An upmarket beachfront resort situated 8 km away from Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
Summary of reviews
Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu is the perfect place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The private beach is fantastic with abundant fish and the hotel's grounds are impressive with postcard-worthy panoramic views. The hotel is close to the airport but still far enough from the city center and malls. The breakfast buffet is a must-try with a huge selection of options available and exquisite views of the ocean. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful with excellent customer service skills. The spa is an experience not to be missed with exceptional treatment rooms and facilities. Families would love this one-stop destination with a wide range of activities provided. The hotel offers a fantastic holiday experience and is the perfect place to enjoy Mactan. Overall, Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu is a luxurious vacation destination that offers high-end living at a reasonable price.
Plantation Bay a Real Resort with a Real Spa is highly praised as a tranquil oasis in Cebu, perfect for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The resort's location offers a peaceful retreat with exceptional views and a serene ambiance, enhanced by its car-free environment and beautiful sunsets. Guests appreciate the clean, well-maintained facilities, a variety of pools, and numerous dining options, making it a delightful destination for families and relaxation seekers. Although it is set away from the bustling city center, the resort's all-encompassing amenities and proximity to the airport ensure a convenient and peaceful vacation experience.
Breakfast at the resort is generally well-received, featuring a variety of global cuisines and an abundant buffet that includes fresh fruits, bread, and pastries. While some guests noted issues such as cold food items and limited vegetarian options, the accommodating nature of the staff enhances the overall breakfast experience. Dinner draws mixed impressions, with Fuji restaurant particularly standing out for its exceptional dishes, though some guests find the dining options repetitive and expensive. However, select à la carte dining experiences are appreciated for their culinary appeal.
The accommodations at Plantation Bay are characterized by spacious, comfortable rooms with a classic colonial aesthetic, offering beautiful lagoon views and modern amenities. While some areas like bathrooms could use updates, the proximity to recreational activities and friendly staff contribute to a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Guests commend the resort's cleanliness, with its expansive, well-maintained environment providing an ideal backdrop for relaxation and photography. Minor issues with aging rooms and wildlife are noted but do not significantly detract from the overall positive impression of the resort.
The staff is often highlighted as a key component of the exceptional experience at Plantation Bay. Friendly, attentive, and professional, they contribute significantly to guests feeling welcome and ensuring a pleasant stay. The no-tipping policy allows guests to enjoy superb service without concern.
The resort's spa is an oasis of relaxation, offering world-class treatments in a serene environment, complemented by dedicated staff and affordable services. The array of swimming pools and lagoons add to the resort's appeal, offering numerous aquatic options for families and couples alike.
While the beach area presents some challenges, such as access and cleanliness, it offers opportunities for snorkeling, and the resort's lagoons and pools provide excellent alternatives for swimming and sunbathing. Families will find an abundance of activities to enjoy, from rock climbing to biking, making it a great choice for a fun, family-friendly vacation.
Overall, Plantation Bay a Real Resort with a Real Spa offers a multifaceted and enjoyable experience, with its blend of natural beauty, extensive amenities, and welcoming environment contributing to a memorable stay.
Ocean Vida Beach and Dive Resort is celebrated for its exceptional beachfront location on Malapascua Island, offering guests a serene island experience just steps from the sand and sea. The resort is ideal for both beach enthusiasts and divers seeking to explore the waters, particularly for sightings of thresher sharks. Guests enjoy modern, spacious rooms and a range of exceptional facilities, including a dive center onsite, making it a comprehensive beachside retreat.
The breakfast experience receives ample praise for its generous and varied selection, enjoyed alongside stunning beach views. While there is room for improvement in terms of daily variety, the fresh fruits and ready-to-go options for early divers cater to guest needs nicely. The staff's friendliness complements the breakfast offerings, ensuring a pleasant start to the day.
Dining at Ocean Vida stands out as a key highlight, with many guests considering the restaurant to be the best on the island. Despite slightly high prices, the mouth-watering menu, including standout pizzas and à la carte dining, more than justifies the cost. Guests appreciate the convenience and quality of dining at the resort, enhanced by thoughtful touches like nightly nightcaps and heartfelt sayings.
Accommodations are consistently lauded for their spaciousness and cleanliness, offering a relaxing environment that enhances the overall experience. Comfortable beds contribute to restful nights, while every room features lovely terraces. Guests can choose between garden view rooms with modern amenities or sea view options that promise breathtaking vistas.
The resort's commitment to cleanliness extends to its meticulously maintained top-notch facilities and well-kept common areas. Guests enjoy sipping cocktails while watching stunning sunsets, underscoring the resort's well-rounded appeal. The proximity to the renowned dive center offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
The staff at Ocean Vida Beach and Dive Resort receive glowing reviews for their warm hospitality and efficient service. From arrival to departure, guests are treated with friendliness and professionalism, with the team going above and beyond to enhance their stay. Despite minor feedback regarding the manager, the staff's dedication leaves a lasting positive impression.
The beachside setting is idyllic, featuring chic rooms that provide unobstructed ocean views and seamless access to the sands. The resort fosters a relaxed environment with chic décor and attentive service, enhancing the natural beauty of the location. Whether relaxing by the ocean or diving into the waters, guests are guaranteed a memorable stay characterized by seaside tranquility.
Overall, Ocean Vida Beach and Dive Resort excels in providing a comfortable, convenient, and scenic island getaway, marked by stunning views, excellent dining, and friendly service.
AABANA Beach & Watersport Resort is highly praised for its outstanding beachfront location at Bounty Beach's eastern end, offering tranquil and picturesque surroundings away from the crowded tourist hubs. The resort perfectly combines proximity to the beach with easy access to the town center's attractions and dining options, making it a convenient and serene base for exploring the island's beauty. Guests appreciate the resort's calm ambiance, comfortable accommodations, and attentive staff, which together foster a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Breakfast at AABANA is lauded for its flavorful offerings, with the beachside setting adding to the charm. Guests enjoy a selection of Western and Filipino breakfast dishes, with mango pancakes and omelets being favorites. The lack of a buffet doesn't detract from the experience as the meals are consistently noted as delicious and good value for money, providing a delightful start to the day.
The resort's spacious rooms feature comfortable beds and high-quality linens, contributing to a restful and cozy stay. Most accommodations receive positive remarks for cleanliness and style, with the picturesque garden adding to the charm. While some improvements are needed, notably in certain areas of room cleanliness, the overall atmosphere remains pleasant and welcoming.
The staff at AABANA Beach & Watersport Resort are commonly praised for their friendliness and dedication to guest satisfaction. The team, including the standout host Mike, goes above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcome and cared for. Their attentive service and camaraderie contribute significantly to the resort's inviting reputation.
Despite mixed reviews about the WiFi, the resort's beachfront and serene surroundings compensate with a calm and semi-private beach ambiance. While caution is advised regarding sharp corals, the onsite dive shop and proximity to water activities provide plenty of opportunities for adventure.
Families find the resort accommodating, with spacious rooms and a peaceful environment that suits guests of all ages. Although certain areas require attentiveness for the safety of small children, AABANA is valued as a family-friendly destination offering comfort and convenience at a reasonable price.
Overall, AABANA Beach & Watersport Resort excels as a budget-friendly yet charming choice for travelers seeking relaxation, natural beauty, and exceptional service in a beachfront setting.