Travel around Cebu with Bobby
The main reason I chose Cebu was to experience both the rich history and tropical nature that the Philippines has to offer. The city lets you dive into Filipino history with iconic spots like Magellan’s Cross and Spanish-era structures. Plus, Cebu’s stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving. Swimming with whale sharks in Oslob and exploring Mactan Island’s underwater life made this trip unforgettable. Cebu’s warm climate and welcoming locals made it even more inviting.
Day 1A Dive into Cebu’s History and Culture
I kicked off my Cebu trip by exploring its rich history. My first stop was Magellan’s Cross, an iconic landmark that dates back to 1521. The wooden cross, which marked the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines, was smaller than I expected but still gave me chills knowing its historical significance. Just next to it, I visited the Basilica del Santo Niño, the oldest Roman Catholic church in the country. The devotion of the people there was inspiring, and the architecture was simply stunning.
For lunch, I had to try the famous Cebu Lechon at Rico’s Lechon, and wow—it was hands down the best roast pork I’ve ever had! Crispy skin, tender meat, and a burst of flavors that only Cebu’s lechon can offer. After lunch, I took a stroll to Fort San Pedro, a military defense structure built by the Spaniards. The fort had a quiet charm, and it was fascinating to see the relics and artifacts from centuries past.
Cebu’s historical sites are packed with cultural significance, and if you’re a history lover like me, you’ll feel deeply connected to the past. Make sure to stop by Rico’s for the best Lechon in town.
Day 2 Waterfalls and Adventure – The Kawasan Experience
On my second day, it was time for some outdoor adventure! I headed out to Kawasan Falls in the town of Badian, about 3 hours from Cebu City. The drive was scenic, with lush greenery and glimpses of the coastline. When I finally arrived, the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls were more beautiful than I had imagined. I decided to do a bit of canyoneering, jumping into natural pools, sliding down rocks, and trekking through the jungle. It was exhilarating!
After the adrenaline rush, I cooled off with a swim by the falls, just taking in the serene atmosphere. For lunch, I had a simple yet delicious grilled fish by the water’s edge at a small local eatery. The day wrapped up with a relaxing ride back to Cebu City, where I grabbed a light dinner at The Buzzz Café, known for its organic meals and honey-infused treats.
After a morning of canyoneering, I had a simple but delicious grilled fish lunch at a local eatery near Kawasan Falls. The food was fresh and satisfying, though not fancy, but the natural surroundings made the meal special. Dinner was a light bite at The Buzzz Café, where I enjoyed an organic honey-infused salad.
Food
Returning to my Cebu City hotel after a long day of adventure felt comforting. The staff was helpful, and the room had everything I needed for a good night’s rest. The location remained convenient, though I would have preferred a more scenic view.
Accomodation
Canyoneering at Kawasan Falls was hands-down one of the most exciting adventures I’ve had. From jumping into natural pools to trekking through the jungle, the entire experience was thrilling and refreshing. The beauty of the turquoise waters and surrounding forest made it a perfect day in nature.
Activity
If you love adventure, don’t miss out on Kawasan Falls. The canyoneering experience is thrilling, but if you prefer a more relaxed time, just swimming in the falls is worth the visit.
Day 3Island Hopping and Beach Time in Mactan
On my final day, I decided to take it easy with some island hopping around Mactan Island, which is just a short drive from Cebu City. I started with a boat tour that took me to Hilutungan Island and Nalusuan Island, both of which are popular for snorkeling and diving. The waters were so clear, I could see colorful coral reefs and schools of fish swimming below me. I even spotted a sea turtle, which was the highlight of the day!
After a morning of snorkeling, I spent the afternoon relaxing on the beach at Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort, where I treated myself to a refreshing coconut drink and some much-needed downtime. For my final meal in Cebu, I dined at Abaca Baking Company, a cozy spot known for its fresh, artisanal breads and delicious coffee. I had a light yet satisfying meal of grilled chicken salad and a slice of homemade carrot cake to top it off.
I enjoyed fresh seafood during my island-hopping tour, including grilled prawns and squid prepared on the boat. The simplicity of the meal paired with the stunning ocean views made it memorable. I finished the day with a delicious meal at Abaca Baking Company, enjoying their fresh bread and hearty dishes.
Food
For the final night, I stayed at a beachfront resort in Mactan. The resort offered luxury and comfort, with spacious rooms and direct access to the beach. The change of scenery from the city hotel to a beachfront stay made my last night feel like a mini-vacation within the trip.
Accomodation
Island hopping around Hilutungan and Nalusuan Islands was the perfect way to spend my last day. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters and seeing the vibrant marine life was an unforgettable experience. Relaxing on the beach at Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort was the perfect way to wind down before heading home.
Activity
If you’re looking for a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, spend your last day island hopping around Mactan. The beaches and snorkeling spots are some of the best I’ve experienced, and it’s the perfect way to unwind before heading home.
Summary of My Trip
Cebu completely blew me away with its diversity and charm. From the historical depth of Magellan’s Cross to the natural beauty of Kawasan Falls, every day felt like a new adventure. I loved how the city managed to blend its rich past with modern-day excitement, making it impossible to get bored. The food was another highlight—seriously, you haven’t lived until you’ve tried Cebu’s Lechon! The island hopping around Mactan was breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling. The people were incredibly warm and welcoming, always ready with a smile or helpful advice. I also appreciated how easy it was to get around, whether by taxi, Grab, or just walking through the streets of Cebu City. My time here was short, but it packed a punch—Cebu offers a perfect balance of culture, nature, and relaxation. If you’re looking for a place that has a little bit of everything, Cebu should be at the top of your list!
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Cebu offers a well-rounded experience that caters to a variety of travelers, whether you're into history, adventure, or simply relaxing on the beach. I found the city to be full of vibrant attractions, friendly locals, and great food, all while maintaining a sense of safety and affordability. Here’s how I’d rate Cebu based on my experience:
I started the day with lunch at Rico’s Lechon, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. The crispy skin and perfectly seasoned meat made it one of the best Lechon experiences I’ve had. Dinner was a casual meal at a local eatery near the Basilica, where I tried traditional Filipino dishes like pork adobo and puso rice.
Food
I stayed at a centrally located hotel in Cebu City, which made it easy to access historical sites like Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro. The room was comfortable, though not overly luxurious, but the convenience of being in the heart of the city was unbeatable.
Accomodation
The combination of visiting Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro provided a deep dive into Cebu’s rich history. I felt a strong connection to the past while exploring these iconic landmarks, and the architecture was beautiful.
Activity