Cebu is more than an island. It’s beaches, waterfalls, whale sharks, marine sanctuaries, mountains. All easily just a few hours' drive from Cebu City or Mactan. You can easily start your morning in the city, head out on an amazing adventure, and make it back for dinner.
Wondering where to start? This guide breaks down the best day trips based on what tourists really want to know: travel time, transportation, what to expect, and who’ll enjoy each trip most. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids, there's something here you'll love.
If it's your first visit, don't forget to read Why Visit Cebu? to find out what sets this island apart.
How Far Can You Really Go in One Day From Cebu?
Great question. A lot of the most popular spots in Cebu take 2.5 to 4 hours to reach - one way. That means if you’re planning a day trip, you’ll want to start early, maybe leave the city at around 4am or 5am so you can be back by dinnertime.
You can get around by bus, join a group tour, or book a private transfer. Most local buses are budget-friendly but time-consuming, with frequent stops. Public vans (v-hires) get crowded fast and aren’t ideal if you’re traveling with luggage, kids, or older family members. Grab and metered taxis usually don’t go beyond Metro Cebu.
That’s where we come in. At Cebu Tourist Transfers, we offer private rides from your hotel straight to where you want to go in Cebu... no stress, no waiting, just you and your group in comfort.
If you’re wondering what transport method is best for your trip style, this blog might help: How To Get Around Cebu.
What Are the Best Day Trips in South Cebu?
Let’s start with the south, where adventure and nature rule. Most of these spots are ideal for couples, groups, and energetic solo travelers. But heads up: they all require early departures if you want to make the most of the day.
Can You Do a Day Trip to Kawasan Falls From Cebu?
Located in Badian, Kawasan Falls is famous for its turquoise waters and canyoneering tours that take you cliff-jumping, river trekking, and sliding down waterfalls. It’s one of the most thrilling activities in Cebu.
- Travel time: 4-5 hours from Cebu City
- Good for: Adventurous couples, friend groups, active solo travelers
- Not ideal for: Seniors, small kids, or anyone who doesn’t want to walk/hike
Local Tip: If you’re doing canyoneering, book ahead and bring a change of clothes. The jump-off area gets busy, especially on weekends and holidays.
Need help getting there early and safely? Our guests often book Cebu Tourist Transfers for a 4:30 or 5:00 AM pickup to beat the crowds and the heat.
If you're not sure what to pack for an activity-heavy day like this, you’ll find real-life advice in our post: What To Pack for a Cebu Vacation.
Is Moalboal Worth Visiting Just for the Day?
If you love the sea, then 100% yes. Moalboal is a beach town with surprisingly big underwater action. You can snorkel just off the shore and see the world-famous sardine run, plus turtles and coral gardens.
- Travel time: 3-4 hours
- Good for: Snorkelers, divers, chill couples, relaxed solo travelers
- Combo potential: Can be paired with Kawasan only if you’re quick and don’t mind a packed day
Can I do Moalboal and Kawasan on the same day? It’s possible, but we honestly don’t recommend it unless you start very early, skip lunch breaks, and don’t mind being exhausted. If you’re trying to do both, a private car is a must, since public transport won’t let you move that fast.
Most of our guests either:
- Pick Moalboal for snorkeling + sunset, or
- Pick Kawasan for a full-on adventure
And that’s usually the better way to enjoy both without rushing.
What’s It Like Doing a Day Trip to Oslob?
Oslob is best known for whale shark watching, and yes it’s possible as a day trip, but you’ll need to leave by 4:00 AM if you're coming from Cebu City or Mactan. Why? The whale shark tours only happen in the morning, usually 6:00 to 10:00 AM, and slots fill up fast.
- Travel time: 4-5 hours (each way)
- Good for: Wildlife lovers, first-timers, photographers
- Extra stops: You can also visit Tumalog Falls or relax at Sumilon Sandbar if time permits
“Is it too far for a day trip?” Honestly, it’s long, but doable. We’ve done this for many guests (including families with small kids). The key is to sleep early, pack snacks, and book your transport ahead of time so you don’t deal with delays in the morning.
Weather warning: Whale shark tours are canceled if the sea is rough, especially during rainy season. Check forecasts the night before. We usually message our guests by 8 PM if a trip needs to be adjusted.
