If you happen to be traveling to Cebu, one of the best things you can do on the island is secure a nice spot at the beach, lay back and soak in the sun, sea and surf. Cebu is not only known for its crispy lechon and delicious mangoes. In fact, this province boasts of pristine white beaches and aquamarine waters that you’ll be ecstatic to dive into.
So if you’re dying to beat the tropical heat, here are the top 5 must-visit beaches you should go to in Cebu:
1. Sta. Fe Beach in Bantayan
Bantayan island is off the north end of Cebu and is a 5-hour bus ride away from the city. To get to the island, you’ll have to ride a ferry before arriving at this place of paradise. Sta. Fe beach has been dubbed Cebu’s own version of Boracay because of its pristine white sand beach. You’ll never go wrong with visiting this island full of hospitable locals as it is known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Cebu.
2. Hidden Beach in Aloguinsan
Hidden Beach in Aloguinsan is a kilometer stretch of fine white sand and crystal clear blue waters that screams paradise. It’s called hidden beach because of its location under the edge of a cliff in a remote baranggay facing Negros island. Compared to other beaches, this untouched beauty is only a 2-hour bus ride away from the city which makes it an easy getaway when you’re pressed for time. There are cottages and tables which you can rent when you’re here, but you can always just spread your picnic blanket and relax.
3. Basdaku Beach in Moalboal
The word Basdaku is derived from the Cebuano words “bas” which means sand and “daku” which means big. This 1-kilometer stretch of beach in Moalboal is one of the most popular beaches in this sleepy provincial town. This public beach is visited more often by the locals since it only has a cheap entrance fee of 5 pesos. The water is crystal clear here that you’ll see the schools of fish swimming about even without snorkeling gear. You can spend the whole day on this beach and just revel in its beauty.
4. Logon Beach in Malapascua
Though Malapascua might be a 4 to 5 hour bus ride away from the city, this island is one of the best beach destinations in Cebu. The island is home to one endangered shark species, the Thresher Shark, and is a popular destination for diving. But if you’re on the island to relax and soak up the sun, Logon beach is the perfect place to go. Since this magnificent white sand beach faces the west, it’s a great spot to catch the sunset.
5. Tingko Beach in Alcoy
Tingko Beach in Alcoy is one of the reasons why people, locals and foreigners alike, travel to the south of Cebu. The long stretch of white sand spans all the way across a lagoon where beachgoers can bathe in the shallows or go snorkeling in the deeper water. Since it’s a public beach, there is an entrance fee of roughly 10-20 php per person. For those who want a comfortable space to put their belongings and eat, there are also several cottages that can be rented out during the day.