Negros Island offers a surprising mix of natural wonders that make it a fantastic destination for unique tours and experiences. Whether you’re after stunning beaches, underwater adventures, or underground cave systems, Negros delivers in spades. We’re especially fond of the Manjuyod Sand Bar & Twin Lake, which showcases the island’s postcard-worthy scenery and offers dolphin watching—an experience that sticks with you long after your trip. Its combination of accessible, natural beauty paired with relaxed local charm makes it a standout.
Negros isn’t just about lounging on beaches; it’s also perfect for active travelers or families. For example, the Dauin area offers two fantastic options for introducing kids to the underwater world—Bubblemaker Intro Scuba Diving and Discover Scuba. Meanwhile, adventure seekers can explore the Mabinay Caves and Café Alicia Tour, which combines underground exploration with scenic mountain views and fun activities like ziplining.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find a mix of outdoor excursions, family-friendly underwater experiences, and underground cave adventures. Each offers a different way to enjoy Negros’ natural beauty and local culture. To help you decide, we’ve detailed each tour’s highlights, unique features, and practicalities.
1. Manjuyod Sand Bar & Twin Lake (Private Tour)
At number 1, this Manjuyod Sand Bar & Twin Lake combines the best of Negros’ outdoor scenery in one day. For $140 per person, this 8-hour tour takes you to the white sandbar of Manjuyod, often called the “Maldives of the Philippines,” thanks to its powdery white sands and turquoise waters. It’s a quiet, pristine spot perfect for relaxing, swimming, or taking photos. The tour also visits the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes, two crater lakes surrounded by lush forest, offering a peaceful environment for kayaking and birdwatching.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of beach, lakes, and wildlife. Dolphin watching is included, adding an extra thrill to the day. The tour’s flexibility allows for ample time to swim, snorkel, or just soak in the scenery. With reviews rating it 4.3/5, travelers appreciate the personalized feel of the private tour and the chance to escape crowds.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a full day immersed in Negros’ natural beauty, blending beach, lakes, and wildlife in one trip. It’s especially suited for travelers craving relaxation and scenic diversity.
2. Dauin: Bubblemaker Intro Scuba Diving for Kids
Number 2 on our list is the Bubblemaker Intro Scuba Diving for Kids. For just $75 per person, this 3-hour program is a fantastic way to introduce children to the underwater world. It’s held at Aqua Ventura Divers, where kids learn basic scuba skills like breathing underwater, mask clearing, and using scuba gear—all in a safe pool environment.
What sets this apart is the focus on fun and education. Kids blow bubbles, learn about marine life, and get comfortable in the water without diving in open water. The program has a perfect 5/5 review rating, with parents noting how much their children enjoyed the experience. It’s ideal for families with young children looking for a safe, memorable introduction to diving.
The key highlight is the hands-on experience, which can spark a lifelong interest in marine conservation or diving. This is a controlled, small-group activity that emphasizes safety and enjoyment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families with kids aged 8 and above, this tour offers a safe, engaging way for children to discover the underwater environment.
3. Discover Scuba: PADI Intro Dive in Dauin
Ranking third, the Discover Scuba: PADI Intro Dive in Dauin is a half-day experience that makes scuba accessible for beginners. For $76, you’ll start with a classroom session to learn about scuba equipment and safety procedures, then move into open water to explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.
What makes this tour unique is the blend of training and diving—you gain a solid foundation before diving in open water. It’s suitable for first-timers and perfect if you’re considering pursuing certification later. The reviews are perfect 5/5, with participants mentioning how the instructor made them feel at ease and how the colorful reefs exceeded expectations.
This experience is perfect for those curious about diving but unsure if they want a full certification. It offers a chance to see whether diving could become a favorite hobby, all in a top dive location with warm waters and abundant marine life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time divers who want a guided, safe introduction to the underwater world, and a chance to see beautiful coral reefs.
4. Mabinay Caves and Café Alicia Tour
Finally, the Mabinay Caves and Café Alicia Tour spans around 10 hours and offers an active exploration of Negros’ underground landscapes. The tour begins with a visit to Mabinay, known as the “caving capital of Negros Oriental,” where you’ll explore spectacular caves with impressive rock formations.
The adventure continues at Café Alicia, where you can enjoy panoramic mountain views, cool mountain air, and activities such as the rainbow slide, zipline, and giant swing. The guided tour includes walking, hiking, and caving, so comfortable shoes and insect repellent are recommended.
While the price isn’t listed, the value lies in the combination of adventure, geological discovery, and scenic relaxation. The tour is suitable for those physically active and eager to explore Negros’ geological history firsthand. It’s perfect for families, group travelers, or anyone looking for a full-day outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: A high-energy choice for adventure lovers and families wanting a combination of underground exploration and mountain scenery.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Negros
When deciding which experience to book, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For a leisurely, scenic day, the Manjuyod Sand Bar & Twin Lake offers a relaxing escape with wildlife sightings. If you’re traveling with kids, the Bubblemaker and Discover Scuba provide safe, engaging introductions to marine life. Active travelers or families wanting a mix of adventure and education might prefer the Mabinay Caves.
Timing also matters—schedule outdoor or water-based tours during the dry season from December to May for the best weather. Booking early helps secure spots, especially for popular activities like diving or cave exploration.
Final Thoughts
Negros is a versatile island offering everything from tranquil lakes and white sandbars to underwater adventures and underground caves. For relaxed beach days, the Manjuyod Sand Bar & Twin Lake is a clear winner. Families with children will enjoy the safe, fun Bubblemaker experience, while adventure seekers can’t miss exploring the Mabinay Caves.
No matter your style, booking these tours well in advance will ensure you get the most out of your trip. With so many options, Negros promises memorable experiences tailored to every type of traveler—so start planning your adventure today.