To fully enjoy Cebu Island, one of the world’s leading resort destinations, we recommend taking optional tours. By taking optional tours, you can enjoy the attractive spots of Cebu Island efficiently and safely.
However, there are many optional tour companies in Cebu, and many people may not know which tour company and plan to choose.
So, in this article, we will introduce the most popular tour courses and tourist spots in Cebu, as well as recommended tour companies, so that you can enjoy Cebu to the fullest. Cebu is full of fun things to do, but we have carefully selected and introduced the most recommended spots, so please use this as a reference for your travel plans.
7 popular optional tours in Cebu!
Among optional tours in Cebu, there are some courses that are particularly popular with tourists. Here, we will introduce the most popular courses in Cebu. We will also introduce the benefits of using a tour company, so we hope you will use this as a reference when choosing a tour plan.
Whale Shark + Sumilon Island & Kawasan Falls Tour
One of the most popular Cebu Island tours is a one-day tour that includes snorkeling with whale sharks in Oslob, Sumilon Island, which is known for its beautiful, clear waters, and Kawasan Falls, which has been selected as one of the “100 most beautiful waterfalls in the world.” These three courses are located about three hours by car southwest of Cebu City.
Oslob
Oslob is a municipality in Cebu Province, Philippines, located on the southeastern coast of Cebu Island. It is known for its historical significance and its stunning natural attractions, including the famous whale shark (butanding) watching.
This is one of the world’s leading whale shark gathering spots. It was the first place in the world to successfully feed whale sharks, and during the whale sharks’ feeding time in the morning (around 6:00 to 11:00), up to 20 whale sharks gather. The encounter rate is an astounding 95%. Cebu Island has a stable climate all year round, so you can enjoy snorkeling with whale sharks at any time of the year.
By the way, although the whale shark is huge, it is a docile fish that eats plankton and small fish, so you can enjoy snorkeling safely.
Sumilon Island
Kawasan Falls
Kawasan Falls is a stunning natural attraction that offers a mix of relaxation and adventure in a beautiful tropical setting. Its clear blue waters, multi-tiered cascades, and surrounding lush landscape make it a popular destination for tourists seeking both tranquility and excitement. Whether you’re swimming in the falls, trekking through the forest, or embarking on an adventurous canyoneering experience, Kawasan Falls provides a memorable and picturesque escape in Cebu.
The most famous waterfall in Cebu, Kawasan Falls, is known for the beauty of its pool and the dynamic activities it offers, such as canyoning. In particular, diving into the pool from a height of 14 meters, combined with the charm of the surrounding natural scenery, is sure to be a lifelong memory.
●We would like to introduce you to our optional tour “Whale Shark + Sumilon Island & Kawasan Falls Tour” that
visits these three spots.
- “Whale shark snorkeling + Sumilon Island & Kawasan Falls tour” (from 10,800 yen)
The three whale shark viewing spots of Oslob, Sumilon Island, and Kawasan Falls are all close to each other, but if you are planning to travel there on your own, it can be difficult to secure transportation.
This is because local buses and taxis do not speak Japanese, so you have to communicate in English or the local Tagalog. Taxi drivers usually offer higher prices to tourists, so you have to negotiate the price to avoid losing money, making it quite a hassle just to arrange transportation.
You also need to be careful about pickpockets and purse snatchers, and the risk is greater when traveling by bus.
“Cebu Pre” is an optional tour that is exclusively available to one group, so you will travel smoothly and safely from your hotel to a spot and from there to another spot.
Also, while there are many tours that visit two of the following places, Oslob, Sumilon Island, and Kawasan Falls, there are not many tours that visit all three. This is a very luxurious plan that is only possible with the “Cebu Plus” plan, which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, minimizing travel time, and allowing you to fully enjoy sightseeing in Cebu.
Whale Shark + Moalboal & White Beach
One spot that has recently become increasingly popular is Moalboal. Originally known as a popular spot for Western divers and backpackers, Moalboal has also become an extremely attractive tourist spot, with many excellent snorkeling spots and two different types of beaches to enjoy.
It is located just under three hours by car from Cebu City, and is not far from the whale shark spot of Oslob, so optional tours that visit both spots together are popular.
