best Time TO Travel Cebu South
  5. Where To Stay In Cebu South
  6. Cebu South Tourist Spots
  7. Final Thoughts
  8. Cebu South Day Tour Itinerary

WHERE IS CEBU SOUTH

Map of the Philippines, Cebu
Cebu South Geographical Map

Cebu South is located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. which is part of the province of Cebu. The southern part of Cebu consists of several tourist destinations towns such as Oslob, Santander, Carcar, Badian, and Moalboal. From Cebu City, it will take roughly around 4-5 hours of travel to reach these places and it would require to, ride a bus or take a private van. To better understand, Cebu South is divided into West and Eastside towns.

EAST SIDE TOWNS

Talisay City
Minglanilla
Naga City
San Fernando
Carcar City
Sibonga
Argao
Dalaguete
Alcoy
Boljoon
Oslob
Santander

WEST SIDE TOWNS

Toledo City
Pinamungahan
Aloguinsan
Barili
Dumanjug
Ronda
Alcantara
Moalboal
Badian
Alegria
Malabuyoc
Ginatilan
Samboan

Foreigners and even locals prefer Alcoy Beach Resorts, visit the island of Sumilon and explore Whale Shark Watching in Oslob which is one of the highly visited attractions in the East side of Cebu South. While in the West Coast of Cebu South, the most popular destination among beach lovers, divers and vacationers include Moalboal Beaches, Kawasan Falls, Badian Resorts and Dive Center.

how to get theRE CEBU SOUTH

Evening View of Mactan Cebu Internation Airport

OPTION 1

The easiest way to get to Cebu South is via Cebu South Bus Terminal. Cebu South Bus Terminal is where all the buses converge if you are traveling to the southern part of Cebu. If you are coming from Mactan-Cebu International Airport, going to South Cebu can be accessible with the below budget-friendly recommendation.

1. Ride plane to Cebu
   Arrive at Mactan-Cebu International Airport
2. Ride a taxi to Cebu South Bus Terminal
   Travel time: 30 mins  | Taxi Faire: Php 200
3. At Cebu South Bus Terminal
    Ride a bus bound for your preferred tourist destination.
    OSLOB/LILOAN | Whale Shark Watching, Osmena Peak, Sumilon Island, Alcoy Beach Resort
    BADIAN | Moalboal Beach, Kawasan Falls, Badian Island

The estimated travel time for these places range from 4-5 hours and fare also varies from Php 300 – Php 500. By the way, there are two types of buses in Cebu South Bus Terminal: Air-conditioned and Non-air-conditioned buses. The only difference between the two is the Air-conditioned bus is more expensive compare to others, but we recommend riding the Air-conditioned bus since you are traveling in long hours which is more convenient.

OPTION 2

For some visitors, you can arrange a hotel or airport pickup to a different travel agencies which caters to have a private travel experience in Cebu South. One of the highly recommended agency are from Klook, please check on the Cebu Tours and Sightseeing Tours in Cebu.

1. Ride plane to Cebu
   Arrive at Mactan-Cebu International Airport
2. Pickup at Airport/Hotel
    Private car/van to Cebu
    Estimated Tour Duration: 11-16 hours

Depending on the type of activity and location, the per person price package varies. And also the number number of people in a group ( the lesser the more expensive compare to the more number of people will join the group). Availing on this private tour package can be more expensive compared to taking public transport but in terms of convenience, this plays a big factor.

CEBU SOUTH BUS TERMINAL

Ceres Bus at Cebu South Bus Terminal
"Cebu South Bus Terminal"

Cebu South Bus Terminal is where all the buses converge for all travelers heading to the Southern part of Cebu Province. It is located on the street of N. Bacalso Avenue, which is about 30 mins taxi ride from Mactan-Cebu Airport. Several bus operators run in the terminal (Ceres Liner, Sunrays Bus Lines, and Librando Trans). Ceres Liner (yellow-colored bus) has the most number of buses that operate in Cebu which covers all routes of the towns of Cebu South. Due to its popularity, Ceres Liner has a service schedule to depart every 30 minutes in a 24-hour operation. On the other hand Sunrays and Librando cover the specific town of Cebu South which are Carcar, Barili, Dumanjug, Moalboal, and Badian.

The facilities and services of Cebu South Bus terminal includes;

  • Pre-departure and Waiting Areas
  • Food and Snack Kiosk
  • Toilets/Washroom (Entrance Fee: Php 5)
  • Boarding Gates

Please do not for passengers who wish to enter inside the terminal, especially for those who are taking a cab/taxi or private vehicle are required to pay the terminal fee of Php 10.

