With over 7,000 islands in the Philippines, the lovely Cebu City is considered one of the most popular tourist spots in the country. Dubbed the Queen City of the South, this city offers a lot of fun activities. From exploring historic sites to taking part in the ever-famous Sinulog Festival, a religious festival that happens every January, Cebu City promises an unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.
Besides the vibrant festivals and delicious food, another thing that this city is known for is its beautiful, pristine beaches. This is why there are a lot of great hotels and gorgeous beach resorts where you can blissfully stay in and get your money’s worth. Check out our list of the best beach resorts near Cebu City, Philippines.
Popular picks in Cebu City
As the oldest city in the Philippines, Cebu City offers many unique attractions and historic monuments that you probably won’t find anywhere else. Here are a few of the most important landmarks in the city:
Basílica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu: As the oldest church in the Philippines, it’s not surprising that the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu has many traditions and customs that have become iconic parts of Cebu City. None are perhaps as popular as the Fiesta Señor, which is connected to the popular Sinulog Festival.
Fort San Pedro: An important element of the colonial history of Cebu City, Fort San Pedro was established by Miguel López de Legazpi in his effort to fortify the budding Spanish colony. Today, the structure is home to a museum and historical park. If you have the necessary permissions, you can even conduct weddings here!
Magellan’s Cross: As someone who loves exploring cultures, I’d definitely add Magellan’s Cross to my itinerary. It is a symbol of the advent of Christianity to the Philippines and was planted by Ferdinand Magellan’s expedition in 1521. The original cross is believed to be encased in the present wooden cross to protect the relic inside.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 13, 2024.
Beach life in and near Cebu City, Philippines
Although it’s a coastal city, Cebu City is remarkably lacking in beaches, and many of the popular ones on the nearby Mactan Island are part of resort complexes such as Shangri-La Mactan. However, if you don’t mind traveling a bit out of your way from Cebu City, great beach options will open up. Pandanon Island is one such popular day trip destination from Cebu and is known for Pandanon Beach, a great spot to relax and soak in the sun. The beach is a little more than an hour’s boat ride from Mactan.
Seafood is a huge part of Cebu City and what specifically interests me, and is perhaps the city’s most iconic culinary tradition, is SuTuKil, a portmanteau of the local words sugba (meaning grill), tuwa (meaning stew), and kinilaw (meaning marinated raw fish). As the name suggests, popular restaurants that specialize in the cuisine serve fish three ways, and you can head to STK ta Bay! for the best of SuTuKil.
It would be best to visit Cebu City in the dry season, which extends from December to May, to get the most out of the beaches in the area.
Beach resorts near Cebu City, Philippines
1. Plantation Bay Resort and Spa (from USD 194)
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience where the perfect blend of ambience, top-notch amenities, and unparalleled hospitality await you. Come and indulge in all of these at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa. For booking assistance: : 505 9800 : 0917 631 3750 #plantationbayresort #ParadiseFound
Posted by Plantation Bay Resort & Spa on Monday, February 26, 2024
With 11 hectares (27 acres) of grounds and one of the biggest privately owned waterways, you will definitely be spoilt for choices here at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa. This beloved resort offers world-class services which include free Wi-Fi and a concierge. Plus, they also offer scheduled and free airport transfers to the guests!
Rooms at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa are spacious and luxurious, thanks to their simple yet elegant furnishings. All rooms have air conditioners, cable TV, and a safe to keep your prized possessions secure. For outdoor adventures, you can enjoy swimming, jet skiing, parasailing, and even water sliding in the freshwater pool.
If you want to break a sweat, you can go golfing on the nearby courts, play tennis, or work out in the gym. The concierge can also arrange an island tour for you. I would also love to explore the nearby Mactan Shrine, situated within a 30-minute drive from the resort, so that I can get to know more about the city’s culture.
- What's special: The giant pool and lagoon are sure to leave guests delighted, and sections of the waterbodies have artificial beaches built up for a fun experience.
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers and watersports facilities.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Water's Edge Room is great for couples and opens out into the lagoon. If you're vacationing with a group, it would be best to choose the Quantum Villa with four bedrooms.
