Exploring Boljoon, Cebu's Must-Visit Spots

Hey there!

A major throwback to one of our adventures down south of Cebu many years ago. While cleaning my drive, I stumbled upon this treasure trove of pictures taken 5 years ago. Haha, I feel so old already.

Since I can't remember the specific itineraries we took, I'll just list all the spots we visited in the historic town of Boljoon.

BOLJOON, pronounced /bol·ho·on/, or Boljo-on by locals, is a 5th class municipality in the province of Cebu. It is located more than 100 kilometers from Cebu City, and the travel time by bus is about 3 hours or more, depending on the traffic.

Boljoon is one of my top destinations in Cebu due to its diverse offerings. From mountains to waterfalls, to its Instagram-worthy 18th-century Spanish-era structures, this charming coastal town ensures you'll never get bored during your visit.

If you happen to find yourself in this part of Cebu or are planning to visit the whale sharks in its famous neighboring town of Oslob, make sure to explore the idyllic and laid-back town of Boljoon. Here's my personal list of places to visit while you're in Boljoon, Cebu.

Eli Rock, also known as Ili Rock, is essentially a limestone mountain located alongside a curved road. The local government made the decision to carve the rock to prevent falling rocks during landslides. The limestone rock has been transformed into a sloped bench resembling large terraces, complete with concrete stairs consisting of 136 steps leading up the mountain. The summit remains flat, but there are potential development plans in the near future. [1]

Upon reaching the top of Ili Rock, you'll be greeted by panoramic views of the coastal scenery, where the vibrant green landscape meets the glistening sea. It's a moment of tranquility and awe, allowing you to establish a connection with nature and fully appreciate the wonders it has to offer.

Archdiocesan Shrine of Patrocinio de Maria Santisima was constructed by the Augustinian priests in 1783. Recognizing its historical significance, the church was designated as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute in 1999 and was listed as a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines in 2001. It is the sole church in Cebu listed as a National Cultural Treasure. [2]

This church is an ideal destination for tourists seeking to delve into its rich history. Moreover, it provides a captivating setting for photographers aiming to capture its remarkable interiors.

The Escuela Catolica was constructed in the 1940s by Spanish clergy to fulfill the religious requirements of the residents of Boljoon. Situated adjacent to the Patrocinio de Maria Santisima church, its old and classic design may give the impression of a haunted house.

Remarkably, this structure managed to withstand the ravages of World War 2 and has become one of the popular tourist attractions in Boljoon.

As a coastal town, Boljoon offers the opportunity to relish the sea right at one's doorstep. While it may not boast the same pristine beauty as Boracay, one can still appreciate the ocean for free, particularly in front of the church with a breathtaking view of the Eli Rock.

Ablayan Peak is situated on a mountain where the towns of Boljoon, Malabuyoc, and Oslob converge. It is specifically located in Brgy. San Antonio, Boljoon, Cebu. This peak serves as an excellent spot for camping, especially during the night, as it provides a stunning vista of the neighboring islands of Bohol and Negros.

This destination is family-friendly and easily accessible via a cemented road. However, it is not recommended to visit the peak during hot weather, as it is an open space with minimal tree coverage.

Dayhag Falls derived its name from the Bisaya phrase 'tubig nga nagdagayday sa bato,' which translates to 'water flowing over rock.' It is a multi-tiered waterfall, making it a perfect side-trip when visiting Ablayan Peak.

If you're seeking a connection with nature and a chance to witness the captivating beauty of waterfalls, Dayhag Falls in Boljoon, Cebu is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked. It provides a serene retreat where you can relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature's wonders.

Located at Sitio Ylaya, Brgy. Upper Becerril, Boljoon, Cebu, the rice terraces may not be as grand as the Banaue Rice Terraces, but its unique beauty will surely mesmerize you. It is also conveniently close to Dayhag Falls, allowing you to visit all three attractions in one trip. However, I recommend starting with the rice terraces, then proceeding to Ablayan Peak, and finally ending with the Dayhag Falls.

There is no entrance fee to access the rice terraces, but please take care not to damage the rice paddies.

All of these spots can be experienced in one day. There is still so much more to see and discover in Boljoon and the entire Cebu Island. Nature has truly blessed this island with limitless sights and activities. I am certain that I will return to Boljoon to once again experience its beauty. Until my next adventure!

---