Cebu isn’t just a place with beautiful beaches; it’s a showcase of underwater marvels and water-based adventures. Whether you’re after the thrill of swimming alongside gentle whale sharks or want to witness the mesmerizing Sardines Run, Cebu offers unforgettable snorkeling experiences. One standout is the Cebu: Oslob Whale Sharks, Tumalog Falls & Sardine Snorkeling, which combines the chance to see the sea’s biggest fish with visits to stunning waterfalls and colorful marine life in Moalboal. It’s a well-organized 10-hour trip that’s perfect if you want variety and a full day of aquatic wonders.
Cebu’s clear waters, rich marine biodiversity, and accessible locations make it a top choice for snorkelers of all levels. From guided tours with professional gear to private island-hopping trips, the options are plentiful. If you’re interested in seeing the big fish, exploring thriving coral reefs, or simply relaxing in tropical waters, there’s a tour that fits your style. Our list below covers the best tours, highlighting what makes each one special.
1. Cebu: Oslob Whale Sharks, Tumalog Falls & Sardine Snorkeling
This full-day adventure from Cebu combines the thrill of swimming with whale sharks in Oslob, a visit to the beautiful Tumalog Falls, and snorkel encounters with sardines and turtles in Moalboal. The tour typically starts early, with pick-up options from multiple locations, and includes stops for breakfast, water activities, and a scenic waterfall visit. What makes this tour stand out is its combination of these iconic Cebu attractions in one day, making it ideal for travelers wanting variety.
With a 4.3-star rating based on 163 reviews, travelers consistently praise the smooth organization and memorable experiences. Many mention how surreal it was to swim alongside the whale sharks, describing it as humbling and breathtaking. The sardine run is often compared to swimming through a living cloud, an experience that’s hard to match anywhere else. The tour includes all gear, and the guides do a good job of ensuring safety and fun.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, well-rated day that covers Cebu’s most famous marine encounters and waterfalls, this tour offers a balanced mix at a reasonable price.
2. Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling & Pescador & Sardine Run & Turtle
For around $94.60, this private tour takes you on a 15-hour journey that hits many of Cebu’s marine highlights, including whale sharks, Pescador Island, and the sardine run. It’s perfect for those who value comfort and flexibility, as hotel transfers are included, and the long drives are taken care of by your chauffeur. The tour also features a scenic stop at Tumalog Falls (except when closed) and a boat trip to Pescador Island, where snorkeling fans can explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter sea turtles.
Guests love the seamless flow and personalized attention, with many reviewers noting the helpful guides and smooth logistics. One reviewer calls it “absolutely AMAZING,” highlighting how the guide swam with them and took underwater photos. The inclusion of gear, breakfast, and lunch adds value, making it a full, hassle-free experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a private, comprehensive tour with a focus on marine life and comfort, this 15-hour experience is an excellent choice, especially for families or groups.
3. Moalboal Sardines & Turtle Snorkeling and Kawasan Canyoneering
This tour combines snorkeling at Pescador Island, witnessing the famous Sardines Run, and encountering sea turtles with the adrenaline rush of Kawasan Falls canyoneering. It’s perfect for those who want a mixture of underwater beauty and outdoor adventure, all in one day. The tour starts early, with an island-hopping boat trip to explore coral caves and marine life.
The highlight is the chance to snorkel at Pescador Island’s Cathedral Cave and see the spectacular sardine school that attracts divers and snorkelers alike. Afterward, it’s off to Badian for canyoneering, where you’ll traverse waterfalls, slide down natural chutes, and jump into pools—an active, exhilarating experience. Reviews praise the combination of activities, with some calling it “breathless” and “unforgettable.”
Bottom Line: For adventurous travelers who want to combine marine exploration with physical activity, this tour offers a great balance, especially with its small group size and varied itinerary.
4. Private Snorkeling and 3 Other Water Activities in Cebu
If you’re seeking flexibility and privacy, this private water activity package in Kontiki Marina, Mactan, is ideal. For around $180 per group, couples or small groups can choose from activities like diving, stand-up paddleboarding, wakeboarding, or jet skiing. This tour offers a shorter, more customizable experience perfect for those pressed for time or wanting to try multiple water sports.
While it doesn’t focus solely on snorkeling, the variety of water activities makes it perfect for families or thrill-seekers. The reviews mention how the friendly staff made the experience fun, and the ability to tailor the day to your preferences provides excellent value.
Bottom Line: For those who want a quick and personalized water adventure, this flexible water sports package is a great pick, especially if snorkeling is just one part of your plans.
5. Twin Island Snorkeling Adventure at Hiltungan and Nalsuan
This small-group tour, priced at $140, takes you to Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary and Hiltungan Island, where shallow reefs make snorkeling easy and rewarding. The boat ride itself offers beautiful views, and the chance to see native marine life in calm waters makes it attractive for beginners and families alike.
What sets this tour apart is its intimate scale—limited to 15 people—and the focus on the marine sanctuary’s accessible coral reefs. Reviewers mention how the experience was “amazing” and a “beautiful experience,” with the guides being accommodating. The tour offers a peaceful alternative for those wanting to avoid crowded spots while still enjoying abundant marine life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups or families wanting a relaxed, straightforward snorkeling experience without the hectic pace.
6. Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling & Kawasan Canyoning Tour
This full-day combo, priced at $155, combines whale shark snorkeling with Kawasan Falls canyoning. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want two major activities in one day. Starting very early, you’ll head to Oslob for the gentle giants followed by an exhilarating descent through canyons, natural water slides, and jumps at Kawasan Falls.
Guests appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the opportunity to experience two distinct adventures. The tour is especially suited for active travelers comfortable with water-based activities and seeking maximum value. One reviewer describes the experience as “unforgettable,” praising the full-day adventure and professional guides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those eager to combine marine wildlife encounters with outdoor canyoning, especially if you want a full day packed with variety.
