Lapu Lapu City isn’t just about historic sites and diving—it’s a fantastic place to enjoy memorable lunch experiences that showcase the Philippines’ rich marine life, delicious local cuisine, and scenic islands. Whether you’re after a laid-back beach picnic, a boat tour with a Filipino-style BBQ, or a cultural day trip to Bohol, the options here are both tasty and visually stunning. Some tours stand out because they combine adventure and relaxation, like the Island Hopping to 3 islands with BBQ lunch, which offers a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and a mouthwatering Filipino-style BBQ on deck. Others, like the Bohol Countryside Private Tour, give you a cultural taste of the Philippines with scenic sights and a floating restaurant lunch. No matter your mood or budget, Lapu Lapu has a lunch experience waiting that’s worth your time.
Quick Overview
We’ve rounded up seven of the best lunch experiences in the area, ranging from day-long island hops with snorkeling and BBQ to private Bohol tours with scenic stops and buffet lunches. Some tours are perfect for watersports fans, like snorkeling at Gilutungan or Nalusuan, while others emphasize cultural sights like the Chocolate Hills and tarsier sanctuary. If you want a relaxed, scenic meal with a view, the island-hopping trips are ideal. For those seeking culture combined with a delicious buffet, the Bohol tour fits the bill. Read on for detailed descriptions of each, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.
1. From Cebu: Island Hopping to 3 islands with BBQ lunch
At number 1, this full-day island hopping tour visits Nalusuan Island, Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary, and Caohagan Island, with a delicious Filipino-style BBQ lunch on the boat. For around $109 per person, it’s a popular choice, rated 4.5 out of 5 from 48 reviews, and offers a combination of snorkeling, beach relaxation, and scenic sightseeing. The tour begins with a pickup in Cebu, followed by water transfers to each island, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and photographs.
What sets this tour apart is the well-organized itinerary and the chance to enjoy a freshly grilled BBQ while feeling the breeze. Reviews emphasize the friendly guides and smooth logistics, with many guests mentioning how they appreciated the informative snorkeling stops and the peaceful white sand beaches. The guide Mae, in particular, is praised for her helpfulness and humor, making the experience more personal. The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive scope and the opportunity to see three different islands in one day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full immersion in marine life combined with good food and don’t mind the early start.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended, well-rounded island-hopping trip that balances fun, food, and scenic beauty at a reasonable price.
2. 3 Islands Hopping at Gilutungan, Caohagan, Nalusuan + Lunch
At number 2, this tour is perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts who want a more premium experience. For $249 per person, it includes guided visits to Gilutungan’s vibrant marine sanctuary, Caohagan’s charming beaches, and Nalusuan’s famous snorkeling spots. The tour is shorter—around 6 hours—but packed with marine exploration and beach relaxation.
What makes this tour special is the emphasis on superb snorkeling opportunities and the inclusion of a delicious lunch. The marine sanctuary at Gilutungan is known for its colorful coral reefs and abundant fish, making it a must-do for underwater lovers. Guests highlight the friendly guides and the crystal-clear waters that make snorkeling a highlight. The tour is great for those who want a more intimate, focused marine experience and are willing to spend a bit more for quality. The guided tours at each stop ensure you’ll see the best marine life, and the beach time on Caohagan provides a relaxing break.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for snorkelers who want a high-quality, all-in-one island-hopping day with a focus on marine life and comfort.
3. From Cebu: Bohol Countryside Private Tour with Buffet Lunch
Number 3 on our list is a full-day cultural and scenic tour of Bohol, starting from Cebu. It costs about $148 and includes a ferry ride, visits to the Chocolate Hills, the Tarsier Sanctuary, and a Loboc River cruise with a buffet lunch. This trip is ideal if you’re keen to see Bohol’s natural wonders and wildlife while enjoying a relaxing river cruise with local dishes.
This tour is praised for its well-organized itinerary and friendly driver-guide. The highlight for many is the Tarsier Sanctuary, where you can see the tiny primates up close, and the Chocolate Hills, which are surprisingly more impressive in person than photos suggest. During the Loboc River cruise, you’ll get a free-flowing buffet with local seafood and tropical fruits, adding to the immersion. Guests mention the value for money and the personalized experience of a private tour, which lets you travel at your own pace. The only possible downside is the long ferry ride—but it’s part of the authentic experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a combination of wildlife, landscape, and culture in a single day, with the comfort of a private guide.
