cebu city to moalboal

Cebu City to Moalboal (2025 Updated Schedule, Fares, and Tips)

Planning a trip to Moalboal? Here’s the updated schedules and rates when traveling from Cebu city to Moalboal.

Hey there, fellow traveler! Ready to embark on an exciting journey from Cebu City to Moalboal? You’re in for a treat! 

This route is one of the most popular among both locals and tourists, and for good reason. It’s not just about the destination, but the journey itself is filled with scenic views and unique experiences. 

So, buckle up and let’s dive into the details of this adventure!

Planning to visit Moalboal? Here are some of the best resorts in Moalboal.

Moalboal: A Vibrant Coastal Paradise

moalboal turtles
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Moalboal is a small coastal town located in the southwestern part of Cebu, Philippines. It’s approximately 89 kilometers away from Cebu City, which is about a 2-3 hour drive depending on the mode of transportation. 

Despite its size, Moalboal is a bustling tourist destination known for its rich marine life and stunning natural beauty. Make sure you don’t miss the sardine run!

Different Ways to Travel from Cebu City to Moalboal

There are several ways to get from Cebu City to Moalboal, each offering its own unique experience. 

Ride TypeDurationComfort LevelFare
Bus (Air Conditioned)3-4 hoursModerate (comfortable seats, cooler temperature)PHP 200 (USD 4)
Private Car Charter / Taxi2-3 hoursHigh (freedom to make stops, local guide)PHP 3500 (USD 60)

Let’s explore these options in detail.

By Bus

If you’re on a budget, taking the bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Moalboal Bus Stop is a great option.

  • Detailed directions: Head to the Cebu South Bus Terminal and take a Ceres Liner bus bound for Bato via Barili. Get off at Moalboal Bus Stop. From there, you can take a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) or a tricycle to your hotel.
  • Bus fare and travel duration: The fare is around 220 PHP (~4 USD) for an aircon bus, and the travel time is approximately 4 hours.
  • Pros: It’s the most economical option and gives you a chance to mingle with locals.
  • Cons: It can be crowded and the travel time is longer.

Bus Schedule

  • First Trip: 2:00 am
  • Last Trip: 9:00 pm
  • Interval: 30 minutes

By Taxi or Car

For a more comfortable and convenient journey, you can opt to travel by taxi or private car.

  • Detailed directions: Simply book a taxi or drive from Cebu City to Moalboal.
  • Estimated travel time: The journey should take around 2 hours, depending on traffic.
  • Estimated price range for taxi services: Taxi fares can range from PHP 3500 (60 USD).
  • Pros: It’s the fastest and most comfortable option.
  • Cons: It’s the most expensive option.

Bus Schedule and Fare Details

Taking the bus from Cebu City to Moalboal? Here’s what you need to know:

  • First and last trip timings for Moalboal-bound buses: The first bus departs at 6:00 AM and the last one leaves at 2:00 PM. Make sure to arrive at the terminal a bit early to secure your seat!
  • Differences between non-aircon and aircon buses: Non-aircon buses are a bit cheaper but can be quite hot, especially during the day. Aircon buses, on the other hand, offer a more comfortable ride but are slightly more expensive.
  • Fare details for both types of buses: An aircon bus costs around 200 PHP (~4 USD).
  • Tricycle ride from Moalboal mall to beach area: Once you reach Moalboal, you can take a tricycle or motorcycle to the beach area. The tricycle ride should not be more than 50 PHP (~1 USD) per person and takes about 10-15 minutes. However, prices are inflated for tourists so haggle.

Taxi Services from Cebu City to Moalboal

If you prefer a more direct and comfortable journey, a taxi might be the best option for you. Here are some popular taxi services you can consider:

  • Grab Taxi: A popular ride-hailing app.
  • Cebu Holiday Transport Services Corporation: They offer a range of transport services.

What To Do in Moalboal

There are a lot of things to do in Moalboal.

One of the main attractions that draw tourists from all over the world to Moalboal is the famous Sardine Run.

moalboal island hopping
This was one of our most memorable snorkeling experience in Cebu!

This natural phenomenon, where you can witness a dense concentration of sardines swimming en masse along a reef wall, can be experienced throughout the year. It’s a unique spectacle that’s not to be missed, especially for diving enthusiasts.

But the Sardine Run is not the only thing that Moalboal has to offer.

moalboal island hopping

The town is home to numerous diving sites, each boasting a diverse array of marine life. Pescador Island, for example, is a popular dive site where you can explore a reef wall that suddenly drops to 40 meters, housing hundreds, if not thousands, of fish species.

moalboal island hopping
We even saw dolphins during our island hopping tour!

If you’re into snorkeling, you can join a Moalboal island hopping tour.

For those who prefer land-based activities, Moalboal doesn’t disappoint. The town is surrounded by beautiful beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. White Beach and Lambug Beach are among the favorites, offering clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.

Moalboal is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions. Just a short tricycle ride away is the town of Badian, home to the stunning Kawasan Falls. This turquoise-colored waterfall is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

In terms of accessibility, Moalboal is well-connected to Cebu City by various modes of transportation. Whether you choose to travel by bus, taxi, or private car, getting to Moalboal is relatively straightforward.

Moalboal Travel Tips

Before we hit the road, let’s talk about some handy tips to make your journey smoother.

  • Best time to travel: Early morning or late afternoon? Well, both have their perks. Early birds can enjoy the sunrise and less traffic, while afternoon travelers get to witness the stunning sunset.
  • What to expect: Expect a journey filled with picturesque landscapes, local life, and maybe a few traffic jams. But hey, that’s part of the adventure, right?
  • Safety tips: Always keep your belongings close, stay hydrated, and don’t forget to wear your seatbelt!

Remember, every journey is a story waiting to be told. So, keep your eyes open and your spirit ready for the adventure that awaits!

Conclusion

And there you have it! A comprehensive guide to your journey from Cebu City to Moalboal. Whether you choose to travel by ferry, bus, or taxi, each route offers its own unique experiences and adventures. So, pack your bags, put on your travel playlist, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories. Safe travels, my friend!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to travel from Cebu to Moalboal?

The travel time from Cebu to Moalboal depends on the mode of transportation. By bus, it typically takes 3-4 hours. If you’re taking a taxi or a private car, it can take around 2-3 hours.

How much does it cost to travel from Cebu to Moalboal?

The cost varies depending on your mode of transportation. Bus fares range from PHP 116-150, a taxi or private driver can cost between PHP 3000-4000, a shared van is around PHP 1200 per person, and a private car charter can cost PHP 3000-3500.

What is the bus schedule from Cebu to Moalboal?

Buses from Cebu to Moalboal run from 1:00 AM to 10:00 PM. It’s recommended to arrive at the terminal a bit early to secure your seat.

What are the top attractions in Moalboal?

Moalboal is known for its rich marine life and stunning natural beauty. The Sardine Run, Pescador Island, and the beautiful beaches like White Beach and Lambug Beach are among the top attractions. It’s also a great base for exploring nearby attractions like the stunning Kawasan Falls.

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