7. Snorkeling at San Vicente with speed boat
This short, two-hour tour at Nalusuan Island is great for families or travelers with limited time. It features guided snorkeling in the island’s marine sanctuary, where you’ll see crabs, clams, moray eels, and stingrays. The tour includes all equipment and a boat ride about 20-40 minutes from Mactan.
Reviewers highlight its suitability for families and educational value, making it a fun, relaxed outing. It’s a straightforward experience with a focus on marine life and safe, guided snorkeling.
Bottom Line: A quick, family-friendly option that provides a taste of Cebu’s underwater world without the full-day commitment.
8. Oslob: Sumilon Sand Bar, Whale Sharks & Sardines Snorkeling
This 14-hour tour offers a leisurely exploration of Sumilon Island, whale sharks, and the sardine run. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxing day with plenty of photo opportunities. You’ll swim with whale sharks, enjoy sunbathing on Sumilon’s pristine beaches, and snorkel with shoals of sardines.
Reviewers mention that, despite long waiting times and some weather issues, the overall experience is “unforgettable,” especially the chance to swim with whale sharks and see the sardines. The tour includes multiple stops, making it ideal for those wanting a full day of marine encounters.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who prioritize relaxed, scenic spots alongside iconic marine life.
9. Mactan Cebu Island Hopping Snorkeling with Lunch
This 6-hour tour offers a comfortable way to explore Mactan’s marine environment, including snorkeling at various sites with a delicious local lunch. It’s perfect for those who want a hassle-free, short excursion with easy logistics.
The review notes the friendly crew and smooth experience. It’s suitable for families or less active travelers wanting to see reefs and marine life without strenuous activities.
Bottom Line: Good for a relaxed, all-in-one island-hopping and snorkeling experience with meals included.
$120.00 per person
10. Moalboal Snorkeling, Kawasan Canyoneering with Zipline and Lunch
Offering a full-day adventure, this tour combines snorkeling at Pescador Island, canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, ziplining, and lunch for $144.50. It’s suited for active travelers wanting more than just underwater sights, with a focus on outdoor activities and scenic landscapes.
Guests praise the variety and seamless organization, with reviews noting the “breathtaking” scenes and adrenaline-pumping canyoneering. It’s a comprehensive adventure, ideal if you’re craving physical activity and nature.
Bottom Line: Best for energetic travelers who want a full day of snorkeling, canyoning, and ziplining.
$144.50 per person
11. Kawasan Canyoneering and Snorkeling with Sardines with Lunch
This tour focuses on canyoneering at Kawasan Falls, combined with snorkeling at Moalboal to see sardines and turtles. It offers an active day exploring waterfalls and underwater life for around $117.
Guests highlight the exhilarating leap from cliffs and the chance to see marine life in shallow reefs. It’s a good pick for those wanting a mix of adventure and marine exploration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers seeking a blend of waterfall adventures and marine life encounters.
$117.00 per person
12. Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling & Tumalog Falls with Osmeña Peak
This all-in-one package includes whale shark snorkeling, the beautiful Tumalog Falls, and a hike to Osmeña Peak. For $110, you get a diverse experience covering marine life, waterfalls, and mountain views.
Reviews are enthusiastic about the variety and the scenic hikes, making it perfect for active travelers who want a full Cebu experience. The combo of underwater encounters and mountain vistas is rare, and it suits those with limited time but broad interests.
Bottom Line: For those who want to combine marine encounters with scenic hikes, this tour offers a well-rounded day.
$110.00 per person
13. Cebu: Moalboal Sardines and Turtles Snorkeling Tour
This economical option at $97 provides a 7-10 hour day of snorkeling at Moalboal, highlighting the famous sardine run and turtle encounters. It’s a straightforward, value-packed choice for travelers who want to see Cebu’s underwater treasures without extra fuss.
Reviewers mention the convenience of hotel pickup and the chance to swim close to the shoals of sardines and sea turtles. It’s best suited for budget-conscious travelers or those with flexible schedules.
Bottom Line: A reliable, affordable way to enjoy Moalboal’s underwater spectacle with minimal hassle.
$97 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Cebu Snorkeling Tour
When selecting a snorkeling experience in Cebu, consider your priorities. If seeing whale sharks is your main goal, the full-day tour in Oslob offers a comprehensive experience. For those wanting a balance of marine life and outdoor activity, kawasan canyoneering combined with snorkeling is perfect. Budget travelers should look at the Moalboal Sardines and Turtles for affordable, reliable fun.
Think about logistical factors too: private tours with transfers might suit families or those with limited time. If you prefer a quick escape, snorkeling at San Vicente offers a shorter, educational outing. Consider the season and weather, as some tours like Tumalog Falls are seasonal.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak months from December to May. Check availability, compare itineraries, and match your fitness level with the activity intensity. Each tour offers something distinctive—whether you seek a relaxing day or an adrenaline-filled adventure.
Final Thoughts
Cebu’s snorkeling options range from gentle encounters with turtles and sardines to full-day explorations of waterfalls and mountain peaks. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler, an adventure lover, or just looking to relax on stunning beaches, there’s a tour here for you. The Oslob Whale Sharks, Tumalog Falls & Sardine Snorkeling remains a top pick for its variety, while the Kawasan Canyoneering and Snorkeling offers adrenaline for active travelers. For families or those on a budget, the simpler, shorter tours like San Vicente snorkeling deliver excellent value.
No matter your preference, booking early and choosing a tour suited to your fitness level and interests ensures a smooth, unforgettable experience underwater. Cebu is calling—grab your mask and fins, and get ready for an aquatic adventure.