Cebu Resorts: Why Most Stay on Mactan Island
Most Cebu beach resorts are on Mactan, a small coral island just east of Cebu Island. Mactan-Cebu International Airport is on the same island, which keeps transfers short.
Getting there
Mactan-Cebu International Airport is in Lapu-Lapu City on Mactan; international flights use Terminal 2. Three bridges link Mactan to Cebu City's side: the Mactan-Mandaue Bridge, the Marcelo Fernan Bridge and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX).
Good for
- Short airport transfers
- Families
- Snorkelling and island-hopping
- Resort-focused stays
Watch out for
- Cebu's dry season is short (March and April); rain is possible most of the year.
- Cebu City malls and restaurants mean crossing a bridge, and traffic can be slow.
Booking tips
- Check whether island-hopping or airport transfers are included in the rate.
- If you plan city shopping, allow extra time for bridge traffic.
FAQ
Is Mactan the same as Cebu?
Mactan is a separate island next to Cebu Island, part of Cebu province. The airport and most beach resorts are on Mactan.
When is the best time for a Cebu resort trip?
March and April are the dry months; rain is possible in other months.