The island province of Cebu, nestled in the heart of the Visayas region in the Philippines, is a paradise for beach lovers. From white-sand shores and vibrant coral reefs to crystal-clear waters, Cebu Island has it all. Whether you want to embark on exciting Cebu Island tours or simply relax by the sea, there's a beach here waiting for you.
Cebu Island’s accessibility makes it one of the top island destinations in the Philippines, especially if you're planning to explore the beaches right after landing. Flights to Cebu Island from Manila City, the country’s main gateway, takes just a little over an hour. Cebu Island is also connected to other top destinations in the Philippines, including Boracay Island, Palawan Island, and Siargao Island.
You’ll also find some of the most stunning beachfront resorts on Cebu Island, perfect for a tropical escape. Head north to discover the white-sand beaches of Bantayan Island and Malapascua Island, or make your way south to the coastal towns of Badian, Moalboal, and Oslob for the best snorkeling spots. Whether you want quiet shores or bustling beach towns, there’s something here for you.
Key Takeaways
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Cebu Island is one of the top beach destinations in the Philippines, known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling spots.
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Some of the best beaches in Cebu include Paradise Beach and Kota Beach on Bantayan Island, and Bounty Beach and Langub Beach on Malapascua Island—two underrated gems located at the northern tip of Cebu province.
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Down south, Badian, Moalboal, and Oslob towns are popular coastal destinations. Highlights include Lambug Beach in Badian town, Basdaku Beach in Moalboal town, and the stunning shores of Sumilon Island in Oslob town, all perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
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Whether you're seeking remote island escapes or snorkeling adventures, the island province of Cebu offers a diverse beach experience for every kind of traveler.
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For a convenient and hassle-free vacation, easily book your activities and vacation packages to Cebu Island with Guide to the Philippines, a trusted travel agency with local expertise and full support—so you can relax and enjoy your trip.
Cebu Island is mostly famous for the vibrant Sinulog Festival, the majestic Kawasan Falls, and as one of the best places in the Philippines to swim with whalesharks. But beyond these well-known attractions, there’s so much more to discover. This island province is home to pristine beaches, as well as snorkeling and diving spots just a few hours from the bustling city.
From wide, white-sand shores perfect for sunbathing to secluded coves tucked between cliffs, the beaches on Cebu Island offer something for every kind of traveler. You’ll find lively coastlines near beach towns, serene spots ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and hidden gems that feel like your own private paradise.
Before you book your flights and hotel accommodations on Cebu Island, keep reading to uncover the best beaches in Cebu and start planning which ones to add to your itinerary. These spots deserve a spot on your list of must-see places to visit on Cebu Island!
15. Sumilon Island in Oslob Town
If you're visiting Oslob town, Sumilon Island is a must-add to your itinerary. This 24-hectare island is famous for its shifting stretch of white sand, known locally as a sandbar—a natural marvel that changes shape with the tides. Just a short boat ride from the mainland, it’s one of the top attractions in Oslob town—perfect for a tropical escape.
You can go on Sumilon Island tours that take you to its stunning sandbar, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters and explore vibrant coral gardens just a few feet from shore. Whether you're floating above the reef or lounging on the powdery sand, the experience is nothing short of magical.
To elevate your visit, book a Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort day pass. You’ll gain access to the luxurious resort’s infinity pool, a private beach, and delicious meals with stunning ocean views. For more adventure, you can go kayaking through calm lagoons, hike scenic forest trails, or explore a nearby cave hidden within the island.
Not planning to stay at the resort? No problem. Tours in Oslob town also offer access to the island’s stunning sandbar and snorkeling spots. Whether you're here for the view, the swim, or the serenity, Sumilon Island tours deliver a dreamy beach day you won’t forget.
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Make the most of your trip to Oslob town by booking the ultimate Sumilon Island and Cebu Whale Shark Watching tour
14. Tulang Diot Island of Camotes Islands
Camotes Islands are among the most underrated destinations in the island province of Cebu. If you're craving a quiet beach escape, this group of islands will surprise you with its unspoiled charm, peaceful shores, and warm local hospitality.
One of the highlights of a tour to Camotes Islands is Tulang Diot Island, a tiny islet that looks like a postcard come to life. Despite its small size, Tulang Diot packs in all the essentials for a dreamy island getaway—fine white sand, swaying coconut trees, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or simply cooling off.
