10.3157° N · 123.8854° E — Cebu, Philippines
Cebu Destinations
Diving & Snorkeling

Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary

A small island sanctuary famous for its 500-meter wooden pier over turquoise waters, with excellent snorkeling and resort facilities.

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Category
Diving & Snorkeling
Town
Lapu-Lapu City
Opening Hours
6:00 AM - 5:00 PM for day trips. Overnight stays available.
Duration
2-4 hours (as part of island hopping tour)
Difficulty
Easy

The overview

About Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary

Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary is a small island resort and protected marine area located between Mactan and Olango islands. What makes Nalusuan unique is its iconic long wooden pier stretching 500 meters over crystal-clear turquoise waters - one of the most photographed structures in Cebu. The marine sanctuary surrounding the island offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The protected waters host diverse marine life including tropical reef fish, starfish, sea urchins, and various coral species. The shallow areas near the shore are perfect for snorkeling, while the surrounding reef walls provide interesting dive sites. Nalusuan Island Resort, which manages the sanctuary, offers day trip packages that include snorkeling gear, cottage use, and access to the island's white sand beach. The resort also has a restaurant serving fresh seafood. The combination of the scenic pier, marine sanctuary, and resort facilities makes Nalusuan a complete island getaway destination.

What makes it worth it

Highlights

  • Iconic 500-meter wooden pier
  • Marine sanctuary with diverse sea life
  • Crystal-clear turquoise waters
  • White sand beach
  • Resort facilities and restaurant
  • Popular photography spot
Tips for visitors
  1. 1 The pier makes for stunning photos, especially during golden hour. Island entrance and cottage fees apply - book in advance during peak season. Snorkeling gear can be rented. Combine with Hilutungan in one island hopping trip. Bring cash as card facilities may be limited.

Wayfinder route

How to get there

Usually visited as part of an island hopping tour from Mactan. Direct boats from Hilton Port take approximately 30-45 minutes. Most tours include both Hilutungan and Nalusuan.

Before you go

Frequently asked

How much is the entrance fee at Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary?
Expect to pay PHP 150-200 island entrance + cottage rental (PHP 500-1500 depending on size). Check current rates with resort at Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary.
What are the opening hours at Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary?
Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary is open 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM for day trips. Overnight stays available.
When is the best time to visit Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary?
The best time to visit Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary is year-round. Morning for best snorkeling conditions. Avoid weekends and holidays for fewer crowds.
How long should you spend at Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary?
Allow 2-4 hours (as part of island hopping tour) for a visit to Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary.

Book tours & tickets for Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary

Skip-the-line tickets and guided tours with real-time prices and free cancellation on most options. Link opens in a new tab.

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Nearby on the chart

Where to stay & eat nearby

Hotels & Resorts ₱₱₱₱

Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan

Lapu-Lapu City

6-hectare luxury resort with infinity pool, beach club, and extensive water activities.

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Hotels & Resorts ₱₱₱₱

Shangri-La Mactan Cebu

Lapu-Lapu City

Luxury 5-star resort with 350m private beach, marine sanctuary, and world-class amenities.

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Hotels & Resorts ₱₱₱₱

Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu

Lapu-Lapu City

5-star Thai hospitality resort with 100m infinity pool and boardwalk promenade.

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Hotels & Resorts ₱₱₱₱

JPark Island Resort & Waterpark

Lapu-Lapu City

Large beachfront resort in Maribago with an extensive waterpark, multiple pools and several restaurants.

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Where to stay near Lapu-Lapu City

Search live rates for hotels and rentals near Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary on Agoda — filter by your dates, price, and guest score.

Search Lapu-Lapu City stays on Agoda →

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Quick facts◆

Entrance Fee

PHP 150-200 island entrance + cottage rental (PHP 500-1500 depending on size). Check current rates with resort.

Opening Hours

6:00 AM - 5:00 PM for day trips. Overnight stays available.

Duration

2-4 hours (as part of island hopping tour)

Difficulty

Easy

Best Time to Visit

Year-round. Morning for best snorkeling conditions. Avoid weekends and holidays for fewer crowds.

On the map10.22° N

Nalusuan Island, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu

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