- Activities/tours: The on-site dive center offers single dives (even at night), dive packages, and dive courses. Watersports, archery, wall-climbing, children's activities, and more are provided here. The resort can even arrange day trips and excursions.
- Ideal for: The resort is ideal for any crowd, be it couples, families, or friend groups, with its many activities and family-friendly atmosphere.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Beautiful design of the structures, pools, landscaping. The pools and beach area felt safe and the beach was good - clean, just the right depth and decent and did not have too much seaweed; was good for snorkeling, lots of fish in the clear waters..." - Ma (Philippines)
Plantation Bay Resort and Spa
Address: Barangay Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu
5.45 km (3.4 mi) from Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant - Cordova
2. Solea Mactan Resort (from USD 84)
The search for the best resort ends here, come to where the bright days are. From the beach, brunch, and bar - #SoleaMactan is definitely the resort for infinite adventures! Book your summer getaway thru: (032) 517-8889 reservations@soleahotels.com www.soleahotels.com #ItsAlwaysSunnyInSolea
Posted by Solea Mactan Cebu Resort on Thursday, August 10, 2023
If you want a totally different getaway, then this place is for you! Solea Mactan Resort is famous for its saltwater outdoor infinity pool which you can use at any time. At the resort, you can chill by the poolside, have fun at the waterslides, work out at the fitness center, head to the game room, or visit the private beach area.
You can complete your relaxing vacation in their comfortable, air-conditioned rooms which come with a private bathroom, minibar, flat-screen cable TV, a safe, and free toiletries. While you can enjoy the view of the sea, other rooms also offer pool or garden views.
- What's special: Besides the large pool, the resort offers a waterpark and adventure zone that are favorites with guests.
- Beach amenities: Beach bar and sun loungers.
- Suggested room/unit: Opt for the Solea Suite for a luxurious experience and great views.
- Activities/tours: Lots of activities such as badminton, basketball, kayaking, volleyball, and football await guests here. The children will have fun at Happy Pebbles Club, and if adults want to relax indoors, they can head to the game room.
- Ideal for: With its many child-friendly activities, the resort guarantees a fun family vacation. Groups can also have plenty of fun with thrilling sports such as basketball and kayaking. With the on-site spa and the resort's romantic ambiance, couples can also have a great time.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Easy access to the beach with a well cordoned large swimming area in the calm sea..." - Eng (Malaysia)
Solea Mactan Resort
Address: Wahing Street, Barangay Alegria, Cordova, Cebu
2.89 km (1.8 mi) from Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant - Cordova
Cebu City Tour Guide
Alp Asa
I was a former concierge staff of one of the prestigious hotels in Cebu. I had a training in Tour Guiding from the DOT (Department of Tourism). With my experience for over 10 years in hospitality industry and with the training I had from DOT. Hence, gives me the passion to show my city, neighboring islands and the cultures to my visitors. This is to ensure them for a Memorable, Priceless visit ... Read more
3. Solea Seaview Resort (from USD 122)
Reasonable pricing for a beachfront location with ample activities for kids.
Multiple pools, beach activities, and ongoing renovations to improve accommodations.
Beachfront with stunning ocean views, though a bit far from the airport.
Delicious and varied buffet breakfast, generous food portions, and reasonably priced menu.
Located in Cordova, Solea Seaview Resort is just 15.2 km (9.4 mi) from the airport so you won’t have to travel too far. Plus, this gorgeous beach resort has everything that you could ever want in a relaxing getaway.
The rooms in this resort are air conditioned, and guests have access to a TV, a refrigerator, spring beds, an electric kettle, and a private bathroom. This family-friendly hotel has a big outdoor pool so both parents and kids can have fun under the sun. After spending the day outdoors, you can head to one of the resort’s on-site restaurants. You can then head back to your room and take in the panoramic sea views from the balcony.
- What's special: The on-site Nouveau Spa offers oil massages, facial and body scrubs, dry massages, and body wraps, ensuring that you have a rejuvenating vacation.
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers and beach bar.
- Activities/tours: The property offers many options if you want to relax indoors such as billiards, karaoke, table tennis, darts, and board games. If you want to be outdoors, you can go kayaking or indulge in a game of football.
- Ideal for: Families will have a fun time here with the child-friendly activities available.
