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The blazing weather isn’t getting any better, and the best way to beat the summer heat is to hit the beach. But what to do when everyone around you is also hitting those popular beaches, leaving no room for you to plant your lounger and build your sand castle? Well, that’s when you hop off to some equally gorgeous but secluded shores where you can bask in sun without any interference or worry. Yup, we’re talking about the dazzling yet hidden beaches near Cebu for your dose of sun, sand, and sea. Located a few miles away from Cebu in Central Philippines, these beaches are perfect for your tropical getaway. And the best part – each of these offers something unique in terms of views, activities, experiences, and leisure establishments.

7 Best Beaches Near Cebu

The popular and crowded attractions of the Philippines can wait. You need to make sure you stop by these exotic shores on your holiday to experience something unique and unusual every time!

  • Lambug Beach
  • Panagsama Beach
  • Hermit’s Cove
  • Shangri-La Resort’s Beachfront
  • Dalaguete Beach
  • Sayaw Beach
  • Beach Placid

1. Lambug Beach

Lambug Beach

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Though it’s a public beach, hardly anyone knows about this quaint and beautiful stretch of white sand and sea located a mere three hours away from Cebu City. It hasn’t become familiar with commercialization yet. Other than a few business shacks for dining and accommodation, you won’t really find any man-made structures disturbing the picture-perfect landscape. The beach is rarely crowded, which makes it the perfect place for a solo wanderer seeking peace and relaxation, or a couple looking for seclusion for a romantic walk. Enjoy some ‘me-time’ at this tranquil paradise as you lay down on the warm sands and read your favorite book. You can also choose to visit the beautiful Kawasan Falls located nearby for a spot of canoeing, another serene attraction of Badian.

Location: Lambug Beach Rd, Badian 6031, Philippines
Distance from Cebu: 105.5 km
Travel time: 3 hours

Must Read: 12 Fantastic Festivals In Philippines For Each Month of the Year


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2. Panagsama Beach

Panagsama Beach

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The beauty of this beach isn’t in the sand or the waves, it lies beyond them. 50 meters into the sea from the Panagsama Beach shore, and you’ll be met with the largest school of sensational Moalboal sardines you may ever have seen! The run can be witnessed via snorkeling or diving in these clear waters. You can easily book a Moalboal undersea experience tour from any of the various dive and tour agencies in town for the same if you want to witness these beauties in the best way possible. But this isn’t all that makes this one of the best beaches in the Philippines! You can also stop by at Pescador Island and Turtle Point to witness more of Moalboal’s vibrant marine life like sardines, turtles, and even dolphins, unlike many other beaches near Cebu city.

Location: Moalboal, Cebu, Philippines
Distance from Cebu: 92.4 km
Travel time: 2 hours 39 minutes

Suggested Read: 10 Colonial Cottages In Philippines To Make The Most Of Your Beach Vacay!

3. Hermit’s Cove

Hermit’s Cove

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Located just two hours away from Cebu, Hermit’s Cove is amongst the most rejuvenating beach escapes from the city.
It is managed by the local government, which ensures the beach is absolutely clean and safe for travelers by putting in place certain rules for them to abide. One isn’t allowed to bring alcoholic beverages on the beach or allowed to camp here. But the stunning views totally make up for that! This beach is a perfect spot for your refreshing day trip from the city where you can have a nice barbecue with your family (if you make sure you don’t litter around).

Location: Kantabogon Rd, Aloguinsan, Cebu, Philippines
Distance from Cebu: 65.2 km
Travel time: 2 hours 16 minutes

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4. Shangri-La Resort’s Beachfront

Shangri La Resort’s Beachfront

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If you don’t wish to stray too far from the city, you can simply head to the private beach of Shangri-La Resort to get pampered. Located over the island of Mactan, Shangri-La’s beach is no doubt the best beach near Cebu airport which is connected to mainland Cebu by a bridge. In order to access the beach, you can either book a stay at this lovely resort boasting of exquisite amenities a luxurious experience, or just grab a day pass at the reception. It’s a great place for relaxation where you can spend your day sipping cocktails by the shore or indulging in any of the water sports offered here.

Location: Punta Engano Road, Lapu Lapu 6015, Philippines
Distance from Cebu: 20.6 km
Travel time: 54 minutes

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5. Dalaguete Beach

Dalaguete Beach

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Situated in Dalaguete right next to the Dalaguete Beach Park hotel, this white public beach gives spectacular views of the scenic mountain peaks like Osmena Peak, Kandungaw Peak, and Casino Peak, also collectively called the Little Chocolate Hills of Cebu. Dalaguete is often referred to as the “Summer Capital of Cebu” owing to these serene shores that are just a two and half hour drive away from Cebu city center. One should note that while camping isn’t allowed on this beach, there are various other activities that one can do here to keep themselves engaged and that makes this one of the most exciting beaches near Cebu.

Location: Casay, Dalaguete, Philippines
Distance from Cebu: 79.7 km
Travel time: 2 hours 19 minutes
Entry fee: INR 80/-
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM

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6. Sayaw Beach

Sayaw Beach

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This white sand beach is a haven for adventure seekers. If not swimming, you can take the paddling or outrigger boat to go spelunking – exploring the magnificent caves nearby whose unique rock formations will make your jaw drop. Located along the road in Barili, you’ll fall in love with the crystal clear waters and picture-perfect rocky parts of these shores that make this place so much more appealing for beach bums. Even though there is a small store located right on the beach, it is advisable to bring your own supplies. You can also stay at this beach since there is a private rest house as well as cottages available on rent. You can get to the Sayaw Beach beach by taking a bus to Barili at the Cebu South Bus Terminal.

Location: Barili, Cebu, Philippines
Distance from Cebu: 67.1 km
Travel time: 2 hours 7 minutes
Cost for cave boating: INR 415

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7. Beach Placid

Beach Placid

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Beach Placid is characterized by pristine white sands, a rejuvenating and fun environment, as well as friendly locals. Located on the island of Bantayan, Beach Placid in Santa Fe has everything you need for a beautiful tropical vacation in the Philippines. With no one to disturb you for miles on these powdery white sands, this beach makes for the perfect spot to spend some cozy moments with your partner. It’s also one of the best beaches near Cebu for snorkeling owing to the rich coral vegetation near the shores.

Location: Santa Fe, Philippines
Distance from Cebu: 129.6 km
Travel time: 4 hours 14 minutes

Further Read: 10 Temples In Philippines You Can Visit To Correct Your Wrongs!

It’s the perfect time to escape to the Philippines for some beachy fun at these splendid and pristine beaches near Cebu. Plan your trip with TravelTriangle for great deals on customized packages and a comfortable vacation in this tropical paradise. Don’t forget to write to us about your exciting holiday experience.

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Category: Beaches, Philippines

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