Cebu South Bus Terminal also serves passengers who are bound in the neighboring island province of Negros which includes cities like Dumaguete and Bacolod.

best time to travel CEBU SOUTH

Mactan Cebu Internation Airport Entrance Architecture
Mactan Airport Lapu Lapu Shrine Poster

Cebu has a tropical climate which consists of the dry and wet season. A visit to Cebu during the months of July to August will not be as good due to the rainy season will be in full swing. Mostly it will have some grey skies, thunderstorms, and even typhoons. The best time to travel to Cebu South will be during the dry season, where it offers good weather and less rain. This period usually happens in the month of March to May where it is hot and humid. Also one of the great festivities and highlights in Cebu is during the month of January where Sinulog Festival is celebrated. During this time the influx of the number of travelers will be more compare that its usual numbers. With that hotels and resorts will easily get fully booked and price accommodation will increase.

LOW SEASON

Month: May to October
High Chance of Rain
Fewer Tourist and Better Accommodation
Low Price

HIGH SEASON

Month: October to May
Mostly Hot and Less Rain
More Tourist
Expect Price to be Higher

Where To SAY in CEBU SOUTH

There are a number of hotels available in within the city of Cebu, which caters from 5-star to 2-star ratings. An average price range of hotel per night will be around Php 3,000 which sometimes include breakfast service. Most of the activity on Cebu South Tourist Spots will usually take for one day, and some would prefer to stay hotel in the City. This means that if you wish to avail on various tour packages, free hotel pickup is available for the entire one day adventure. During our visit to Cebu, we stayed at Well Hotel which is located in nearby shops and malls. Our room is decent and clean which includes hot water, TV, mini-fridge. We paid P2,000 per night which includes breakfast.

Well Hotel

F. Ramos St, Cebu City
Room Rate: Php 3,000/night (Breakfast Included)

For some, if you wish to stay overnight in the nearby Cebu south tourist spots, there are a number of hostels now available Below are some recommendations of hostel and inn that you may consider.

Pig Dive Hostel Moalboal
Moalboal, Cebu
Room Rate: Php 2,500/night | Double Room with Breakfast Included

Crazy Bears Hostel
Moalboal, Cebu
Room Rate: Php 1,600/night | Double Room with Breakfast Included

La Lune Oslob Hostel
Oslob, Cebu
Room Rate: Php 450/night | Dormitory Room – 4 Bed

BJs Seaside
Argao, Cebu
Room Rate: Php 1,500/night | Double Room with Breakfast Included

CEBU SOUTH TOURIST SPOTS

"Cebu South Tourist Spot Moutain Peaks of Osmena Park"

Osmena Peak

Badian, Cebu
Registration Fee: Php 30 | Guide Fee: Php 300
Opening Hours: 5:00am-6:00pm (DAILY)

One of the highest peaks on the island of Cebu with an elevation of around 1,000m above sea level. It is a rugged mountain peak famous for hikers and campers. From the base it will take around 20mins hike to reach the top, once you reach the top, you will be able to witness the breathtaking 360-degree view of the Cebu South and the island of Negros which is just opposite side. The best time to visit the peak is during Sunset or Sunrise there you can capture wonderful photos and experience a good moment. We have seen the beauty of nature at its peak.

How To Get There
Ride a bus that is bound to Oslob/Bato at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Travel time is about 3 hours and a fare of P150. Inform the bus driver or conductor to drop you off at the Dalaguete junction heading to Osmena Peak. From the junction, ask a motorcycle-for-hire (habal-habal for locals) to take you to the Osmena Peak. Motorcycle travel time: 10-15mins and Fare: Php 200 one-way.

"Cebu South Tourist Spot Whale Shark Under Water in Oslob"

Whale Shark Watching

Tanawan Oslob, Cebu
Foreigners: Watching from the boat (Php 500 ) | Snorkeling (Php 1,000) | Scuba diving (Php 1,500)
Local Tourist: Watching from the boat (Php 300 ) | Snorkeling (Php 500) | Scuba diving (Php 600)
Opening Hours: 6:00am-12:30pm (DAILY)

The town of Oslob and it’s must-visit attraction-whale shark watching. A unique experience to have a close encounter with the whale sharks. Either you can swim with them underwater or just sit by the boat and watch them play.

How To Get There
Ride a bus that is bound to Oslob/Bato at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Travel time is about 5 hours and the fare of Php 350. Inform the bus driver or conductor to drop you off at the Whale Shark watching.

