Cebu Islands to Visit That Make for a Great Summer Getaway

Share this: 

Among the things to do in Cebu is to visit these top Cebu islands.

For those who want to learn all about Cebu, one of the first things they’ll discover is what is Cebu known for. One possible answer to that is the beaches. All in all there are 167 Cebu islands, each offering something different. But out of the 167, there are some that stand out among the crowd.

If you are yearning for a tropical getaway, perhaps even go Cebu island hopping, here are some of the islands you have to visit:

Here are the top Cebu Islands:

Visit the stunning coast of Malapascua Island.

Malapascua Island

This northern island is primarily known as a premier diving destination because of its vibrant marine sanctuary. But the main attraction would have to be the thresher sharks, which you can find all year round. These elusive and solitary creatures are known for their caudal fins, which are almost as long as their bodies.

Aside from the marine wildlife, the beaches of Malapascua Island are just as stunning. The most well-known would have to be Bounty Beach, but if you want to avoid the crowd then head to Langub Beach.

What’s even more impressive is that the island still isn’t as commercialized as other island destinations. This is partly to protect the biodiversity of the island.

Stroll along the white sand beaches of Bantayan Island.

Bantayan Island

While there is no doubt how beautiful Boracay is, the problem is its popularity draws in hordes of people all throughout the year. As a result, tourists are looking for other islands that are just as picturesque but with fewer people. It didn’t take long for the travellers to discover the beauty and tranquility of Bantayan Island. The beaches in this island are just as clear and the sand just as white as the shores of Boracay.

The island is divided into three major municipalities, namely Santa Fe, Madridejos, and Bantayan. Out of all of them, Santa Fe has the most accommodations and luxury resorts. However, there are more budget-friendly resorts with beaches that are just as stunning.

But while you’re in Bantayan island, one of the things to do is explore its mangrove sanctuary. And because it is one the primary sources of seafood in the province (and even as far as Manila and Mindanao), don’t miss the opportunity to try some authentic seafood dishes, such as sun-dried danggit. No wonder some would consider Bantayan as the best island in Cebu.

Discover what awaits you in Camotes Island.

Camotes Island

This island may be small, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in beauty and attractions. Much like Bantayan, the beaches have crystal clear waters and fine white sands. But it’s also got caves, underground springs, and rock cliffs.

Camotes is also the perfect island to visit when you’re strapped for cash. It has several public beaches; the most popular of which is Santiago Bay. It’s also an ideal destination for couples, where they can take a boat ride on Lake Danao (also known as Lover’s Lake).

Since the island is tiny, you can visit a lot of its attractions within a day. After visiting them all, you can simply lounge on a beach. In short, this is perfect for people simply looking for some rest and relaxation.

Take a plunge in the blue waters of Carnaza Island.

Carnaza Island

Not many people know this island as the northernmost tip of Cebu. Because it is so out of the way, there aren’t that many people who know about Carnaza Island. A large portion of this island is owned by former Cebu governor Lito Osmeña, which is partly why this island is so secluded.

Add to the fact that Carnaza isn’t easily accessible by road, it’s understandable why people would skip it entirely and directly proceed to Malapascua. This tiny coastline is perfect for a quick stopover before going to or coming back from Malapascua.

Since Carnaza is relatively a privately owned island, you’d have to find accommodation either in Daanbantayan (not to be confused with Bantayan Island) or, as mentioned earlier, in Malapascua.

Stroll along the picturesque sandbar of Sumilon Island.

Sumilon Island​

Out of all the Cebu island destinations on this list, Sumilon is the only one located in the south. Just like Carnaza, this island is small enough that you can explore almost everything it has to offer within a day. And because it is near Oslob (approximately 15-20 minutes away by motorized boat), it is the perfect place to unwind after you’ve gone whale-watching.

The most well-known attraction in Sumilon would be its white sandbar. Take note, though, that the entire island is privately owned by a resort, and one of their policies is for non-guests to pay a fee to visit the sandbar.

