Road Trips: South Cebu (Part 1)

Bored? Feel like travelling but don’t know where to go? Sum up your day with a trip to the south. Cebu is fairly known by the beaches and world class resorts. However, some don’t know the gems hidden (but slowly being known) we offer beyond the busy city.

Now, I will show you some of my most favorite stopovers when driving due south.

Carcar – Rotonda

Carcar is undeniably known for its delicacy: The famous chicharon or pork rinds. Another, is their tasty and original Cebu lechon. Also, Carcar is the pivot point of southeast and southwest highways of Cebu. You can have a quick stop at Carcar rotunda to buy some delicacies in preparation of your adventure.

Sibonga – Birhen sa Simala

For Catholics, I would suggest to have a quick visit to gratify and pray for a safe trip to the miraculous birhen sa Simala. For those who are non-catholic, the place is not close for you. You can still visit the place and be amazed by the castle like church that was built in tribute to Mama Mary.

Argao – Nature Park

You probably will arrive at Argao around noon and you feel like having a quick breather on a natural breeze. Worry no more because you are in the right place to do so. Visit Argao Nature Park and have your imagination realized. Ride (pond boat, zipline, wall climb, etc.) fees may apply but surely will not exceed ₱50 each.

Argao – Hall of Justice

Why not? This is the only Hall of Justice I know that looks like this. Well, this coral brick building was used as a school before and afterwards a barracks during the World War II. I guess this is a one of a kind hall of justice in a modern time.

Dalaguete – Dalaguete Beach Park

You can also have your lunch at Dalaguete Beach Park for a sea breeze ambiance and sun kissed feeling. Entrance fee and table fee may apply in an affordable price.

Dalaguete – Osmeña Peak

This is not recommended as a stopover or a sidetrip but instead a main destination. I will just include this because it is one of my favourite. Make sure that when you visit Osmeña Peak or we commonly call Opeak, you should have enough time as it will take you approximately an hour to go up and down the peak. Nevertheless, the view and experience is breathless.

Back to the road…

Alcoy – Antig Tingko

Looking for a decent white sand beach aside from what Argao and Dalaguete can offer? You can visit Alcoy’s Tingco beach. I would suggest a carpet or a mat instead of renting a table. Just a quick tip! Be cautious on your things as this is a public beach and there are reports about lost valuables so be responsible.

Boljoon – Ancestral Houses

Every time I have a trip to the south; I will never miss to just even look at Boljoon church. Sometime before, I also stroll on the streets where ancestral houses are everywhere. Some are even protected by UNESCO.

Oslob – Tumalog Falls

Tumalog falls just became famous 3 years ago. With the help of some adventurous people who love to share their experience, the falls became what she is right now. The first time I went there, she is still pristine and not yet developed. Now, they have created a pool for swimming and they are still developing it. I am not against development but I would prefer to enjoy the natural/undeveloped falls I have experienced before. Just a thought.

Oslob – Whale Watching

Feeling a goddess and want to swim with whale sharks? You don’t need to go far. Just visit Tan-Awan, Oslob and you are one step closer to your dream. You don’t need to worry where to go as all resorts available there offers whale watching package. Prices vary for local Cebuanos (₱200-300) and foreigners (₱500-700). Preferred snorkeling time is morning so if you have not set an appointment to one of the resorts, I suggest that you go there early morning.

I know. There are a lot more that Cebu South can offer. How about you? Do you have any favorite place or adventure that can be visited or be done at Cebu South that I miss? Shoot a comment below and maybe we can feature it in the future.