6 Top-Rated Mactan Tours & Experiences

Mactan is a lively hub for travelers seeking memorable tours and experiences that showcase its rich marine life, beautiful islands, and vibrant local culture. What makes Mactan stand out is its accessibility—many tours start right from your hotel or nearby spots—and the variety of adventures on offer. Whether you’re eager to swim with whale sharks, snorkel in coral gardens, or explore underwater ecosystems, Mactan delivers with genuine, well-organized options. We’re particularly fond of the Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming tour for its once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet the world’s biggest fish in their natural habitat. The tour’s local guides and smooth logistics make the experience stress-free and truly special.

For those who want to see multiple islands in one day, the Mactan: Cebu Island Hopping Boat Tour with Lunch offers a comprehensive day on turquoise waters with snorkeling, beach lounging, and a delicious Filipino meal. Divers interested in certification can check out the PADI Open Water Diver Certification Course, perfect for starting your underwater adventure. Lastly, for a relaxed, scenic day on the water, the Local Isle Escapes combine yacht hopping with snorkeling and island exploration. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each tour to help you pick your perfect Mactan experience.

1. Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming

At number 1, the Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming tour offers the chance to stand face-to-fin with the largest fish in the sea. For about $118 per person, you get a full 10-hour day, including hotel transfers from Cebu City, Mandaue, or Lapu-Lapu. The main event is swimming and snorkeling alongside whale sharks, which are gentle giants that can grow over 40 feet long. What sets this tour apart is the focus on local-guided education—your guides share insights about whale sharks’ behavior and conservation efforts, making it more than just a tourist photo op.

The tour includes a native breakfast—think fresh fruits, local bread, juice, coffee, or tea—to fuel your morning before hitting the water. The logistics are well-organized, with pickup options from three different locations and convenient drop-offs afterward. Reviewers highlight the professionalism of guides and drivers, describing the experience as “crazy but well managed,” and comment on how helpful the team was with selfies and safety. It’s perfect for those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter, and while it’s touristy, the local guides add authenticity and depth.

Bottom Line: This tour offers a reliable, memorable encounter with whale sharks, with excellent organization and good value for a full-day adventure.

2. Mactan: Cebu Island Hopping Boat Tour with Lunch

Coming in at number 2, the Cebu Island Hopping Boat Tour with Lunch provides a full day exploring several islands, all with the comfort of a boat and a delicious Filipino meal. For $130, you’ll visit Gilutungan Marine Sanctuary, Nalusuan Island, and Caohagan Island, each offering unique experiences. The tour includes snorkeling in coral gardens, relaxing on pristine beaches, and learning about traditional fishing methods from local guides—making it both fun and educational.

The itinerary is packed, with sightseeing cruises and multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and island exploration. Reviewers love the friendly crew and mention that sometimes they get a private boat, which enhances the experience. The tour is suitable for families or anyone keen on marine life, with options to scuba dive at some stops. The inclusion of lunch on Caohagan Island—with fresh seafood and local dishes—adds great value.

Bottom Line: For those wanting a full day of marine adventure amid stunning scenery, this island hopping tour balances activity and relaxation with good organization and knowledgeable guides.

3. Mactan: PADI Open Water Diver Certification Course

The PADI Open Water Diver Certification Course is a fantastic option for the budding scuba enthusiast. For $452, you’ll spend several days learning in a controlled environment before heading out to the beautiful waters of Mactan. The course covers essential diving skills, safety procedures, and marine ecosystems, culminating in your official certification, which allows you to dive worldwide.

What makes this course stand out is the quality of instruction—experienced PADI instructors guide you through theory, confined water dives, and open water dives. Many reviews mention how students appreciate the personal attention and the chance to discover the underwater world safely. The marine life here is rich, with coral gardens and schools of fish perfect for practicing your skills. The course is ideal for adventure travelers who want a long-term skill and a new way to enjoy Mactan’s underwater scenery.

While the price is higher than some day tours, it offers a comprehensive, certified experience that transforms casual snorkelers into licensed divers.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking to learn to dive or improve your skills, this course combines expert instruction with Mactan’s welcoming waters for a worthwhile investment.

