Cebu is a beautiful island located in the Philippines. It is known for its white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and friendly people. Cebu is a popular tourist destination, and there are many things to do on the island. Here are some of the best things to do in Cebu and popular destinations for short trips and day tours from Cebu.

Cebu

Eat The Best Pig On Earth (Cebu Lechon)

There’s no denying that Cebu Lechon is some of the best pork you’ll eat in your life. Anthony Bourdain himself dubbed it the “best pig ever!” It’s no secret that this dish is a staple in Filipino cuisine, and it’s beloved by many for its unique flavor and tenderness.

What makes Lechon so special? For starters, the pig is marinated in a secret blend of spices and herbs overnight, which gives it an unparalleled flavor. It’s then slow-roasted over an open fire, resulting in perfectly crispy skin that’s packed with flavor. And of course, the meat itself is incredibly juicy and tender.

If you’re looking for an amazing local culinary experience, you must try authentic local Lechon.

Cebu Lechon

Explore The Ocean On Malapascua

Looking for an otherworldly snorkeling or diving experience? Then look no further than Malapascua Island, located just a short 45-minute (7 km) ferry ride from the northern tip of Cebu.

This small, idyllic island is home to some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. You can find an abundance of marine life, including sharks, rays, and turtles. The clear blue waters and colorful reefs make for an incredible experience that you won’t soon forget.

From the moment you jump into the water, you will be mesmerized by the array of colors and shapes that surround you. Schools of fish swim by, while larger predators lurk in the shadows, waiting to ambush their prey.

But the real star of the show is the thresher shark. These gentle giants are a common sight around Malapascua. Swimming with them is a rare and unforgettable experience.

Sunset Malapascua

Visit Magellan’s Cross Pavilion

Magellan’s Cross is one of Cebu City’s most popular tourist destinations. The cross is housed in a small pavilion in the center of a busy intersection. Despite the constant stream of people, the pavilion is a calm and serene place.

Magellan’s Cross is a significant historical landmark. It is said that the cross was planted by Ferdinand Magellan when he arrived in Cebu in 1521. If this is true, then the cross is the oldest Christian artifact in the Philippines.

The cross is a symbol of the Christian faith and the triumph of Christianity over other religions. It is also a reminder of Cebu’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Magellan's Cross

Visit Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino

The Basilica Minore del Santo Nino is a beautiful and historic church located in Cebu, Philippines. The church was built in 1565 and is one of the oldest churches in the country. The church is home to the Santo Nino, a statue of the infant Jesus which is said to have miraculous powers.

The basilica is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture, and its interior is just as stunning. Be sure to take some time to explore the church grounds and take in the peaceful atmosphere. The Basilica is a popular tourist destination and is definitely worth a visit if you are in Cebu.

Basilica Minore Del Santo Nino

Whale Shark Watching In Oslob

Are you looking for an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience? One of the most unique and exciting things you can do while in the Philippines is going whale shark watching in Oslob. These massive and gentle creatures are an incredible sight to behold, and swimming with them is an experience you’ll never forget.

There are a few things you need to know before you go, though. First, be sure to book your tour with a reputable company that follows all the proper safety protocols. You’ll also want to make sure you arrive at the meeting point on time, as the whale sharks are most active in the early morning hours.

Once you’re out on the water, you’ll be able to swim alongside these majestic creatures and even give them a little pat on the back if you like.

Oslob

Visit The Camotes Islands

The Camotes Islands are a beautiful archipelago located just off the coast of Cebu in the Philippines. These islands are well known for their crystal clear water, white sand beaches, and lush jungle vegetation. If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all and relax in paradise, then the Camotes Islands are definitely worth a visit.

They’re a popular tourist destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The islands offer a number of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. There are also a number of restaurants and bars on the islands, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the views.

There are a few different ways to get to the Camotes Islands from Cebu. The most popular and fastest way is to take a ferry from the city of Danao. The journey takes around 2 hours and there are several ferries per day. Alternatively, you can take a slow boat from the town of Carmen, which takes around 4 hours.

Camotes Islands

Final Thoughts On What To Do In Cebu

Although these are some of the best things to do in (and around) Cebu, they’re certainly far from all of them. The island is ringed with tranquil white sand beaches and the interior of the island is filled with lush jungle and mountains that make for wonderful hiking. 

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015. She is been living abroad since 2014. Originally Canadian, she has been living and working online in many destinations around the world. She is passionate about traveling, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit.

She has traveled extensively in Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. She is now living in Thailand.