Moalboal
Moalboal is a captivating destination known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and exciting outdoor activities. From the breathtaking underwater experiences of Pescador Island and the Sardine Run to the serene beauty of Kawasan Falls, Moalboal offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. Its rich cultural heritage and commitment to sustainable tourism make it a remarkable place to explore in Cebu.
Moalboal has two beaches, Panagsama Beach and White Beach, but we especially recommend White Beach for your tour. As its name suggests, the white sand stretches out, and the contrast with the blue sea and sky is just like a tropical sea! You can relax on the beach and fully enjoy the vacation feeling.
Furthermore, White Beach is also a great snorkeling spot. The biggest attraction is the tornado of tens of thousands of sardines. Each sardine is small, but you will be overwhelmed by the power of the tornado as it covers the ocean. You can also enjoy sea turtles and coral. Although it is known as one of the world’s leading diving spots, it is still a little-known tourist spot.
● Our website “Cebupre’s” “Whale Shark + Moalboal & White Beach” plan
- “Swim with Whale Sharks and Sea Turtles + Moalboal & White Beach Tour” (from 11,800 yen)
After enjoying the whale sharks in Oslob, you can enjoy the white beaches and snorkeling in Moalboal. This plan also has the advantage of smooth and safe transportation that only a chartered tour can provide. Since it is a private vehicle, it is also attractive that you can travel from Oslob to Moalboal in comfortable clothes such as a jacket over your swimsuit (in the case of buses, the air conditioning is often too strong).
Island hopping 3 islands (Pandanon Island + Nalusuan Island + Hilutungan Island)
For those who want to enjoy “island hopping” by taking a boat to several remote islands, we recommend the three islands of Pandanon Island, Nalusuan Island, and Hilutungan Island. These spots are located within an hour’s boat ride from Mactan Island, where most of the accommodations on Cebu Island are located, and you can tour the three islands in one day.
Each of the three islands has its own unique characteristics, so one of the attractions is that each island can be enjoyed in its own way.
Pandanon Island
Pandanon Island is a hidden gem in the northern part of Cebu, offering visitors a tranquil and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of more developed tourist areas. With its pristine beaches, clear waters, and serene environment, the island is an ideal destination for relaxation, snorkeling, and enjoying nature. Its relatively undeveloped state adds to its charm, providing a more authentic and peaceful island experience.
Pandanon Island is said to be “the island closest to heaven” in Cebu, and is a perennial favorite for island hopping. It is the furthest island you can reach from Cebu City, and the beauty of the ocean is outstanding. You can safely enjoy swimming in the shallow sea and marine activities.
Nalusuan Island
Nalusuan Island is a hidden gem in the Mactan Channel, offering visitors a beautiful and tranquil escape with its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and clear waters. Its small size and relatively undeveloped nature make it a perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, and relaxation. The island’s charm, combined with its commitment to sustainable tourism, provides a memorable experience for those seeking both adventure and serenity in a stunning tropical setting.
Nalusuan Island is a popular spot with its long landmark pier (a photogenic spot for tours) and colorful tropical fish snorkeling. There is also an overwater restaurant, so you can enjoy a special lunch on the water.
Hilutungan Island
Hilutungan Island is a captivating destination known for its marine sanctuary, vibrant coral reefs, and clear waters. Its natural beauty and rich marine biodiversity make it a prime spot for snorkeling and diving. The island’s compact size and relatively undeveloped nature offer a serene and authentic island experience. Efforts to promote sustainable tourism and conservation help ensure that Hilutungan Island remains a pristine and attractive destination for future visitors.
Hilutungan Island is very popular as the best snorkeling spot in Cebu. It is designated as a marine protected area and is home to many tropical fish, so even beginners can easily enjoy snorkeling there.
●Cebupre’s island hopping plan
- “Island hopping 3 islands (Pandanon Island + Nalusuan Island + Hilutungan Island)” (from 8,200 yen)
Kawasan Falls Canyoning + White Beach
You can also enjoy canyoning at Kawasan Falls and the White Beach of Moalboal.
This tour allows you to enjoy the 40m waterfall at Kawasan Falls and canyoning (an authentic activity that involves climbing the mountain path to Kawasan Falls, sliding through the river, diving, and even jumping 14m into the pool at the bottom of the waterfall), followed by a relaxing time at Moalboal’s White Beach, where you can fully enjoy the tropical resort atmosphere.
This plan allows you to enjoy two spectacular views: Kawasan Falls, where you can feel the power of nature up close, and White Beach, where the tropical ocean stretches out before your eyes.
