Road Trips from Cebu City: 13 Nearby Beaches and Cities to Visit (With Quarantine Guidelines)

The island of Cebu is dotted with scenic mountainscapes, lush greenery, and white sand beaches that are easily accessible from the city. From Oslob to Bantayan, north to the south, the day trip destinations you can take from Cebu City are endless - making it the perfect jump off point for road trips.

Now that Cebu is under MGCQ (Modified General Community Quarantine), the province is slowly reopening its doors to tourism once more, while observing enhanced health and safety measures, of course. If you’re tired of being cooped up at home, now’s the time to explore your backyard and rediscover nearby gems in and around the city. Here are the destinations we’re eyeing for our next road trip.

Don’t forget to plan your trip ahead, pre-book any tours and accommodations, and pack your new normal travel gear! 

Looking for recreational activities to do on your day off? A day trip to the island of Sumilon might just be what you’re looking for! Considered one of the island gems of Cebu, it’s only a 15-minute boat ride from Oslob. The island is privately owned by Blue Waters Resort and gives guests a taste of true paradise. You can avail of their day passes to explore, snorkel, kayak, or simply lounge around this luxurious sanctuary!

Just down south of Cebu City lies the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, known more popularly as the Simala Shrine. Many of us might have paid a visit to this popular pilgrimage site once or twice to offer prayers to the Miraculous Mama Mary, but it’s definitely worth revisiting to appreciate the elegant and intricate architectural design, and for a chance to discover new gems within the area. 

Badian is a thrill seeker’s playground. There’s much to explore in this popular tourist destination: witness the beauty of Kawasan Falls, or better yet, explore its rugged and scenic cliffs by canyoneering; you can also trek up to Osmeña Peak, the highest point on Cebu Island where you can enjoy breathtaking views over Badian and the Tanton Straight. All guests are encouraged to pre-book their visits to different site attractions. 

Moalboal is a tiny seaside resort town in the southwest area of Cebu. If breathtaking mountain views, beach trips and snorkeling sound good to you, Moalboal will no doubt meet your adventurous needs. 

Pescador Island, which is a short boat ride away from the town, is also one of the most renowned diving spots in the Philippines; known best for its abundant underwater life including the thousands of varieties of fish and coral reefs.

Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is the premier safari park in the country that can rival those of international animal parks and zoos. The safari, which only just opened in 2018, sprawls 170 hectares and holds more than a thousand animals across 120 different species. Here, guests other fun attractions like ATV adventures, zip lining, sky bikes, and giant swings. 

One of the best things about living in Cebu is our close proximity to beaches and mountainscapes. Just an hour away from the city for instance lies Balamban, a road trip destination that never gets old. Here you can get some fresh air and witness some of the most majestic mountain views. Don’t forget to stop by and take pictures at Temple of Leah and Celosia Flower Farm while you’re on your way up!

Just an hour boat ride from Cebu lies Camotes Island, also known as the “Lost Horizon of the South”. While the island remains off the radar for the most part, it gets its fair share of attention for its score of white sand beaches, caves, and dive sites. If you’re looking for a peaceful and rustic island experience, Camotes Island is the ideal destination. 

Some of the most stunning white sand beaches can be found in the north of Cebu in the island of Bantayan. The island has got it all—mangrove boardwalks, saltwater lagoons, cave pools, and endless beaches to explore. While Cebu is known for its many, many beaches - Bantayan Island is undeniably one you’ll need to check off your list, especially as a local!

Carnaza Eco Park is by definition, a hidden paradise, located in Daanbantayan, Cebu. The island only recently gotten attention for its breathtaking rock formations and crystal clear beaches; yet it remains isolated due to its distance and accessibility. For those that do manage to visit, the gorgeous beaches will make all your travel adventures worthwhile.

If you’re in search of a perfectly remote location to bask in nature’s raw beauty, Malapascua Island can give you just that. The island is a favorite among water babies and divers alike, thanks to its world-class diving sites. Here, you can discover its rich marine life and dive with the thresher sharks, which are present year-round!

A popular day trip from Cebu is Bohol, the island is home to Tarsiers, Chocolate Hills, and underrated white sand beaches that truly rival those of Boracay and Palawan. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the world’s smallest primate, take a cruise along the Loboc River, and stand in awe as you visit the famous Chocolate Hills.

Take a day trip to Leyte’s famous sandbar, Kalanggaman Island, which is only a 2-hour boat ride from Malapascua Island. Bask in the sun and wander along the trench of the white sandbar, or snorkel and discover the rich marine life and corals that surround the island! This experience is unlike any other, and it’ll surely be one you’ll plan to revisit in the future!

Just off the coast of southern Cebu lies Dumaguete, a small but vibrant city that’s worth a visit. There, you’ll be able to explore the beautiful Silliman University Campus (the oldest American University in the country), famous landmarks like Ninoy Aquino Park and St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral, the oldest stone church on the Island. But apart from a trip back in time, Dumaguete’s beaches are sure to excite beach lovers!