Moalboal: Sardine Run + Sea Turtle Viewing + Mantayupan Falls

Get close to fish, turtles, and other marine life with this snorkeling activity in Moalboal.

The Moalboal Sardine Run in Cebu is a mesmerizing natural phenomenon that is one of the largest and most accessible sardine runs in the world, with schools of sardines numbering in the millions swimming just meters from the shore.

The sardines swim in tight formations, known as bait balls, which can be up to 6 meters wide and 30 meters long. The bait balls are formed as a defense mechanism against predators, such as tuna, mackerel, and sharks. If you are lucky, you may also see dolphins or turtles while you are watching the sardine run. It can be seen from the shore, but it is best to see it from a boat or by snorkeling.

Moalboal is also famous for its large turtles that frequent the waters. In fact, there are so many that you will struggle to NOT find a turtle while snorkeling in Moalboal. You will no doubt spot one of the chill dudes chowing down on some fresh sea grass even on shallow waters, just before the drop-off wall of reef.

A hidden gem, Mantayupan Falls in Barili is the highest waterfall in Cebu and one of the most beautiful. Set inside a natural amphitheater of trees, vines, and tropical plants, this is truly one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Cebu. It’s an easy waterfall to reach with access roads the whole way to the parking lot and then a short paved walk to the waterfall making it a simple adventure for everyone.