Cebu is one of the Philippines’ most captivating provinces, offering an incredible mix of natural wonders and cultural experiences. From swimming with majestic whale sharks in Oslob to witnessing the mesmerizing sardine run in Moalboal, Cebu’s attractions are a bucket list staple for adventure seekers. This vibrant island province is also rich in history, offering a blend of modernity and tradition.
On the eastern side of Cebu lies Mactan Island, a destination that offers a more laid-back coastal charm. Known for its luxurious resorts, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Mactan serves as the perfect gateway for relaxation. One standout accommodation here is Shangri-La Mactan, a premier staycation destination that blends comfort, elegance, and endless activities. The Shangri-La in Mactan is one of the island’s highest-rated beach resorts. This comes as no surprise, as the Shangri-La network is renowned for its exceptional service and luxurious settings. While it is one of the most expensive resorts in Mactan, it offers an all-inclusive experience like nowhere else. Attention to detail is exceptional, and the professional, friendly staff go above and beyond to please guests. While the resort’s vastness may limit personal attention, the extensive facilities and variety of activities more than compensate for it. Though the design feels somewhat dated compared to other Shangri-La properties like Shangri-La Boracay, renovations could easily restore its potential to be a standout luxury destination. Thoughtful touches, like offering watermelon slices to guests on hot days, further elevate the experience. Throughout the resort, staff exude warmth and professionalism.
Nestled on the picturesque island of Mactan in Cebu, Philippines, Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu offers a luxurious tropical retreat for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Set amidst 13 hectares of lush greenery and landscaped gardens, the resort boasts a 350-meter white-sand beach, providing guests with a serene beachfront sanctuary.
The resort features 541 spacious guest rooms and suites, each designed with resort charm and touches of Filipino tradition. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, with seven restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences that cater to every palate.
Conveniently located in Lapu-Lapu City, which is connected to the main island of Cebu by several bridges, Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu serves as an ideal base for exploring the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Cebu. The province is renowned for its natural beaches, sweet mangoes, rattan and buri furniture, guitars, and costume jewelry. Whether it’s unwinding at the resort’s private beach, indulging in spa treatments, or embarking on island-hopping adventures, guests are sure to create lasting memories in this tropical paradise.
Check-in Experience
Upon arrival at Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu, guests are greeted by the resort’s attentive and experienced staff, ensuring a seamless check-in process. The warm Filipino hospitality sets the tone for a memorable stay, as guests are escorted to their accommodations and provided with all necessary information about the resort’s facilities and services.
Our Room
The room exudes a cozy atmosphere, blending neutral tones like beige, white, and wood accents. Its spacious layout is complemented by large windows that invite ample natural light, enhancing the bright and airy feel. The ceiling features recessed lighting, contributing to the room’s clean and minimalist aesthetic, while the walls are painted in a soft, neutral shade that promotes relaxation. Most of the lighting in the room can be controlled from the bedside, so you won’t have to leave the comfort of your bed to switch them off at night. This thoughtful feature adds convenience, especially after a long day.
At the heart of the room is a centrally placed bed adorned with plush white linens and a cushioned headboard. Beside the bed, a wooden side table stands next to a wall-mounted lamp, providing both convenience and warmth. Near the window, a comfortable seating area with a chair and small table offers a cozy spot for relaxation or enjoying the view. This space is perfect for reading a book or playing games on your smartphone to unwind. A wall-mounted TV is positioned opposite the bed, stocked with a variety of local and international satellite-TV channels for diverse entertainment options.
For guests who need to catch up on work, a large working desk is provided, ideal for digital nomads and busy travelers. The Wi-Fi connection is stable and reliable, ensuring seamless connectivity. An iron and ironing board are also available in the room, which is especially useful for refreshing wrinkled clothes after unpacking. This thoughtful addition is often overlooked in some accommodations but proves essential when you need to look your best.