● Our website “Cebupre’s “Kawasan Falls Canyoning + White Beach Tour” plan
- “Kawasan Falls Canyoning + White Beach Tour” (from 9,800 yen)
Bohol
Bohol is a diverse and captivating province that offers a rich blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage. From the awe-inspiring Chocolate Hills and the unique tarsiers to the tranquil Loboc River and pristine beaches, Bohol provides a wealth of experiences for visitors. Its commitment to preserving its natural resources and cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination in the Philippines.
Bohol Island is located about two hours by boat from Cebu City. It is about the same size as Cebu Island and has many attractive spots that can only be found on Bohol Island.
Chocolate Hills
This spot has a unique topography with over 1,200 small hills of about 40 meters lined up. It is also registered as a candidate for World Heritage Site and is a very popular photo spot.
The Chocolate Hills of Bohol are a remarkable natural wonder, celebrated for their unique geological formations and striking appearance. They offer visitors an opportunity to experience one of the Philippines’ most iconic landscapes, with stunning views, local legends, and a significant place in the country’s natural heritage. Efforts to conserve and manage the area ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy this extraordinary landmark.
Tarsier Conservation Area
The Tarsier is one of the smallest tarsiers in the world, the palm-sized tarsiers. At the Tarsier Conservation Area, you can see the tarsier, which is endemic to the Philippines and also designated as an endangered species, up close. Many tarsier goods are also sold at the adjacent souvenir shop.
The Tarsier Conservation Area in Bohol is a vital sanctuary dedicated to the protection of the Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates. Through habitat preservation, education, and research, the conservation area plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of this unique species. Visitors to the conservation area have the opportunity to see tarsiers in their natural habitat while learning about the importance of conservation and the challenges faced by this endangered primate.
Loboc River
The Loboc River is a stunning natural and cultural treasure in Bohol, offering visitors a unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and recreational activities. Its river cruises provide an opportunity to appreciate the lush landscapes and vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Bohol. Conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices are essential to preserving the river’s natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
Loboc River is a spot where you can enjoy the great outdoors, surrounded by natural forests such as palm trees on both sides. After a leisurely boat ride down the river, you can enjoy activities. The most popular activities are the “buggy” that runs through the unpaved off-road and the “zip line” that slides down a wire suspended above the Loboc River.
● Our website “Cebupre”‘s Bohol Island tour
- “Bohol Island Day Tour Zip Line & Buggy Driving” (from 10,800 yen)
Cebu City Tour + Night View
Cebu City has many historical buildings, and the churches from the time of Spanish rule are especially known for their beautiful exteriors. Cebu City is also a great place to enjoy the beauty of its night view, described as “million dollar,” affordable beauty salons, nail salons, and souvenir shopping that will make any girl’s heart flutter.
Cebu’s two biggest night view spots
The two best night view spots in Cebu are TOPS Observatory and Leyaya Temple. Both are built on mountains, so you can get a panoramic view of Cebu city and get immersed in a romantic mood.
●Cebu City Sightseeing Tour by our website “Cebupre”
- “Cebu City Sightseeing Tour + Night View Tour” (from 4,200 yen)
Cebu City is home to many shops and attractions, so the key to enjoying your trip is to get around the attractions efficiently and avoid getting lost or stuck in traffic. By using a plan like “Cebu Plus” that includes a dedicated driver who knows the area inside and a local female guide, you can get around Cebu City efficiently and safely.
Jet Ski/Parasailing Tours
Speaking of marine activities in Cebu, snorkeling and scuba diving are famous, but we also recommend other activities such as jet skiing and parasailing. These activities can be enjoyed, for example, on Pandanon Island, which is said to be “the island closest to heaven.”
Jet ski
This is a marine activity where you drive a jet ski in the vast ocean of Cebu Island.
Parasailing
It is an activity that you can enjoy slowly like taking a walk in the sky more than 40 meters on a motorized parachute. Looking down on Pandanon Island, the blue sea and the pure white sandy beach from the sky is also special.
