1.
Cebu Taoist Temple
The Chinese Taoism community built this Chinese
style architecture temple in 1972.
This temple had become popular because of its
artistic structures. Even non-believers of the Taoism
religion pay visit to the place.
2. Temple of Leah
cebu tourist spots temple of leah
The next tourist attraction is the Temple of Leah which is along Cebu Transcentral highway. Teodorico
Soriano Adarna built this temple in 2012.
The temple is a symbol of his undying love for his wife of 53 years, Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. The temple
has 24 chambers including a museum, an art gallery and a library.
Moreover, this place has Leah’s favorite and personal belongings.
In addition, Greek and Roman architectures are the inspiration of the temple. Statues of gigantic lions as
well as a grand staircase with brass angels are decors of this Taj Mahal of Cebu.
3. Sirao Flower Garden
cebu tourist spots
Heading to the more elevated spot is in the Busay area which is the Sirao Flower Garden. Going there is
like experiencing the Netherlands, thus this tourist attraction is commonly called, “The Little
Amsterdam”.
The array of celosia (or ‘Burlas’ by locals) flowers in flaring red, purple, yellow, orange makes it
Amsterdam-ish. The put-up windmill and the cool wind complement the scenic view. Hence, this gives
the guests the unique, touristy feel.
4. 10,000 Roses of Cebu
cebu tourist spots roses
Moving to the nearby island of Mactan, you can visit the 10,000 Roses of Cebu. This magnificent spot,
which is in Day-as Barangay Rd, Cordova, Cebu, has gone viral on social media. 10,000 artificial LED-
powered roses surround this certain Roses Café & More.
Most guests prefer to go there during dusk to see the beautiful sunset while the roses lit up at night.
Moreover, the owner of the café, who is also an interior designer, intends to create a romantic
ambiance for couples.
The café offers sumptuous food which you can savor while enjoying the wonderful mood with your
lover.
5. Osmeña Peak
cebu tourist spots osmena peak
Going south, you could climb the Osmeña Peak of Cebu in Mantalongon, Dalaguete (pronounced
“Dalaget”). Standing at 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña Peak is the highest point in the entire
island. Lime stones that have sharp protruding peaks which are perfect for taking pictures make up
these hills.
The peak is part of the Mantalongon mountain range that stretches as far as the municipality of Badian.
It is considered a twin to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills.
Further, the main activities here are hiking and camping. Most hikers prefer two hiking trails. The first
one begins in Badian, passing by Kawasan Falls.
On the other hand, the other one is in the town of Dumanjug, which culminates in Brgy Liong. In
addition, when you trek going to the top of the mountain, don’t forget to bring your water, it will help
you re-hydrate.
6. Kawasan Falls
cebu tourist spot
Still in the south of Cebu is the breathtaking Kawasan Falls in Badian municipality. Some hikers from
Osmena Peak traverse to Kawasan Falls after camping, but you can just go directly to Kawasan via Barili.
Kawasan Falls is a three-stage cascade of clear turquoise water from mountain springs of Mantalongon
mountain range. The waterfalls is a pearl of the Philippines. One of the most popular tourist spots in
Cebu south is Kawasan Canyoneering.
The canyoneering adventure starts at Canlaob river downstream going to Kawasan falls. Local accredited
guides accompany all tourists and facilitate the activities such as walking, jumping, swimming, climbing
and abseiling through the streams. Most of all, when you do canyoneering, be prepared to be thrilled.
7. Pescador Island
Cebu Tourist Spots pescador Pescador Island is in Tañon Strait – few kilometers off the coast of
Moalboal in the south of Cebu Island. It is one of the best diving spots in Cebu. Its island reef is a sandy
slope covered with soft coral from 5–10 meters (15–35 ft).
Further, there is a wall covered with hard corals dropping down to about 40 meters (130 ft). In that wall
are tons of different species of colorful sea creatures, including sharks . Better to prepare your
underwater camera to capture its beautiful corals and different marine species.
