Where to stay in Cebu

Moalboal

Moalboal is where Cebu Island truly shines. As soon as you can, head to the southwest coast for the real highlights: the famous sardine run, fantastic snorkeling, and laid-back beach life. Unfortunately, when we were there, the water was full of jellyfish, so I couldn’t enjoy the sea as much as I hoped. However, I really liked the vibe of the area—it’s relaxed and welcoming. One of my favorite experiences from my entire Southeast Asia trip was visiting Kawasan Falls—don’t miss it! It’s definitely a must-do.

Oslob

After Moalboal, you might want to consider a quick trip to Oslob to snorkel with whale sharks, visit Tumalog Falls, or explore Sumilon Island. Oslob is quieter and offers easy access to some of Cebu’s iconic spots, but staying overnight isn’t necessary. Initially, I considered booking a few nights, but a day trip is actually a great option to experience these highlights without the need to stay over. I’d recommend doing it that way—it’s efficient and lets you make the most of your time.

Cebu City

If you’re arriving in Cebu City due to flights or ferries, you could do a quick overnight stay to rest, especially if you're arriving late. Otherwise, many travelers skip staying here and head straight to the island’s more beautiful and laid-back locations. We stayed just one night, but walking around at night felt a bit unsafe, and I didn’t enjoy it much.