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Hi everyone, it’s Trip with Kim!
Looking for the perfect 3-day Cebu itinerary? Whether you’re a beach lover, adventure seeker, or culture enthusiast, Cebu has it all! Known for its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking islands, and rich history, Cebu is one of the best travel destinations in the Philippines.
In this guide, I’ll cover:
✅ Day 1: Scuba diving in Cebu’s beautiful waters
✅ Day 2: Island hopping tour for the best snorkeling spots
✅ Day 3: Exploring Cebu City’s must-visit attractions
If you’re planning a Cebu getaway, this itinerary ensures you experience the best of the island in just 3 days. Let’s dive in!
📍 Location: Cebu, Philippines
🛬 Airport: Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
🌤️ Best Time to Visit: November – May (dry season)
✔ Private Van Rental: Best for groups, offers convenience and safety.
✔ Grab (Ride-Hailing App): Ideal for short city trips but not for long distances.
✔ Tricycles & Jeepneys: Cheap but not the most comfortable option for tourists.
💡 Tip: For a smooth experience, it’s best to book tours that include hotel pickup and private transportation.
If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving, Cebu is one of the best places to start! With calm waters, diverse marine life, and professional instructors, it’s a beginner-friendly destination for first-time divers.
✔ Pick-up from your hotel in the morning.
✔ Basic diving lesson & safety briefing in a shallow pool.
✔ Boat ride to the dive site, where you’ll explore Cebu’s underwater world.
✔ A personal dive instructor assigned to each pair for a safe experience.
📌 Mactan Island – Perfect for beginners, calm waters, and rich coral reefs.
📌 Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary – Vibrant marine life with large schools of fish.
📌 Nalusuan Island – Crystal-clear waters and abundant coral gardens.
💡 Tip: No diving license? No problem! Most scuba diving tours in Cebu are beginner-friendly and provide full training before entering the water.
Cebu is famous for island hopping, where you visit stunning islands, snorkel in turquoise waters, and relax on white-sand beaches.
✔ Boat tour to 2–3 islands, each with unique marine life.
✔ Snorkeling in pristine waters, surrounded by tropical fish.
✔ Fresh seafood BBQ lunch on the beach.
✔ Optional add-ons like paddleboarding or kayaking.
🏝️ Nalusuan Island – One of the top snorkeling spots in Cebu, home to thousands of fish.
🏝️ Caohagan Island – A peaceful island with a white sandy beach.
🏝️ Pandanon Island – Known for its sandbar and crystal-clear waters.
Cebu’s marine biodiversity is spectacular, featuring:
🐠 Clownfish (like Nemo!)
🐢 Sea turtles
🦑 Colorful coral reefs
💦 Clear visibility, even at 10–15 meters deep!
💡 Tip: Bring an underwater camera or GoPro to capture Cebu’s incredible underwater scenery!
After two days of adventure, spend your last day exploring Cebu City’s must-visit attractions.
✔ Magellan’s Cross & Santo Niño Basilica – The most important historical sites in Cebu.
✔ Temple of Leah – A stunning temple with breathtaking views of the city.
✔ Tops Lookout (Tops Hill) – The best place for sunset & panoramic views of Cebu.
✔ Ayala Center Cebu – A great shopping spot for souvenirs and local delicacies.
📍 Magellan’s Cross – A historical landmark from 1521.
📍 Sirao Flower Garden – Known as Cebu’s “Little Amsterdam” with colorful flower fields.
📍 Taoist Temple – A peaceful, beautiful temple offering great views.
💡 Tip: End your Cebu trip with a visit to Ayala Mall to grab souvenirs like dried mangoes, banana chips, and local coffee.
This 3-day Cebu itinerary covers everything:
✅ Adventure (Scuba Diving & Island Hopping)
✅ Relaxation (Beach & Snorkeling)
✅ Culture & History (City Tour)
✔ Book tours with hotel pick-up & transportation for convenience.
✔ Try snorkeling at least once—Cebu’s waters are some of the clearest in the world.
✔ Set aside time for a massage—many Cebu resorts offer affordable spa services.
✔ Bring sunscreen & a rash guard to protect your skin from the sun.
If you’re visiting Cebu, this 3-day itinerary ensures you make the most of your trip while enjoying a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.
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