Another main tourist attraction that is getting popular in this location is the Sardine Run. You can swim
with millions of Sardines (also known as Herring), which is totally amazing. Therefore, brace yourself to
experience the magnificent beauty of the underwater.
8. Oslob Whale Sharks
Cebu Tourist Spots whale shark On the other side of the island is where you can experience swimming
with the Oslob Whale Sharks, locally known as the “Tuki”.
Oslob Municipality is known for old churches and beautiful beaches but became more popular because
of the gentle giants – the Whale Sharks.
Local fishermen would interact with the whale sharks by feeding them…until large number of tourists
began to arrive in Oslob to see the whale sharks being fed. As a result, these tourists snorkel or dive with
the whale sharks.
Oslob Whale Shark watching is one of the top in the bucket lists of tourists who visit Cebu because of
the rare experience. Most note worthy, when ever you have a close encounter with the Whale Sharks, it
is not allowed to touch them.
9. Tumalog Falls
Cebu Tourist Spots tumalog Few kilometers away from the whale shark attraction is the Tumalog Falls. It
is also situated in the municipality of Oslob. Locals call this body of water, the “Toslob Falls” or “Mag-
ambak Falls”.
Tumalog Falls is a curtain like waterfalls that covers the entire cliff with cool and clear water. Moss
embraces the rocks of the cliff which filters the water and gives a curtain effect. It is one-of-a-kind and
definitely stunning.
Hence, this has become one of many’s favorite Cebu tourist spots.
10. Sumilon Island Sandbar
Cebu Tourist Spots sumilon Still in Oslob is the small but picturesque Island of Sumilon where you can
appreciate the sandbar. With its clear azure waters and pristine white sands, Sumilon Island’s sandbar is
very popular.. It mimics a photogenic and mesmerizing tropical paradise that lures all types of travelers.
Bluewater Resorts owns the island; hence, spending the night in the island is not allowed unless you are
checked-in at Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort.
But not to worry, they provide day trip tours which include lunch and activities such as snorkeling,
hiking, fishing, paddling and many more.
11. Simala Church
Cebu Tourist Spots simala In Sibonga, southern town of Cebu, lies the prestigious Simala Church. Simala
church stretches its grandiose arm as if to welcome religious people all over the globe.
The design is inspired from European cathedrals. Not only is the place magnificent in structure, but this
also reveals a culture that is deeply seated among Cebuanos – the essence of Roman Catholicism.
Monks who are devoted to the Virgin Mary reside in this church. Believers frequent the huge statue of
the Virgin Mary since many consider it miraculous. Also, the multitude of Marys dressed in various
cultural themes interests visitors.
12. Magellan’s Cross Cebu Tourist Spots Magellan's cross
King of Spain Charles 1 chose navigator Ferdinand Magellan to look for the “Spice Islands”. In doing so,
Magellan was able to cross the globe and eventually landed in the Philippines in 1521. Specifically, he
made his step in Cebu on March 15, 1521.
Magellan presented Christianity to Cebuanos, and most of them embraced the religion. In this site is
where Magellan planted the Cross (which symbolizes Christianity) on April 21, 1521. An encasement
protects the original Magellan’s cross.
13. Basilica del Sto. Niño cebu tourist spots church
Just right beside the Magellan’s Cross is the oldest Christian church of the Philippines. Fray Andrés de
Urdaneta, O.S.A. and Fray Diego de Herrera, O.S.A. founded Basilica del Sto Niño in 1565.
Ferdinand Magellan’s “Sto Niño” which is the Holy Child Jesus statue is in this church. He had this Sto
Niño when he converted Cebu’s chieftain Humabon and his wife to Christianity on April 14, 1521.
The See of Rome labels this church as the “”Mother and Head of all Churches in the Philippines”.
