Cebu is one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines, and for good reason. Home to hundreds of hidden waterfalls, pristine beaches, and diverse marine life, Cebu attracts travelers from all corners of the world. Although there are many ways to experience the island, my favorite is to stay at a beachfront hotel as a base for my adventures. And having lived and traveled in Cebu, I’ve found the best places to stay on the island. Read on to discover the 20 Best Beach Resorts in North Cebu!
My personal favorites are Kandaya Resort for its beachfront pool and Amihan Beach Cabanas for its island aesthetic and great location.
The 20 Best Beach Resorts in North Cebu
Northern Cebu is an often overlooked destination, but it shouldn’t be. World-class diving, island hopping, and some of the best beaches in the Philippines are all located in this region. I’ve rounded up the 20 best beach resorts in North Cebu for every type of traveler. I’ve organized the guide by region and price.
QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST BEACH RESORTS IN NORTH CEBU
Don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries, here are my 3 favorite beach resorts in North Cebu.
NORTH CEBU BEACH RESORTS COMPARISON TABLE
I’ve compiled the 20 best beach resorts in North Cebu below, with a table showing their location and nightly rates. These prices reflect the cost for a double room in the high season (December – April) and are subject to change. For the purposes of this guide, North Cebu encompasses the Northernmost tip of Cebu Island proper and the two islands Malapascua and Bantayan, located off its north coast.
| ACCOMMODATION | REGION | PRICE |
| Kandaya Resort | Mainland | $195 |
| J & C Beach Resort | Mainland | $180 |
| Cebu R Resort | Mainland | $135 |
| Golden Sands | Mainland | $120 |
| Hagnaya Beach Resort | Mainland | $105 |
| El Salvador Beach Resort | Mainland | $60 |
| Suba Beach Nipa Huts | Mainland | $14 |
| Blanco Beach Resort | Malapascua | $140 |
| Ocean Vida Resort | Malapascua | $110 |
| Malapascua Exotic | Malapascua | $110 |
| Tepanee Beach Resort | Malapascua | $100 |
| Buena Vida | Malapascua | $90 |
| Hippocampus Resort | Malapascua | $50 |
| Aabana Resort | Malapascua | $30 |
| Coral Blue | Bantayan | $130 |
| Amihan Beach Cabanas | Bantayan | $130 |
| Pearl of Santa Fe | Bantayan | $90 |
| Anika Island Resort | Bantayan | $80 |
| Marlin’s Beach Resort | Bantayan | $80 |
Best Beach Resorts in North Cebu: Mainland
Northern mainland Cebu is a popular destination for locals looking for a weekend escape, or international travelers en route to Malapascua and Bantayan. Located just a few hours north of the Philippines’ second largest international airport, this region is home to wide-open beaches and private getaways, perfect for quick island escape. The following are the best beach resorts in North Cebu’s mainland.
Kandaya Resort
Kandaya Resort is the top pick for a luxury beach resort in North Cebu. Activities on offer include horseback riding, tennis, paddle boarding, and snorkeling off the resort’s white sandy beach. Island hopping activities are available, as well as a spa and fitness center. If you find yourself near Daanbantayan, this is the luxury beach resort for you.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Kandaya Resort
Golden Sands Destination Resorts
Featuring both an expansive beachfront and a private lagoon, Golden Sands is a great luxury beach resort in Northern Cebu. Located near the Malapascua ferry terminal, it’s a great layover on your way to Malapascua. Be warned though, you may not want to leave.
Guests at Golden Sands can choose to stay in a lagoon-front villa, a beach bungalow, or a private pool villa. I recommend booking either the beachfront economy room or the 2-bedroom villa with a pool. As for amenities, guests can enjoy a complimentary English breakfast, resort pools, and a spa and fitness center. Free biking and kayaking are also available, as well as guided hikes.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Golden Sands
Cebu R Resort Tabuelan
Cebu R Resort is a well-designed, modern beach resort located in Tabuelan. Its proximity to the port makes it a great choice for travelers coming from Escalante, and it offers all the amenities you’d expect from a new beach resort. The superior villa comes equipped with your own private plunge pool and ocean views and is the perfect private getaway in North Cebu.