What Are the Best Day Trips in North Cebu?
North Cebu has a slower, more relaxed pace, making it perfect for families, seniors, or anyone who just wants to escape the crowds.
The destinations here aren’t as adrenaline-packed as the south, but they’re closer to Cebu City, have less traffic, and offer a more local vibe. Just note: many attractions in the north are spread out, so having a private transfer makes the trip way smoother.
If you’re still deciding between the north and south, this post might help: North vs South Cebu: What Every Tourist Should Know
Is Cebu Safari & Adventure Park Worth a Visit?
Absolutely! Especially if you're traveling with kids or older family members. Located in Carmen, Cebu Safari is a massive property with over 100 animal species, gardens, a zipline, and wide open space for walking or riding shuttles. It's one of the most comfortable family-friendly day trips from the city.
- Travel time: 1.5 to 2 hours from Cebu City
- Good for: Families with kids, nature lovers, slow travelers
- Accessibility: Great facilities, restrooms, and food options on-site
“Can I do Cebu Safari and a beach on the same day?” Yes, many of our guests do Cebu Safari in the morning, then head to a beach resort for a relaxing late lunch and swim. Just ask your driver to wait or coordinate a pickup time. At Cebu Tourist Transfers, we usually customize these combo trips based on your pace.
What Can I Expect From a Day Trip to Catmon or Sogod?
These coastal towns are quiet, scenic, and refreshing. If you’re burned out from city crowds or touristy spots, this is where locals go to reset. You’ll find cold springs, beachfront eateries, and peaceful roads for coastal drives.
- Travel time: 2 to 3 hours
- Good for: Couples, balikbayans, chill solo travelers, families with elders
- Top spots: Esoy Hot Spring and the best Cebu bibingkas in Catmon, Guiwanon Cold Spring (Tabogon), or just a slow day at a beach resort in Sogod
“Are there nice beaches in North Cebu?” Yes, but don’t expect Boracay-style powder. The beaches here are more pebbly or golden-brown, and the charm is really in the ambiance, not Instagram aesthetics. What you’ll get is tranquility, good seafood, and space to breathe.
“Is this North Cebu day trip doable without staying overnight?” Definitely. In fact, these places are perfect for quick getaways. With our private transfers, you can leave at 5 AM and be back in the city before dinner.
Can You Do a Day Trip From Cebu to Other Islands?
Yes, but only certain islands are doable as day trips from Cebu, depending on ferry schedules and how early you start. The most popular options are Bohol (for land-based exploration) and the small islands around Mactan (for snorkeling and beach time).
If you’re dreaming of white sand, boat rides, and clear blue water, this is your section. Just remember: timing and transport are everything.
Is a Day Trip to Bohol From Cebu Worth It?
If you’ve only got one free day and you want to see Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and a bit of countryside, then yes, a Bohol day trip is doable and worth the effort.
- How to get there: Fast ferry from Cebu Pier 1 to Tagbilaran (2 hours one way)
- Best for: First-timers, culture lovers, nature lovers
- Leave time: Catch the first ferry by 6:00 to 7:00 AM and return around 5:30 PM
“Is it too rushed?” It depends on your travel style. Some travelers love squeezing in the highlights; others find it too tight. A private car or tour waiting in Bohol is essential to make it smooth. If you're traveling as a group or family, we recommend letting us handle your Cebu-side transfers, and we can coordinate your ferry drop-off and pickup times.
Weather tip: During rainy season, some ferries may get delayed, so keep your schedule flexible.Why Book a Private Transfer in Cebu For Your Family Vacation?
Services like Cebu Tourist Transfers offer rides that are designed with families in mind. Here’s what makes our service ideal:
- You’re picked up right at the airport or your hotel
- No need to wait in lines or haggle with local drivers
- The vehicles are spacious enough for luggage, strollers, and extra bags
- Child seats can be requested in advance
- The drivers are experienced, polite, and speak English
- You can take breaks if the kids get restless
Can You Go Island Hopping From Cebu Without Staying Overnight?
Yes! In fact, this is one of the best day trips for couples, solo travelers, and families who just want sun, sea, and snorkeling. No overnight stay required.
From Mactan, you can book a boat tour to Pandanon Island, Gilutungan Marine Sanctuary, Nalusuan, or Caohagan. These are all less than an hour by boat from most Mactan resorts or ports.
