Moalboal is a coastal resort town in the Philippines that’s known for its sharks, whales, and sardines…yes, sardines. The Sardine Run is actually much more exciting than it sounds and may just convince you to book a trip here.
If you’re traveling on a budget, then booking a hostel is the best way to travel. However, finding a hostel that is worth your time can be trickier than it seems.
That is where I come in. I have created this expert guide to the best hostels in Moalboal, so you can find a hostel that fits your travel preferences.
Whether you’re traveling solo, planning a cute couples getaway, or heading out with a group of friends, you can find accommodation in this list that satisfies everyone.
The process is simple; find a hostel you like, ook your room, pack. Then fly off to Moalboal and seek out those sardines!
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Moalboal
- Overall Best Hostel in Moalboal – Chief Mau Moalboal Cebu
- Best Party Hostel in Moalboal – Hangover Hostel
- Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Moalboal – Maayong Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Moalboal – MoHo Hostel
- Great Dorms for Couples in Moalboal – Crazy Bears Hostel
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What to Expect from Hostels in Moalboal
If you’ve never experienced hostel life before, you should know that they definitely have more of a communal atmosphere than any hotel you have ever been in – which is a good thing. Some of the people that I have met in hostels have become my best friends for life.
With that in mind, some hostels prioritize socializing much more than others. In some hostels, you’ll find free drinks in the evening, family dinners, and plenty of areas to get to know your housemates. Whereas others have more of a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere.
When it comes to where to stay in Moalboal, these hostels are pretty much in the same area. It seems that everybody is fighting for real estate around the iconic Sardine Reef as that is where so many tourists want to visit. Because of this, you’ll be within walking distance of beaches and popular attractions, no matter which hostel you choose.
Backpacking in the Philippines is relatively affordable, and that is reflected in the hostels. Group rooms are very affordable but have basically no privacy and you will have to share a bathroom. Private rooms are more expensive but if you require time to unwind in the evenings, it’s worth paying extra.
Here is what you can expect to pay per night:
- Private rooms – $20 – $30
- Group rooms – $6 – $15
When booking affordable places to stay, there is no better website to use than Hostelworld. I also really like Booking.com as an alternative. Both sites are super easy to navigate and you can choose what amenities and facilities you want on the filters with just a few clicks.
The 5 Best Hostels in Moalboal
Now that you are in the loop about what to expect when staying in a hostel in the Philippines, here are the best hostels in Moalboal. Enjoy!
Best Overall Hostel in Moalboal – Chief Mau Moalboal Cebu
- $$
- Free Wi-Fi
- Cafe
- Breakfast available
Known as the leading social hostel and described as “the chillest place in town,” this hostel is the best of the best places to stay in Cebu. Located within just a minute of the beach where the iconic Sardine Run is situated, you’re in for a trip filled with sun, sand, sardines, and more sun!
Plus, by staying here, you’ll be right by all the best nightlife areas.
I can just picture this now. You’ll be spending your early mornings practicing yoga on the beach and then staying up to the early hours of the next morning partying the night away. Sounds fun, eh?
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Excursions offered
- Dedicated socializing area
- Centrally located
The group rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with both hot and cold rain showers. Now, normally a cold shower seems like the worst thing on earth.
However, if you’re traveling to Moalboal in the summer, you might find yourself becoming Wim Hof for a week and actually appreciating the cold showers.
The hostel features an additional bar and restaurants where you can grab meals throughout the day and stay hydrated (make sure that you do that). It gets very hot in Moalboal.
Socializing is also a huge aspect of this hostel. The hostel has a dedicated social area where you can have a general chat with other travelers or you can take part in their ‘ultimate canoeing trip.’ I mean, with a name like that, I am sold.
From what I can piece together, the trip involves canoeing, island hopping, and even seeing sharks. What better way to bond with your roommates than risking your lives, right?
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Hide Yo’ Money!Biggest Party Hostel in Moalboal – Hangover Hostel
- $$
- Free Wi-Fi
- Hot showers
- Air-conditioning
Will you, ironically, be recovering from a hangover while staying in the Hangover Hostel? Erm…maybe.
