How to Spend 1 Day in Cebu

With some of the best white-sand beaches and scuba diving in Southeast Asia, it can be hard to tear yourself away from the coast in Cebu—particularly if you only have a single day to explore. But there’s plenty of natural appeal on the island’s interior as well. Here’s how to maximize 24 hours on the Philippine island of Cebu.

Morning: Canyons and Waterfalls

During the cooler morning hours, head into the island’s interior to Kawasan Canyon for a morning of hiking, cliff jumping, and canyoneering amid the island’s spectacular waterfalls and river gorges. All that activity is sure to work up an appetite, and many tours include lunch at the top of Kawasan Falls. Some itineraries take as little as half a day, leaving you plenty of time to spend the afternoon at your leisure. 

Afternoon: Beach Time

After lunch, it’s time to head to the beach for some rest and relaxation in the sunshine. Take in the views of Cebu from 150 feet (45 meters) in the air on a parasailing adventure, walk along the ocean floor amid tropical fish while helmet diving, or find out why Cebu is so famous for its spectacular scuba diving or snorkeling by donning a mask to explore beneath the surface. Alternatively, book an afternoon spa treatment and pamper yourself before your evening out.

Night: Cebu City

Visitors often overlook bustling Cebu City, but it’s a perfect setting for a night out on the town to experience a little bit of local culture. On an evening tour of the city, take in the views from Tops Lookout and sit down for a romantic dinner in the Busay Hills. Alternately, take a culinary journey on a Cebu Dine Around tour to sample traditional delicacies like pork ribs, shrimp soup, grilled fish, and steamed dumplings.