The hype
Guests rave about the warm Filipino hospitality and the stunning pool area, but often feel trapped by the location and dining prices.
Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort
$220-300/ night
Book this if You want a polished, self-contained sanctuary with a killer breakfast buffet and don't plan on leaving the property much.
Why People Love It
- The tiered infinity pools inspired by rice terraces are visually stunning
- Breakfast at 5 Cien features local legends like fresh Taho and Sikwate (hot chocolate)
- Rooms are massive and modern, with many featuring deep soaking tubs
Quick Take: It's a beautiful, modern fortress of solitude that feels a bit too isolated from the real Cebu, with a beach that's more 'look but don't touch' due to the rocks.
Reviewed by @tony_travels_the_world: I stayed in this suite at Sheraton Cebu Mactan and was blown away. The bathroom feels like a private spa, and waking up to that ocean view was the highlight of my trip. Highly recommend for couples.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
While most rooms are spotless, a persistent minority of recent reviews mention a damp/musty smell and visible mold in bathrooms, likely due to humidity control issues.
- You are a Marriott Bonvoy loyalist looking for a modern redemption
- You prefer pool lounging over ocean swimming
- You are traveling with family and need a great Kids Club and calm waters
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.8
- Housekeeping: Generally excellent daily service, though some reports of missed restocking (towels/water).
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but a concerning number of recent reviews mention mold/mildew smell in the shower grout or AC vents.
- Maintenance: New property (2022) so mostly fresh, but humidity is taking a toll on some wall paint and ceilings.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, high-quality Sheraton signature bedding. Towels are fluffy but sometimes in short supply at the pool.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells like white tea (signature scent); some rooms have a lingering damp/musty odor.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Flashing smoke detector lights (bring tape/eye mask)
- Occasional hallway noise from families
Before you book
Good to know
- Grab cars often cancel on pickups here; budget for hotel taxis or arrange private transport.
- A deposit of roughly PHP 5,000/night is standard at check-in.
- The residential tower next door is mostly finished, but check for any lingering interior work notices.
What to pack
- Aqua shoes (the beach is rocky/corally)
- Eye mask (for the blinking smoke detector)
- Universal waterproof phone pouch (for the pool/snorkeling)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Ocean View King (High Floor) — essential for the sunrise view and to avoid the parking lot stare-down
- Junior Suite — massive corner rooms with wrap-around balconies
Rooms to avoid
- Courtyard View rooms on low floors (often look at a wall, parking, or the residential tower)
- Rooms near the elevator (soundproofing is just okay)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor in the main hotel tower (Tower A), specifically facing the ocean. Please avoid the Courtyard/Parking view rooms if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the beach swimmable?
Technically yes, but it's rocky and the sand is coarse crushed coral. It's better for a quick dip with shoes than a barefoot stroll.
Is breakfast included?
Not in all rates. If you pay out of pocket, it's approx. PHP 1,800-2,000 per person, but highly rated.
Can I walk to restaurants nearby?
No. The area is isolated. You will need to take a taxi to get to local dining spots like Morning Glory Grill (5-10 min drive).
Is there a resort fee?
No explicit 'resort fee' line item, but a 10% service charge and taxes are added to everything.
Are pets allowed?
No, the resort has a strict no-pet policy.
Is there a shuttle to the city/malls?
No free shuttle. You are reliant on taxis or private cars.
Insider Tips
- ✨
At breakfast, look for the 'Sikwate' station — it's traditional Cebuano hot chocolate made from pure cacao tablets, best paired with 'Puto Maya' (sticky rice).
- ✨
The 'Courtyard' view is often a euphemism for 'Parking View' — fight for an upgrade if you have status.
- ✨
Buy your water/snacks at a 7-Eleven before arriving; hotel prices are 3-4x higher and there's no convenience store within easy walking distance.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Cave Bar' (Buhi) is cool for one drink, but the acoustics make it incredibly loud when full.
💡The smoke detector has a notoriously bright flashing green LED that drives light-sensitive sleepers crazy.
💡You can snorkel right off the beach and actually see some fish, unlike many Mactan resorts.
💡The residential tower shares some amenities, so the pool can get busier than the hotel occupancy suggests.
💡Room service pizza is surprisingly decent if you're stuck there late at night.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort is located and what's nearby.