The islet has no commercial resorts or busy crowds, so you can enjoy a peaceful, back-to-basics beach day. Set up a hammock, have a picnic under the shade, or stroll along the shoreline. The water is shallow and calm, making it ideal for wading or snorkeling close to shore. This no-frills tropical hideaway is perfect for travelers looking to unplug and reconnect with nature
13. Hermit’s Cove in Aloguinsan Town
If you're looking for a peaceful beach escape with a side of eco-adventure, head to Aloguinsan town on Cebu Island’s western coast. Hermit’s Cove is a hidden gem, named for its secluded location tucked beneath a hill—making it feel like a true tropical hideaway. Its fine white sand, calm waters, and lush surroundings create a picture-perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.
You can spend the day swimming in its clear, shallow waters or simply unwind on the sand, with palm trees overhead and the soothing sea breeze all around. Snorkeling is also a must—just bring your gear and explore the vibrant marine life close to shore.
For a more enriching experience, join a Tour to Hermit’s Cove and Bojo River Cruise. Aside from enjoying the beach, you’ll also visit Bojo River, where a scenic cruise takes you through a mangrove forest teeming with native plants and animals. It’s a peaceful and educational journey that highlights the best of Cebu’s natural beauty and community-led conservation efforts.
12. Bakhaw Beach of Camotes Islands
Bakhaw Beach is another standout spot on Camotes Island, known for its long stretch of powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. It’s the kind of quiet beach that invites you to slow down—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the laid-back island vibe. Bring your favorite book, sip a cold drink, and let the calm atmosphere take over.
What makes Bakhaw Beach even more special is its raw, natural charm. Lined with coconut trees and free from heavy commercialization, it offers a peaceful escape that feels far from the usual tourist crowds. Whether you’re here for a lazy afternoon or to catch a stunning sunset, this hidden gem on Camotes Island is ideal for anyone who wants a relaxing beach day with a touch of solitude.
11. Bounty Beach on Malapascua Island
Bounty Beach on Malapascua Island lives up to its name, offering soft, white sand and clear azure waters perfect for swimming or lounging under the sun. It’s a scenic, laid-back destination that captures the charm of island life. Fringed with swaying palm trees and vibrant boats bobbing in the shallows, the beach creates a postcard-perfect tropical setting.
This beach is the center of activity on the island. Lining the shore are dive shops, gear rental stations, and beachfront restaurants and resorts that cater to all budgets. It’s the ideal base for exploring a wide range of things to do on Malapascua Island, from scuba diving and island hopping to sampling delicious local cuisine.
If you're into marine adventures, you’ll find several Malapascua Island tours that take you to the island’s top attractions. One of the main highlights is diving with the island’s famous thresher sharks—a bucket-list experience for many.
10. Langub Beach on Malapascua Island
Langub Beach is a quiet, scenic hideaway on Malapascua Island, known for its powdery white sand and calm turquoise waters. With its peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds, it's the ideal spot to unwind and soak up the sun after a day of exploring the island.
The beach is tucked away on the island’s northern coast, giving it a secluded feel that's perfect for those looking to escape the busy main beach areas. You can join a Malapascua Island Hopping Tour to discover other nearby snorkeling spots and more hidden beaches.
If you're into underwater adventures, be sure to add diving in Malapascua Island to your itinerary—you’ll get the rare chance to spot thresher sharks and vibrant marine life. Whether you're in Malapascua Island to dive, snorkel, or simply relax by the shore, Langub Beach adds a serene touch to your getaway.
9. Kota Beach on Bantayan Island
Bantayan Island, located at the northern tip of Cebu mainland, is home to some of the best underrated beaches. With pristine white sand and crystal-clear, calm waters, it’s the perfect escape for beach lovers. One of the best beaches on the island is Kota Beach in Sta. Fe town, famous for its stunning stretch of white sand that shifts with the tides, forming what locals call a sandbar.
Kota Beach is a must-visit for its breathtaking scenery. The white sand meets light blue waters that seem to stretch endlessly, creating the ultimate setting for relaxation. Spend the day getting a tan, wading in the gentle waves, and staying for a picture-perfect sunset.
Just off the coast of Sta. Fe and near Kota Beach is one of the top spots for a Bantayan Island Snorkeling Tour. Only a few meters from the shore, you can discover vibrant corals and colorful marine life beneath crystal-clear waters.
For a complete island experience, join Bantayan Island tours that include beach-hopping, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s charming towns. Whether you’re here for leisure or adventure, Kota Beach is a highlight you won’t want to miss.
