There’s something magical about traveling within your own island—when you don’t need a passport or boarding pass to find paradise. You just need a good pair of slippers, a curious heart, and a willingness to see familiar places with fresh eyes.

Summer 2019 felt like a chapter I desperately needed. After weeks of overthinking and living life in checklist mode, I found myself chasing waterfalls—literally. And on Day 2 of our 5-day escape, we dove into the hidden wonders of Cebu’s southern coast.

From booking mishaps (yes, my fault!) to real-time adjustments, their customer service was exceptional. They even customized our tour based on our preferences and needs.

Special thanks to Sir Manny, who stepped up as our unexpected but amazing guide.
Without him, we wouldn’t have navigated half of the places on our list.
He was flexible, kind, and attentive the entire day—a gem of a guide!

First Stop: Aguinid Falls, Samboan

We arrived at Aguinid Falls not knowing what to expect—just that we’d need water shoes and an open heart.

There’s something humbling about stepping into cool, cascading waters, not as a spectator, but as a participant. Aguinid isn’t a waterfall you merely look at. You climb it. Feel it. You get scraped, you get soaked, and you come out feeling like a small-time adventurer with a big-time grin.

• Entrance Fee: ₱60
• Guide: Tipping is essential—it’s their main livelihood, and trust me, they earn every peso.
• Restrooms: Surprisingly clean and accessible—bless them.

Due to safety protocols, tourists are now only allowed up to Level 5 of the falls instead of the original eight. And while I initially felt like I was missing something, I realized later—I wasn’t. Sometimes, enough is not less. It’s just… enough.

🪧 Along the trail, signs remind you to tread lightly and leave no trace. And I loved that. Because paradise isn’t just a destination—it’s a responsibility.

Along the trail, visitors can see plastic-laminated signs like these. Please take heed; they are for your safety. Remember that in outdoor environments, you can’t win against Mother Nature. Being complacent in the wild has no room in adventuring. The signs are also there to remind you to protect the river for future generations. Don’t throw trash, and bring your garbage with you.

Aguinid Falls costs 60 pesos as the entrance fee. However, your guides will be expecting a tip for their expertise along the way, which is their wage. You need to respect this system and understand that the tip is actually the wage of the guide and the entrance fee goes to the municipality/government who are the landowners of this natural asset. 

For those who need to answer the call of nature, worry not because there is a clean restroom where they can do their personal stuff. 

Second Stop: Kawasan Falls, Badian — Blue Beyond Words

Known for its turquoise blue waters, three-tiered waterfalls, and the ever-famous canyoneering, Kawasan is a must-see—even if you’ll have to share it with the crowd.

• Walk from Entrance: Approx. 1.5 km
• Souvenir Shops: Necklaces, bracelets, honey, and Kawasan tees
• Crowd Level: High (especially on weekends and holidays)

Still, nothing beats the feeling of standing before that first waterfall, watching the water crash and sparkle in the sun.

Turquoise blue water, 3 stages of waterfalls and canyoneering – there’s really nothing to complain about… except perhaps the crowds. 

From the entrance you will have to walk uphill for about 1.5 kl to get to the first waterfall. Along the way, souvenir shops are selling accessories such as beaded necklaces, bracelets, honey and Kawasan print t-shirts. 

Kawasan Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Philippines but it’s difficult to enjoy it in all its glory when you have hundreds of people to share it with. 

🏖️ Third Stop: Lambug Beach, Badian

For the grand finale—we found our summer soul at Lambug White Beach.
With crystal-clear emerald water, fine white sand, and no entrance fee, it’s a refreshing, budget-friendly beach getaway.

📸 Instagrammable, quiet, and free—what more could you ask for?

💰 Lambug Beach Rates & Fees

• Tent Fee: ₱50/head (weekdays), ₱150/head (weekends)
• Cottage Rental: ₱500/day
• Bus Fare from Cebu City: ₱140/head
• Tricycle from drop-off to beach: ₱30/head
• Entrance Fee: FREE
• Parking Fee: Minimal

🧺 Bring your food, beach mat, and good vibes. Just don’t forget to leave nothing but footprints.

🌞 Summer Lesson? Paradise Is Closer Than You Think

You don’t need to fly out to Boracay to feel beach bliss.
Cebu’s southern gems—from waterfalls to white shores—are calling.
Answer them with your flip-flops on.

With love (and a bit of sunburn),
Anj 💛