Moalboal Beach

Overview

Moalboal is a coastal town on Cebu's southwestern coast, about 90 kilometers from Cebu City, known as one of the Philippines' premier dive and snorkeling destinations. The main tourist area around Panagsama Beach offers a relaxed, backpacker-friendly atmosphere with easy access to world-class underwater experiences.

Highlights

• Coral Reefs: The reef wall drops off dramatically just meters from shore, accessible to both snorkelers and divers.
• Sea Turtles: Resident green and hawksbill sea turtles are frequently spotted along the reef at multiple designated sites.
• Backpacker Vibe: A laid-back, unpretentious atmosphere with affordable accommodations, dive shops, and beachside bars.

History

Moalboal first appeared on the diving map in the 1980s when European and Japanese divers discovered its pristine reef walls. A coral bleaching event in 1998 damaged parts of the reef, but natural recovery and marine protection efforts have restored much of its biodiversity. The permanent presence of the sardine school (since approximately 1998) elevated Moalboal to world-class diving status.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Rent a snorkel and walk directly into the water from Panagsama Beach — the reef and sardines are just offshore.
• Tip 2: Many dive shops offer affordable PADI certification courses — Moalboal is one of the cheapest places in Asia to learn to dive.
• Duration: Half-day to full day.