● Our “Cebupre” Jet Ski/Parasailing plan (optional)
- “Island Hopping 3 Islands (Pandanon Island + Nalusuan Island + Hilutungan Island)” (from 8,200 yen)
+ Jet ski 30 minutes (from 2,500 pesos = approx. 5,300 yen) / Parasailing 15 minutes (from 2,200 pesos = approx. 4,700 yen)
At “CebuPre,” you can apply for jet skiing and parasailing as options. If you change your options or course on a remote island, you may be concerned about the time of the return boat, but if you make a request through “CebuPre,” the course will be set based on the time of the options, so you can enjoy your trip without worrying about missing the boat.
You can also enjoy both options.
Four points to keep in mind when choosing an optional tour company in Cebu
We will explain the points you should keep in mind when choosing an optional tour company in Cebu.
Is the tour private?
The first thing you should check is whether the tour is private or not. If you are on a group tour, you may not be able to fully enjoy the tourist spots because you have to be considerate of other tour participants and worry about the schedule. Another inconvenient point is that you can only take toilet breaks at predetermined points.
If you are booking a private tour, be sure to check the minimum number of participants. Many tours require a minimum of two people, but if you do not meet the minimum number, you may not be able to apply for the tour.
What kind of support system is available for guides?
The quality of an optional tour is largely determined by the support system provided by the guide.
The bare minimum you should check is whether or not you will have a dedicated guide and whether the guide can speak Japanese (although some tour companies may be able to speak English).
Furthermore, it is a good idea to check whether the guide is male or female. In the Philippines, women tend to work more diligently and carefully than men, and even in general companies, there are many women in managerial positions. Especially when traveling with your partner, you can feel more comfortable knowing that the guide is a woman.
“Cebupre” provides a dedicated vehicle (with a driver) and a dedicated female guide who can speak Japanese. The guide also provides support with photography, and is prepared to respond to any problems or small requests.
What is included in the plan?
The contents of the plan vary depending on the optional tour.
Even if the plans look the same at first glance, there are many differences when comparing them, such as whether or not hotel pick-up is included, the sightseeing courses, and the price, so if there is a plan that interests you, it is a good idea to compare them before making your decision.
Another feature of “CebuPre” is that they will stop at nearby spots or change the course slightly according to your wishes and requests, and will fine-tune the course to suit your needs. This kind of flexible response is also one of the points to consider when choosing an optional tour.
Is it a tour company you can trust?
Another important point is whether or not you can use the optional tour safely.
・Can you make reservations in Japanese?
・Is there sufficient information on the website?
・Are inquiries handled courteously?
・Are the reviews good?
Check the points above to see if the company is one you can book a tour with confidence.
4 optional tour companies in Cebu!
The key to enjoying your trip to Cebu is to choose the right optional tour company.
An optional tour is a service that allows you to entrust the creation of a tour plan at your travel destination, the arrangement of transportation from your accommodation to the tourist spots, the arrangement of admission tickets, the preparation of equipment to enjoy the activities, etc. A guide and a private driver may also be arranged.
Cebu Island, famous as a resort destination worldwide, has many optional tour companies, each with their own strengths and uniqueness. Here we will introduce the overview and features of four recommended tour companies.
Cebu Pre
“CebuPre” is the cheapest charter tour company that specializes in Cebu Island and is limited to one group. They provide detailed services and offer the lowest prices, so if you are wondering which optional tour company to use, you can’t go wrong with “CebuPre”.
The features of “Seven Premium” are as follows:
・Specializing in optional tours in Cebu
・Transportation between hotels and tourist spots (private vehicle with driver provided!)
・One dedicated guide will be arranged for each group. (The guide will be a local woman who can speak Japanese. This is a great point for girls traveling.)
・Meticulous planning and service by a Japanese owner (For example, in Philippine restaurants, it takes an average of 30 minutes to an hour from ordering to serving a meal. It would be a waste to wait an hour for food in a resort, but with “Cebu Place,” the guide will wait for the food on your behalf, allowing you to play or relax freely during that time.)
・A plan that meets your wishes and requests (Since “CebuPre” is a private plan limited to one group, we can respond flexibly to the traveler’s requests. For example, you can adjust the plan to meet your requests, such as going shopping or to a nail salon after the tour, or changing to another spot nearby, within the scope of what is possible to adjust the schedule.)
<Introducing popular tour plans from CebuPre>
We will introduce two popular tour plans from CebuPre, a private tour limited to one group at the lowest price in the industry.
