Mactan Island isn’t just about lounging on beautiful beaches; it’s a hub for memorable tours that showcase the Philippines’ rich marine life and scenic islands. Whether you’re eager to swim alongside gigantic whale sharks, explore vibrant reefs, or relax on pristine sands, Mactan offers a variety of options. We’re especially fond of the Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming tour because it offers a close-up encounter with the largest fish in the world, combined with a local breakfast—an experience that’s both thrilling and authentic. Plus, the tour includes hotel pickups in Cebu City, Mandaue, or Lapu-Lapu, making it a hassle-free adventure.
For those who love island hopping and snorkeling, the Mactan: Cebu Island Hopping Boat Tour with Lunch stands out with its well-rounded itinerary across Gilutungan, Caohagan, and Nalusuan Islands. It’s perfect for exploring the Philippines’ underwater ecosystems and relaxing on white sands. And if diving is your thing, the Mactan: PADI Open Water Diver Certification Course is a great pick for anyone wanting to learn in crystal-clear waters with a certified instructor. Below, we’ve broken down all five options to help you choose the best fit for your travel style.
1. Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming
This tour is a favorite for its up-close encounter with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea. For around $118 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring the Visayas region. It includes a snorkeling experience with the whale sharks, who can reach lengths of up to 60 feet. The tour starts with a convenient hotel pickup in Cebu City, Mandaue, or Lapu-Lapu, and the day usually begins with a local breakfast—think fresh fruit, juices, and traditional dishes—before heading to Oslob.
What makes this tour stand out is how it combines wildlife interaction with culture. The whale sharks are fed regularly here, which makes encounters more predictable but also raises some conservation questions. Guides who are local and knowledgeable help you understand the importance of respecting these creatures. Many travelers find the experience surreal, describing it as “crazy” and “fantastic,” with plenty of opportunities for selfies.
The tour’s value for money is good considering the full-day adventure and transportation logistics handled for you. It’s best suited for those who want a once-in-a-lifetime experience and are comfortable with touristy spots. A minor drawback could be the crowds or the fact that feeding the whale sharks is a controversial practice—so if you’re eco-conscious, this is worth considering.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable experience swimming with whale sharks, perfect for families or adventure seekers who want a hassle-free day of marine wonder.
2. Mactan: Cebu Island Hopping Boat Tour with Lunch
This tour offers a full day of exploring the vibrant marine life and beaches of Gilutungan, Caohagan, and Nalusuan Islands. For $130 per person, you get a comprehensive itinerary that includes snorkeling in the Gilutungan Marine Sanctuary, relaxing on Caohagan’s white sands, and exploring Nalusuan Island. The tour begins with pickups from multiple locations including Mactan and Cebu City, making it accessible no matter where you’re based.
What makes this trip unique is the combination of marine exploration and cultural insight. You’ll enjoy guided snorkeling at Gilutungan, with colorful fish and coral reefs right at your fingertips. The lunch on Caohagan Island is a highlight—fresh Filipino dishes served on the beach, with plenty of time to swim or just relax under the sun. The boat rides between islands add a sense of adventure, and the guides are praised for their helpfulness and professionalism.
This tour offers excellent value for money, especially given the variety and length of activities packed into the day. It’s ideal for active travelers who want a balance of snorkeling, island relaxation, and cultural insight. The main consideration is that it’s a long day, so it’s best suited for those with a good level of fitness and patience for boat rides.
Bottom Line: A great choice for families or groups wanting a full day exploring Mactan’s islands with delicious local food included.
3. Mactan: Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling
For around $138, this all-in-one island-hopping experience visits Gilutongan Marine Sanctuary, Caohagan, and Nalusuan Islands, with plenty of snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing. The tour kicks off with pickup from Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu, or Mactan-Cebu International Airport, making it convenient for travelers with tight schedules or layovers.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive approach: you get to see both the underwater world and the islands’ charming villages. The snorkeling spots are praised for their clarity and abundance of marine life, especially at Nalusuan and Gilutongan. Lunch is served on the beach of Nalusuan Island—highlighted as a special moment with Filipino dishes and fresh seafood, perfect after a morning of swimming.
The flexibility and pace of this tour appeal to travelers who want a relaxed day with options to explore or simply soak up the sun. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to cover multiple islands without rushing. Potential drawbacks include the noise from boat engines and the fact that some sections involve transfers—so it may not suit those seeking total tranquility.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, flexible island-hopping tour offering quality snorkeling and a tasty Filipino lunch.
$138 per person
4. Mactan: Local Isle Escapes
This tour offers a more personalized and relaxed experience as you yacht-hop to nearby Mactan islands. Priced at $93 per person, it’s an appealing option for those who want a day of snorkeling, island hopping, and good company. The tour includes hotel pickup within Mactan, making it easy to join without extra planning.
What makes this tour appealing is its casual, intimate vibe—you’re on a yacht, not a crowded boat, and the focus is on enjoying snorkeling gear provided and exploring the islands at your own pace. The experience is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, especially with the option to swim and relax as you choose.
This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and flexibility over a strict itinerary. It’s less about sightseeing and more about chilling in the water and taking in the scenery. The main potential downside is that it’s less structured, so if you crave a guided experience or specific sightseeing spots, this might not be your top choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a laid-back, private boat experience with ample snorkeling and island time.
$93 per person
5. Mactan: PADI Open Water Diver Certification Course
If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a certified diver, this course offers the chance to earn your PADI Open Water certification in Mactan’s warm waters. For $452, you’ll learn essential diving skills in a controlled environment, then practice them in the actual ocean.
What sets this apart is the professional instruction and the opportunity to explore underwater ecosystems that are teeming with marine life. The course covers everything from safety procedures to practical skills, with instructors experienced in guiding first-timers. The certification is internationally recognized, so it’s a valuable skill if you plan to continue diving elsewhere.
This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive dive course and are comfortable with the physical demands of learning to dive. The main consideration is the cost, which reflects the training and certification process. It’s an investment in a skill that can open up future adventures.
Bottom Line: Ideal for aspiring divers who want a professional, educational experience in Mactan’s beautiful waters.
$452 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, interests, and travel style. If you want a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, the Whale Shark Swimming tour is hard to beat. For a balanced mix of marine life and island relaxation, the Island Hopping with Lunch offers great value. If you prefer a more casual, private experience, the Local Isle Escapes might suit you best. For budding scuba divers, the PADI Certification provides a solid foundation for underwater adventures.
Consider the time of year — peak season (December to May) offers calmer seas but fills up quickly, so booking early is advisable. Think about how active you want your day to be—snorkeling, swimming, or learning to dive all require different levels of energy and fitness.
Finally, check the availability and consider combining tours if your schedule allows. Mactan’s tours are a great way to experience the Philippines’ marine treasures, whether it’s your first visit or a return trip.
Final thoughts
From swimming with whale sharks to exploring multiple islands or earning your diving certification, Mactan offers diverse options that cater to different interests and budgets. For a thrilling wildlife encounter, the whale shark tour is a must. If you prefer relaxed exploration and culture, island hopping is the way to go. And for those dreaming of underwater adventures, the PADI course turns curiosity into a lifelong skill.
No matter which you choose, booking early and planning your trip around the best weather will ensure a smooth and rewarding experience. So pack your swimsuit, prepare your camera, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in Mactan.