This travel guide will help you plan your island hopping in Cebu; which islands to visit, boat transfers, and travel tips!
Step 1: Plan Your Itinerary
Out of over 150 islands and islets surrounding the province, how can you decide which island to visit first? Allow us to recommend these five beautiful stopovers for your island hopping adventure in Cebu.
Pescador Island
Pack your wetsuit and fins because we’re going diving! Pescador Island boasts its year-round sardine run. If you swim on the island’s west side, you will see “The Cathedral,” an open-top underwater cave. This island is an oasis for various marine species, and certainly a dream destination for divers!
How to get there: From Moalboal, ride a tricycle and alight at Panagsama Beach. You can rent a boat from there that will take you to the island.
Bantayan Island
If you love Boracay but is not fond of its wild party scene, then Bantayan Island is exactly what you need to visit! Walk on white, powdery sand and marvel on its ocean’s beauty while enjoying the peace and quiet This is a place you visit when you need to get away from the noise of urban life.
How to get there: Ride a bus at the Cebu North Bus Terminal then alight at Hagnaya Port. Next, take the public ferry going to Santa Fe Port in Bantayan Island.
Sumilon Island
From a bird’s eye view, this island is luscious with green trees, surrounded by crystal clear blue water, then a white sandbar stretches from one angle. As one of the Philippines’ marine reserves, the island is well-kept and maintained. Walk along the sand bar and bask under the sun’s glory.
How to get there: Ride a bus going to Bato, Oslob and alight at Bluewater Sumilon Resort. The resort offers boat ride going to the island ranging from 1,500-2,000 pesos.
Capitancillo Island
According to legend, a Spanish captain named Basillo disrespected a Datu with magical powers. Because of unimaginable anger, the Datu cursed the captain’s ship and turned it into an island. This 6-hectare islet is part of the marine sanctuary and is surrounded by no less than three dive sites. Experience the magic and explore the world underwater in Capitancillo island.
How to get there: Take a bus from Cebu North Bus Terminal going to Bogo city then opt for a boat ride from Plombato port, Nailon Wharf, Odlot Hideaway, or Marangog Cove bound to Capitancillo island.
Step 2: Plan Your Accommodation And Transfers
It’s always best to contact people who can help you explore Cebu most conveniently. Less time spent on looking for rides and accommodation means more time for island hopping and adventure!
Social Media (Facebook and Instagram)
There are Facebook groups created solely to bring travelers and agencies together. It also helps that other travelers share their stories and experiences online. Ask them if they have a boat ride operator saved in their phonebook (most of them have!) for easier transfers.
Freelance Travel Agents
If you’re not someone who manages your itinerary, then that’s fine! Jot down your target destinations and talk to a travel agent instead. Rakuboss, an online freelance job marketplace, has experienced travel agents to help you. Especially if it’s your first time traveling, we recommend asking for assistance since travel agents tend to have lots of connections and network. They will know who to call for a boat ride going anywhere!
Step 3: Enjoy!
Aside from a couple of things to remember before traveling to the Philippines, don’t forget to let yourself loose and have fun during the trip. Create memories worth remembering for a long time. “It’s more fun in the Philippines”, according to the country’s slogan. We dare you to see it for yourself — plan your trip today!