4. Mactan: Local Isle Escapes

Placed at number 4, the Local Isle Escapes tour offers a relaxed day of yacht hopping and island visits for around $93 per person. Perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy scenic views, this trip includes visits to nearby islands with fantastic snorkeling gear provided. It’s an excellent choice for travelers after a laid-back day on the water, exploring, swimming, and taking in the scenery.

The tour includes hotel pick-up, and the itinerary emphasizes comfortable cruising rather than intense activity. The focus is on enjoying the environment—you’ll swim, snorkel, and relax—making it suitable for families, couples, or anyone looking for a gentle day out. Reviewers praise the friendly crew and the peace of the yacht, with many saying it’s a good value for what you get.

The tour’s simplicity and flexibility make it ideal for travelers who want a low-pressure, scenic experience. It’s less about high-energy activities and more about soaking in the local atmosphere.

Bottom Line: For a calm, scenic day on the water, this yacht-based island escape provides relaxation and a taste of local island life.

5. Mactan: Freediving and Island Hopping with lunch

The Freediving and Island Hopping with Lunch tour is perfect for explorers eager to combine underwater discovery with island relaxation. In just 6 hours, you’ll explore the Gilutungan Marine Sanctuary’s colorful coral walls through freediving—no tanks needed for this adventure—while enjoying the serenity of the marine environment. The experience includes a Filipino BBQ on the boat, making it both a culinary and underwater delight.

The tour emphasizes high-quality photos and videos of your dives, making it easier to remember your underwater moments. The traditional Filipino outrigger boat offers chilled drinks to keep you refreshed. This experience suits those who want a half-day trip that’s more active than lounging but less intense than full certification courses. Reviewers mention the vivid coral gardens, and many appreciate the well-organized logistics.

It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced freedivers, as the guides are helpful for all skill levels. Keep in mind that this tour is shorter, so it’s best for those with limited time but eager for underwater exploration.

Bottom Line: A good pick for underwater enthusiasts seeking a freediving experience combined with island leisure and great photos.

6. Mactan: Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling

Rounding out our list at number 6, the Island Hopping Tour with Lunch and Snorkeling combines several highlights into a full-day adventure for $138. It’s ideal for travelers who want a complete island experience—visiting Gilutongan Marine Sanctuary, Caohagan Island, and Nalusuan Island, each with its own charm.

The tour’s itinerary includes multiple transfers, snorkeling sessions, and a delicious Filipino lunch on Nalusuan Island. The marine sanctuary is perfect for underwater viewing, while Caohagan is great for exploring and relaxing. Reviewers highlight the friendly guides, well-organized schedule, and the variety of activities.

This tour is suited for those who want a full immersion in the local islands without multiple separate bookings. It’s especially good if you want to snorkel multiple times, take plenty of photos, and enjoy a leisurely day on the water.

Bottom Line: For a well-rounded, fun-filled day with good food and multiple island visits, this tour hits all the right notes.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Mactan

When selecting your perfect Mactan experience, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you dream of swimming with whale sharks, the Oslob tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance. For those eager to explore multiple islands and snorkel in marine sanctuaries, the Island Hopping Boat Tour provides excellent value. If you’re interested in diving, the PADI certification turns a hobby into a skill you can use elsewhere.

Budget travelers should consider the Local Isle Escapes, which provide scenic yacht rides and snorkel stops without breaking the bank. Active travelers wanting underwater immersion can’t go wrong with the Freediving tour, while those seeking a relaxed day on the water will enjoy the Island Hopping with Lunch.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on your preferred tour.

Final Thoughts

Mactan offers a diverse array of tours and experiences that cater to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want a wildlife encounter, underwater certification, or a laid-back day island-hopping, the options are plentiful and well-organized. For a memorable trip, consider your priorities—adventure, relaxation, education—and pick the tour that best fits your style.

For most travelers, the Cebu: Oslob Whale Shark Swimming is hard to beat for its once-in-a-lifetime thrill. But if you prefer a mix of activities, the Island Hopping Tour with Lunch offers a full day of fun. Regardless of your choice, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these fantastic Mactan adventures.