14. Colon Street
Cebu Tourist Spots Colon Street
Basilica del Sto. Niño situates in Colon Street, the oldest street in the country. Spanish colonizer Miguel
Lopez de Legazpi established the street in 1565. He named the street after Cristopher Columbus who
was actually Cristobal Colon.
This place is near Cebu ports and is the hub for early commerce. As a result, first establishments of Cebu
are in this street. At present, it is still the hotspot for businesses, theaters, pubs, shopping malls,
etcetera.
If you wish to buy your “pasalubong”or souvenir, it is in these street where you find stores that sell
cheap souvenir items. People commonly celebrate the popular Sinulog Festival in Colon Street.
15. The Heritage of Cebu Monument Cebu Tourist Spots Heritage
Lies in Colon Street is the monument portraying Cebu’s major historic events. The Heritage of Cebu
Monument is in Parian Plaza. Cebuano artist Eduardo Castrillo structured the monument using brass,
concrete, steel and bronze.
The sculpting began in July 1997 and completed in December 2000. The features of the monument
include Christian conversions, Spanish occupation, battle against foreign colonizer, a prominent
Christian figure, and a certain Philippine president.
To know the specifics, it is best you visit this site which stands stall and strong at the heart of the city.
16. Yap Sandiego Ancestral House Cebu Tourist Spots Yap
No need to go further, right across The Heritage of Cebu Monument is the Yap Sandiego Ancestral
House. This ancestral house is one of the oldest houses in the Philippines. Built during Spanish era
(between 1675-1700), coral stones and egg whites make the walls.
Molave, balayong and terracotta glue the roof together. Although this is built during Spanish
occupation, the owner of the house, Don Juan Yap is a Chinese trader.
Therefore, the design of the house is a mix of Chinese, Spanish, and Filipino inspirations. Cebu’s native
materials make up the furniture of the house.
Moreover, religious images are over the house which reflect the religiosity of the residents.
17. Jesuit House of 1730 or Museo de Parian cebu tourist spots
Image source Still in the same area, a walking distance from YapSandiego Ancestral House is the Jesuit
House of 1730. It is also the “Museo de Parian”. The second highest ranking Jesuit priest in the
Philippines used to reside in here.
Moreover, this house welcomed transient Jesuit missioners from various regions. Like Yap Sandiego, the
coral stones and terracotta hold the house.
However, the place is real grand – the ceilings are high, the walls are high. This has become the meeting
place of the early Cebuano elites.
To add, the house preserves some ceramics spotted during the Ming Dynasty.
18. Casa Gorordo Museum cebu tourist spots casa gorordo
Image Source From the Jesuit House, you just have to walk, and in about five minutes, you get to Casa
Gorordo Museum. This house-turned-museum is where the first Cebuano bishop, Juan Gorordo,
resided.
Originally built during the 1800s, a Spanish businessman Juan Isidro de Gorordo purchased the house.
Due to Ramon Aboitiz Foundation’s Cultural Heritage Program, Casa Gorordo became a museum in
1980. The museum depicts Philippine culture between 1800s to 1900s.
19. Fort San Pedro Cebu Tourist Spots Fort San Pedro
About ten-minute walk from Casa Gorordo is the oldest fort in the Philippines- Fort San Pedro. Spanish
leader, General Miguel Lopez de Legazpi commanded the building of this fort. De Legazpi thought to use
it against Muslim warriors.
However, as time passed by, other colonizers had used it for other reasons. When Americans occupied
Cebu, their soldiers used this as their residence. Also, Americans educated Cebuanos in this fort.
Further, during the Japanese colonization, Japanese also used the fort as a barrack, a prisoner and a
hospital. The historicity of this smallest-oldest fort in the country is undeniable.
20. Museo Sugbo
Cebu Tourist Spots Museo Sugbo
Four blocks from Fort San Pedro is Sugbu Museo. This is a large museum because it used to be Cebu’s
provincial jail. The lone architect in Cebu at that time, Domingo de Escondrillas designed it in 1869.
