Freediving Moalboal

Moalboal is a coastal municipality situated on the southwestern coast of Cebu Island in the Philippines. It is primarily known as a popular tourist destination for diving and snorkeling, famous for its incredible sardine run.

how to get there

From Cebu, the most convenient options are:
Private Transfer or Taxi: This is the fastest and most comfortable way, as a driver will take you directly from the airport or Cebu City to your accommodation in Moalboal in about 2.5 to 3 hours. It is also the most expensive.
Air-conditioned Bus: This is the cheapest and a very common option. You first take a taxi or bus to the Cebu South Bus Terminal in Cebu City, and then board an air-conditioned bus (look for “Bato via Barili”) to Moalboal. The entire journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, plus the time needed to get to the bus terminal.

Special Features of the Moalboal Area

The main features that make Moalboal special are primarily concentrated along the coast near Panagsama Beach:
The Sardine Run: This is Moalboal’s signature attraction—a massive, permanent shoal of millions of sardines that gather just a few meters from the shore. Unlike the annual sardine run in South Africa, this phenomenon occurs year-round here.

Accessible Wall Diving/Drop-Off: The reef starts very close to the coast and quickly transitions into a dramatic underwater drop-off (a steep wall) that plunges to depths of up to 40 meters. This wall is easily reachable without a long boat ride.

Abundant Marine Life: Besides the sardines, the reefs are rich in soft and hard corals, and the area is well-known for frequent sightings of sea turtles (Green Sea and Hawksbill turtles), which often feed in the shallows. Other marine life includes macro life, colorful reef fish, and occasionally larger pelagic fish like tuna and trevally hunting the sardines.

Kawasan Falls: While not a feature of the underwater world, the famous, multi-tiered Kawasan Falls with its turquoise pools is a major terrestrial attraction located a short distance south of Moalboal, making the town an ideal base for both water and land adventures (like Canyoneering).

FREEDIVING PLANET MoALBOAL

FREEDIVING SCHOOL SINCE 2012, teaching Aida, padi and molchanovs systems

Kasai Village Dive Academy

Kasai Village Dive Resort offering freediving courses and fun dives.

What else …

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Moalboal is during the dry season, from December to May.
Dry Season (December – May): Expect sunny days and calm seas, which are perfect for diving, snorkeling, and the famous Sardine Run. This is the peak tourist season.
Wet Season (June – November): While you might experience more rain showers, the diving remains excellent. You can often find better deals on accommodation and tours during this period, and the area is less crowded.


Accommodation & Budget

Moalboal caters heavily to budget and mid-range travelers, though luxury options are also emerging.
Budget & Mid-Range: The area is dominated by guesthouses, hostels, and simple resorts, especially around Panagsama Beach. You can easily find clean, comfortable rooms at very affordable prices, making it a favorite for backpackers and long-term divers.
Luxury/High-End: For those seeking more comfort, the White Beach area offers some larger resorts and upscale boutique accommodations.


Restaurants and Dining

The dining scene in Moalboal is vibrant and diverse, offering great options for all budgets.
Panagsama Beach: This area is the main hub and features numerous restaurants, including Filipino carinderias (local eateries), European-style restaurants, and many seafood barbecue stalls. You’ll find plenty of budget-friendly choices here.
White Beach: Dining here is usually centered around the resort restaurants, which tend to be slightly more upscale.
Local Tip: Don’t miss the fresh, grilled seafood sold by local vendors in the evenings—it’s delicious and cheap!


Getting Around

Getting around Moalboal is straightforward and primarily done by local transport.
Tricycles: These are the main form of transport for short distances (e.g., between Panagsama Beach and the main town). Always agree on the fare before you start the ride.
Motorbike Rental: Renting a scooter is the best way to explore the area independently, including nearby waterfalls like Kawasan Falls (about an hour south) or Lambug Beach. Prices are very reasonable for a full day.
On Foot: The main Panagsama area, where the dive shops and most hostels are, is easily walkable.


Recommended For…

Moalboal is highly recommended for:
Divers and Snorkelers: It is a world-class destination primarily known for the Sardine Run, a massive school of sardines permanently residing just off Panagsama Beach.
Budget Travelers: The low cost of living, cheap accommodation, and affordable activities make it perfect for travelers on a tighter budget.
Adventure Seekers: The proximity to the famous Kawasan Falls (for canyoning) and the chance to rent a motorbike for exploring the coast make it a great base for active holidays.