Looking for the best beach resorts in North Cebu?!
North Cebu is very underrated and far less touristy compared to the south of Cebu, yet it boasts some of the best beaches, viewpoints, scuba diving, and island hopping that you can find in the Philippines.
There are many resorts and hotels in North Cebu which are very affordable and suitable for all types of travelers.
I spent 7 days in North Cebu and have put together this complete guide of the Best Beach Resorts in North Cebu with complete reviews of each and where they are located.
QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST BEACH RESORTS IN NORTH CEBU
If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to read this full guide, these are the 3 best hotels in North Cebu to suit all budgets.
Best Luxury Hotel In North Cebu
Kandaya Resort ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Beautiful, spotless villas
- Modern amenities and excellent service
- Near the Ferry Terminal
Best Mid-Range Hotel In North Cebu
Tepanee Beach Resort ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Located right on the beach
- Traditional and beautiful rooms
- On-site restaurant with Italian chef
Best Budget Hotel In North Cebu
Avila’s Horizon Dive Resort ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Spotless rooms with nice interior
- Minutes away from Langub Beach
- On-site bar and restaurant
WHERE TO STAY IN NORTH CEBU – FAQ
Before going through the best beach resorts in Cebu North, let’s talk about the essentials, such as the best areas to stay, the difference with South Cebu, and more.
IS NORTH CEBU BETTER THAN SOUTH CEBU?
While South Cebu has many popular tourist destinations like Cebu City, Mactan, and Oslob, North Cebu is equally impressive with its untouched beaches and hidden gems.
And the opportunity to experience the real Filipino culture is exactly why I recommend coming over to North Cebu.
Plus, on the northern side, you’ll find Malapascua Island, which is a stunning place you can’t skip while traveling to Cebu!
WHERE TO STAY IN NORTH CEBU FOR FAMILIES?
The best places to stay in North Cebu with kids are Chief’s Villa on Malapascua Island and Kandaya Resort on the northern tip of Cebu Island.
Both offer clean, family rooms with great amenities and lovely surroundings, and I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time!
WHERE TO STAY IN NORTH CEBU FOR NIGHTLIFE?
I recommend staying in Malapascua Island if you want to enjoy the night. Naturally, don’t expect bars and clubs on every corner, but you’ll find a few cocktail bars on the beach and around.
For instance, Eho’s Sports Bar has everything you need for a night out, and you can even have dinner there.
WHERE TO STAY IN NORTH CEBU ON A BUDGET?
For budget travelers, the best hotels in North Cebu are Aabana Beach Resort and Avila’s Horizon Dive Resort.
Both are located right on Malapascua Island and are stunning properties with clean, cozy rooms for only a few bucks per night.
IS NORTH CEBU EXPENSIVE?
North Cebu is pretty affordable and cheaper than South Cebu and Cebu City.
A stay at a luxury property here will hardly cost you more than $100 per night, while budget hotels won’t be higher than $30 per night.
Food-wise, there are many restaurants you can dine at for only a few dollars, which is great for those on a budget.
WHERE TO STAY IN NORTH CEBU
The majority of the tourist spots in northern Cebu are located on two smaller islands just off the coast of the northernmost tip of Cebu Island.
These two islands are known as Malapascua Island and Bantayan Island, both of which are easily reachable by ferry from Cebu.
You can also find some nice beaches and beach resorts in north Cebu on the mainland that are worth checking out.
I have divided this post into three parts:
- North Cebu mainland – Best place to stay for first-timers
- Malapascua Island – Where to stay in North Cebu for beaches
- Bantayan Island – Best island in North Cebu for calm and culture
The best route for your North Cebu itinerary is to first visit the north beaches on the tip of mainland Cebu, then head over to Malapascua Island for 3 days, and then take a boat over to Bantayan Island for 3 days.
Also, at the bottom of this Northern Cebu beach resorts guide, I have included detailed information about transportation and the best things to do on the islands.