"Cebu South Tourist Spot Dalaguete Obong Nature Spring"

Obong Cold Spring

Dalaguete, Cebu
Entrance Fee: P5.00
Opening Hours:  5:00am-6:00pm (DAILY)

Obong Cold Spring is a mixture of salt and freshwater which during high tide the continuous flow of fresh water combines with saltwater, thus making the water briny. The place has gained popularity for several years as hundreds of tourists and locals love to stop by and take a plunge into the cold waters. The spring is surrounded by large rocks, which are often used as diving platforms by swimmers and old century-old dalakit trees beside the pool.

How To Get There
Ride a bus that is bound to Oslob/Bato at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Travel time is about 2-3 hours and the fare of Php 220. Inform the bus driver or conductor to drop you off at the Obong Spring Dalaguete.

"Whale Shark Watching in Oslob Beach"

Kawasan Falls

 Badian, Cebu
Entrance Fee: Php 40
Opening Hours: 24 hrs

One of the most popular waterfalls in Cebu with three layers of falls. The water from the Kawasan Falls comes from the Kabukalan Spring and passes through the Matutinao River and Tanon Strait. It has amazing beauty that you can dine in a tropical forest and you will enjoy the cold crystal clear waters.

How To Get There
Ride a bus that is bound to  Bato (Santander) via Barili at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Travel time is about 4 hours and fare starts at Php 250. Inform the bus driver or conductor to drop you off at Barangay Matutinao at the main road going to Kawasan Falls in Badian and trek for 10 minutes.

Basdako White Beach

Moalboal, Cebu
Entrance Fee: Php 5
Opening Hours: 5:00am-6:00pm (DAILY)

The name “basdaku” (or “basdakoo) is the Cebuano (Visayan language), the word ‘big sand’ (bas for sand, daku for big or wide).  Travelers would love the beach for its pristine waters and a stretch of long white beach.

How To Get There
Ride a bus that is bound to Bato via Barili at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Travel time is about 3 hours and the fare of Php 200. Inform the bus driver or conductor to drop you off at Gaisano Grand Mall Moalboal or Moalboal town proper, hire a tricycle or a motorbike (habal habal) then tell the driver to bring you to Basdaku/White Beach. Regular fare is Php 30 per person but if you are less than 5, you will most likely pay Php 50 each.

FINAL THOUGHTS

"Cebu South Tourist Spot Osmena Peak Mountain Trail"

We had a great time visiting Cebu particularly the southern part of Cebu. During our visit, the weather cooperated because it was not raining as we appreciate the abundance of nature and marine wildlife in our environment and how residents preserved its purpose upon visiting the places. We explored hidden wonders of the south which can be amazing. There are still a lot of places to visit aside from our one-day fun-filled activities. If you are a tourist or a traveler, you would definitely explore more of what Cebu south has to offer or may lengthen your stay. I hope you have a great time checking this Cebu South day tour as a reference on your future adventure.

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Cebu South
Tourist Spots Itinerary

DAY TOUR

  • 03:00am Wake Up
  • 03:30am  Head Bus Terminal
                      Ride Taxi
                      Cebu South Bus
  • 04:00am Ride Ceres Bus
                       Head to Oslob
  • 04:30am Depart Cebu
  • 09:30am ETA Oslob
                     Head to Whale Watching
  • 09:45am Registration and Orientation
                     Fee: P500 (Inclusive)
                     30 mins boat ride + life vest
                     Snorkel Rental: P50     
  • 10:00am Ride Boat
                     Snorkel and Swim
                     with Whale Shark
  • 10:30am Head to back to shore
                     Breakfast
  • 10:45am Swim on the shore
  • 12:15pm Lunch
  • 12:30pm Head to Resort
                    Ride Ceres
  • 01:15pm ETA Resort
                   Walk 10 mins
                   Swim on Lagoon
  • 02:30pm Depart
                      Ride Bus
                      Head to Osmena Peak
  • 03:30pm ETA
                      Ride Motorcycle
                      ETA Foot of Mountain
  • 04:00pm Hike
                      Explore the View on Top
  • 04:45pm Descend
                      Ride Motorcycle
  • 05:15pm Ride Ceres bus
                     Head to Cebu
  • 10:00pm ETA Cebu
  • 10:45pm Sleep

the gees travel

A wife and a mother of three toddlers | Previously working as customer service executive in a logistics supply chain | working at home mom. But in spite of this added responsibilities I still find time to travel and explore together with my family.

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