Let me explain… This hostel is all about fun. It is a priority every single night.
The hostel has an incredibly welcoming atmosphere where a diverse group of travelers come together to socialize, have an unforgettable trip, and make friends that last a lifetime.
Complimentary rum and coke is served every single night which keeps the entertainment going way into the early hours of the morning. If you love a good party, you’ll adore it here.
I also think that it’s worth mentioning that this is a pet-friendly place to stay. If you have allergies or simply are not a fan of our furry friends, you’ll want to give this hostel a miss.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free drinks
- Family dinners
- Vibrant atmosphere
Despite this hostel being a party hostel, the accommodation is praised in the reviews for being very clean and spacious.
During the day, the atmosphere will feel far calmer with a touch of green plants situated in each corner to bring about peace. The hostel also takes pride in making sure that all their facilities are clean, so you won’t ever see the remnants of the night before.
One final aspect of this hostel which you’ll love is that they offer free family dinners every Sunday evening. Authentic Filipino cuisine will be provided simply because the hostel hosts want to share their culture through their food. Sounds like a great way to end your trip to me!
Hostel for Solo Travelers in Moalboal – Maayong Hostel
- $$
- Wi-Fi
- Hot showers
- Café
All solo travelers are welcome to one of the best hostels in Moalboal, Maayong Hostel. This newly built hostel is modern, spacious, and well looked after.
Situated just 250m away from Panagsama Beach, you’ll be right by the famous Sardine Run. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to dive into the ocean and spot all kinds of unique sea life.
The hostel itself has a delightful restaurant, a bar, and a beautiful garden where you can soak in the nature of Moalboal. Spend time lounging in the hammocks or situate yourself on a beanbag in the shared lounge and get lost in a conversation with a stranger.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Excursions offered
- Right by the beach
- Meals available
The rooms are really where this hostel excels. There are air–conditioned bungalows for those who just don’t have the social battery to constantly be socializing. Or, for those who prefer to mingle, you can select a shared dormitory.
Additionally, the hosts are beyond welcoming. They have so much knowledge surrounding all the hidden gems of this magical Filipino island and which attractions are worth stopping by. Simply head to the tour desk and you’ll find a list of activities that can be arranged by the hostel.
From canoeing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and chasing waterfalls, you can get active from the minute you wake up. For those who dare, you can even head out on a whale or shark tour and see some amazing waterfalls while on your way.
Most Affordable Hostel in Moalboal – MoHo Hostel
- $
- Free Wi-Fi
- Hot showers
- Group and private rooms available
When looking for hostels in Moalboal that don’t consume your entire budget for the trip, the Moho Hostel is a great option. Within walking distance of the main beach, you can spend your days here snorkeling, sunbathing, and whale spotting.
Inside the hostel, there is a large communal area designed for you to make friends with other travelers and plan excursions around Moalboal together. Make sure to also try the various alcoholic beverages they have on offer (you’re on vacation, you deserve it!)
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Chill vibe
- Evening entertainment
- Meals available
If I am honest, this hostel definitely has more of a minimal vibe. However, the rooms are around $6, so you couldn’t expect much more. Plus, with the money that you save on the rooms, you can actually spend that on experiencing Moalboal instead.
Private rooms are offered with universal outlets, memory foam mattresses, and you’ll have access to either hot or cold showers.
One great aspect of his hostel is the daily free drinks after 8 pm. If you’re lucky to be staying on a Thursday, you can even take part in a trivia and music quiz and bond with your roommates in a non-awkward way.
Great Dorms for Couples in Moalboal – Crazy Bears Hostel
- $$
- Free Wi-Fi
- Meals available
- Air conditioning
Did this hostel make this list of the best hostels in Moalboal because of its name? Not entirely…
Seriously though, this hostel has more than its cool name to offer. Stay within a photogenic hostel, meet other travelers, and have everything you need right on your doorstep.