However, if you don’t mind staying longer, you can book a room and explore the other attractions, such as its historic lighthouse and four dive sites. Imagine having an island paradise all to yourself.

With clear waters, fine sand, and diverse wildlife, you too would be convinced that Cebu is a tropical paradise. The entire province has many more hidden gems, but you can pick any of these places for your first visit.

On a side note, there are no direct flights to any of these places. You’d have to board buses (and probably ferries) to get to Cebu islands, and all of them are a few hours away from Cebu City, so you might have to leave early in order to purchase tickets at the bus and pier terminals. But once you get there, you definitely won’t regret taking the trip.

Share this: 

Other posts

Man carrying a backpack of travel essentials waiting to cross the street in Cebu City

10 Convenient Travel Essentials to Bring When Going to Cebu

Your travel essentials are there to ensure a safe and convenient trip. Everyone loves a quick getaway, but visiting another country can be daunting. But with the right preparation, the whole experience can be a breeze. Having the right travel essentials at your disposal can give you the peace of mind you need. Knowing what

Read More
Two men riding a habal-habal in Cebu

How Regulating Habal-Habal Drivers Can Help Cebuanos

The Cebu City government may finally regulate the habal-habal transportation service. In Cebu, you MUST know about the local motorcycle taxis called habal-habal. This informal form of public transportation in the Philippines is commonly used in rural towns and far-flung areas with few public transport options. This consists of riders carrying passengers on the back

Read More
Collage of famous Cebuano dishes

Irresistible Cebuano Dishes You Should Try at Least Once

Of all the scrumptious Filipino dishes in the Philippines, which ones scream Cebuano? The Queen City of the South is a haven for Filipino restaurants, but it may be difficult to distinguish which dish or delicacy is originally from Cebu. The island is one of the oldest settlements in the country and was the birthplace

Read More
Dancers and participants performing at the Bon Odori Festival

The Return of Bon Odori: Exploring Rich Japanese Culture

The Bon Odori Festival is a cultural exchange between Cebu and Japan. As we all know, Japan has a rich history and culture. This Asian powerhouse is filled with iconic dishes, world-renowned tourist spots, and art forms that have taken over pop culture. The Land of the Rising Sun also has one of the oldest

Read More
A spacious public parking lot

Why More Public Parking Spaces are Essential in Cebu City

Cebu City will soon have better venues for public parking. For many Cebuanos, it’s about time that more public parking spaces were made available in the different areas of Cebu City.  Cebu City officials have plans to set up public parking buildings in urbanized areas like downtown Cebu, as the city council amended its zoning

Read More
Wide shot of the MCIA, Asia's best airport

Routes 2023 Award: MCIA is Asia’s Best Airport

Mactan Cebu International Airport garnered another design award in 2023. CEBU, Philippines – The Mactan-Cebu International Airport was hailed Asia’s best under the “5 Million-Passenger Category” during the Routes Asia Award. MCIA and GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC) representatives received the award during the awarding ceremony held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on February 15, 2023. 

Read More

Best of Cebu Videos

Cebu Insights Logo

Seeking to learn more about Cebuano culture, or wanting to know what to do once you arrive, Cebu Insights is the travel guide for you in Cebu!

Contact Us

How to be Featured

Do you want to be featured on our blogs and social media platforms? Cebu Insights is open to writing insightful articles and videos about your business FOR FREE!

Visit the Cenix Web Development Office on the 3rd Floor of the 82 Vibo Center, North Escario Street, Cebu City, and tell us about your newly opened attraction!

You can also leave us an email at cebutravelinsights@gmail.com or message us on any of our social media platforms.

Salamat!

Scroll to Top
×
Weather Forecast
Exchange Currency
Cebu City
84°
Thunder
5:22 am6:04 pm PST
Feels like: 93°F
Wind: 9mph W
Humidity: 82%
Pressure: 29.83"Hg
UV index: 2

Exchange Rate USD: Wed, 7 Jun.