5-Day Family Adventure in Cebu: Nature, Relaxation, and Scuba Diving on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Cebu City

Cebu City, Philippines

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe Laguna

Start your day with a hearty Filipino breakfast at Cafe Laguna, where you can enjoy traditional dishes like 'Tapsilog'.
Located in Cebu City center, easy to reach.
PHP 300, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Magellan's Cross

Explore the historical significance of Magellan's Cross, a symbol of Cebu’s conversion to Christianity.
Just a short jeepney ride from the restaurant.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Check out Basilica del Santo Niño

Experience the beauty of one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, right next to Magellan's Cross.
Walk a few minutes from Magellan's Cross.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Larsian BBQ

Savor delicious grilled meats at Larsian, a popular outdoor barbecue spot where flavors meet affordability.
A short taxi ride or jeepney from the basilica.
PHP 400, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Discover Fort San Pedro

Visit the fortress and learn about the colonial history of Cebu while enjoying the park surroundings.
Easy to reach by a taxi or jeepney.
PHP 30, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Relax at Plaza Independencia

Take a leisurely stroll through this public park, perfect for enjoying the scenery and relaxing.
A quick walk from Fort San Pedro.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Jollibee

Wrap up the day by indulging in a classic Filipino fast food experience with family favorites.
Multiple locations in Cebu City.
PHP 500, 1 hour
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Day 2: Beach Day & Scuba Diving in Moalboal

Moalboal, Philippines

6:00 AM

Breakfast at the Guesthouse

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Moalboal.
From Cebu City, take a bus to Moalboal.
PHP 150, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Bus to Moalboal

Enjoy the scenic ride to Moalboal, renowned for its stunning beaches and diving spots.
Cebu City South Bus Terminal.
PHP 120, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Scuba Diving at Pescador Island

Dive into the clear waters of Pescador Island, known for its vibrant coral gardens and rich marine life.
Book a local diving tour that includes equipment.
PHP 2,500 (includes dive gear rental and guide), 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at The Pleasure Principle

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes right by the beach at this highly-rated spot.
Just a short walk from the beach.
PHP 500, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Chill at White Beach

Relax on the soft sands or swim in the clear waters of White Beach, perfect for families.
Take a short tricycle ride to White Beach.
Free, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at J & S Streetfood

Indulge in local street food favorites, experiencing Cebu's culinary delights on a budget.
A local eatery in Moalboal.
PHP 350, 1 hour
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Day 3: Whale Shark Encounter in Oslob

Oslob, Philippines

5:00 AM

Early Breakfast at your Hotel

Fuel up for the day with a light breakfast at your accommodation before heading out.
In your guesthouse in Moalboal.
Free (included in stay), 30 minutes

5:30 AM

Travel to Oslob for Whale Shark Watching

Take a tricycle to the nearest bus stop for a bus to Oslob for an unforgettable experience.
Direct bus from Moalboal to Oslob.
PHP 150, 1 hour

7:00 AM

Whale Shark Encounter

Get up close with the majestic whale sharks in Oslob—an experience your family will cherish forever.
Follow the signs to the viewing area.
PHP 1,000, 2 hours

9:00 AM

Explore Oslob's Heritage Park

Visit the charming heritage park, a perfect place to unwind after your whale shark adventure.
Nearby Oslob, short walk.
PHP 30, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy local delights at a nearby eatery where you can relish local flavors.
Easy stroll from Heritage Park.
PHP 350, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Cebuano Culture at the Oscar J. P. Gulod House

Learn about local history and culture at this small museum that showcases heritage.
Short tricycle ride from lunch spot.
PHP 50, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Tumalog Falls

Explore the lush surroundings and cool off at the stunning Tumalog Falls, a family favorite.
Tricycle ride to the falls.
PHP 20, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Return to Moalboal

Head back to Moalboal, preparing for a lovely evening.
Bus back to Moalboal.
PHP 120, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Ayo Seafood & Grill

Relax and enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes at this welcoming spot.
Known for being in the center of Moalboal.
PHP 500, 1 hour
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Day 4: Canyoneering Adventure at Kawasan Falls

Badian, Philippines

6:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your accommodation before starting your adventure.
In your guesthouse.
Free (included in stay), 30 minutes

7:00 AM

Travel to Kawasan Falls

Take a local bus or tricycle to Kawasan Falls, aiming for early beats the crowds.
Accessible via a short ride from Moalboal.
PHP 50, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Canyoneering Adventure

Join a guided canyoneering trip through stunning turquoise waterways and breathtaking scenery.
Book a package in advance that includes transportation.
PHP 1,500, 4 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch by the Falls

Enjoy a packed lunch or local meal served by nearby vendors at Kawasan.
Available options near the falls.
PHP 300, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Swim or Relax at the Falls

Take a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters of Kawasan Falls or just unwind nearby.
Right there at the falls.
Free, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Return to Moalboal

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up and relax after your adventure.
Board a bus back to Moalboal.
PHP 50, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Dinner at The Pleasure Principle

End the day enjoying a delightful dinner in a cozy atmosphere after a thrilling day.
Back in Moalboal, a familiar spot.
PHP 500, 1 hour
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Day 5: Relaxation and Beaches at Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island, Philippines

6:00 AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a good breakfast at your accommodation in Moalboal.
In your guesthouse.
Free (included in stay), 30 minutes

7:00 AM

Travel to Bantayan Island

Ferry from Hagnaya Port to Bantayan Island, enjoy beautiful sea views.
Take a bus then a short trike ride to Hagnaya Port.
PHP 400, 2 hours

9:00 AM

Arrive at Bantayan Island and Check-in

Unload your bags at your accommodation and quickly head to the beach to soak in the sun.
Accommodation will be arranged beforehand.
Varies by booking, approx. PHP 1,000, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Beach Time at Santa Fe

Relax on the famous white sands of Santa Fe Beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Walk to the beach from your accommodation.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Bantayan’s Best

Savor local cuisine in this popular spot renowned for its seafood.
Short walk from the beach.
PHP 500, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Kota Park

Stroll through Kota Park, where families can enjoy the scenic ocean views and historical landmarks.
A short tricycle ride from Santa Fe.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Enjoy Water Activities

Try various water activities like paddle boarding or kayaking available at Santa Fe Beach.
Rental services available at the beach.
PHP 300, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Shaka's

End your adventure with a comforting dinner at Shaka's, serving delicious local and international cuisine.
Easily accessible on the island.
PHP 500, 1 hour
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