Where to Stay in Cebu for Island Hopping

Cebu is one of the best island-hopping destinations in the Philippines, with easy access to dozens of stunning islands and marine sanctuaries. Whether you’re planning day trips to nearby white-sand beaches, snorkeling in marine reserves, or exploring less-touristed islets, Cebu offers the perfect base for your island-hopping adventure.

This guide will help you choose the best areas and accommodations based on your island-hopping goals—whether you want to stay near the jump-off points, enjoy some luxury after a day at sea, or find budget-friendly spots near the beach.

Why Cebu Is Ideal for Island Hopping

Cebu’s location in the Visayas archipelago makes it a natural gateway to dozens of nearby islands. From the northern tips of Bantayan and Malapascua to the southern edges of Sumilon and Pescador, Cebu is surrounded by island gems.

Here are just a few island-hopping highlights around Cebu:

• Hilutungan and Nalusuan Islands (near Mactan)

• Pescador Island (near Moalboal)

• Virgin Island & Hilantagaan (from Bantayan)

• Sumilon Island (from Oslob)

• Camotes Islands (from Danao or Mactan)

• Pandanon Island (between Bohol and Cebu)

Each jump-off point offers a unique set of destinations and experiences, from snorkeling to sandbar picnics to scuba diving.

Best Areas to Stay in Cebu for Island Hopping

1. Mactan Island – Best for Island Hopping Near Cebu City

If you’re looking for the most convenient location with access to multiple island tours, Mactan Island is your best bet. It’s just 30-40 minutes from Cebu City and home to the international airport, luxury resorts, and countless island-hopping providers.

Why stay here:

• Closest to Hilutungan, Nalusuan, Caohagan, and Pandanon Islands

• Dozens of operators offering half-day or full-day island-hopping tours

• Best selection of beach resorts, from luxury to mid-range

• Many hotels have their own private docks

Top Hotel Picks in Mactan for Island Hopping:

• Shangri-La Mactan
  World-class resort with direct access to marine sanctuaries. Private boats, dive center, and luxury rooms.

• Dusit Thani Mactan
  Excellent bay views, fast boat access to nearby islands, plus modern facilities for relaxation after your tour.

• Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown
  Mid-range option in a convenient township. Several island tours depart nearby.

• Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort
  Offers its own island-hopping packages and has a beachfront launch point.

The Ultimate Guide to Mactan Beach Resorts

2. Moalboal – Best for Pescador Island & Sardine Run

On Cebu’s southwest coast, Moalboal is a laid-back beach town perfect for travelers interested in snorkeling, diving, and day trips to Pescador Island and nearby white beaches.

Why stay here:

• Direct access to Pescador Island and the famous Sardine Run

• You can snorkel right off the beach (Panagsama)

• Easily arrange trips to White Beach, Kawasan Falls, or Badian Island

Top Hotel Picks in Moalboal:

• Quo Vadis Dive Resort
  Dive-oriented hotel with its own boats and instructors. Excellent location for daily sea excursions.

• Dolphin House Resort Moalboal
  Upscale eco-resort with great snorkeling right from shore.

• Pescadores Seaview Suites
  Affordable yet modern hotel with sea views and easy access to island tours.

• Sea Turtle House
  Peaceful location, great value, and kayak rentals for nearby marine areas.

The Ultimate Guide to Moalboal: Cebu’s Hidden Paradise for Divers and Beach Lovers

3. Oslob – Best for Sumilon Island & Whale Shark Experience

Oslob is known for its whale shark tours, but it’s also the gateway to Sumilon Island, a postcard-perfect islet with a sandbar, marine sanctuary, and blue lagoon.

Why stay here:

• Closest access to Sumilon Island (5–10 minutes by boat)

• Can combine whale shark experience with island hopping

• Quieter than Moalboal or Mactan, great for nature lovers

Top Hotel Picks in Oslob:

• Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort
  Stay directly on the island! Ideal for overnight stays with snorkeling and kayak access.

• Seafari Resort Oslob
  Cliffside property with its own tour boats and stunning ocean views.

• Luna Oslob Travellers Inn
  Budget-friendly stay, great for quick access to whale shark tours and island hopping.

• Down South 118 Beach Resort
  Relaxing beachfront base with easy tour coordination.

