The list of Philippines' islands is literally endless! Having in total more than seven thousand islands, choosing the best one to visit can be a bit difficult. In this article, we’ll guide you through one of the best islands in the Philippines, Mactan, and introduce you to a tropical paradise to spend your dream holidays in, Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa!
Mactan - A Coral Heaven on Earth and one of the Best Islands in the Philippines
Apart from being small and beautiful, Mactan is a densely populated island just a few kilometres from Cebu Island in the Philippines. It is a popular holiday destination in the south of Philippines since its stunning natural and underwater beauty attracts holidaymakers from all over the world. Many travellers tend to combine their holidays by visiting both Cebu and Mactan islands.
Being globally famous for its colourful coral reefs and rich biodiversity of marine life, Mactan island is indeed every diver’s paradise!
So, if you have already decided to spend your holidays on this gorgeous island and you are looking for both adventurous and relaxing holidays, Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu is definitely the perfect choice for you!
5 Things that Highlight Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa as the best beach resort in Mactan, Cebu
1. A Marine Sanctuary
The number one reason that makes Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa one of the best places to stay in the Maldives, is its Marine Sanctuary! It was established in 2007 under Shangri-La's Care for Nature Project. The Shangri-La Marine Sanctuary spans six hectares from the resort’s beachfront and teems with over 160 species of fish, clams, and corals.
The active resort's management and staff engage in regular activities including coastal clean-ups, dive clean-ups and coral recovery programs. The Shangri-La Marine Sanctuary is maintained together with steward partners Amores Charities, Inc. and Scotty's Action Sports Network.
2. Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, and much more!
Since Shangri-La's Mactan Resort is located only a few meters away from the Marine Sanctuary mentioned above, the most popular activity is none other than diving. However, keep in mind, that more than 20 dive sites with colorful marine life are situated within a half-hour boat ride from the resort.
However, if you are not into scuba diving and Snorkelling, Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa offers a wide selection of water sport activities including: Catamaran Sailing, Fun Tubes And Banana Rides, Jet Skiing, Kayaking, Parasailing, Private Boat Charter, Seatrek™, Water Ski, Monoski, Wake And Knee Board, and Windsurfing.
Couples rejoice! Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa is among the best hotels in Asia for Honeymoons. Either for vows renewal or a romantic honeymoon, you will definitely love your time in this resort!
3. Elegant and Spacious Living Areas – Ocean Club Rooms
The Ocean Wing of Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa has been designed to offer you unsurpassed luxury experiences, privacy, and comfort.
From the moment you set foot on the resort, you will be treated with exceptional and personalised services. What makes this part of the hotel stand out even more, is its spacious suites with private verandas, direct access to the Ocean Wing pool, and amazing beach views offering unique and relaxing staying experiences.
Keep in mind that if you are an Ocean Club Room guest, you will enjoy exclusive privileges including a fast check-in, buffet breakfast, all-day non-alcoholic beverages, light snacks, and evening cocktails, as well as Club Concierge service to help you with everything you may need!
4. Memorable culinary journeys
Having four restaurants and a wide collection of bars and lounges to choose from, the resort promises to satisfy the most discerning palates, included among the top hotel restaurants they every foodie should try in 2019! Let's have a look at the most fascinating food & drinks spots of the resort:
Acqua Restaurant
Acqua Restaurant is open all day long, serving breakfast from very early in the morning to dinner in the evening. It serves Italian cuisine while the hotel's chef Andrea Burzio is known for his special attention on his dishes' details.
Cowrie-Cove
Cowrie-Cove is the resort's signature seafood restaurant, giving you the choice to dine al fresco (outdoors). Of course, there is a wide selection of wines available to accompany each of your meals!
Tea of Spring
Tea of Spring, is a traditional Cantonese restaurant, where you can find an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas and Chinese wines. Moreover, a dim sum lunch is served everyday, while the signature dishes of Chef Boon Bun Hoe will surprise you!
Tides Restaurant
Whatever your heart desires, you can find at Tides restaurant. Its extensive international buffet consists of a rich variety of themed stations including: raw and fresh, western cuisine, Asian dishes, noodle and soup station, kids menu, as well as charcoal and grill!
Breeze
Relax with a refreshing drink on hand or taste light bites at the beach-side Breeze Bar. Happy Hour is also available, taking place every day in the evening!
Buko Bar
Do not miss the cultural shows and the local Filipino buffet, organised by the al fresco poolside lounge Buko Bar!
Waves Bar
Along with sweeping views to the sea, Waves Bar offers you enchanted nights under upbeat DJ sounds.
E-Zone Snack Bar
Spend fun times with your kids and family playing video arcades, computer games, karaoke rooms, table soccer and billiards. Light snacks and refreshing drinks are also available, in case you get hungry!
Lobby Lounge
Relax within an elegant setting and enjoy your favourite drink while overlooking the pool and the hotel's exotic gardens!
5. CHI, THE SPA – Your Wellness Getaway in Mactan!
Let yourself in the experienced hands of CHI’s professional therapists and escape into a world of well-being and beauty! Indulge in authentic massages and therapies based on the healing practices of Asian cultures, as well as in treatments that highlight the wellness of the Philippine heritage.
Among the many Chi’s Signature Treatments, The Traveller’s Retreat stands out, since it helps you overcome jet lag! You will be pampered for two and half hours, starting with an aroma bath or steam shower, followed by a detoxifying algae body treatment, and finishing with a refreshing massage!
Click here to check for prices and availability at Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu and remember that in order to get the best available prices and have a more personal communication, always book directly with the Hotel.