Oslob Whale Shark + Sumilon Island Private Tour
From PHP 4,500/pax (based on 4 guests)
Quick answer: Lunar New Year 2027 falls on Saturday, February 6. Taiwan's break runs about February 5 to 10, and Korea's Seollal holiday runs February 6 to 9. February is dry in Cebu with the clearest water of the year, which suits whale sharks, Moalboal and island hopping. Flights from Taipei, Seoul and Busan fill first, so book flights 2 to 3 months ahead and private tours 4 to 6 weeks ahead.
Lunar New Year 2027 dates
| Country | Holiday dates | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Taiwan | Fri Feb 5 to Wed Feb 10, 2027 | Lunar New Year Eve Feb 5, makeup holidays Feb 9 and 10 |
| South Korea | Sat Feb 6 to Tue Feb 9, 2027 | Seollal Sunday Feb 7 |
| Philippines | Sat Feb 6, 2027 | Chinese New Year, expected special non-working day |
Taiwan also has a Peace Memorial long weekend from February 27 to March 1, 2027, a quieter second chance for a short Cebu trip.
Chinese New Year in Cebu
Cebu has an old Chinese Filipino community, and the city marks the new year with lion dances, red lanterns and fireworks. The Taoist Temple in Beverly Hills draws visitors who light incense for luck, and malls hold dragon and lion dance shows over the weekend.
Our Cebu City and uplands tour includes the Taoist Temple on its flexible route, so you see the celebrations without planning the route yourself.
February weather
February is one of the driest months, with highs near 30 degrees Celsius and cool mornings. Seas are calm, and underwater visibility at Moalboal and Oslob is among the best of the year.
A 5-day Lunar New Year plan
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| Feb 5 | Fly in, Mactan resort or city dinner |
| Feb 6 | Cebu City tour with the Taoist Temple on Lunar New Year Day |
| Feb 7 | Oslob whale sharks and Sumilon sandbar |
| Feb 8 | Bohol day trip: Chocolate Hills, tarsiers and Loboc River |
| Feb 9 | Mactan island hopping, evening flight home |
Booking tips for travelers from Taiwan and Korea
- Book flights 2 to 3 months ahead. Direct flights from Taipei, Seoul and Busan sell out first.
- Register on eTravel within 72 hours of your flight. Our arrival guide walks you through it.
- Book a private tour 4 to 6 weeks ahead to secure your preferred date.
- Bring some cash in pesos. Card payments are rare at Oslob and small resorts.
Private tours for this trip
Prices below come from the same live calculator as the booking page. Exact totals depend on your date, guest count and pickup area.
Related guides
Private tours · Hotel pickup · Pay after confirmation
Plan your Lunar New Year trip
Send your flight dates and group size. We plan the tour order around the holiday and hold your dates.
Lunar New Year in Cebu FAQ
When is Lunar New Year 2027?
Saturday, February 6, 2027. Taiwan's break runs about February 5 to 10, and Korea's Seollal holiday runs February 6 to 9.
Is February a good time to visit Cebu?
Yes. It is dry season with calm, clear water, one of the best months for whale sharks, snorkeling and island hopping.
Is Chinese New Year a holiday in the Philippines?
It is expected to be. Chinese New Year is usually declared a special non-working day. Check the official proclamation closer to the date. Tours, malls and restaurants stay open.
How long is the flight to Cebu from Taiwan or Korea?
About 2.5 hours direct from Taipei and about 4 to 4.5 hours from Seoul or Busan.
