Noctourism in 2025: Things to Do in Cebu at Night

Is Cebu good for nightlife? 

While there are numerous bars and clubs for people to enjoy the night, there are just as many worthwhile activities that don’t involve alcohol and loud music in crowded spaces. 

The island is too serene and scenic to ignore. This means that some destinations can be just as enjoyable at nighttime. Which brings us to a travel trend that is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide–noctourism.

WHAT IS NOCTOURISM?

Noctourism, as defined by National Geographic Traveller writer James Stewart, is the recent trend of exploring the world after dark as a way to defy overtourism. (2025) 

Much of the world has already been discovered, but seeing tourist spots at night offers a different perspective. A recent Booking.com survey shows that more people are considering vacations with night trips. (2024)

Popular activities include stargazing, night diving, and after-hours architectural tours. Urban explorations like food trips at night markets and evening festivals are also considered part of this trend.  

Noctourism around the world commonly mentions breathtaking spectacles like the Northern Lights or visiting the African Safari in search of nocturnal animals. 

So, what about Cebu? 

THINGS TO DO IN CEBU AT NIGHT IN 2025

When considering nighttime activities outside of clubbing or drinking sessions with friends, Cebuanos generally go on road trips to remote locations like the countryside or mountains. 

Noctourism spans a wide gamut, which means anyone looking to explore Cebu at night shouldn’t limit themselves to the usual tourist spots. 

Here is a list of worthwhile things to do in Cebu at night, whether you’re a local or tourist.

• Camping 

Several mountains have been used as sites for camping and glamping in Cebu. 

For example, Osmeña Peak has spacious areas to set up tents, although there is no electricity and cell service. Adlaon Vacation Farm and EVO Nature Camp have hotel-like services for a more luxurious alternative. 

Campsites are perfect for “star bathing,” where you admire the night sky without using a telescope. The aforementioned Booking.com survey states that 72% of its respondents consider star bathing experiences on their trips.

• Visiting the Temple of Leah 

The Temple of Leah, a man-made structure in Busay, is a crown jewel in Cebu’s tourism industry. Its fascinating facade continues to entice many who enter and witness its glory. 

Most tourists visit in the morning, so evenings are more peaceful, giving it a more ethereal feel for some night photography. 

Aside from avoiding the daytime crowd, it’s also more enjoyable to go sightseeing at this location with cooler temperatures, as many know how hot Cebu can get during the day.  

• Stargazing at TOPS

TOPS is another go-to sightseeing spot in the mountains of Cebu City. It provides an overlooking view of the metro that never fails to shine bright at night.  

This tourist destination has recently been improved for better accessibility–not just in terms of its facilities but also through the allocation of buses which visitors can board at Cebu IT Park. Private vehicles can also avail their state-of-the-art parking space.

TOPS has also added a telescope so customers can stargaze. If not, you can always appreciate the dazzling city lights, considering it offers one of the best vantage points on the island. 

• Night Diving at Panagsama Beach

Moalboal’s Panagsama Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia because of its vast underwater biodiversity. Consequently, several diving centers in the town offer night dive tours. 

Panagsama is known to transform into a bioluminescent beach with cuttlefish and phosphorescent plankton providing an impromptu light show. Crabs and squid are also much easier to spot at night. 

You can schedule tours with Cebu Fun Divers or the Savedra Dive Center. If you have experience, you can go on the tour alone, but novice divers must take some courses with the PADI-accredited divers.

• Tisa Food Crawl

We had to include at least one city activity. With Cebu’s celebrated street food scene, you can’t go wrong with a food crawl in one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city. 

For those of you who don’t know, Tisa is considered the “Siomai Capital of Cebu.” Notable stores include Kuya Jeff’s and Way Tugpahay for their take on the Chinese dumpling. There are dim sum options at Braddex, pater from several nearby stalls, barbecue joints, and even an Alberto’s Pizza.

Most stalls are open 24 hours, with plenty of public transportation options passing by. The best part? Many of the foods at Tisa are affordable.