The highlight of this North Cebu beach resort is its private beach area and complimentary water sports. With luxe modern rooms, delicious food, and a private beach, it ticks every box at a reasonable price.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Cebu R Resort
El Salvador Beach Resort
El Salvador Beach Resort: If your definition of North Cebu is just north of Cebu City, this beach resort in Danao is an affordable option. A bit more of a tropical garden than a traditional beach resort, El Salvador offers a spa, swimming pool, Wifi, and impeccable service right on the water. It’s one of the few resorts located off the main highway leading out of Cebu City, and a great pick for those in transit, or wanting a convenient getaway from the City.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for El Salvador Beach Resort
Hagnaya Beach Resort and Restaurant
Hagnaya Beach Resort is a top pick for families. The pool includes kiddie water slides and a lifeguard on duty, and the grounds are home to lush palm trees and life-sized dinosaurs. Maybe not the most romantic getaway, but your kids will surely love it.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Hagnaya Beach Resort
Suba Beach Nipa Huts
Suba Beach Nipa Huts is my top pick for backpackers and adventurous travelers. These native-style cottages will make you feel like a true island local with the beach in your backyard. The ferry to Malapascua is also a short 5-minute drive away, so it’s a great layover destination. The showers and restrooms here are shared, however, but if you don’t mind that, this is a great budget beach resort in North Cebu.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Suba Beach Nipa Huts
J & C Beach Resort
Facing the beachfront in San Remigio, J & C Beach Resort is another affordable beach resort in North Cebu. The resort features an outdoor swimming pool and garden and offers an à la carte or Asian-style breakfast. This remote getaway is the last of my favorite beach resorts in Mainland North Cebu. In the next section, I’ll cover the best hotels on Malapascua Island.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for J & C Beach Resort
Best Beach Resorts in North Cebu: Malapascua Island
One of the world’s premier dive locations, no ocean lover’s trip to the Philippines is complete without a visit to Malapascua Island. Experience its famous Thresher Shark dives, white sandy beaches, and idyllic island vibes from one of the great beach resorts below. The following are the best beach resorts in North Cebu: Malapascua Island.
Blanco Beach Resort
Blanco Beach Resort is a boutique family-owned property located just 100m from Logon Beach. Surrounded by water on both sides and a convenient walk from both the port and great dining, this is my number one choice for luxury beach resorts in Malapascua. There are a few flights of stairs to get around the property, however, so if you need handicap accessibility, this may not be for you.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Blanco Beach Resort
Ocean Vida Resort
Ocean Vida Resort is a conveniently located resort right on Bounty Beach. It’s close to the ferry and the dive shops, making it a convenient stay for ocean enthusiasts. The hotel also has a great restaurant with bean bags right on the beach, an ideal place to relax after dives. Ocean Vida’s sister property (Buena Vida) also offers yoga classes and massages that can’t be missed. The only thing better than their location is their top-notch service. It’s one of my favorite beach resorts in North Cebu.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Ocean Vida Resort
Tepanee Beach Resort
Tepanee Beach Resort is a private beach getaway with colorful accommodations and rustic bamboo-frame beds. You’ll find beach beds and umbrellas on the resort’s private beach, and you can book scuba diving, snorkeling, and island hopping tours in-house. It’s a peaceful and relaxing resort to enjoy your time on Malapascua, and a cozy choice for best beach resorts in Malapascua.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Tepanee Beach Resort
Malapascua Exotic Island Resort
Malapascua Exotic Island Resort is an excellent option if you want to spend your time on Malapascua scuba diving. The divemasters and hotel staff are extremely friendly and welcoming, with years of experience in the water. This were the first dive resort on the island and pioneered the Thresher Shark dives. In my opinion, it’s the best beach resort in North Cebu for scuba divers.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Malapascua Exotic
Buena Vida Resort and Spa
The sister property of Ocean Vida, Buena Vida is your wellness getaway in North Cebu. Rest and recharge with invigorating yoga classes and amazing massages. Spend an evening tucked away in the jacuzzi, or join the nightlife scene at Ocean Vida a few minutes walk away. If you want a quiet, relaxing resort in Malapascua that’s still close to the action, this is your best bet. It’s the best beach resort in North Cebu for those seeking a relaxing retreat.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Buena Vida
Aabana Beach & Watersport Resort
Aabana Resort sits at the secluded end of Bounty Beach, and makes for a serene stay in Malapascua. Enjoying a quiet location that’s still only a 10-15 minute walk to the ferry port and the lineup of restaurants, Aabana is both peaceful and convenient. Highlights include the complimentary breakfast, beach hammocks, and native-style accommodation. The staff here are very welcoming and can help arrange diving, give restaurant recommendations, or arrange private transfers. Its one of the best affordable beach resorts in North Cebu.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Aabana Beach
Hippocampus Beach Resort
Hippocampus Beach Resort is great place to stay in Malapascua Island if you’re interested in water sports. This beach resort has an in-house scuba diving school, as well as a kite-surfing school. Guests love the prime beachfront location, comfortable rooms, and lively bar (the best on the island). The great service here is another reason this beachfront resort tops many “where to stay in Malapascua” lists. For active travelers, I’d rate Hippocampus as the best beach resort in North Cebu.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Hippocampus
Best Beach Resorts in North Cebu: Bantayan
Bantayan is known for having some of the best white-sand beaches and island hopping in the Philippines. Reminiscent of Boracay before the crowds, take an island-hopping trip to Virgin or Hilantagan Island, or watch the sunset at Paradise Beach. Either way, you’ll enjoy the natural beauty of the Philippines without the tourist traffic of other postcard places. If you want to enjoy the island in the best way possible, the following are the best beach resorts in North Cebu: Bantayan.
