Cebu, Exquisite Islands & Pristine Beaches of The Philippines
A crown jewel of the Philippine archipelago, Cebu is a haven for sea lovers around the world. Comprising over 167 satellite islands, this province offers an exceptional harmony of lush mountains and crystal-clear seas. Here, you can unwind on powdery white beaches, snorkel through vibrant coral reefs, swim with whale sharks, explore tropical rainforests, or embrace thrilling adventures. As the oldest city in the Philippines, Cebu is also steeped in a rich tapestry of colonial architecture and enduring cultural heritage.
Island Hopping
Known as the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu is located in the Visayas region of central Philippines. Several bridges connect the islands, and visitors may travel via land using the Cebu Bus Terminal or by sea from Cebu City Port on the main island. Bask in the sun at luxurious beach resorts, enjoy marine adventures, or simply relax along the coastlines of its charming outlying islands.
Bantayan Island
Located off Cebu’s northwestern coast, Bantayan is the province’s largest satellite island. It is serene, with powder-soft sands and turquoise waters. Popular activities include island cycling, kayaking, and walking across sandbars at low tide. The sunset at Sugar Beach Santa Fe is especially breathtaking. Do not miss the island’s famed local delicacy—giant crabs known for their succulent meat and distinct flavor.
Mactan Island
The second-largest satellite island to the east of Cebu, Mactan is home to Mactan-Cebu International Airport and is connected to the mainland via three major bridges: Mactan-Mandaue Bridge, Marcelo Fernan Bridge, and the 8.9-km Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway—the longest sea-crossing bridge in the Visayas. The island’s vibrant hub, Lapu-Lapu City, is a blend of historic charm and modern indulgence, boasting the highest concentration of beachfront resorts in Cebu. Sunbathing, scuba diving, and world-class hospitality define the Mactan experience.
Tip: Charter a traditional Filipino Banca Boat—with twin outriggers and sail—to cruise under the Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway, taking in the contrast of urban landscapes and untouched nature. For a more luxurious experience, opt for a private yacht dinner cruise, complete with fine wine and panoramic ocean views.
Malapascua Island
A small island off northern Cebu, Malapascua is celebrated for its rare thresher shark dives and rich coral ecosystems. Visitors also enjoy jungle treks, sunset strolls along Bounty Beach, and views from the elegant Malapascua Lighthouse, rebuilt in 2013.
History & Heritage
Cebu once served as the first capital of the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era in the 16th century. With over 500 years of continuous development influenced by Spanish and American rule, the island is a captivating blend of local Cebuanos traditions and Western architecture. Across the region, Spanish-colonial landmarks invite visitors to journey back through time.
Cebu Downtown
The historic district of Metro Cebu is centered around Colon Street—the oldest street in the Philippines. Once a key commercial hub during Spanish rule, the area remains bustling with heritage buildings, souvenir shops, local eateries, and vibrant night markets. It is also home to several national landmarks.
Address: Colon Street, Metro Cebu, Cebu City, Philippines
Tip: Take a photo with a colorful Jeepney, the iconic Filipino mode of transport adorned with vibrant decals and creative customizations.
Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
A prominent symbol of Catholicism in the Philippines, the cathedral was constructed between the 17th and 20th centuries in Spanish-colonial style. Intricate carvings and a stately cross adorn the façade, while the interior enshrines a revered statue of the Virgin Mary. The new Jubilee Door, built in 2000, was the highlight of the 75th-anniversary celebration of Cebu’s archdiocese in 2009.
Address: Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, Cebu City, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Minor Basilica of the Holy Child
The country’s oldest Roman Catholic basilica, built in 1565 by Spanish explorers and later reconstructed in the 17th century, houses the Santo Niño de Cebu—the Holy Child statue believed to be gifted by Ferdinand Magellan to Queen Juana of Cebu during his voyage.
Address: Pilgrim’s Center, Osmeña Blvd, Cebu City, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Magellan’s Cross Pavilion
This octagonal coral-stone kiosk commemorates the planting of the Christian cross by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. It is one of the Philippines’ most important religious and colonial symbols.
Address: Magallanes Street, Cebu City, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fort San Pedro
Located in Plaza Independencia, this 16th-century fortress was built to protect against pirate attacks and local revolts. Today, it houses a museum displaying antique weaponry, colonial artifacts, and historic prison cells.
Address: A. Pigafetta Street, Cebu City, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fee: PHP 30 per person
Temple of Leah
Situated 12 km from Cebu’s old quarter, this Greco-Roman temple was built by Teodorico Adarna as a monument of love for his wife. Modeled after the Parthenon in Athens, it features dramatic sculptures, floral gardens, and panoramic views of Cebu’s mountainous coastline.
