Moalboal. Just saying the name now fills me with the sound of gentle waves, the shimmer of sardines moving like silver clouds under the sea, and the memory of fiery sunsets melting into the horizon. Nestled on the southwestern coast of Cebu, this little town turned out to be one of the most magical stops on my Philippines journey.
Let me take you through how I reached there, where I stayed, what I did, and most importantly—what I felt.
How to Reach Moalboal
Reaching Moalboal is part of the adventure. I landed in Cebu City in the afternoon, and from there, it’s around 3 to 4 hours by road to Moalboal.
You can take:
Public Bus: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, hop on a Ceres bus bound for Bato via Barili. Buses leave frequently, and it’s budget-friendly (~₱150-210).
Shared Van: Slightly faster but more cramped. Leaves from near the bus terminal.
Private Car or Taxi: Ideal if you’re traveling in a group or want comfort (expect to pay ₱2500–₱3000).
I chose the AC Public bus—it was not very fast but offered scenic countryside views and the chance to observe Filipino daily life from a window seat.
Where I Stayed: Pescadores Suites
I stayed at Pescadores Suites, and honestly, it felt like a little world of its own—perfectly blending comfort, vibe, and convenience. They offer a variety of room types catering to all kinds of travelers—from cozy pod-style rooms for budget backpackers (shared between two), to sea-facing rooms, and even private villas with their own pool access.
What really stood out were the three swimming pools: a kid-friendly pool, a stunning infinity pool overlooking the sea, and another nestled beside the villas. Every corner had a sense of calm without feeling too far from the buzz.
They serve a complimentary breakfast, and to my surprise—you can snorkel for free using the resort’s gear! Plus, they offer transparent kayak rentals, which is a dreamy way to explore the reef just off the shore. The resort also has a playroom for kids, and some evenings, you’ll find live music playing under the stars.
The rooms were clean, spacious, and carried that tropical, beachy charm. And best of all, the location was just right—not far from the main Panagsama strip, and absolutely perfect for watching the sunset melt into the horizon.
They also help arrange tours and scooter rentals—though a bit pricier than outside shops, it’s super convenient if you prefer booking everything in one place.
If you’re looking for a stay that offers peace, fun, and sea adventures right at your doorstep—Pescadores Suites is a great pick.
Where to Eat in Moalboal
Moalboal may be a small beach town, but it’s bursting with flavor and food that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Here are some of the places and dishes that made my taste buds dance:
- The French Coffee Shop: My go-to for a quiet morning. A strong coffee, a warm baguette, and the sea breeze—it felt like a simple luxury.
- Shaka Moalboal: A must-visit for smoothie bowl lovers. Fresh, colorful, and vegan-friendly. Their “Power Bowl” was my personal favorite—packed with energy for a long day of snorkeling.
- Ven’z Kitchen: For budget-friendly, home-style Filipino meals. Their chicken adobo with rice was hearty and full of flavor—just like a warm hug on a plate.
- Little Corner Restaurant: A no-frills gem for fresh seafood. Grilled fish here is done right—crispy skin, juicy inside. Try the seafood platter if you’re with friends—it’s a feast!
- Breeze View Bar and Restaurant: Perfect place to chill in the evening. Their fruit beer was surprisingly refreshing, and the vibe was super relaxed. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for their Pancit Canton—a Filipino stir-fried noodle dish loaded with veggies and meat. Comforting, flavorful, and a great pick after a day of diving.
And of course, nothing beats a sunset dinner by the beach—grilled tuna or snapper, a seafood platter to share, and a cold San Miguel or fruit beer in hand, as the sky slowly turns gold and rose.
Moalboal may not have fancy dining, but the meals here are honest, soulful, and served with a view you’ll never forget.
What to Shop
Moalboal isn’t your usual shopping destination, but if you love collecting souvenirs with a story, there are a few local gems worth checking out.
Some things to look for:
- Handmade jewelry crafted from shells, coconut, and sea glass—each piece feels like a memory of the beach.
- Locally woven bags and mats, often made by community artisans. Great as gifts or for adding a touch of island life to your home.
- Organic coconut oil and natural soaps—perfect for skincare or bringing home that tropical scent.
- Fridge magnets featuring turtles, sardines, or Moalboal’s iconic sunsets—simple, cute, and easy to carry.
- Tropical vibe dresses and beachwear—light, colorful, and breezy. Ideal if you want to blend in with the relaxed island style.
You’ll find most of these in the small local shops around Panagsama Beach. They may not be flashy, but every purchase supports local families—and that makes it even more meaningful.
Attractions and What I Did
Moalboal is all about the ocean and the outdoors. It’s where the sea whispers stories and every moment feels alive. Here’s what made me fall in love:
Turtle Watching
I swam beside a sea turtle in the wild. That sentence alone gives me goosebumps. No tour needed—just rent a snorkel and ask the locals where to go. It’s usually right near the shore! Watching a turtle glide effortlessly through the water—it’s like time slows down. Gentle. Graceful. Unforgettable.
Sardine Run
This is Moalboal’s biggest claim to fame. Just a few meters from Panagsama Beach, thousands of sardines swirl together like a living, breathing galaxy. I dove in, heart pounding, and suddenly I was part of something ancient and wild. The way the school moves together in perfect rhythm—it’s a kind of underwater magic.
Scuba Diving
Even if you’re not PADI certified—you can still dive in Moalboal! I did a fun dive for around ₱1800, and it was worth every peso. The dive instructors were patient, friendly, and made sure I felt safe. The coral walls, colorful fish, and sheer calm of being deep below the surface—it was another world altogether. If you’ve never tried scuba before, this is a perfect place to start.
Kayaking
Renting a kayak at sunset was one of the most peaceful things I did. Just me, the paddle, and the golden sea. You can even spot corals and marine life through the clear water. Whether solo or with a partner, it’s pure joy to float over the reef with the sky painting its evening story above.
Sunset Watching
Every evening, I made it a ritual to walk to the shore and just be still. As the sun dipped behind the horizon, the sky burst into colors—orange, pink, purple—and people gathered quietly to witness it. Some sipped beers, some played guitars, others simply sat in silence. It wasn’t just a sunset—it was a soul reset.
Final Thoughts
Moalboal taught me something beautiful: you don’t need luxury to feel rich. All you need is salt in your hair, sun on your face, and stories under your skin. Whether you’re a diver, a drifter, or a dreamer—Moalboal welcomes you with open arms and open skies.
I went for a couple of days.
I stayed longer.
And even now, somewhere in my heart,
I’m still swimming with the sardines.
If you’re planning your own escape to Moalboal and have any questions—just ask me 
I’ll be more than happy to share more from my adventure.
And OBVIOUSLY thank you Niyo
Cheers!