4. Cebu: Island Hopping 3 Islands + Pandanon Island + Lunch
At number 4, this comprehensive island-hopping trip includes Gilutongan, Nalusuan, Caohagan, and a relaxing stop at Pandanon Island’s white sands. For $132, it offers snorkeling, beach lounging, and a tasty island-style lunch. This tour caters well to those who want to maximize island visits in one day.
What makes this tour standout is the inclusion of Pandanon Island, a small paradise known for its sandbar and peaceful atmosphere. Water activities like snorkeling at Gilutongan and Nalusuan give you the chance to admire vibrant coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. The lunch on Nalusuan is an added treat, with plenty of local dishes served seaside. The tours are well-rated for their friendly staff and smooth logistics. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to cover multiple islands with different vibes—busy reef spots and quiet beaches—in one trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking variety and water fun on a full but relaxed day of island hopping.
$132 per person
5. Cebu: Island Hop to Gilutungan, Caohagan, Nalusuan and Lunch
Number 5 offers a classic island-hopping experience with 3 stops, a buffet lunch, and a focus on snorkeling. For $138, it’s a flexible, all-in-one trip suitable for families or groups wanting a balanced mix of marine activities and beach time.
This tour covers Gilutungan’s marine sanctuary, Caohagan’s village, and Nalusuan’s snorkeling spots, with a friendly local guide leading the way. Guests appreciate the crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to interact with local sellers on Caohagan. The buffet lunch adds value, offering local seafood and tropical fruits. The tour’s flexible schedule and good logistical flow make it a solid choice for visitors with limited time but wanting a big splash of island life.
Bottom Line: An all-rounder, especially popular for its balance of marine exploration and cultural interaction.
$138 per person
6. Cebu Mactan Island Hopping + Picnic Lunch (Private Tour)
Number 6 is a private, customizable tour offering visits to Gilutongan, Caohagan, and Olanggo Islands, with a picnic lunch. At $129 per person and lasting around 8 hours, it’s great for travelers who want privacy and the ability to tailor their day.
The tour emphasizes snorkeling and breathtaking views over the water, with the convenience of private transport and flexible timing. Guests praise the professional guides and the peaceful pace, ideal for a romantic getaway or a family day out. The inclusion of Olanggo Island, less visited than others, offers a more secluded experience. While more expensive than group tours, its personalized attention and quality equipment make it worth considering.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer a private, tailored experience with a focus on water activities and scenic relaxation.
$129 per person
7. Mactan Cebu Island Hopping Snorkeling with Lunch
Finally, at number 7, this shorter 5-hour trip is ideal for travelers who want a tasty, quick escape. Costing $112, it offers snorkeling at popular spots and a convenient meeting point at Maribago Pump Boat Wharf.
This tour is especially suited for those with limited time or who want a leisurely yet engaging water adventure. Reviews highlight the crystal-clear water and the environmentally conscious approach to eco-tourism. It’s perfect for families or first-timers who want a straightforward experience without too much fuss.
Bottom Line: A practical, well-reviewed option for a short, fun snorkel trip with lunch.
$112 per person
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you want a full day of island hopping with snorkeling and BBQ, the From Cebu: Island Hopping to 3 islands tour is hard to beat. On the other hand, if you prefer a more cultural and scenic experience, the Bohol Countryside Private Tour offers a deep dive into Philippine landscapes and wildlife. For those who love snorkeling, the 3 Islands Hopping at Gilutungan, Caohagan, Nalusuan + Lunch provides top marine sanctuaries and premium snorkeling. Private options like the Cebu Mactan Island Hopping + Picnic Lunch allow for a more intimate experience, ideal for couples or families.
When booking, consider seasonality—the dry months from December to May are best for water activities—and your physical comfort. If snorkeling is your priority, check reviews for guide expertise and equipment quality. Also, be aware of transport logistics—some tours include ferry rides or transfers that add to the adventure.
Final Thoughts
Lapu Lapu City offers a diverse range of lunch experiences that turn a simple meal into an adventure—whether it’s snorkeling among vibrant reef fish, enjoying a seafood buffet with a view, or exploring Bohol’s natural wonders. The Island Hopping to 3 islands with BBQ lunch is ideal for those seeking an active day with excellent value, while the private Bohol tour suits travelers wanting a more personalized cultural experience. For snorkel lovers, the Gilutungan and Nalusuan trips are hard to beat.
No matter which you choose, booking early is wise, especially during peak season from December to May. Each offers a different taste of the Philippines’ natural beauty and friendly island life—so pick what excites you most and enjoy your tropical lunch!