South Cebu is one of those places that just seems to have it all – amazing waterfalls, beautiful hikes and stunning beaches. Hermits Cove is one of those picturesque locations in Cebu, in a little town called Aloguinsan on the island’s west coast. Hermits Cove is best paired with a trip to the neighbouring Bojo River eco-cultural park, which is exactly what we did.
WHERE IS HERMITS COVE IN ALOGUINSAN
Hermits Cove is in the tiny town of Aloguinsan in the Southern part of Cebu island, just under 2 hours from Cebu City or an hour and a half from Moalboal. We drove from Moalboal and it was a beautiful, winding drive through the mountains.
You can drive straight to Hermits Cove by following the Google Maps pin below if you don’t want to bother with the Bojo River, but we do absolutely recommend the river cruise if you have time. You can read the full guide to the Bojo River here.
WHAT TO BRING TO HERMITS COVE ALOGUINSAN
Prepare for your trip to Cebu with our must have travel essentials.
Waterproof backpack & phone case: Earth Pak 35L or 55L Heavy Duty Backpack, IPX8 Waterproof Phone Case Included (click for price)
Drone: DJI Mavic 2 Pro (click for price)
Snorkel, mask & fins: Cressi Adjustable Mask,Fin & Snorkel Set with Carry Bag (click for price)
BOJO RIVER CRUISE TO HERMIT’S COVE ALOGUINSAN
The Bojo River is a 1.4km protected waterway that leads to the sea, and just around the corner along the coastline is Hermits Cove. The cruise is around 30 minutes and your guide will talk you through the local wildlife, diverse ecosystem and history of the region.
We took a glass-bottom boat from the river mouth to the Cove. We were able to look at the coral reef and all the amazing fish and marine life that call this area home.
When we got closer to the beach, we were quite surprised to see how busy it was even on a weekday. The last time Carson visited Hermits Cove it was still very secret, but it looks like it’s become quite the tourist attraction. A lot of guides will call this cove in Aloguinsan a hidden paradise, and whilst it’s definitely a paradise, it’s far from hidden these days.
SNORKELING AT HERMITS COVE ALOGUINSAN
Never the type to hang around crowds too long, we quickly jumped straight into the water to get up close and personal with the coral and fish we saw through the glass-bottom boat. It definitely isn’t the most spectacular reef, but it has an impressive drop off and a crevice to explore.
We swam around for an hour or so before heading back to the boat. It was a beautiful afternoon, and if you can somehow manage to time it when it’s quiet it really is a little paradise.
READ: 28 BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN CEBU
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WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTH CEBU
Southern Cebu is where all the adventure is at, from waterfalls and whale sharks to island hopping and diving. When visiting anywhere in the south, the best place to stay is Moalboal. It has the most accommodation options, and is a fun little town with dozens of cafes, restaurants and bars. Check out our top four picks below for where to stay in Moalboal.
BUDGET/HOSTEL: CHIEF MAU
Right on the main strip of Panagsama Road you’ll find Chief Mau, a fun and social hostel that dubs itself the chillest place in town. Clean, modern and affordable, boasting a restaurant, bar and billiards, Chief Mau is a favourite amongst backpackers
MIDSCALE: ADAM’S VIEW HOTEL
Simple but with all the amenities and facilities you need – including a massive pool – Adam’s View Hotel is our top pick for those looking for a little more luxury than a backpackers. Located in the main town, Adam’s View Hotel is right next to Gaisano Mall, but still close enough to the action of Panagsama Beach to remain convenient.
LUXURY: TURTLE BAY DIVE RESORT
If you have deep pockets and an appreciation for the finer things in life, Turtle Bay Dive Resort is the place for you. Tucked away on a private cove in the quieter part of town, this luxury resort is perfect for couples looking for a little exclusivity.
AIRBNB: LRS APARTMENT
We can personally attest to how great LRS Apartment is, having spent two weeks there. Aside from a beautiful private pool, the apartment itself is modern, well furnished and spacious enough for a couple. (And a cat!) It’s just a 5 minute drive from the hustle and bustle of the restaurants and bars along Panagsama Road, but far enough away to offer a little peace and quiet. We can’t recommend LRS Moalboal enough!
SEARCH ALL HOTELS & RESORTS IN MOALBOAL
MORE CEBU TRAVEL GUIDES
Bojo River Cruise Aloguinsan
Kawasan Falls Canyoneering
Montpellier Falls Alegria
Cancalanog Falls Alegria
Binalayan Falls Samboan
Balaygsawa Falls Samboan
Sumilon Island Oslob
Oslob Whale Shark Experience
Pescador Island Moalboal
Sardine Run Moalboal
Turtle Bay Moalboal