During Spanish occupation, this served as prison for Filipino captives. However, during American period,
Americans placed their horses here as stables for horse racing. Also, during Japanese time, Japanese
imprisoned Filipino opponents in this place.
This becomes Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC) but CPDRC has relocated.
Thus, on August 5, 2008, the place became a museum since it has rich role in Cebu’s history.
21. Camotes Island
camotes island mangodlong rock
From the city, we go to the Northern part of Cebu where a magnificent Island lies – Camotes Island.
The travel time from Cebu city to Danao Port (which is where you ride on a boat toward the island) is
about 1 hour. From Danao port, traveling by the sea takes two hours.
Camotes Island gives you numerous attractions to go to. In a day, you can go to a lake, to a cave, to an
islet, and of course, to beaches. To maximize your time, it is best to be there for more than a day
though.
Visit Santiago Beach which has a long, white shoreline; Mangodlong Rock which has picturesque blue
and green waters; Lake Danao which has a serene green lake where you can use a kayak to land on the
mini land in the center;
Bukilat Cave which you can swim in with its fresh cold waters; Tulang Diyot which is a paradise-like islet
with its white sand and alluring waters.
Other equally great places are Timubo Cave, Holy Crystal Cave, Paraiso Cave, Buho Rock Beach Resort,
Busay Falls, Bakhaw Beach. Again, Camotes Island is abounding in spots to go to…stay there for 3 days
for best vacation experience.
22. Cebu Safari and Adventure
cebu safari travel cebu
From Danao, in less than 30 minutes, you can reach a destination worth your money and time – Cebu
Safari and Adventure Park.
Cebu Safari and Adventure Park is the largest zoo of the Philippines. And, it has Asia’s longest zipline – a
whooping 1.2 kilometers! This zoo includes plant and animal species of various kinds, such as exotic
tigers and birds.
Becoming at par with international zoos, Cebu Safari and Adventure Parks brings you to the amazing
nature of Carmen mountains.
What is more interesting and unique about this spot is you can enjoy many thrilling activities: hiking and
canyoning in the waterfalls, biking, swaying in the ziplines, and many more!
23. Bantayan Island
bantayan island cebu water
Going to the northernmost of Cebu, a gem awaits you – Bantayan Island. This area is one of the most
sought after spots of Cebu.
As a matter of fact, it becomes popular in the country when a film was shot there. Many flock to enjoy
the breathtaking beaches of Sta. Fe, Bantayan.
From Danao, you will travel 2 to 3 hours more to reach Hagnaya Port. This is the gateway for you to be
transported to Bantayan Island via a ferry. The ferry travels one and a half hour.
bohol
Bohol Beaches
Panglao Island
The best of Bohol attractions for most visitors are the pristine white sand beaches. The
most visited is Alona Beach, an 800 meter stretch of white powdery sand, is located in
the south of Panglao Island. Many full-service beach and dive resorts reside there. Dive
tours to Balicasag and Pamilacan Islands, famous dive spots, can be arranged.
The beaches in Bohol are also great places to see sunsets.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
Scuba Diving Spots
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
There are many spots in Bohol that offer excellent diving. Balicasag, long known for its
exotic seashells, (the natives net-fish the deeper waters for rare specimens), and its
cascading coral walls is considered one of the best diving spots in the country.
The waters off Pamilacan Island teem with schools of tuna, snappers, groupers,
mackerel and surgeonfish. Dolphins and pilot whales can also be viewed from a
distance.
Danajon Bank, a double barrier reef, located off northern Bohol, is the only double
barrier reef in the Philippines and is 1 of only 3 such sites in the Indo-Pacific. The reef is
spread across almost 130 kilometers and consists of 3 large reefs.