The refreshment area is equipped with a minibar alongside instant coffee and teabags, allowing guests to enjoy a warm drink without leaving the room. Storage solutions include a spacious wardrobe with sliding doors, ideal for organizing clothing and personal belongings.
Culinary Delights at Shangri-La Mactan
Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa in Cebu offers an impressive array of dining options, ensuring guests can savor diverse cuisines from around the world. From authentic Filipino dishes to international buffets and fresh seafood, the resort’s seven dining establishments provide a rich variety of flavors and experiences. During our stay, we had the opportunity to dine at Tides, but the resort offers much more for those eager to explore.
Tea of Spring
For those craving authentic Chinese cuisine, Tea of Spring offers a refined Cantonese dining experience. The menu features contemporary Chinese dishes enhanced with traditional ingredients such as tea and herbs, promoting a sense of well-being. Guests can also enjoy an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas and Chinese wines. Dim sum is served daily, making it an excellent option for a satisfying lunch.
Acqua
Acqua presents authentic Italian dishes with a creative twist. Diners can indulge in fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Every dish is crafted using high-quality ingredients, blending Italian culinary traditions with modern innovations. Acqua’s open-air seating by the Ocean Wing pool is ideal for sunny lunches, while its cozy indoor space offers a warm ambiance for evening dining.
Cowrie Cove Seafood Bar & Grill
For seafood lovers, Cowrie Cove offers an exceptional dining experience. Using locally sourced ingredients, signature dishes like Charred Wagyu, Tuna Kinilaw, and Burnt Octopus End deliver bold and exciting flavors. The open-air setting with picturesque views of the sea adds to the restaurant’s charm, providing a memorable dining experience.
Buko Bar
Located poolside, Buko Bar offers a relaxed setting for enjoying light refreshments, sandwiches, and pizzas. Guests can also sample Filipino favorites such as Bibingka, Lechon Baboy, and Halo-Halo, providing a delicious taste of local heritage.
Breeze
Perfect for casual beachside dining, Breeze offers a variety of finger foods, fresh greens, and refreshing beverages. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying light snacks and cold drinks while soaking up the sun.
Tides
During our stay, we dined at Tides, which features an extensive international buffet with themed stations showcasing flavors from across the globe. Its lively market-style atmosphere is complemented by open kitchens and the enticing aromas of sizzling dishes. Tides also offers a full buffet breakfast from 6:00 AM to 10:30 AM, with a crowd forecast sheet to help guests plan their visit during less busy hours.
The Lobby Lounge
Overlooking the pool and tropical gardens, The Lobby Lounge offers a relaxing space to unwind with refreshing drinks and light bites in a serene setting.
Manila Creamery
For those looking to cool off, Manila Creamery offers delightful gelato within the resort. Guests can enjoy a range of flavors, perfect for a sweet and refreshing treat after a day spent under the sun.
With its diverse dining options and welcoming ambiance, Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa ensures every meal becomes a memorable experience for guests seeking both comfort and culinary adventure.
Activities to do at Shangri-La Mactan
Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu offers an extensive range of facilities and amenities designed to enhance guests’ comfort and enjoyment. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, fitness, or family-friendly entertainment, the resort provides an array of options to suit various preferences.
Chi, The Spa
For ultimate relaxation, Chi, The Spa offers a serene retreat surrounded by lush gardens. Inspired by traditional Asian healing philosophies, the spa provides treatments that focus on restoring balance and harmony. Guests can enjoy massages, body scrubs, and facials designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. Private villas within the spa area ensure a tranquil and personalized experience. During our stay, we indulged in a relaxing massage at Chi, and it was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the beach.
Swimming Pools
The resort features two swimming pools set within 13 hectares of landscaped gardens. The Main Wing pool offers a lively Aquaplay area and an exciting water slide, making it a popular spot for families with children. For a quieter experience, the Ocean Wing pool provides a more serene setting. Guests can also enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks from the poolside Buko Bar. While exploring the pool area under the hot sun, I was pleasantly surprised by the exceptional service. The friendly staff went above and beyond by offering guests refreshing fruit slices to help cool off, adding an extra touch of comfort to the experience.