- “Whale shark snorkeling + Sumilon Island & Kawasan Falls tour” (from 10,800 yen)
This plan includes snorkeling with whale sharks at Oslob, a whale shark spot, followed by visits to Sumilon Island, known for its crystal clear waters where you can see sea turtles and coral, and Kawasan Falls, selected as one of the world’s 100 best waterfalls, where you can enjoy trekking.
- “Island hopping 3 islands (Pandanon Island + Nalusuan Island + Hilutungan Island)” (from 8,200 yen)
This is an island hopping tour that takes you around three popular remote islands in Cebu in one day.
Island hopping is the act of visiting remote islands by boat and enjoying activities such as snorkeling and barbecues at each spot.
During travel
Tabinaka is an optional tour company that plans a variety of tours, mainly in Asian regions. Cebu Island, a popular resort destination, is one of the places Tabinaka plans to organize a large number of tours.
“Tabinaka” has the following features.
・The website has a wealth of information, and there is a lot of reference information for travel plans.
・All guides speak Japanese, and after booking, you can contact the guide directly in advance for peace of mind.
・A wide variety of tour plans are available.
・Hotel transfers are provided.
● Popular “Travel” plans
- “Snorkeling experience swimming with whale sharks + negative ion tour at the basin of the hidden Kawasan Falls!” (From 14,700 yen) This
is an optional tour that allows you to enjoy two popular spots, Oslob and Kawasan Falls, in one day. - “Tour around the two stunning islands of Nalusuan Island and Hilutungan Island!” (From 8,900 yen) This
is a tour around the two islands of Nalusuan Island and Hilutungan Island, which are famous for island hopping.
For both plans, if you request a private vehicle for transportation, an additional 5,000 yen will be charged. Also, it seems that the guides are not all female.
https://tabinaka.co.jp/tour/268
KSB Travel Support
KSB Travel Support is an optional tour company located in Cebu. KSB Travel Support offers a wide variety of plans and unique trips. This is a recommended tour company for those who want to enjoy a unique trip that is not just standard.
The features of KSB Travel Support are as follows:
・A wide variety of unique tours are available (such as firefly tours and cruise tours)
・Reservations can be made in Japanese (reservations via LINE are also accepted)
・The best plan will be proposed based on the weather conditions on the day (however, requests will be given priority)
・Private vehicle (with driver) and private guide included
●KSB Travel Support’s popular plans
- “Whale Shark and Sumilon Island Swimming Tour” (from 13,900 yen)
is a plan to enjoy snorkeling at two whale shark spots: Oslob and Sumilon Island. - “Bohol Island 2 Nights 3 Days Tour” (from 35,000 yen)
A plan to enjoy the popular Bohol Island for 3 days. The price includes transportation and accommodation.
KSB Travel Support offers a variety of flexible travel plans to choose from. Please note that the guides do not speak Japanese, and while there are some popular spots, most of the plans are for lesser known spots.
Free Club Diving Center
“Free Club Diving Center” is an optional tour recommended for those who want to enjoy diving in Cebu. A license is required to enjoy scuba diving, but “Free Club Diving Center” is a tour plan planned and operated by a diving school, so you can enjoy diving to your heart’s content.
There are trial tours available for those who don’t have a diving license, and there are also plans other than diving, such as island hopping.
The features of “Free Club Diving Center” are as follows.
・You can experience scuba diving even if you don’t have a license.
・Reservations can be made in Japanese.
・Hotel pickup and drop-off is available
. ・There are many diving tours available depending on the spot and how you want to enjoy them.
・There are also plans to enjoy activities such as parasailing and jet skiing.
● Popular plans for “Free Club Diving Center”
- Trial Diving Hilutungan Island 1 Boat (6,000 pesos = approx. 12,900 yen)
This is a tour plan where you can experience scuba diving at Hilutungan Island. This plan includes lunch and rental equipment, making it a great choice for beginners.
http://www.freecrew-diving.com/
Summary
The first thing to do to enjoy your trip to the fullest is to decide what kind of tour plan you should make. When traveling to Cebu, the content and plan of your trip will change greatly depending on which optional tour company you use, so it is important to know what tours are popular and what tour companies are available.
The seven courses introduced this time are all popular courses that tour tourists unanimously say, “I want to go again!” In addition, the four tour companies are companies that plan tours that will allow you to enjoy popular spots and enjoy your trip in your own way.
Please consider planning your tour based on your travel purpose, budget, and schedule.