The sea around Pamilacan Island is frequently visited by whales and dolphins. The
island is considered a jump off to an area where at least seven species of marine
mammals like sperm whales have been sighted.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
Ecotourism
Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary is an approximately 134-hectare land that has been
set aside as a protected area for Philippine Tarsier. Tarsiers are small and weighs about
113 to 142 grams. They have big eyes and can rotate their heads to almost 180 degrees.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
Albuquerque Zoo has a sanctum holding Prony, the famous python which is 5 years
old in existence with a length of approximately 23 feet and an estimated weight of about
300 kilograms. Prony is the biggest python in captivity ever known. (Note: Prony died
years ago.)
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
Man-Made Forest is a two-kilometer stretch of densely planted Mahogany trees
located in the border of Loboc and Bilar towns. Before and after this man-made forest
are the naturally grown forests of Loboc and Bilar which is thick and have a wide variety
of green foliage, different species of trees and giant ferns lining the road
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
Butterfly Sanctuaries
Bohol Butterfly Sanctuaries have been established by butterfly enthusiasts and are now
gaining recognition. Visit, Simply Butterflies Conservation Center at Bilar town
and the sanctuary at Sagbayan Peak.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
Historical Spots
The BLOOD COMPACT SITE is located at Barangay Bool, Tagbilaran City which
marks the location where Datu Sikatuna, a native Chieftain, forged a blood compact
with Don Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, representing the King of Spain. The historical event
took place on March 16, 1565 and considered as the first "Treaty of Friendship" between
Europe and Asia.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
The PRESIDENT CARLOS P. GARCIA MEMORIAL PARK at Tagbilaran City was
erected in loving memory of the greatest Boholano - Carlos Polestico Garcia, the fourth
President of the Republic of the Philippines. The bronze statue of the President with a
marble base was made by the National Artist Napoleon Abueva.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
MT. CARMEL HILL in Balilihan is a historical tower of adobe and limestone. It is 24
km from Tagbilaran City and was built to serve as a belfry of a church which was burned
down during the Philippine revolution. Concrete stairways lead to the tower.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
BEHIND THE CLOUDS in Catigbian is 38 km from Tagbilaran City. The cradle of the
resistance movement in Bohol during the Japanese occupation, the encampment nestles
in a deep ravine hidden from the enemy. When opposition headquarters were
transferred to Carmen, the encampment was used to hold enemy prisoners.
The DAGOHOY MARKER in Magtangtang, Danao is 92 km from Tagbilaran City and
was built to honor the heroic deeds of Francisco Dagohoy who led the longest revolt in
the country against the Spaniards. The revolt lasted for 84 years and the site was
Dagohoy's hideout during the revolt. Followers preferred death inside the cave rather
than surrender and their skeletons still remain inside.
Formatted: Font: (Default) Georgia, 12 pt, Font color:
Custom Color(RGB(68,68,68))
PUNTA CRUZ in Maribojoc is 14 km from Tagbilaran City. The stone watchtower was
built on a rock lip that juts out into the sea. Fronting the tower stands a wooden cross.
The tower commands a good view of the sea with the silhouette of Cebu Island in the
distance.
BOHOL MUSEUM at Hontanosa Street, Tagbilaran City is the home of former
President Carlos P. Garcia and his family. Displayed are memorabilia, relics and
samples of island flora and fauna.
BANAT-I HILL in Tagbilaran City commands a scenic view of the vast sea facing
Mindanao, Negros and Siquijor Provinces, and Panglao Island strait. Hill elevation is
145 meters.
Famous Chocolate Hills
Chocolate Hills are not only two but more than 1,268 cone-shaped hills – a very strange
geological formation that has baffled a lot of geologists. The hills are spread over an area
of 50 square kilometers or more and vary in size from 30 meters to 120 meters in height.
Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen is 55 km from Tagbilaran City and the most
famous tourist attraction of Bohol. There are thousand cone-shaped hills spreading out
on a natural open plateau, looking like mystic mounds.
There are two areas to visit to get a good look at the hills. These are at the Chocolate
Hills Complex in Carmen town, and at the Sagbayan Peak.