BEACH RESORTS IN NORTH CEBU
Ready for this complete North Cebu beach resorts list? Let’s start with mainland Cebu, the best place for first-timers on the island, before continuing with Malapascua and Bantayan.
MAINLAND CEBU – WHERE TO STAY IN NORTH CEBU FOR FIRST-TIMERS
LUXURY: KANDAYA RESORT
✔️ Rating: 8.1/10 | Reviews: 50+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kandaya Resort is one of the best beach resorts in North Cebu located in a quiet and serene area of Agujo, Daanbantayan.
Absolute luxury 5-star beach resort in North Cebu offering a grand outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, pool table, playground, gym, sauna, and spa/beauty facilities.
Choose from either a Garden Villa, Beach Villa, Pool Villas, or Oceanfront Villas with a balcony or terrace.
Features inside the rooms include a self-contained living/dining area with king beds or a choice of queen or twin beds, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, a guest bathroom, and complimentary toiletries.
Free WiFi is available in public areas, a 24-hour front desk, a private beach, and picnic area, a bar, a restaurant with room service, and the convenience of an on-site coffee shop.
Kandaya Beach Resort in Cebu North is recommended for couples and caters to families also.
MID-RANGE: MAAYO SAN REMIGIO
✔️ Rating: 7.9/10 | Reviews: 40+ | Class: Beach Resort
Tucked away in the serene town of San Remigio in North Cebu mainland, Maayo San Remigio offers the ultimate tropical escape, and I could only include it in this list of North Cebu resorts.
From soaking up the sun beside the outdoor swimming pool and exploring the beautiful garden to enjoying a delectable meal and refreshing drink at the restaurant and bar, this Cebu resort has it all.
When it comes to the rooms, all of them are equipped with air conditioning, comfortable beds, and a modern, clean bathroom.
In the morning, you’ll be able to indulge in an à la carte or Asian breakfast to start your day off on the right foot before hitting the private beach area.
That’s right – This is one private beach resort in North Cebu money can buy, which means no crowds!
The best part? This beach resort in North Cebu has great deals so you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy it!
MID-RANGE: MEDELLIN SEAVIEW INN
✔️ Rating: 8.1/10 | Reviews: 50+ | Class: Beachfront Resort
Picture this: waking up in a cozy, air-conditioned room to the sound of waves crashing against the shore – This is what you’ll get at Medellin Seaview Inn, a stunning beach resort North Cebu offers!
This charming beach resort in North Cebu boasts not only breathtaking views of the sea but also an on-site restaurant that serves up mouthwatering Asian, American, and Australian cuisines.
The rooms are simple yet have everything you need and are clean with a comfortable bed.
Plus, there’s an outdoor pool where you can chill after working on your tan or exploring North Cebu.
It’s overall one of the best resorts in North Cebu you should consider for a few days.
BUDGET: D&N LODGE
✔️ Rating: 9.4/10 | Reviews: 100+ | Class: Adult-only Accommodation
This affordable beach resorts in Cebu North is located a stone’s throw from the ocean, at the tip of Cebu Island. Choose from a Deluxe Double Room and a Budget Room with free WiFi and a private bathroom.
Nothing fancy here – only functional rooms. However, they are spotless and the staff is lovely, and they will clean your room every day, all this for only about $20 a day!
On top of that, continental breakfast is available for all guests, which is a massive plus before exploring the rest of the island.
MALAPASCUA ISLAND – BEST PLACE TO STAY IN NORTH CEBU FOR BEACHES
LUXURY: CHIEF’S VILLA MALAPASCUA
✔️ Rating: 8.5/10 | Reviews: 20+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This quirky 3-star North Cebu beach resort can be found on Malapascua Island and it has a unique flair of its own.
This North Cebu resort features spacious villas for up to 17 people, state-of-the-art service, free WiFi, a washing machine, and all the modern amenities you may need.
