Visit Moalboal, Philippines: The Ultimate Snorkelling Adventure

📌 Before You Go: Check out our guide on currency, safety, vaccines, and visa requirements here.
📍 Where we stayed: Dolce Vita Resort
🌟 Things to do: Worlds 2nd Largest Sardine Run, Canyoneering
🍽️ Favourite restaurants: Hungry Monkeys, Shaka, Smooth Cafe

Little did we know that Moalboal would be a favourite destination of ours in the Philippines – this small town on the edge of Cebu has it all—stunning snorkeling and diving experiences, breathtaking waterfalls, delicious Filipino cuisine, and lush mountainous landscapes. If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, make sure Moalboal is on your itinerary!

The fact you only need to enter the water to be able to look down and see a natural phenomenon of thousands of sardines, and turtles, too, makes this place a TOP destination for snorkelling or diving in the Philippines! 

Not sure where to go in the Philippines? Check out our ultimate two or three-week itinerary!

Getting There:

From Cebu, take a taxi to the South Bus Terminal and hop on a Ceres Liner bus (~4 hours). We used 12go to prebook all of our transport. If you prefer convenience, book a private transfer here or via 12go. 

Once in Moalboal, getting around is easy. It’s a small town, and you can explore most of it on foot within a day!

Now, let’s dive into our top 3 things to do in Moalboal!

We were blown away by the sheer number of sardines—thousands of them shimmering just below the surface. You only need to step into the water to witness this incredible natural phenomenon. Even though it was rainy and windy the first time we did this,  it was still just as good as the following time with sunshine! Plus, you’re highly likely to spot sea turtles, too!

How to Snorkel the Sardine Run

• Entry Fee: PHP 100 (~$2) at Panagsama Beach
• Snorkel Rental: PHP 200 (~$4) from local vendors
• Optional Guide: PHP 300-500 (~$5-$10) including life jacket, mask, and snorkel
• Optional Photography Package: PHP 500 (~$10) for a guide to take photos & videos

Is it worth it? 

YES! Seeing sardines glistening beneath your feet is mesmerizing. Thanks to the thriving marine ecosystem, turtles frequent this area—we spotted at least eight during our two snorkeling sessions! Look for a quiet spot away from tours, the sardine run is HUGE and continues quite far up and down the coastline. 

If you are interested in cost-saving – we recommend booking a bundle tour including this alongside canyoneering in advance on GetYourGuide. 

Pro Tip: You don’t need a guide unless you’re a weak swimmer or feel nervous. The sardines are just a few meters offshore. Don’t feel pressured by the many touts! Also, make sure you wear waterproof shoes or sandals. I wear Teva’s and they have been incredibly versatile on-land and at sea! There are sharp and rocky parts, I had to help a girl into the water because she forgot hers! 

If you love adventure, canyoneering at Kawasan Falls is a must! Having never tried it before, we had no idea what to expect, but it turned out to be one of the best experiences of our trip!

What to Expect

• Getting There: Pickup from Moalboal by minivan (~20 min ride)
• Safety Briefing: Covers equipment & rules
• Zipline Option: Instead of a 30-minute hike, you can zipline to the start point for an extra thrill!
• Activities: Jumping off cliffs, sliding down rocks, swimming through tunnels, and climbing waterfalls

What did it involve?

Jumping off rock edges into crystal-clear water, sliding down rocks, swimming through tunnels and climbing through waterfalls! While physically demanding, the stunning turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls make it totally worth it. We will be honest and admit the zipline was pretty scary, and high. We also weren’t expecting to get there on the back of a motorbike and up a dirt path, however, it only lasted for about 1-2 minutes, and it was one of the best experiences we had in the Philippines!

Relax! You’ll wear a helmet and life vest, and your guide is there to assist you. Mine basically held my hand the entire way around! Jumps have lower-height alternatives for those who prefer a less extreme experience.

Book in advance as spots fill up quickly!

As a word of warning, the Philippines has hundreds of stray dogs, and many of them are in a bad or critical condition. Unfortunately, locals aren’t cultured or necessarily educated about animal welfare, and so dogs and cats can be treated unfairly. The government is also reluctant to support charities in the Philippines that support animal welfare, but due to western culture and media, this is starting to change. 

More are popping up in the Philippines, and the wonderful work of the husband and wife team who own Moalboal Animal Welfare Outpost is truly admirable. Due to the implications to owning a charity and receiving funding in the Philippines, we learnt through them it is difficult to make money – so if you visit, a donation is much appreciated. The dogs are incredibly friendly and cute, they just want a cuddle!

How You Can Help

• Visit & Donate: Any amount helps keep the rescue running
• Volunteer: Limited spaces available with accommodation provided
• Follow & Support on Instagram: @moalboalanimalwelfareoutpost

Reach out via DM on Instagram to arrange your visit or get involved!

We stayed at Dolce Vita Resort, it was slightly out of town, but still only a 5-10 minute walk to where the famous sardine run is, and most of the best restaurants! We enjoyed our little pool, since it can get incredibly hot on this tropical island!

Find the best budget – luxury hotels here

Final Thoughts on Moalboal

Moalboal is a vibrant yet laid-back seaside town that’s perfect for backpackers and travelers alike. From epic snorkeling and thrilling canyoneering to amazing food and animal welfare initiatives, this town has something for everyone.

Recommended stay: At least 3 days to fully enjoy Moalboal before heading to other parts of the Philippines! 

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