You’ve probably heard of stargazing, the classic, romantic way to unwind and admire the night sky. But have you ever heard of starbathing? No, it’s not about getting a tan under the stars, it’s the slower, more mindful cousin of stargazing, and yes, it’s very much a thing now.
What Is Starbathing?
Starbathing isn’t just about looking, it’s about feeling. You lie back, unplug, and just soak in the sky, the silence, the breeze. No apps, no searching for Orion’s Belt—just being under the stars. The goal is to tap into mindfulness and relaxation. Some say it lowers stress levels, boosts mood, and even reconnects you with nature and yourself. It’s like a reset button, but, make it cosmic.
Now, we may be in the city, but that doesn’t mean you can’t chase stars and lie under the night sky like you’re in the middle of nowhere. If you’re looking to unwind, talk deep with friends, or just stare at the stars while wondering about life (or your crush), here are places in Cebu City where you can go star-bathing without needing a full-blown out-of-town plan:
Tops Cebu Area
This is the go-to spot for locals who want front-row seats to the city lights and a sky full of stars. Whether you’re up for a cozy stay at Tops SKAI360 or a scenic dinner at La Vie in the Sky, this mountaintop view never disappoints.
It’s perfect for late-night tambays, date nights, or even solo moments of peace. The cool breeze, panoramic skyline, and twinkling lights below create that classic Cebu vibe you’ll always come back to.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Busay, Cebu City
- By Commute: From JY Square Mall in Lahug, hire a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) to take you up to Busay. Fares typically range from ₱100 to ₱150 per person, one-way. It’s best to negotiate the price before the ride and ask your driver if they can wait or return for pick-up. Make sure they’re familiar with Tops Road for an easier route to SKAI360 or La Vie.
Central Park at CBP
This is the lazy city version of starbathing, but it works. Bring a blanket, sit on the grass at Central Park, and you’ll still catch a few bright stars, especially late at night when most lights shut off. If you think it’s already a hassle to stuff with you, then you can opt to just enjoy the night sky while on the benches. The area is also distanced from the usual traffic of Cebu Business Park, so you don’t have to worry about loud honking while you lift your soul to the stars.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Central Park, Cebu Business Park (CBP), Cebu City – near Ayala Center Cebu
- By Car: Simply pin Cebu Business Park Central Park on Google Maps. Parking is available at nearby establishments like Ayala Center Cebu, as well as at City Sports Club. From there, it’s just a short walk to the park.
- By Commute: From any major point in Cebu City, take a jeepney or bus that passes by Ayala Center Cebu (routes: 04L, 17B, 13C, etc.). Then, get off at the Ayala Terminal and walk towards the Cebu Business Park’s Central Park or garden area. Look for the open green space with benches and wide grassy areas—it’s hard to miss!
SRP Boardwalk (Near Il Corso)
Photo from Romwell Sevilla
It’s coastal, breezy, and less lit than the rest of the city. The wide-open sky here gives you a better-than-expected view of stars reflecting over the sea. Bring snacks and maybe even a folding chair for full effect.
If it’s a quiet night, you’ll catch the sound of the waves and the occasional boat passing by. It’s one of those places that feels a bit outside the city, good for late-night talks or just zoning out.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: SRP Boardwalk, near Il Corso, Cebu South Coastal Road
- By Car: Head toward SRP via South Coastal Road, park near Il Corso Mall or along the boardwalk if allowed. Then, find your own spot for starbathing.
- By Commute: MyBus drops off at Il Corso; walk toward the open boardwalk area.
Cebu IT Park Open Field
This one’s for the night owls who just want a patch of grass in the middle of the city. The open field behind Garden Bloc still offers a decent slice of the night sky, especially on clearer nights. It’s not pitch black, but there’s enough open space for you to relax and spot a few stars between the buildings.
You’ll also have easy access to coffee shops or late-night snacks if you feel like mixing starbathing with a warm drink or dessert run.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Garden Bloc, IT Park, Lahug, Cebu City
- By Car: Search for “Garden Bloc IT Park” on Google Maps. Paid parking is available at nearby lots.
- By Commute: Take any jeepney that passes through IT Park (routes 17B, 04L, or 13C) or ride a modern PUJ. Once inside IT Park, walk to the grassy open area behind the Garden Bloc restaurants.
Plaza Independencia
If you’re in the downtown area and want a chill but atmospheric place to look up at the night sky, Plaza Independencia has your back. Surrounded by colonial architecture and trees, the place feels calm and grounded, especially late at night when the crowds thin out.
You won’t get pitch-black skies here, but you’ll still catch a few stars peeking through, plus, the vibe of being in an old city plaza adds a unique charm.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Plaza Independencia, M.J. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City
- By Car: Set your GPS to Plaza Independencia. There’s street parking nearby, but it can get limited during busy hours.
- By Commute: Most jeepneys heading downtown (01K, 12G, 06B, etc.) pass near the area. Get off at City Hall or near Fort San Pedro, then walk toward the plaza. It’s a well-lit and easy-to-spot landmark.
Mt. Kan-Irag
Now, if you’re really serious about seeing and breathing in stars, like, Milky-Way serious, Mt. Kan-Irag is the move. It’s a known trail for hikers, and if you plan it right, you can camp overnight or just hang out until the stars blanket the sky. Far from city lights, no noise, just you and the universe.
Make sure to bring flashlights, jackets, and water. If you’re not hiking-savvy, better to go with someone who’s familiar with the trail or join a group.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Mt. Kan-Irag (also known as Sirao Peak), Cebu City
- By Car: Drive toward Busay and look for Ayala Heights access road or trail area. You can leave your car in a safe spot nearby (ask locals for suggestions), but you’ll have to hike the rest of the way up. There’s no direct vehicle access to the peak, so plan ahead.
- By Commute: From JY Square in Lahug, ride a habal-habal and tell the driver to drop you off at the trailhead going to Mt. Kan-Irag—usually near Sitio Baugo or Ayala Heights. Fare ranges from ₱100–₱150 depending on the entry point. From there, it’s a hike (around 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your pace).
Tips on Starbathing
Starbathing is easy coz all you need is an open sky and yourself. But, as stated above, it’s not the same as stargazing where you’re just staring and finding constellations; this one requires you to be focused in the rhythm of your body while you look at the skies. So, here are tips to help you get started:
- Check weather forecasts for clear skies.
- Avoid full moon nights; too bright.
- Bring a mat or blanket, insect repellent, and water.
- Always prioritize safety. Go with friends, especially to more remote spots.
- Breathe and clear your thoughts. Let your mind rest and mute out everything outside of you.
So next time you feel like zoning out or making a wish on a shooting star, you know where to go; right here in our very own Queen City of the South.