If you’re an avid foodie, you will want to select this hostel. Some of Moalboal’s greatest restaurants and bars are just a 5-minute walk away, so you can taste authentic Filipino cuisine all day long. Shoutout to Hungry Monkeys – my fav restaurant everrr!
Not only that but this hostel organizes various excursions for you both to enjoy. From whale and shark tours to snorkeling and canoeing, your trip will be filled with excitement from the minute that you land.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Hot showers
- Excursions offered
- Nearby to popular restaurants
Group rooms are available, but you’ll probably want to select a double bedroom. You’ll also be glad to find out that those rooms are surprisingly very affordable.
The rooms feature bamboo showers, access to the tropical garden, and small home comforts such as a thick mattress and extra pillows. If you’ve been to hostels before, you’ll know that these small details make all the difference.
You won’t have to spend time navigating the island either because everything is right outside your door. Panagsama Beach is just a five-minute walk away and if you like to hit the town together, you’ll find a vibrant nightlife scene moments away from this hostel.
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View on Osprey View on REIOther Great Hostels in Moalboal
Not found what you’re looking for? There are so many amazing hostels in Cebu, and these ones in Moalboal are still up there with some of the best!
Ohlala Hostel Moalboal
- $$
- Free Wi-Fi
- Meals available
- Nearby to restaurants
This hostel will be your new home away from home. Located just five minutes away from Panagsama Beach, you can return to his hostel to grab a meal after sunbathing on the beach.
There are a variety of rooms available, so you can choose which type of privacy you prefer. This location is also great if you’re trying the digital nomad lifestyle as Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire property.
The atmosphere here is just generally extremely calm and you can often find travelers in the lounge area making plans for the day or just relaxing.
Additionally, all the best restaurants and bars are only a short distance away, so you don’t have to waste time or money organizing transport.
Ananas Guesthouse Moalboal
- $
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restaurant
- Quiet location
Built by backpackers for backpackers, this hostel is designed for travelers from all over the world to come together and experience Moalboal.
Located slightly further out from the main attractions, you can rest assured that this area is secluded, safe, and very quiet during the evenings. If you value your sleep while traveling, you’ll want to choose this one.
There are private rooms and group dorms available. Guests can also access the restaurant and bar where they can tuck into a delicious breakfast in the morning or order themselves a fancy cocktail at night.
Seek out the hosts and they will be more than happy to arrange activities for you to expand your Cebu itinerary.
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View on Booking.comIsland Girl Bed and Breakfast
- $
- Wi-Fi
- Free breakfast
- Nearby to the beach
Despite the name, this is not just a hostel for women. All genders are welcome here.
The staff here go out of their way to make sure that you’ll be well taken care of throughout your entire stay. Arrange excursions such as diving from this hostel directly and have an unforgettable trip!
While staying here, you’ll enjoy waking up to the sound of the ocean and head to the café to enjoy a delicious filling breakfast. Then, catch up on work in the spacious common room before heading out to the beaches.
You’ll be aware that the weather in Cebu can be crazy, and my fav thing about this place is the strong air-con!
Moalboal Hostels FAQs
Here are some of the questions I get asked most frequently about the many wonderful hostels in Moalboal. Feel free to drop a question of your own in the comments section. 🙂
Get Insured BEFORE Visiting Moalboal
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Final Thoughts on Hostels in Moalboal
While Moalboal isn’t the first destination that comes to mind when you think of ‘beach towns,’ I am definitely convinced that this location is worth visiting. I loved my recent stay in Moalboal and it truly is one of my favorite places in Cebu.
With excellent diving excursions, opportunities to spot whales and sharks, and some amazing beaches, you couldn’t ask for much more in a backpacking destination.
As for the hostels, you can certainly visit Moalboal on a budget. All of these hostels were affordable and offered so much in amenities.
That being said, Chief Mau Moalboal Cebu seems like the best option. It has a chill atmosphere, is centrally located, and welcomes all types of travelers. I can recommend it personally and strongly suggest you at least check it out.
I hope you found this guide useful and share it with all your backpacking buddies heading to Moalboal. Adios!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