Fitness Center
The fully equipped fitness center offers modern cardio and strength-training equipment, providing guests with ample workout options. Yoga sessions and group fitness classes are also available for those seeking guided routines. Personal trainers can be arranged for customized workout plans.
Adventure Zone
Perfect for families traveling with children, the Adventure Zone is an indoor play area that features slides, climbing walls, and interactive games. Designed with safety in mind, this facility offers a secure environment where kids can play and socialize.
E-Zone
The E-Zone is a dedicated entertainment space featuring arcade games, billiards, and various activities for teens and young adults. It’s an ideal spot for friendly competitions and casual fun.
Outdoor Adventures
For those seeking adventure, the resort offers exciting activities such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, windsurfing, sailing, and deep-sea fishing. While we didn’t participate in the diving activities, we brought our own freediving gear and explored the marine life right off the resort’s beach area. During our underwater exploration, we even spotted milkfish, locally known as “bangus,” which was surprising to learn can thrive in saltwater. We also enjoyed paddle boarding during our stay, adding another layer of fun to our beach experience.
Whether your plans include family adventures, rejuvenation, or complete relaxation, Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu offers a diverse range of activities both on land and in the water, ensuring a memorable experience for every guest.
Overall
Our stay at Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu, was nothing short of exceptional. The resort itself feels like a destination on its own, offering a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation. If you’re planning to stay in and unwind, there’s no better resort on the island of Cebu.
Shangri-La Mactan stands out for its ability to deliver both comfort and adventure. The private beach and marine sanctuary left a lasting impression during our visit. We spent countless hours by the beachfront, sipping refreshing drinks from the Breeze Bar while listening to the soothing sound of the waves. It was the perfect spot to unwind and embrace the island vibe.
Exploring the marine life while freediving was an unforgettable experience, and spotting milkfish, locally known as “bangus,” was a surprising highlight. Learning that these fish can thrive in saltwater added a unique twist to our underwater adventure. We also tried kayaking, which provided a peaceful way to enjoy the clear waters and coastal views. Unfortunately, parasailing and jet ski activities were fully booked during our visit, but the variety of available activities still ensured we had plenty to enjoy.
During our visit, we also indulged in the Traditional Philippine Hilot Massage at Chi, The Spa. The experience was incredibly relaxing — no wonder bookings at the spa fill up quickly. If you plan to visit, we recommend reserving your treatments and activities early to secure your preferred schedule.
The resort also boasts a spacious swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing afternoon dip. Whether lounging poolside or exploring the beachfront, the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere made our stay truly memorable.
The resort’s seamless service, world-class amenities, and wide array of activities ensure that every guest’s stay is unforgettable. While some facilities could benefit from updates, the thoughtful details and overall quality of the experience make Shangri-La Mactan a top-notch destination.
With so many exciting activities available, there’s always something to look forward to, and we can’t wait to return and try out even more of what the resort has to offer. While Shangri-La Mactan excels in service, with an incredibly friendly staff who consistently provide top-notch service, I can’t help but compare it to Shangri-La Boracay, which personally feels more luxurious with a distinct tropical vibe. Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu, does feel a bit outdated in comparison, but the exceptional service more than makes up for it.
Would I Recommend this Hotel?
Absolutely! Shangri-La Mactan is a must-visit for those seeking a luxurious staycation in Cebu. Whether you’re a family looking for fun-filled activities, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a solo traveler craving peace and relaxation, this resort has something for everyone. Its proximity to Mactan-Cebu International Airport adds convenience, making it an ideal choice for both local and international tourists. While some facilities may benefit from updates, the resort’s seamless service, world-class amenities, and diverse activities ensure an unforgettable experience for every guest.
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