The 10 Best Beach Hotels in Cebu

Maribago Beach | Courtesy of Bluewater Maribago Resort

As a fully Filipino-owned property, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort offers Filipino-style hospitality, from the warmth of its staff to the smallest detail in each room. Rooms are fitted with capiz shell windows, rattan furniture, and other fixtures that use local materials. One of the first properties in Mactan Island, this resort has been around for the more than 30 years. It has a 110-meter private beach, a 1.1 hectare private island, and a wildlife lagoon. Family-friendly as well as perfect for honeymooners, Bluewater Maribago has a lagoon-style pool, five dining venues, a spa, ball game facilities, and aqua sports facilities.

Private beach | Courtesy of Mövenpick Mactan

Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu offers a Mediterranean-inspired luxury beach resort in Mactan Island. It’s just six kilometres from the airport. The Ibiza Cebu club is one of its highlights, along with its family-friendly amenities and facilities like kid’s club and babysitting services. Location-wise, this upscale beachfront hotel in Cebu lies close to top attractions and landmarks like Mactan Shrine, as well as shopping centers like Marina Mall and Mactan Newtown.

Truly Filipino-style accommodation | Courtesy of Kota Beach Resort

Directly facing the famous Kota Beach of Bantayan Island, Kota Beach Resort is one of the pioneers on the island, first opening their doors to guests in 1986. A long and wide beachfront with an iconic sandbar, Kota Beach Resort lets guests enjoy a pristine beach that are just a few steps from their Filipino-style cabins. Choose from budget-friendly non-aircon rooms to beachfront suites. The resort offers sports facilities, tours, massages, and a restaurant. Enjoy the clear blue waters of Bantayan and lounge by the beach with your favorite mango shake or coconut juice. Not to be missed is the beautiful sunset in Bantayan.

Your own private beach at Kandaya | Courtesy of Kandaya Resort

Enjoy a private escape to Kandaya Resort, located in Daanbantayan, the northernmost town in Cebu Island. A luxury property, Kandaya is a boutique resort with only 40 guestrooms, all fitted with amenities and facilities to impress discerning guests. Kandaya Resort also welcomes families with little kids – they have a playground, a garden, and offer childcare services. There is also an iconic outdoor pool and spa, and it’s close to local attractions and beaches.

Indulging villa | Courtesy of Badian Island Wellness Resort

Whether you’re a honeymooner, on a wellness retreat, or want to bring your children closer to nature, Badian Island Wellness Resort is for you. Located in southern Cebu, this resort has been around since 1982 and is a pioneer in the industry. The beachfront property covers eight hectares and has all the amenities and facilities that modern-day travelers need and want, including a health club, three bars (including a beachfront bar), restaurant, marina, outdoor pool, eight spa pools, and many water sports facilities. Rooms all have traditional Filipino design with modern in-room amenities.

White sand beach of Blanco Resort | Courtesy of Blanco Resort

This 10-room resort gets its name from the white-sand beach of Malapascua Island (blanco means ‘white’ in Spanish). It’s the perfect accommodation for those who yearn for privacy and a little solitude. The island of Malapascua is famous for diving and snorkeling. Rooms have private patios and sea views and all have a minimalist approach to decor. All guests also have access to two private beaches with great sunsets. Nearby attractions include the famous Bounty Beach and Logon Church.

Infinity pool with direct view of mainland Cebu | Courtesy of Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort

This historic island once protected the coastal towns of southern Cebu from pirate attacks. Now, Sumilon Island is one of Cebu’s most luxurious hotels. It’s a great place to spend a night or two when in Oslob. The island resort provides solace for those who want to enjoy downtime after a day of exploring southern Cebu. With only 27 rooms, personalized service is guaranteed. Bluewater Sumilon Island offers watersports facilities, tours, a spa, a restaurant, an infinity pool, a gift shop and a rooftop terrace.

Outdoor Wing Pool and beach | Courtesy of Shangri-la’s Mactan Resort & Spa

A consistent award-grabbing luxury property, one can’t forget Shangri-la’s Mactan Resort & Spa when talking about hotels in Cebu. From a hotel brand known for opulence, Shangri-la’s property in Cebu is the place to splurge. With a private beach that includes a fish sanctuary, kids will enjoy feeding the fish. There are a total of 530 guest rooms, including 30 suites, but the property is vast so it never feels cramped. Their full-service spa is one of the best in the Philippines. Indulge in a sunset cruise tour. Shangri-la Mactan also offers shuttle services, five restaurants, three bars/lounges, a kid’s club, and a health club.

Vast outdoor space of Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel | Courtesy of Hotels.com

Less than a 15 minute drive from the international airport is Costabella Tropical Beach Hotel, one of the first properties on the island. This property enjoys one of the best locations: it’s in front of the beach and close to key attractions in Mactan. There are a total of 156 rooms in six room types, from superior to suite. Some rooms have private terraces and deep-soaking baths. The whole property is inspired by Spanish colonial architecture, with hardwood, marble tiles, and hacienda-style fixtures. With its prime beachfront location, guests can enjoy the sun and sea or take a break in its two outdoor pools. There’s also a fitness room, two restaurants, a tapas bar, and a full-service spa.

Buena Vida Resort & Spa | Courtesy of Hotels.com

Get a dose of island vibe when you stay at Buena Vida Resort & Spa. It’s a small property so is very relaxing. Rooms are fitted with ample amenities like a mini bar and Wi-Fi, and have an open layout that includes a private terrace, complete with a sitting area and hammock. Buildings all have thatched roofs for an added island feel and a garden. Snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba facilities are available onsite, along with yoga classes. End your day with a good massage from the spa, which has a sauna and a spa tub.