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Moalboal

Philippines · Coast · PHP · 9.947000, 123.402000
Family friendly 6.5/10 · Rank 1221 of 2 709
Best season: December-May (dry season)

Best for

For diving, snorkeling, the sardine run and peaceful beach holidays.

Best season

December-May (dry season)

Daily budget
$54.00 (≈ 4 532 ₽ · ≈ 3 024 PHP)
For 7 days
$378.00 (≈ 31 722 ₽ · ≈ 21 168 PHP)
Moalboal is a small coastal town in southwestern Cebu, known for its sardine runs and excellent diving conditions. It is home to the famous Pescador Island, where you can see turtles, whale sharks, and a variety of corals. This is the perfect place for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts who want to enjoy the underwater world away from the tourist crowds.
Summer
33.0°C
Winter
24.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, sea-loving.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Unique sardine run
  • Turtles near the shore
  • Excellent diving conditions
  • Affordable prices
  • Peaceful atmosphere

Cons

  • Dangerous sea urchins and corals
  • Rip currents
  • Limited infrastructure
  • Rainy season
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
27.7°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
33.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
33.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
25.9°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
30.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
24.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
June-November
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
golden sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
crystal clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Panagsama Beach — Sardine Run
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
No
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
Present
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
moderate
Note

Main dangers are sea urchins, corals, jellyfish and rip currents. No lifeguards on beaches.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins occur on coral reefs, water shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs along the coast, do not step on them

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish appear seasonally, especially in summer, stings can be painful

Sharks — details

  • Reef sharks and whale sharks occur near the coast, attacks are extremely rare
Attractions

Sardine Run

Famous natural phenomenon — millions of sardines move synchronously just a few metres from Panagsama Beach.

Turtles at Panagsama Beach

Sea turtles are often seen near the shore, you can swim with them.

Pescador Island

Small island with coral reefs and excellent diving and snorkeling conditions.

Kawasan Falls

Scenic three-tiered waterfall with turquoise water, popular for canyoning.

Basdaku White Beach

White sand beach with hotels and restaurants.

Moalboal Lighthouse

Historic lighthouse on the coast with sea views.

Best areas

Panagsama Beach

Main tourist area with dive centres, restaurants and bars.

Basdaku White Beach

White sand beach with hotels and a relaxed atmosphere.

Moalboal Centre

Town centre with markets and shops.

Must-try food

Grilled Fish

Fish caught by local fishermen, grilled with lemon.

Adobo

Stewed pork or chicken in soy sauce, vinegar and garlic.

Sinigang

Sour soup with meat or seafood and vegetables.

Lechon

Whole roasted pig on a spit.

Halo-halo

Dessert of shaved ice, condensed milk, fruits and ice cream.

Where to go next

Cebu Island

Large city with historical attractions, ~3 hours by car.

Kawasan Falls

Three-tiered waterfall with turquoise water, ~30 minutes by car.

Negros Island

Neighbouring island with volcanoes and beaches, ~2 hours by ferry.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Мактан-Себу (CEB).
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Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free for Russian citizens and most countries (up to 30 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-May (dry season)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$13.00
≈ 1 091 ₽ · ≈ 728 PHP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$36.00
≈ 3 021 ₽ · ≈ 2 016 PHP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$72.00
≈ 6 042 ₽ · ≈ 4 032 PHP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$135.00
≈ 11 329 ₽ · ≈ 7 560 PHP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽ · ≈ 5 600 PHP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 3 360 PHP
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 224 PHP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 672 PHP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 140 PHP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 112 PHP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.80
≈ 67 ₽ · ≈ 45 PHP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 392 PHP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 280 PHP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 168 PHP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 280 PHP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 1 960 PHP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 28 PHP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 168 PHP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 1 960 PHP
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 448 PHP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 672 PHP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 680 PHP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽ · ≈ 3 080 PHP
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Moalboal Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 1 400 PHP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 448 PHP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 560 PHP
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Frequently asked questions
Moalboal: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-May (dry season). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Moalboal: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.0°C, during the day — up to +33.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Moalboal: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +24.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Moalboal: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Moalboal: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on June-November. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Moalboal: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "golden sand" surface, golden sand, crystal clear water. The most popular beaches: Panagsama Beach — Sardine Run. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Moalboal: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas.
Moalboal: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish, sharks. Main dangers are sea urchins, corals, jellyfish and rip currents. No lifeguards on beaches.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Moalboal: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $54.00 (≈ 4 532 ₽ · ≈ 3 024 PHP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Moalboal: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $13.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $36.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $72.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $135.00 per night, an apartment — $60.00 per night, a villa — $100.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Moalboal: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $4.00, dinner at a restaurant — $12.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Moalboal: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $35.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $3.00, car rental — $35.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Moalboal: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Sardine Run — Famous natural phenomenon — millions of sardines move synchronously just a few metres from Panagsama Beach.; Turtles at Panagsama Beach — Sea turtles are often seen near the shore, you can swim with them.; Pescador Island — Small island with coral reefs and excellent diving and snorkeling conditions.; Kawasan Falls — Scenic three-tiered waterfall with turquoise water, popular for canyoning.; Basdaku White Beach — White sand beach with hotels and restaurants.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Moalboal: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Grilled Fish — Fish caught by local fishermen, grilled with lemon.; Adobo — Stewed pork or chicken in soy sauce, vinegar and garlic.; Sinigang — Sour soup with meat or seafood and vegetables.; Lechon — Whole roasted pig on a spit.; Halo-halo — Dessert of shaved ice, condensed milk, fruits and ice cream.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Moalboal: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Panagsama Beach — Main tourist area with dive centres, restaurants and bars.; Basdaku White Beach — White sand beach with hotels and a relaxed atmosphere.; Moalboal Centre — Town centre with markets and shops.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Moalboal: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free for Russian citizens and most countries (up to 30 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Moalboal: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Мактан-Себу (code CEB). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $35.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Moalboal: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — PHP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $54.00 (≈ 4 532 ₽ · ≈ 3 024 PHP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Moalboal: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Moalboal: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Moalboal: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Cebu Island — Large city with historical attractions, ~3 hours by car.; Kawasan Falls — Three-tiered waterfall with turquoise water, ~30 minutes by car.; Negros Island — Neighbouring island with volcanoes and beaches, ~2 hours by ferry.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.5/10
Overall rank: 1221 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 798