The best beaches in Cebu: where to swim, snorkel and relax
White sand islands, sardine reefs and quiet coves: our pick of Cebu's best beaches by area, with day-trip or overnight advice, fees and how to be a good beach guest.
Travel tips
- 49 travel tips in total
Arriving in the Philippines through Cebu: eTravel, visas and what to expect
Flying into Mactan-Cebu? How eTravel works, visa-free entry basics, the onward ticket, customs, and what happens at the airport, from immigration to your first SIM and ride.
Where to stay in Cebu: the best areas for every kind of trip
Mactan, Cebu City, Moalboal, Oslob or the northern islands? A simple guide to the best areas to stay in Cebu, and who each one suits.
What to eat in Cebu: dishes you should try
Crispy lechon, hanging rice, grilled seafood, crunchy ngohiong and sweet dried mangoes. A friendly guide to the Cebuano dishes and snacks you should not miss.
Travelling in Cebu during the rainy and typhoon season
Visiting Cebu between June and December? How storm warnings work, why ferries get cancelled, and how to plan a flexible, stress-free trip in the rainy season.
The best sunrise and sunset spots in Cebu
Where to watch the sun rise and set in Cebu: mountain peaks above the clouds, west-facing beaches in Moalboal, Bantayan and Malapascua, and city views from Busay.
Staying safe in Cebu: scams, transport, water and sun
Cebu is friendly and generally safe for visitors. These simple tips on scams, taxis, boats, water, sun and emergencies help you avoid the most common problems.
Snorkelling in Cebu for beginners
Turtles, sardines and coral gardens a few metres from the beach. The best snorkelling spots in Cebu for beginners, what gear you need and how to protect the reef.
Sinulog festival guide: dates, events and tips
Cebu's biggest party takes over the city every third Sunday of January. What happens at Sinulog, when the main events are, and how to handle the crowds and book ahead.
SIM cards, eSIM and internet in the Philippines
How to stay connected in Cebu: local SIM cards and SIM registration for tourists, eSIM options, Globe and Smart, Wi-Fi and what coverage is like on the islands.
Responsible travel in Cebu: reefs, wildlife and local communities
How to travel kindly in Cebu: protect the reefs, give whale sharks and turtles space, cut plastic, respect local customs and spend your money where it helps.
How to get from Mactan-Cebu Airport to Cebu City and the resorts
Grab, airport taxis, city taxis or the airport bus: how to get from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Cebu City, the Mactan resorts and the rest of the island.