Ultimate Guide to Oslob, Cebu [2025 Edition]

4. Bantayan Island – Best for Northern Island Hopping

Located at the northern tip of Cebu, Bantayan Island offers beautiful white sand beaches, and day trips to Virgin Island, Hilantagaan, and more. It’s a favorite among both locals and travelers who want to avoid crowds.

Why stay here:

• Launch point for Virgin Island and other northern islets

• Gorgeous white-sand beaches and chill island vibes

• Great for both island-hopping and extended beach holidays

Top Hotel Picks in Bantayan:

• Kota Beach Resort
  Beachfront, iconic sandbar views, and in-house tour assistance.

• Anika Island Resort
  Excellent beach and family-friendly island packages.

• Amihan Beach Cabanas
  Boho-luxe boutique stay with a beachfront bar and chill vibe.

• Santa Fe Beach Club
  Affordable and near the ferry port—perfect for short stays and day tours.

The Ultimate Guide to Bantayan Island: Northern Cebu’s Laid-Back Paradise of White Sands and Serenity

5. Camotes Islands – For Remote and Underrated Island Hopping

If you prefer exploring remote islands with fewer tourists, the Camotes Islands are a hidden gem northeast of Cebu. While they are a destination in themselves, you can also island-hop between Pacijan, Poro, and Ponson Islands.

Why stay here:

• Unique inland and island-sea combinations

• Island-hopping includes caves, lakes, and snorkeling beaches

• Best for slow-paced adventure

Top Hotel Picks in Camotes:

• Santiago Bay Garden & Resort
  Large resort with panoramic views and island tour access.

• Mangodlong Paradise Beach Resort
  Private beach, pool, and modern rooms with a peaceful ambiance.

• My Little Island Hotel (Poro)
  A hidden retreat ideal for off-the-beaten-path travelers.

The Ultimate Guide to Camotes Islands:Cebu’s Untouched Tropical Escape for Nature Lovers and Adventurers

Planning Your Island Hopping Tour in Cebu

What to Bring:

• Snorkel gear (some tours provide but may be limited)

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Dry bag for valuables

• Cash for island entrance fees

• Rash guard or quick-dry swimwear

• Action camera or waterproof phone case

Typical Inclusions in Island Hopping Packages:

• Hotel pick-up (in Mactan and Moalboal)

• Boat with licensed crew

• Life vests and snorkel gear

• Light lunch or grilled seafood

• Island entrance fees (sometimes)

Booking Tips:

• Book through your hotel or a reputable agency

• Avoid unlicensed boats, especially in peak season

• Early morning departures offer calmer waters and less crowd

• Group tours are cheaper; private boats offer more flexibility

Sample 5-Day Island Hopping Itinerary

Day 1:

• Arrival in Cebu, check-in at Mactan hotel

• Sunset walk or massage after travel

Day 2:

• Full-day island hopping from Mactan (Hilutungan, Nalusuan, Pandanon)

• Return and enjoy dinner by the sea

Day 3:

• Transfer to Moalboal (3 hrs)

• Check-in and snorkel at Panagsama Beach

• Optional sardine run experience

Day 4:

• Island hopping to Pescador + nearby beaches

• Kawasan Falls afternoon trip

Day 5:

• Travel back to Cebu City or head to Oslob or Bantayan for extended trip

Travel Tips for Island Hoppers

• Transportation:

  • Use private vans or pre-arranged shuttles for longer transfers

  • Boats usually leave early morning—be ready by 6–7 AM

  • Ride apps like Grab work only in Cebu City and Mactan

• Seasons:

  • Best time for island hopping is December to May (dry season)

  • Avoid island trips during July–September due to monsoons and possible sea travel disruptions

• Budgeting:

  • Island-hopping tour: ₱1,500–₱3,500 per person (shared or private)

  • Mid-range hotels: ₱3,000–₱5,000 per night

  • Luxury stays: ₱6,000–₱15,000 per night

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re island hopping for a weekend escape or a full beach circuit adventure, Cebu offers the perfect base. From the convenience of Mactan to the natural wonders of Moalboal and Oslob, each location has its own flavor of sea, sand, and adventure.

Choose your base depending on the kind of island-hopping experience you want: luxury and accessibility in Mactan, marine life and diving in Moalboal, rare sightings in Oslob, or peace and beauty in Bantayan.

No matter where you stay, you’re never far from your next island.