Solea Seaview Resort
Address: Wahing Street, Barangay Alegria, Cordova, Cebu
2.95 km (1.9 mi) from Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant - Cordova
4. Pacific Cebu Resort (from USD 59)
It"s more fun in Pacific Cebu ResortFun and Leisure begins here . Pacific Cebu Resort offers a warm atmosphere , providing hotel guests good quality of services and a broad range of amenities. With a view of the beach and lush greenery, the resort's room reflects peacefulness that is an ideal place for relaxation for you and your family. #anislandparadise #pacificceburesort #safestay
Posted by Pacific Cebu Resort on Thursday, May 27, 2021
Pacific Cebu Resort is an ideal place for anyone. Whether you’re on vacation with your loved one, a group of friends, or family, this beach resort has something to offer to its guests. It is about 6.2 km (3.9 mi) from the airport, so the commute won’t take too long.
Some rooms have living rooms and balconies with sea or garden views. If you book a villa, you can also enjoy their hot tubs, outdoor pools, and free parking. For those who did not bring a car, you can take advantage of airport transfers for an additional fee.
- What's special: The infinity pool that fronts the sea is sure to be your favorite spot to relax.
- Beach access: Private
- Beach amenities: Sun loungers, parasols, and watersports facilities.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Deluxe Ocean View Room is great for couples. If you're traveling with your family, you can opt for the Family Suite.
- Activities/tours: Dive packages and watersports facilities are offered here. You can also go snorkeling and fishing for an additional charge.
- Ideal for: With kids' meals and a children's club, the resort ensures a delightful time for families.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "The beach is built, and sea is still, as the water is contained behind a sea wall, but you can walk out on a long pier out to the sea to go scuba diving or swimming, if you want to." - Rebekah Clemison
Pacific Cebu Resort
Address: Suba-basbas, Lapu-lapu City, Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines, 6015
4.31 km (2.7 mi) from Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant - Cordova
5. Cordova Reef Village Resort
Cordova Reef Village ResortTired of over-crowded places? Looking for a perfect place for your next vacation? In desperate need to take a break from your busy life? If YES, then visit CORDOVA REEF VILLAGE RESORT and become one with nature. Take a dip in our pool, engage in our water activities, unwind by the ocean, chill by the bar, relax in the spa, satisfy your palate by the well-prepared dishes, and stay at our African-themed villas with complete facilities. What are you waiting for? Fulfill your #travelgoals as you bask yourself in luxury, serenity, and elegance. Cordova Reef Village Resort: Where fulfillment lies in privacy and elegance. #SerenityInParadise #LeisureTravel #ILoveCebu #ItsMoreFunInthePhilippines #WowPhilippines #ExperienceCebu
Posted by Cordova Reef Village Resort on Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Cordova Reef Village Resort gives a welcome oasis in the city. Guests have the luxury to enjoy the resort’s amenities and facilities including a fitness center, direct access to the private beach, a spa, a swimming pool, and a poolside bar.
Once you’ve enjoyed the facilities, you can head back to your room with an air conditioner. Guests also have a refrigerator with complimentary bottled water, a minibar, and a bathroom with free toiletries. Some rooms also have gorgeous views of the pool, ocean, or garden.
- What's special: The 808-square-meter (8,697.23-square-foot) pool lets you take long laps and ensures that the waters don't get too crowded.
- Beach amenities: Watersports facilities, sun loungers, and parasols.
- Suggested room/unit: The Deluxe Pool Villa allows you easy access to the water and can house groups.
- Activities/tours: The property organizes scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, fishing, sunset cruises, and island-hopping trips, so you won't ever get bored here. If you want to take it easy, go for a game of beach volleyball or table tennis.
- Ideal for: With the resort's many activities and large accommodations, groups will have a fun time here.
Cordova Reef Village Resort
Address: Sitio Bantayan Poblacion, Cordova, Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines, 6701
2.16 km (1.4 mi) from Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant - Cordova
Explore the beautiful Cebu City
There are different ways to experience the beauty of Cebu City, and among those is to go for a visit to its scenic beaches. Cebu City’s shores are important to its identity as a city, and I wouldn’t miss the chance to explore all its intricacies. The best way to top off your experience in Cebu is a stay at the best beach resorts in Cebu City, Philippines.
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