The biggest hill has been developed into a resort with accommodations, restaurant and
gift shop. 213 steps lead to the top where an observation deck is built and the view there
is simply wonderful.
SAGBAYAN PEAK also offers a good view of the chocolate mounds. The Sagbayan
Peak Park is a tourist destination with a butterfly dome, a restaurant, a café, a souvenir
shop, and a water park. Nipa huts are present displaying native products. It commands
a beautiful view of the sea and the neighboring island of Cebu.
A major attraction of Sagbayan is its butterfly sanctuary, the largest butterfly flight
aviary in Bohol, and prides itself on providing a quality wildlife experience in the heart
of the Visayas.
Waterfalls & Springs
Mag-aso Falls in Antequera is 20 km from Tagbilaran. The fall drops 10 m with lush
vegetation around it. Antequera also offers a wide display of all kinds of baskets at the
market area on Sundays.
Can-umantad Falls is the most beautiful waterfall ever seen in Bohol. It looks so
majestic! From far off, you will see the falls as one high drop but upon closer look, the
falls is in fact in three layers although the 3rd layer is further off and shorter.
Tontonan Falls in Loboc is 21 km from Tagbilaran City and generates’ the NPC
Hydroelectric Plant which supplies electric power to six municipalities. The Plant is
located in a deep tunnel a few meters from the Loboc River. The Tontonan Falls about
15 m in two stages at the base of a tropical forest valley.
Loboc river cruise is just 21 km from Tagbilaran City - enjoy a ride on-board floating
restaurants. The trip starts at the Loay Bridge and ends near the Busay Falls, a bathing
spot.
BUSAY FALLS in Sevilla is 34 km from Tagbilaran City and located inland of the
Loboc River past Sevilla town. Two little islets in the middle of the river make the place
an ideal site for a picnic.
Badiang Spring in Valencia is 44 km from Tagbilaran City. An underground
freshwater spring gushes from twin pipes near the sea. The springwater is diverted to fill
2 swimming pools, one large and the other for children. Sheltered picnic tables are on a
veranda overlooking a smooth-stone beach.
INAMBACAN FALLS in Antiquera is 19 km from Tagbilaran City with cascading
waterfalls in a forest setting. It is one kilometer away from the Poblacion.
Francisco Dagohoy Cave in the town of Danao was once the headquarters of the
Boholano patriot Dagohoy who led an extended rebellion against Spain starting in the
first half of the 1700's.
Hinagdanan Cave is the most popular and easy to reach among the caves of Bohol
province. Classified as a karst cave, it is located in the town of Dauis in Panglao Island.
Kamira Cave is one of three caves in Danao declared by the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as safe to explore. The area where the cave
is located is a sanctuary, protected by the municipality in a careful attempt to preserve
the natural beauty of the place.
Bohol Churches
Most of all the 47 towns of the Bohol have old massive stone churches with frescoes all
done under the Spanish colonization. The most famous and oldest church in the country
is the Baclayon Church of the Our Lady of the Immaculate Concepcion.
DAUIS CHURCH in Dauis is 3 km from Tagbilaran City. It has a semi-modern façade
at the front while retaining the original Baroque architecture in the rest of the church’s
parts. The interior has lifelike murals painted on the ceiling.
Ancestral Houses
Bohol Ancestral Houses are numerous in the province. Some are dilapidated and
have been abandoned yet others were lovingly preserved by the descendants of the
prominent homeowners. You can see many ancestral houses especially in the town of
Baclayon. Some has existed for 25 years and some exists for more than hundred years.
RIZAL PARK in Tagbilaran City was previously known as Plaza Principe and renamed
after Jose Rizal, the national hero of the country. A life-sized statue of Jose Rizal is
installed. It is located between the Capitol Building and St. Joseph's Cathedral.
Flag poles for the Flags of Nations were installed by the Tagbilaran Lion's Club where
flags of different countries are raised particularly during their national day. It is the
home of pigeons which the children love to chase and play with.
