Moalboal Travel Guide: Sardine Run, Kawasan Falls & Island Adventures
Moalboal is a must-visit destination in Cebu, famous for its incredible underwater experiences, waterfalls, and chilled-out beach town vibe. Whether you’re here for the famous sardine run, chasing waterfalls, or island-hopping, there’s plenty to do in Moalboal. Here’s my full guide to what to do, where to eat, and what I’d do differently next time!
✈️ Quick Summary
• Best Place to Stay: Sunset Paradise – Close to the action!
• Must-Try Food: BBQ ribs at Ven’z Kitchen
• Top Activity: Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls – An Adrenaline Rush!
• Would I Go Back? Yes! I need to see a turtle.
🏨 Where I Stayed in Moalboal
Sunset Paradise
• Location: Walking distance to the beach, restaurants & tour operators
• Pros: Super convenient, great for nightlife & easy to book tours
• Cons: Can be noisy at night
💡 Tip: If you prefer a quieter stay, book a place near White Beach instead of Panagsama!
🍽️ Where I Ate – Best Food Spots in Moalboal
1. Smooth Café Moalboal
• Best For: Specialty coffee & healthy food
• Must-Try: Pork Belly Adobo (for dinner)
2. One Piece Bistro
• Best For: Western food
• Must-Try: Pasta & Pizza
3. El Mercado de Moalboal
• Best For: A mix of local & international street food
• Must-Try: Fresh fruit shakes
💡 Food Tip: El Mercado is great for trying different types of food in one place!
🏝️ Things to Do in Moalboal
1. Snorkelling the Sardine Run – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience!
• Cost: Free if you swim from shore, or PHP 300-500 for a boat tour
• Time Needed: 1-2 hours
• My Experience: Absolutely incredible! The sardines move like a giant underwater tornado, and they’re just a few metres from the shore.
• Tip: Go early in the morning for the best visibility & fewer crowds!
2. Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls – An Adrenaline Rush!
• Cost: PHP 1,500-2,000 per person (includes guide & gear)
• Time Needed: Half-day adventure
• My Experience: Jumping off waterfalls & swimming through turquoise canyons was amazing! It’s challenging but fun.
• Tip: Wear water shoes—the rocks can be slippery!
💡 Would I Recommend? YES! Moalboal is perfect for snorkelling, waterfalls & adventure.
💡 Tips & Recommendations – What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Moalboal
Bring water shoes – Essential for canyoneering & rocky beaches.
Watch out for sea urchins – They’re common near the shore.
Book canyoneering in advance – It’s one of the most popular activities!
🔄 What I Would Do Differently Next Time
As well as the sardine run, search for turtles— but they’re not always guaranteed.
I’d skip crowded restaurants on the main strip—cheaper, better food is in the side streets.
I’d visit more waterfalls like Montpellier Falls—less touristy than Kawasan.
🌟 Final Thoughts – Is Moalboal Worth Visiting?
If you love the ocean, Moalboal is a snorkelling paradise with one of the most unique marine experiences in the world (the Sardine Run). Plus, Kawasan Falls & White Beach make it even better. Would I go back? 100%—I still want to see a turtle next time!
💬 Have you been to Moalboal? Let me know your favourite spots in the comments!
Next Post: Siargao – Surfing, Island Hopping & Lagoon Adventures!
