by Will Yap
Discover Cebu’s hidden cold springs—serene retreats where cool waters, lush surroundings, and mindful travel meet.
When the heat of summer midday sun starts to bear down, Cebu offers another kind of cool. Away from the beaches and festivals, tucked in its inland corners, are cold springs—natural pools fed by underground water sources. Once the quiet retreats of locals, these springs become a refreshing detour for visitors looking to slow down without straying too far from nature.
Here are three places to ease into Cebu’s cooler side:
Blue Hole Spring
For those willing to go a bit farther off the grid, Blue Hole Spring in Tuburan is worth the detour. It’s a quiet spot with a single deep pool surrounded by trees. The water has a soft blue green hue and a few points for jumping in— ideal for a calm dip or a quick escape into nature.
Distance: 82km from Cebu City Hours: Daily, 8am–5pm
Entrance: P10
Extras: Life jacket (P50), table rental (P100), parking (P50)
Getting There: Public transport from Ayala Center Cebu, take a V-hire to Tuburan, then a habal-habal to the spring. By private vehicle: Search “Blue Hole Spring” on Waze or Google Maps. Locals can also point the way.
Bantayan Spring Resort
Further north in the town of Tabogon, Banyan Spring Resort—formerly Guiwanon Cold Sprin offers a wide, clear pool surrounded by open space and a forest canopy. With large tables and chairs available for rent, it’s often used as a gathering spot for small groups or families.
Distance: 80km from Mandaue City Hours: Daily, 7am–5pm (last entry at 4pm)
Entrance: P150 (adults), P100 (children); free for kids under 5 years old
Fees: Table and chairs (P300), environmental fee (P30 per person) Note: No pets allowed, and no overnight stays
Getting There: By bus, board a Tabogon-bound bus from North Bus Terminal. The spring is along the main road before the town proper. By private vehicle: Navigate with Google Maps or Waze.
Durano Eco Farm and Spring Resort
Set in the quiet barangay of Corte in Carmen, Durano Eco Farm and Spring Resort is a relaxing stop about an hour’s drive north of Cebu City. Its spring-fed pools are spread across a hillside and shaded by trees, giving the space a laid-back, rural feel. The resort’s proximity to Cebu Safari makes it a convenient stop after a more active itinerary—but it works just as well as a day trip on its own.
Distance: 43km from Mandaue City Hours: Daily, 8am–5pm
Entrance: P100 (adults), P50 (children 9 and below)
Facilities: Picnic tables (P300), cottages (P1,000–P1,500), Tree House Room (P950 for 2 pax; P1,500 for 6 pax)
Food: No corkage; simple snacks and grilled fare available on weekends
Getting There: By bus or van, from Mandaue’s North Bus Terminal or SM City Cebu Van Terminal, head to Carmen Public Market. Take a habal- habal (motorcycle taxi) to the resort (P150–P250). By private vehicle: Use Waze or Google Map.
Take a Breather, Leave No Trace Cebu’s cold springs invite slow moments and cooler air—whether for a quick dip or a lingering pause under the trees. As you unwind, help keep these natural spots pristine: follow local guidelines, pack out what you pack in, and leave only ripples behind.