Dolphin House Resort Moalboal: Cebu Hotel Guide

Dolphin House Resort in Moalboal is one of the most serene and eco-conscious resorts in Cebu, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush gardens, sea views, and world-class diving locations. Located on the quiet side of Basdaku (White Beach), this resort is well-loved by travelers seeking relaxation, rich marine biodiversity, and a boutique-style stay away from the crowds. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from rooms and amenities to dining, activities, and tips for planning your stay.

Overview of Dolphin House Resort Moalboal

Dolphin House Resort is a boutique eco-resort that emphasizes sustainability, marine conservation, and personalized service. With only a small number of guest rooms, the resort offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for couples, divers, and travelers who prefer calm environments. Unlike large commercial hotels, Dolphin House focuses on curated experiences, from guided snorkeling to fine dining.

It provides direct access to Moalboal’s protected reefs, which are famous for turtles, colorful corals, and occasional dolphin sightings. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly, nature-centered vacation, this property is an excellent choice.

Location and Accessibility

Dolphin House Resort is located on the southern end of Basdaku in Moalboal, Cebu. The surrounding area is quieter than Panagsama Beach, making it ideal for relaxation.

How to Get There

• From Cebu City:
  Travel by private car (2.5–3 hours), Ceres Bus (3–4 hours), or V-hire (3 hours).

• From Mactan-Cebu Airport:
  A private transfer is the fastest and most convenient option.

• Nearby Attractions:

  • White Beach (Basdaku) – 5 minutes

  • Panagsama Beach (Sardine Run) – 15 minutes

  • Kawasan Falls – 35 minutes

  • Osmeña Peak – 1 hour

Because the resort is located in a more secluded area, transportation is easier with a private transfer arranged by the resort.

Room Types and Features

Dolphin House offers boutique-style accommodations built using natural materials and decorated with tropical Filipino-inspired elements. All rooms emphasize comfort, privacy, and eco-friendly design.

Garden Rooms

These are located among lush greenery, providing a sense of peace and seclusion.

• Air-conditioning

• Private veranda

• Queen or twin bed options

• Simple yet cozy interiors

• Ideal for couples or solo travelers

Deluxe Rooms

Deluxe Rooms offer more space and upgraded amenities while maintaining the resort’s eco-chic atmosphere.

• Larger floor area

• Modern bathrooms

• Comfortable work/dressing area

• Private terrace with garden or partial sea views

Ocean View Rooms

For travelers seeking a scenic stay, these rooms provide stunning ocean views.

• Direct sea views

• Romantic sunset vantage points

• Spacious interiors

• Air-conditioning and large beds

Suites

The Suites are the most luxurious options, suitable for honeymooners or guests wanting premium comfort.

• Large balconies

• Living area

• Elegant bathrooms

• Sea and garden views

• High privacy and premium amenities

Across all room categories, the resort promotes sustainable living by reducing plastic use, conserving energy, and maintaining a peaceful, low-impact environment.

Dining at Dolphin House Resort

The resort’s restaurant is known for its upscale, European-Filipino fusion menu prepared with fresh ingredients. Many guests praise the quality of the meals, especially seafood dishes.

Highlights:

• Al fresco dining with sea views

• Fresh seafood caught daily

• Vegetarian-friendly menu options

• Fine-dining presentation

• Romantic dinner setups by request

Breakfast is usually included, featuring healthy options like fresh fruits, breads, eggs, cereals, and juices.

Facilities and Amenities

Despite its boutique size, Dolphin House provides high-quality facilities, especially for divers and wellness travelers.

Swimming Pool

A scenic outdoor pool surrounded by tropical gardens. Ideal for relaxing after activities or simply unwinding during the day.

Dive Center

One of the highlights of the resort, offering:

• PADI courses

• Guided snorkeling trips

• Scuba equipment rentals

• Dive packages for all experience levels

• Access to Moalboal’s best dive spots

Spa and Wellness

The resort offers massage and wellness services using natural oils. Treatments are arranged in serene, outdoor-inspired settings.

Recreation Area

• Tennis court

• Billiards/pool

• Outdoor lounge areas

• Small library

Eco-Friendly Programs

The resort actively participates in:

• Marine conservation

• Beach and reef cleanup

• Sustainable tourism practices

These programs are ideal for travelers interested in eco-aware vacations.

Activities You Can Enjoy

Dolphin House Resort is a great base for exploring Moalboal’s best attractions.

Snorkeling and Diving

Moalboal is world-famous for its rich marine biodiversity:

• Sardine Run (Panagsama)

• Turtle watching

• Colorful coral reefs

• Occasional whale shark and dolphin sightings

The resort’s dive center arranges day trips and beginner lessons.

Island Hopping

Popular destinations include:

• Pescador Island

• Tuble Marine Sanctuary

• White Beach snorkeling sites

Water Sports

The resort offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and guided ocean tours.

Land Adventures

Nearby hotspots include:

• Kawasan Falls canyoneering

• Osmeña Peak trekking

• Moalboal town and markets

Who Should Stay at Dolphin House Resort?

This property is perfect for:

• Couples seeking a quiet, romantic retreat

• Divers wanting proximity to top dive spots

• Travelers who value sustainability

• Guests looking for boutique, non-commercial experiences

• Visitors who prefer nature and tranquility

It is not the best choice if you want nightlife or walking access to Panagsama’s bars and restaurants. In that case, staying closer to Panagsama would be more suitable.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Peaceful, eco-friendly environment

• Boutique atmosphere with personalized service

• Excellent diving and snorkeling

• High-quality restaurant

• Beautiful natural surroundings

Cons

• More expensive than most Moalboal accommodations

• Far from nightlife areas

• Limited transportation options in the area

• Wi-Fi may be slower due to location

Tips for Your Stay

1. Book Early

Due to limited rooms, Dolphin House often gets fully booked, especially during peak season (December–May).