8. Basdaku Beach in Moalboal Town
Basdaku Beach in Moalboal town is a long stretch of soft white sand and clear blue waters, perfect for a fun-filled day under the sun. It offers a variety of activities for all ages, from swimming and snorkeling to beach volleyball, frisbee, and even diving. You can also rent a cottage for the day and enjoy a picnic with family or friends.
Moalboal town, located on the southwestern coast of Cebu Island, is a popular beach destination known for its pristine shores, rich marine life, and world-famous sardine run. It’s a favorite for both relaxation seekers and adventure lovers, making it an essential stop on any Cebu Island itinerary.
Basdaku Beach is one of the must-see places to visit in Moalboal town and a great starting point for many tours in Moalboal town. Whether you’re exploring its lively marine life, lounging by the shore, or joining water activities, Basdaku Beach promises a laid-back yet exciting beach escape.
7. Caohagan Island, Off the Coast of Mactan Island
Caohagan Island—sometimes spelled Cawhagan—is a small tropical paradise just off the coast of Mactan Island in Cebu Province. Its stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters create the perfect setting for a day of pure island bliss. Just offshore lies a vibrant marine sanctuary, where you can go snorkeling or diving to explore colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life.
For a taste of local life, visit the island’s seafood market, where you can buy freshly caught fish, crabs, and other ocean treasures straight from local fishermen. Caohagan Island is an easy and unforgettable stop on any Mactan–Cebu Island Hopping Tour, making it a must-visit for both beach lovers and underwater adventurers.
6. Santiago Bay of Camotes Islands
Santiago Bay is one of the most popular and picturesque beaches on Camotes Island—and for good reason. Its wide expanse of powdery white sand glistens under the sun, while its calm, aquamarine waters invite you for a refreshing swim any time of the day. During low tide, the beach reveals an even broader stretch of sand, perfect for leisurely walks and photo-worthy moments.
Here, you can spend your day basking in the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear shallows, snorkeling to spot vibrant marine life, or setting up camp under the stars. For the ultimate beach experience, check into one of the beach resorts and wake up to stunning sunrise views right outside your door. Santiago Bay isn’t just a beach—it’s the heart of the laid-back island life Camotes is known for.
5. Paradise Beach on Bantayan Island
True to its name, Paradise Beach is a tranquil slice of heaven on Bantayan Island, boasting crystal-clear turquoise waters and a fine, powdery white sand shore. Its calm, shallow waters make it perfect for swimming, floating, or simply cooling off under the tropical sun.
Surrounded by lush greenery and rugged limestone cliffs, the beach feels wonderfully secluded—an ideal spot for those who want to escape the busier tourist areas. Bring a picnic, a good book, or your snorkeling gear for a relaxed day in nature’s embrace.
If you’re exploring places to visit on Bantayan Island, Paradise Beach is a must-stop, whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a quiet afternoon, or a full day of island adventure.
4. Virgin Island, Off the Coast of Bantayan Island
Just a short 30-minute boat ride from Bantayan Island, Virgin Island is a tropical escape that feels untouched by time. It’s one of the highlights in many island-hopping tours in the Philippines, boasting powdery white sand and waters that shimmer in every shade of blue.
The island’s main beach is wide and inviting—perfect for sunbathing, wading in the warm shallows, or taking long, lazy walks along the shore. Snorkeling here is a treat, with vibrant coral gardens and schools of colorful fish just a few meters from the beach. You’ll also find cozy beach huts, swings, and shaded spots where you can enjoy a picnic or simply doze off to the sound of gentle waves.
3. Panagsama Beach in Moalboal Town
Located in Moalboal town, Panagsama Beach is one of the diving spots in the Philippines, attracting divers from around the globe. It’s best known for its vibrant reef and thriving marine life found just a short swim from the shore. While the main beach was washed away by a typhoon in 1984, leaving only small sandy patches, the crystal-clear waters remain perfect for a refreshing dip.
Only a few meters from shore, you can enjoy two of the country’s most unforgettable marine encounters—swimming alongside gentle sea turtles and witnessing the spectacular sardine run. This natural wonder features millions of sardines moving in synchronized patterns beneath the waves. Book a sardine run tour in Moalboal town for a front-row seat to this breathtaking spectacle.
2. Lambug Beach in Badian Town
Lambug Beach in Badian town is a serene escape with powdery white sand and calm turquoise waters, ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure. Its laid-back charm, gentle waves, and fewer crowds make it a great spot for swimming, beach picnics, or simply lounging under the sun. The shoreline stretches wide, perfect for long walks and catching golden sunsets over the horizon.