Amihan Beach Cabanas
One of my top picks for the best beach resorts in North Cebu, Amihan Beach Cabanas has it all. Stunning turquoise waters, cocktails on the beach, beautiful decor, and a convenient location without sacrificing privacy. If you’re looking for the most idyllic resort in Bantayan, look no further.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Amihan Beach Cabanas
Coral Blue Oriental Villas and Suites
Coral Blue is one of the few luxury beach resorts in Bantayan. With only 18 bamboo cottages, it offers an intimate experience for its lucky guests. The entire property is designed in a rustic island style and is located on a private stretch of sand. The result? You’ll be feeling castaway in the best way possible.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Coral Blue
Marlin’s Beach Resort
Marlin’s Beach Resort combines a great location, welcoming staff, and good food. Located on the white sands of Santa Fe Beach, the lively MJ Square and its restaurants and bars are just a short walk away. The staff here will be more than happy to arrange your island-hopping excursions and help you make the most of your time in Bantayan.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Marlin’s Beach Resort
Anika Island Resort
Anika Island Resort sits on one of the best white sandy beaches in North Cebu and has a unique eco-conscious setup. Each of its 40 units is built from a recycled container van. The resort also has a great pool, welcoming staff, and affordable food options. It’s one of the best beach resorts in North Cebu for eco-conscious travelers.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Anika Island Resort
Pearl of Santa Fe
If you prefer staying at a serviced apartment versus a proper beach resort, the Pearl of Santa Fe is a great option. These three-bedroom units feature a fully equipped kitchen and stunning sea views. Perfect for large groups or families who prefer to cook, the size of the apartments provide great value. Guests can enjoy swimming at the quiet beach just below the property, or have the staff arrange diving tours and excursions.
Click Here to check the current rates and availability for Pearl of Santa Fe
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT NORTH CEBU BEACHES
- Variety of Beaches: North Cebu’s coast offers a range of beach experiences, from white sandy beaches to rocky shores and secluded coves. Popular beaches include Bantayan Island with its powdery white sands and clear waters, and Malapascua Island, renowned for its diving spots.
- Diving and Snorkeling: North Cebu is a diver’s paradise, particularly Malapascua Island, which is known for its thresher shark sightings. Other sites feature beautiful coral gardens, underwater caves, and a diverse array of marine life.
- Fishing Villages and Local Culture: Many beaches in North Cebu are close to local fishing villages, where visitors can get a glimpse of the traditional way of life. Seafood is a staple in these areas, with many eateries offering fresh catch of the day.
- Festivals and Events: North Cebu hosts several beach-related festivals and events. The Kadaugan sa Mactan in Lapu-Lapu City is one such event, which is a historical reenactment of the Battle of Mactan that takes place annually in April.
- Travel and Accommodation: Accessibility to North Cebu’s beaches varies, with more remote beaches requiring a combination of land and sea travel. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to upscale resorts.
- Responsible Tourism: Visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism. This includes respecting local customs, not littering, and preserving marine life by not touching corals or other marine creatures while diving or snorkeling.
North Cebu’s beaches are a must-visit for anyone looking for a tropical getaway that combines natural beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Conclusion: Best Beach Resorts in North Cebu
That’s my round-up of the best Beach Resorts in North Cebu. Whether you’re planning a luxury getaway or an affordable island-hopping adventure, I hope this guide helped pick the best beach resort in North Cebu for you!
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MY ACCOMMODATION GUIDES FOR THE PHILIPPINES
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