2. Arrange Transportation in Advance

The area is quiet and remote; hiring a private transfer is highly recommended.

3. Join Marine Activities

The resort’s dive center is one of the best-managed in Moalboal.

4. Enjoy Sunset Hours

The resort offers some of the best sunset views in Basdaku.

5. Pack Eco-Friendly Essentials

As the resort promotes sustainability, bringing reusable items aligns well with its philosophy.

Is Dolphin House Resort Worth It?

If you value tranquility, ocean-centered activities, and sustainable boutique experiences, the answer is definitely yes. Dolphin House Resort stands out for its charm, professionalism, and strong eco-friendly values. It offers a high-end getaway experience without the crowded vibe of more mainstream resorts.

Whether you’re exploring Moalboal for diving, celebrating a romantic occasion, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea, this resort is an excellent choice.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What makes Dolphin House Resort in Moalboal unique compared to other resorts?

Dolphin House Resort is a boutique, eco-conscious property with a strong focus on marine conservation, low-impact tourism, and personalized service. Unlike larger commercial hotels, it has a limited number of rooms, a quiet atmosphere, and direct access to beautiful reefs. Guests come here for tranquility, high-quality diving, and a more intimate, nature-centered stay rather than nightlife or party scenes.

Where is Dolphin House Resort located in Moalboal?

The resort is located near Basdaku (White Beach) in Moalboal, on the quieter side of the coastline. It is a bit removed from Panagsama Beach, which helps maintain a peaceful environment and less crowded seafront. From the resort, you can still reach popular attractions like Panagsama, Kawasan Falls, and Pescador Island by tricycle, motorbike, or arranged transport.

How do I get to Dolphin House Resort from Cebu City or Mactan-Cebu Airport?

From Cebu City, you can take a Ceres Bus bound for Moalboal and then transfer to a tricycle or arranged pick-up to reach the resort. Travel time is typically 3–4 hours depending on traffic. From Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the most convenient option is a private transfer directly arranged with the resort or through a trusted operator, taking around 3–3.5 hours. This is recommended if you carry heavy luggage or arrive late.

What types of rooms are available at Dolphin House Resort?

The resort offers several room categories, typically including Garden Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Ocean View Rooms, and Suites. Garden Rooms are surrounded by lush greenery and are ideal for budget-conscious couples or solo travelers. Deluxe and Ocean View Rooms provide extra space and better views, while Suites offer premium comfort with larger balconies or living areas. All rooms emphasize natural materials, simple elegance, and an eco-friendly atmosphere.

Is Dolphin House Resort suitable for families with children?

Yes, families can stay comfortably at Dolphin House Resort, especially if they enjoy nature and the ocean. However, the atmosphere is more calm and boutique rather than family-resort style with kids’ clubs or loud entertainment. Parents should closely supervise children around the pool and seaside areas. If your kids love snorkeling, marine life, and quiet surroundings, this can be a very rewarding stay.

Is Dolphin House Resort a good choice for divers and snorkelers?

Absolutely. One of the main reasons guests choose Dolphin House is its excellent access to marine sites and an on-site dive center. The resort arranges PADI courses, fun dives, and guided snorkeling trips to reefs, Pescador Island, and other nearby spots. You can expect to see turtles, colorful coral, and plenty of reef fish, with the possibility of spotting sardine schools or even dolphins during certain conditions.

What amenities and facilities does the resort offer?

Key facilities typically include an outdoor swimming pool, on-site dive center, restaurant and bar, spa or massage services, and landscaped gardens. Some resorts also offer a small library, tennis courts or sports areas, and lounging spaces for relaxation. While it does not operate like a mega-resort, the amenities are curated to support a peaceful, quality-focused stay centered on diving, wellness, and nature.

What is the dining experience like at Dolphin House Resort?

Dining is generally one of the highlights. The restaurant serves a mix of European and Filipino-inspired dishes, often with fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast is commonly included in the room rate, and you can expect a combination of fruits, breads, eggs, and hot dishes. The setting is usually open-air or semi-open, giving you sea or garden views. Romantic dinners or special setups can often be arranged on request.

Does Dolphin House Resort have Wi-Fi and mobile signal?

Wi-Fi is usually available in common areas and sometimes in rooms, but speeds can be slower and less stable than in city hotels due to the resort’s remote coastal location. Mobile signal depends on your provider and may fluctuate. This environment is ideal if you want to disconnect and enjoy a digital detox. However, if you require fast, constant internet for work, you should be prepared for occasional limitations.

Is Dolphin House Resort budget-friendly?

Dolphin House tends to be in the mid- to upper-range price category for Moalboal. Rates reflect its boutique scale, eco-conscious operations, and high-quality services, especially for divers. It may not be the best option if you are looking for the cheapest rooms in the area. However, for travelers who prioritize quiet surroundings, personalized attention, and marine experiences, many guests feel that the price offers good overall value.

What kind of guests will enjoy Dolphin House Resort the most?

The resort is best suited for couples, honeymooners, diving enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a relaxing, nature-focused experience. It is also ideal for people who appreciate sustainability and do not mind being a bit removed from nightlife and busy tourist strips. If you want bars, clubs, and many dining options within walking distance, Panagsama Beach might be more suitable; if you want peace and the sound of the ocean, Dolphin House is a strong choice.

Do I need to book tours and dives in advance?

It is a good idea to inform the resort of your interests—such as diving courses, fun dives, or island-hopping trips—before arrival, especially during peak season and holidays. This allows the dive center and staff to plan schedules, secure slots, and prepare equipment. While some activities can be arranged on-site, advance communication ensures better availability and a smoother overall experience during your stay.

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