Address: Roosevelt Street, Cebu City, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Admission Fee: Mon–Fri PHP 120 (Child PHP 80) / Sat–Sun PHP 150 (Child PHP 100)
Argao
A timeless town in southern Cebu, Argao preserves its Spanish-era charm with colonial houses and quiet lanes. It is home to St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church, built in 1733, and is famous for “Torta,” a soft sponge cake with a unique regional flavor.
Address: Argao City, Cebu, Philippines
Sublime Wilderness & Untamed Nature
Cebu’s natural wonders stretch across its northern and southern extremes. From tranquil waterfalls to marine wildlife and jungle safaris, nature here unfolds in exquisite variety.
Tip: As many attractions are hours apart, private transport or local tours arranged by resorts are the safest and most convenient options.
Kawasan Falls Adventure
Located in the mountainous region of Badian, southern Cebu, Kawasan Falls is famed for its crystal-blue basins and adrenaline-pumping canyoneering trails.
Address: Badian, Cebu, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fee: PHP 2,100 per person (1-day trip)
Oslob Whale Shark Encounter
A premier attraction in Oslob, 120 km south of Metro Cebu. Visitors can dive beside gentle whale sharks in pristine waters and stay in beachfront resorts.
Address: Oslob City, Cebu, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Admission Fee: PHP 1,000 per person
Aloguinsan River Eco-Tourism
Embark on a scenic Banca Boat ride along Bojo River, drifting through mangrove forests rich in biodiversity. The 3-hour tour includes wildlife spotting and interactive cultural experiences with local communities.
Address: Aloguinsan City, Cebu, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission Fee: PHP 400 per person
Cebu Safari and Adventure Park
The Philippines’ largest safari zoo spans over 430 acres in Carmen, 50 km north of Cebu City. The park features over 2,000 species, botanic gardens, ziplining, and ATV tours.
Address: Toril, Carmen City, Cebu, Philippines
Opening Hours: Tue–Sun, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Fee: Weekday PHP 1,000 / Weekend PHP 1,200
Savor Local Delicacies
Cebu’s culinary scene is a celebration of bold flavors and local ingenuity. Named a UNWTO Gastronomy Tourism City, Cebu is a must-visit for epicurean travelers.
Lechon: Cebu’s signature roast pig—crispy skin, tender meat, marinated with secret spices—is widely regarded as the finest lechon in the country.
Sinigang: A tangy tamarind-based stew made with pork, shrimp, or fish, simmered with tomatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Adobo: The Filipino national dish—meat slow-cooked in vinegar, coconut sugar, garlic, and pepper for a sweet-savory finish.
Halo-Halo: A beloved shaved-ice dessert layered with tropical fruits, sweet beans, jellies, and topped with purple yam ice cream.
Recommended Restaurants
House of Lechon
A beloved institution serving traditional Cebuano roast pig with local sides. Its original branch is located in the historic district.
Address: Acacia Street, Archbishop Avenue, Cebu City, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
The Pig & Palm
A modern Filipino kitchen led by Michelin-starred Chef Jason Atherton. This garden-style bistro offers artfully plated dishes in a relaxed yet refined ambiance.
Address: MSY Tower, Negros Road, Cebu City, Philippines
Opening Hours: Tue–Sun, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Anzani New Mediterranean Restaurant
Locally sourced ingredients meet Mediterranean flair in this cozy fine-dining spot. Highlights include the lamb steak and seafood spaghetti in tomato sauce.
Address: Panorama Heights Nivel Hills, Cebu City, Philippines
Opening Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Recharge in Cebu
Cebu’s luxurious seaside resorts offer an exquisite blend of natural beauty and world-class hospitality. Most travelers opt to stay on Mactan Island, conveniently close to the airport and major transport routes to the surrounding islands.
Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu
An iconic beachfront retreat blending colonial elegance with modern comfort. Each room offers sea views, while amenities include four dining venues, poolside bar, 24-hour fitness center, spa, and conference facilities.
Address: Punta Engano Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island, Philippines
Website: www.shangri-la.com/cebu/mactanresort
Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort
Contemporary luxury defined. Spacious rooms with full sea views, warm service, and extensive beachside activities including windsurfing, jet-skiing, and kayaking.
Address: Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island, Philippines
Website: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/cebsi-sheraton-cebu-mactan-resort/overview
Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu
A seamless blend of contemporary Thai elegance and Spanish colonial style. This luxurious escape offers serene views, exceptional comfort, and a touch of homegrown warmth.
Address: Punta Engaño Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Mactan Island, Philippines
Website: www.dusit.com/dusitthani-mactancebu
Rediscover Cebu, where vibrant culture, pristine nature, and luxurious serenity converge into an unforgettable island experience.