White sand, calm waters, and long beach days don’t have to come with resort prices. South Cebu is packed with public beaches where entrance fees are almost pocket change and the views stay priceless. From Dalaguete down to Badian, these spots prove you can travel slow, simple, and smart, read on for the full guide and step-by-step directions you can actually follow.
Dalaguete Beach Park (Casay Beach)
Casay Beach in Dalaguete is a low-key coastal stop with gentle waves and a relaxed local feel. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quiet swim, a shaded break, and a beach that doesn’t feel commercial. The shoreline is clean, the water is clear, and the crowd is usually light on weekdays.
How to Get There?
Location: Barangay Casay, Dalaguete, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Drive south via Cebu South Road, enter Dalaguete town, then head toward Barangay Casay. Follow local signs going to the beach area.
By Commute: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, ride a Ceres bus bound for Dalaguete or Oslob (₱100–₱130). Tell the conductor to drop you near Casay. From the highway, walk or take a tricycle for ₱10–₱20.
Basdaku White Beach & Panagsama Beach (Moalboal)
Moalboal offers two different beach moods in one town. Basdaku has a long white sand stretch perfect for swimming and sunset walks, while Panagsama is known for snorkeling and the sardine run just a few meters from shore. Both areas have public access that stays budget-friendly.
How to Get There?
Location: Moalboal, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Drive straight to Moalboal town proper. Follow signs going to Basdaku Beach or Panagsama Beach. Public areas charge only ₱10–₱20 or none at all.
By Commute: Take a bus from Cebu South Terminal to Moalboal (around ₱150). From the town center, Panagsama is walkable, while Basdaku is a short tricycle ride away.
Lambug Beach (Badian)
Lambug Beach is quieter and less polished, which is exactly its charm. The sand is soft, the water stays clear, and the beach feels wide and open, especially on non-peak days. It’s a favorite for campers and travelers who want space and calm.
How to Get There?
Location: Brgy. Lambug, Badian, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: From Badian town proper, turn toward the coastal road leading to Lambug. Follow the narrow road until you reach the beach area.
By Commute: Ride a bus bound for Moalboal or Badian (₱150). From the highway, take a habal-habal or tricycle to Lambug Beach for ₱50–₱80.
Tingko Beach (Alcoy)
Tingko Beach is one of Alcoy’s most accessible public beaches, known for its clean sand, clear water, and open picnic areas. It’s great for day trips, family outings, and simple beach lounging without resort rules.
How to Get There?
Location: Alcoy, Cebu, Philippines
By Car: Drive south past Dalaguete, enter Alcoy town, and follow road signs going to Tingko Beach. Public sections are free or charge around ₱20.
By Commute: From Cebu South Bus Terminal, take a bus going to Oslob (₱150–₱180). Ask to be dropped off at Tingko Beach in Alcoy.
Stick to buses to keep transport costs low, choose public beach entrances, and eat at nearby carinderias where meals start at ₱50–₱100. Bringing your own water, snacks, and beach mat helps you avoid extra spending, especially on long beach days.
Swim for hours, snorkel near Moalboal if you have your own mask, watch sunsets from the shore, or simply walk barefoot along the sand. In South Cebu, the best beach memories are often the ones that cost almost nothing.
