From Cebu: Island Hopping to 3 islands with BBQ lunch

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and colorful marine life, Cebu in the Philippines offers an excellent way to experience all that in one day. This highly-rated island-hopping tour takes you to three of Cebu’s most beloved islands—Nalusuan, Hilutungan, and Caohagan—each offering unique sights and experiences.

What we love about this tour is its value for money, the expert guidance, and the variety of activities packed into just 7 hours. You’ll get to snorkel in vibrant marine sanctuaries, relax on pristine beaches, and enjoy a Filipino-style BBQ lunch—all in a comfortable, small-group setting.

A potential consideration is the timing and pace; with multiple stops packed into a single day, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a busy, adventurous schedule. If you prefer slow mornings or want to spend more time at each location, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of Cebu’s islands without complicated planning, especially if you’re keen on snorkeling, beaches, and authentic local flavors. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a full-day adventure will find plenty to love here.

Good To Know

• All-in-One Experience: Visit three major islands in one day, making it a convenient and efficient way to explore Cebu’s coastal treasures.
• Snorkeling Highlights: Clear waters and vibrant marine life make snorkeling on Nalusuan and Hilutungan especially memorable.
• Authentic Filipino Lunch: A BBQ lunch on the boat provides a relaxed, tasty break while enjoying sea breezes.
• Expert Guides & Safety: Guides are certified by the Philippine Department of Tourism, providing trustworthy assistance and safety equipment.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Ideal for Active Tourists: If you love beach time, snorkeling, and exploring islands in a single trip, this tour ticks all the boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour is designed to give you a full day of island hopping, starting early with hotel pickup between 6:30 and 8:30 a.m. We’ll guide you through each stop, highlighting what makes each special and what you can expect.

Pickup & Travel Time

You’ll be picked up from your Cebu City or Mactan Island hotel, with the exact time communicated a day prior. The journey begins with a comfortable van ride lasting about an hour, followed by a 30-minute boat transfer to the first stop. This smooth transport setup keeps the focus on enjoying the day rather than stressing over logistics.

Stop 1: Gilutongan Marine Sanctuary (Hilutungan Island)

Our first stop is at the Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary, renowned for its remarkably clear waters and stunning marine biodiversity. The sanctuary hosts the largest variety of fish among Cebu’s islands, making it a snorkeler’s paradise. As one reviewer put it, “The snorkel is incredible, probably the best I’ve ever experienced,” highlighting the marine richness.

Here, you can expect snorkeling among schools of colorful fish and viewing coral reefs. The water’s clarity allows for great underwater photography, and the marine life is so abundant that even the most casual snorkelers can enjoy a vibrant display. The scenery on the way is also noted for scenic ocean views, perfect for photos.

Stop 2: Nalusuan Island

Next, you’ll hop onto Nalusuan Island, known for its long piers, white sands, and lively coral reefs just offshore. With approximately 1.5 hours allocated, this stop offers ample time for snorkeling, walking around the island, or just relaxing on the beach.

Reviewers like Debbie mentioned, “We saw some amazing fish and as we set off early, we missed most of the crowds.” The island’s popularity means you’ll likely encounter other travelers, but the scenic setting and friendly atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit. The long pier and the emerald-green ocean make for excellent photo opportunities, and the white sand beach is ideal for lounging or taking a dip.

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Stop 3: Caohagan Island

The final stop is at Caohagan Island, a more laid-back spot where you can explore freely, take photos, or enjoy fresh seafood that the islanders prepare on the spot. The scenic views along the shoreline make it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick swim.

One reviewer appreciated the “fabulous island visits” and noted how the island’s authentic vibe offers a different perspective than the other stops. You may also get a chance to taste locally caught seafood, prepared right on the beach—an authentic experience that enhances the trip’s value.

The Lunch Experience: Filipino BBQ at Sea

A highlight of the tour is the BBQ lunch served onboard. Setting sail with a gentle breeze, you’ll enjoy grilled Filipino dishes while taking in the ocean views. Guests have raved about the generous portions and tasty flavors, which provide a satisfying break amid the active day.

This meal isn’t just about filling up; it’s about savoring local flavors in a relaxed, scenic setting. The included bottled water, towels, and optional GoPro rental add to the comfort and convenience.

Transportation & Group Size

Transportation is well-organized, starting with hotel pick-up and ending with a return to your accommodation. The tour uses a private van for transfers to and from the islands, ensuring a smooth journey. The boat rides between islands last about 30 minutes, with scenic views to enjoy en route.

Group size is limited to 12 participants, making the experience more personal. As Jessica pointed out, “Our guide was very professional and friendly,” emphasizing the importance of good guides in making the day memorable.

Inclusives & Extras

The tour includes everything you need for a fun-filled day: snorkeling gear, life jackets, entrance fees, bottled water, towels (rental available), and a certified guide. Optional GoPro rental allows you to capture your underwater adventures.

What’s not included? Breakfast (which you might want to grab early if you’re an early riser) and dinner. The tour’s focus is on daytime activities, so plan meals accordingly.

Price & Value Analysis

At $109 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the all-inclusive package—multiple islands, snorkeling equipment, a hearty BBQ lunch, and guided support. The reviews consistently highlight the friendly guides and well-organized logistics, which maximize the experience.

When you consider the cost of individual activities like snorkeling or boat rentals elsewhere, the overall package becomes quite attractive. Plus, the small group format means you’ll get more personalized attention, likely leading to a more enjoyable day.

What We Love & What to Keep in Mind

Positives: Our favorite aspects include the expert guides like Mae and Norvira, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness; the stunning marine biodiversity, which impresses even seasoned snorkelers; and the authentic local touches, such as fresh seafood at Caohagan.

Considerations: The packed schedule might feel rushed for those wanting more downtime. Also, the boat rides and long day can be tiring, especially for travelers with mobility issues or very young children. The tour isn’t suitable for people with certain health conditions or disabilities.

This Cebu island-hopping tour is a fantastic way to see some of the best natural attractions in a single, well-organized day. It balances adventure and relaxation with enough local flavor to make it memorable. The small group size and expert guides ensure a more personal experience, while the snorkeling and beaches provide ample photo-worthy moments.

If you’re a traveler who loves marine life, scenic beaches, and authentic Filipino experiences, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Cebu’s coastal gems. Its excellent reviews and thoughtful inclusions make it a reliable choice for anyone wanting to maximize their time in Cebu without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with pickup between 6:30 and 8:30 a.m. and return later in the day.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, snorkeling gear, life jackets, entrance fees to the islands, a BBQ lunch, bottled water, towels, and a certified guide.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the experience is great for active travelers, it might not be suitable for very young children or those with certain health issues, as it involves snorkeling, boat transfers, and a busy schedule.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sandals, and sunscreen. If you wish to rent a GoPro or towels, these options are available.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a set group tour, so there is little room for customization. However, the guides are friendly and accommodating within the planned schedule.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Filipino BBQ lunch is included on the boat, offering traditional grilled dishes and plenty of fresh seafood.

What kind of guides lead the tour?
Guides are certified by the Philippine Department of Tourism and speak English and Japanese, ensuring clear communication.

How crowded are the islands?
Early departures help avoid the largest crowds, especially at Nalusuan, but some visitors may encounter other groups. The small group setting minimizes this issue.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks, snorkels, and fins are included, and life jackets are provided for safety.

What if I have food allergies?
Inform the tour operator at least 2 days in advance so they can accommodate your dietary restrictions.

This Cebu island-hopping tour offers a well-rounded, authentic day of adventure and relaxation—perfect for making the most of what Cebu’s beautiful coastline has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby