WHENEVER I ask my friends where they went for vacation, they always mention places outside of the Philippines, but at the same time say, “it’s more fun in the Philippines.” This is why before travelling to other countries, it is better to explore your hometown first, you might just be surprised by the marvelous sights it has to offer.
A quaint little town famous for its world class diving, Moalboal is considered a hidden underwater paradise. Beaches still have their rustic charm. At Basdaku White Beach, camping out or sleeping in tents while watching myriads of stars is every backpacker’s dream.
Panagsama Beach, or Basdiot, is a haven for scuba diving enthusiasts. With its rich marine biodiversity, each section has its own distinct sightings, the west coast is home to a variety of sea creatures. Imagine a dive in the cerulean deep blue where you will find psychedelic-colored fishes, intricate corals, and friendly sea turtles. Be blown away by the Iush underwater world.
A family friendly resort located just a stone’s throw away from all the attractions, restaurants and nightlife, Pescadores Seaview Suites is situated at the heart of the island. With its homey feel, the best rooms are near the beach, with their view of the sunset and proximity to the pool. For those who want some peace and quiet, villa rooms are recommended as they are positioned separate from each other.
As part of its support to the World Tourism Organization’s call for Sustainable Tourism, the resort spearheaded the #TravelEnjoyRespect awareness campaign in the area, adapting small changes with big impact. Eco-friendly green practices are observed, like making use of bamboo straws. Bottled water is not provided per room, instead a pitcher is furnished which you can refill without limit at a dispenser in the lobby. They have solar panels installed on the roofs for green energy.
A unique kayak experience was the highlight during my stay. Transparent kayaks are an option for guests who don’t swim. I was able to enjoy the vibrant aquatic life just by cruising on this small boat.
Island hopping
Cebu has so many nice islands, it would be a shame not to explore them. With its island hopping services, we took the opportunity to explore the sea using the resort’s boats, a great way for guests to make the most out of their trip to Moalboal. Looking at the crystal blue waters, I knew the ocean conspired with the heavens to give us a smooth boating experience.
On the way to Pescador Island, there is a chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles and whalesharks. At a glance, Pescador is nothing but an abandoned lighthouse, but underwater is where the magic happens. The world below is teeming with diverse marine life. Reef walls that look like buildings amazingly line up the trench. Nature really knows how to perfectly craft its wonders.
The pride of Moalboal would be the famous Sardine Run. This is the only place where divers can swim with a plethora of sardines all year round. Enormous shoals of sardines just a few meters from the shore, but a word of caution, do not swim too far as reefs can drop dramatically into an abyss. Here, another favorite among scuba divers is the exploration of underwater cave cervices.
The last stop of our island hopping tour was turtle point, a sanctuary for sea turtles. It has always been a dream of mine to witness sea turtles fly like angels in the sea, to swim with them around their natural habitat.
Surroundings
Deeply tucked in a quiet strip is a one-kilometer stretch of international restaurants, bars, dive resorts, souvenir shops and bike rental facilities. It reminded me so much of El Nido town, but more chill. It’s a hidden gem that tourists will surely love. I can picture how this hidden alley can become a getaway for locals and tourists.
Beyond Moalboal
The town of Moalboal is a great base for other adrenaline-rush activities, like canyoneering in Badian, which involves traveling downstream, trekking mountains, some free jumping into water, and rappelling from cliffs. Adventurists should not miss a day trip to Oslob to swim with whale sharks, or cool off by chasing cascading waterfalls in Samboan.There is absolutely no room for boredom with the limitless recreational activities you can do down South.
With all the food tripping, discovery diving, bar hopping and night life, Moalboal is a booming town yet to be discovered.
The drive in minutes from Moalboal to Kawasan Falls, one of Cebu's natural treasures. For thrill seekers, cayoneering tours can be arranged.
Getting There
Private transfer. Quickest and most convenient way to reach Moalboal. Pescadores Seaview Suites offers pick up and drop off from any point in Cebu.
Via taxi. Taxis are available in Cebu city and at the airport, there are no fixed rates. Drop off point is at Panagsama Beach. If you have specific accommodations, tricycles are available around the area.
Points of interests
The south of Cebu is the place to be if you’re looking for a nice change of pace from commercial resorts or city life.
Moalboal is a divers’ paradise. Enroll in a PADI diver course. Scuba diving is the best way to view the rich marine life under the sea.
If you don't want to carry those heavy oxygen tanks, free diving is the way to go. It’s an extreme sport which requires you to hold your breath underwater.
At Pescador Island, snorkel, swim with turtles, and if you’re lucky, you might see dolphins out and about.
For diving fanatics you can join dive safaris or do night diving in the neighboring cities of Moalboal.
Go on therapeutic morning dips at majestic cascading waterfalls.
Hire a van or motorbike to take you to see noteworthy historic sites of the south.
If you are done with all the activities in the south, you can take a ferry to Dumaguete for more adventures.