- Best for: Relaxed travelers, couples, families with young kids
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, eating fresh seafood, beach chilling
- Start time: Boats usually leave between 7–9 AM
“Do I need to book in advance?” Yes, especially during holidays or peak weekends. Private boats give you flexibility, while group tours are more affordable but fixed in time.
For a full breakdown of how this works, check out Island Hopping in Cebu Made Simple (Even With Kids!)
Is a Private Transfer Worth It When Going on Cebu Day Trips?
Short answer: Yes, especially if you’re traveling as a couple, family, or group.
Here's why our guests often choose Cebu Tourist Transfers:
You can leave early (some trips start as early as 4AM)
No waiting for buses or struggling with transfers
You can stop for food, photos, or restroom breaks anytime
Ideal for families with kids, seniors, or people with lots of gear
If you’re solo or super on a budget, public transport is doable. But expect delays, long waits, and tighter schedules.
Pro tip: Always bring cash in small bills, especially when heading to the provinces or doing island hopping.Are There Hidden Fees I Should Watch Out For?
Oh yes. Here are some common “surprise” costs:
Entrance/environmental fees – Usually ₱50–₱100 per site
Gear rental – Snorkels, life jackets, or fins can cost ₱150–₱300
Restroom/shower use – ₱10–₱50 at many local spots
Tipping guides – Always appreciated; ₱100–₱300 is common
Food prices – Some remote islands or resorts have pricey meals, so bring snacks or ask your driver to stop along the way
Pro tip: Always bring cash in small bills, especially when heading to the provinces or doing island hopping.
What Should I Bring on a Boat Day Trip?
Island trips are all about sun and sea, but they can be rough if you forget the essentials:
- Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
- Reef-safe sunscreen (trust us, you’ll burn fast!)
- Snorkel gear (some boats provide, some don’t)
- Snacks and cash (some islands have limited vendors)
- Extra shirts, towels, and drinking water
You’ll find more helpful gear advice here: What To Pack for a Cebu Vacation
What Are the Most Common Mistakes Tourists Make on Cebu Day Trips?
After helping hundreds of travelers explore Cebu, we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the completely avoidable. Here are the top mistakes tourists often make and how to skip the hassle:
1. Underestimating Travel Time
On Google Maps, Oslob looks “just 3.5 hours away.” In real life? Add bathroom stops, gas breaks, traffic, and road repairs. If you don’t leave early enough, you risk missing your whale shark slot or getting stuck in late-afternoon traffic.
Pro tip: Always add at least 30–45 minutes buffer to your ETA, especially if you're using public transport.
2. Trying to Cram in Too Much
We get it: FOMO is real. But trying to fit Moalboal and Kawasan and a sunset dinner into one day will leave you drained. The best day trips usually focus on one or two highlights, not five rushed stops.
If you really want to do a combo trip, book a private ride so you’re not dependent on unpredictable schedules.
3. Not Booking in Advance (Especially During Peak Season)
This applies to:
- Whale shark slots
- Private boats for island hopping
- Ferry tickets to Bohol
- Canyoneering guides
These book out fast during long weekends, holidays, and December to May. Even private vans get fully booked!
4. Forgetting to Pack Essentials
We’ve had guests show up for canyoneering in jeans. Or board boats with no towel, sunscreen, or snacks. Please check your packing list. Cebu’s attractions aren’t all touristy and developed, so you might not find a 7-Eleven around the corner.
5. Assuming There Will Be Grab or Taxis in Remote Areas
Spoiler: There won’t be.
Places like Kawasan, Oslob, or even Catmon don’t have ride-hailing apps or taxis waiting around. If you don’t arrange a return ride in advance, you might be stuck bargaining with random locals or waiting for hours.
That’s why we always recommend pre-booking your transportation, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or traveling with kids or seniors.
Ready to Plan Your Cebu Day Trip?
Cebu has no shortage of day trip adventures. The key is choosing the right destination for your travel style and giving yourself enough time to enjoy it without the stress.
If you need help getting there, we’ve got you. At Cebu Tourist Transfers, we offer private, comfortable rides across the island, so you can focus on the fun while we handle the roads.
Want to start planning? Just send us your pickup point, destination, and travel date, and we’ll take care of the rest!