Just a short drive away, you’ll find the world-famous Kawasan Falls, one of Cebu Island’s top natural attractions. Here, you can join thrilling canyoneering tours in Kawasan Falls, where you’ll trek, swim, and cliff-jump through a series of stunning turquoise pools. Visiting Lambug Beach and Kawasan Falls in one trip gives you the best of both worlds— beach bliss and heart-pumping adventure.
1. Pescador Island in Moalboal Town
Pescador Island in Moalboal town is a gem both above and below its crystal-clear waters. While its small stretch of shore is perfect for relaxing between adventures, the real magic lies underwater. Famous for its rich coral walls and vibrant marine life, it’s also just a short boat ride away from the world-renowned sardine run, making it a must for ocean lovers.
Whether you’re diving through colorful reefs or snorkeling alongside schools of tropical fish, Pescador Island tours promise unforgettable encounters beneath the surface. From macro critters to big fish action, every moment here is a treat for underwater photographers and marine adventure enthusiasts alike.
Visit These Beautiful Beaches on Cebu Island
Cebu Island is one of the most accessible destinations in the Philippines, making it a top choice for both local and international travelers. Mactan-Cebu International Airport offers direct flights from major cities in Asia and the Philippines, so you can be on the beach in just a short drive after landing.
From the serene shores of Bantayan and Malapascua Islands to the vibrant underwater playgrounds of Moalboal and Oslob town, Cebu Island Province is a tropical paradise that has it all. Wade into crystal-clear waters, stroll along powdery white sands, and explore secluded coves—the best beaches on Cebu Island promise postcard-perfect views and moments you’ll never forget.
Beyond the shore, there’s a world of adventure waiting for you. From swimming with sea turtles and witnessing the dazzling sardine run to exploring hidden coves, the list of must-try activities on Cebu Island will keep your itinerary full of unforgettable experiences.
For a convenient and hassle-free getaway, book your guided tours and travel packages with Guide to the Philippines, a trusted travel agency. With local expertise and dedicated support, every detail is taken care of so you can focus on what matters most—relaxing, exploring, and making memories in one of the Philippines’ most stunning island destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Beaches on Cebu Island
Planning a tropical getaway to Cebu Island? Here are some of the most common questions travelers ask about exploring its stunning shores, vibrant marine life, and island-hopping adventures.
What is the best time to visit the beaches on Cebu Island?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May, when the weather is sunny and seas are calm—perfect for beach activities.
Are Cebu Island’s beaches good for snorkeling and diving?
Yes! Many beaches in Cebu Island Province, such as those in Moalboal town, Bantayan Island, and Malapascua Island, offer incredible snorkeling and diving spots, from colorful coral reefs to encounters with sea turtles and the famous sardine run.
How do I get to the best beaches on Cebu Island?
You can reach most beaches by bus, van, or by renting a car in Cebu City. For a more comfortable trip, you can book a private car transfer to Moalboal town, arrange a car service to Oslob town, or avail of Cebu airport transfers directly to your resort.
For islands like Bantayan, Malapascua, or Camotes, you’ll need to take a ferry.
Are there Cebu Island beaches near the city?
Yes. Mactan Island, just a short drive from Cebu City, has several beach resorts and public beaches perfect for a quick getaway without traveling far. There are also Mactan Island hopping tours that take you to nearby smaller islands with scenic beaches and snorkeling spots close to the city.
If you’re willing to travel a bit farther, Moalboal town’s beaches are about 3 hours from Cebu City by car, while Oslob town’s beaches take around 3.5 hours to reach. Both destinations offer stunning shores and are home to some of the most popular tours on Cebu Island.
Which beaches on Cebu Island are less crowded?
Paradise Beach on Bantayan Island, Sumilon Island in Oslob town, and Lambug Beach in Badian town tend to be more peaceful, offering a laid-back vibe away from large tourist crowds.
Can I book tours in advance on Cebu Island?
Yes, and it’s highly recommended. For a hassle-free experience, you can pre-book Cebu Island hopping tours, as well as snorkeling or diving trips, with trusted agencies like Guide to the Philippines. This ensures your spot is secured, and all arrangements are taken care of so you can simply relax and enjoy your trip.
Are there entrance fees for Cebu Island’s beaches?
Some public beaches are free, while others—especially those in private resorts or marine sanctuaries—may charge a small entrance fee or environmental fee.
What should I pack for a Cebu Island beach trip?
Bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and snorkeling gear if you prefer your own. Waterproof bags are also handy for Cebu Island tours.