Modern style, colorful accommodations with a beautiful terraced garden. Enjoy the comfort of a king bed in one of their bedrooms. Complete with air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and free parking.
Chief’s Villa is one of the top-value beach resorts in North Cebu, recommended for families and groups of friends.
MID RANGE: TEPANEE BEACH RESORT
✔️ Rating: 8.7/10 | Reviews: 100+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tepanee Resort is rated 3 stars and it’s one of the best beach resorts North Cebu has to offer.
Located in a pretty little cove, lies this tropical beach getaway gem, just a few minutes’ walk to Bounty Beach.
Outdoors boasts a jacuzzi, gym, wellness center, restaurant, and bar right on its very own private beach!
Step up to cozy, modern, clean rooms of a good standard with bamboo furnishings and private balconies. Offering Superior Rooms and Deluxe Rooms with garden and ocean views.
The west side of this beach resort in north of Cebu has Classic Rooms (with fan and cold showers only), showcasing the best views and sunsets of Malapascua.
The rooms are fitted with free wi-fi, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, a tea/coffee maker, a mini-fridge, a private bathroom, and free toiletries.
The breakfast menu offers an expansive variety of choices – Continental, Italian, Vegan, Gluten-free, Asian, and American.
Tepanee Beach Resort is recommended for two travelers and couples.
MID-RANGE: BLANCO BEACH RESORT
✔️ Rating: 9.3/10 | Reviews: 50+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
A great mid-range beach resort in Northern Cebu to consider, this time in Malapascua, is Blanco Beach Resort.
This 3-star has a stunning beachfront location and is just a short stroll from some of the best beaches around—Bounty Beach and Logon Beach.
Each day, you’ll wake up to the sound of the ocean before hitting the breakfast room with Western or Asian choices.
When it comes to the rooms, you’ll be treated to minimal yet gorgeous and modern accommodation with sea views. Of course, you’ll have all the facilities you need, from A/C to WiFi and more.
Make your next escape unforgettable with a stay at Blanco Beach Resort Malapascua and experience all that the resort and Malapascua have to offer.
BUDGET: AABANA BEACH RESORT
✔️ Rating: 8.1/10 | Reviews: 200+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Aabana Beach Resort in northern Cebu is privately located in a quiet and cozy part of Bounty Beach.
This property features a sun terrace, outdoor BBQ, wellness center, and free wi-fi. Guests can enjoy a continental or à la carte breakfast at the restaurant and room service is also available.
Featuring Single room with sea view, Family room with terrace, Double room with garden view, Triple or Quadruple rooms and are fitted with air-conditioning,
This budget beach resort in North Cebu is recommended for solo travelers, couples, and families.
BUDGET: MOONLIGHT RESORT
✔️ Rating: 6.9/10 | Reviews: 20+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️
Moonlight is rated 2 stars and it’s one of the best beach resorts in North Cebu for budget travelers.
This resort is nestled in a beautiful part of Malapascua Island and a perfect location away from the hustle and bustle. Surrounded by white sandy beaches and coconut trees, it is unspoiled and untouched by large-scale tourism. An awesome place to get away from it all and off the beaten track.
Its serene terraced garden setting is awesome with accommodating outdoor furniture to sit, relax, and unwind. It is truly an island paradise.
Moonlight Resort features free wi-fi, a bar, and an in-house restaurant offering international cuisine and room service.
Choose from a Superior Double Twin Room, Standard Twin Room, and Deluxe Fan Room with king and twin beds which are fitted with air-conditioning.
This quaint beach resort Cebu North is recommended for solo travelers, couples, and friends.
BUDGET: AVILA’S HORIZON DIVE RESORT
✔️ Rating: 8.4/10 | Reviews: 300+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I personally stayed at Avila’s and can’t recommend this place enough! The staff are super friendly and will welcome you into their loving community.
The rooms available are super clean, can sleep up to two people, and have everything you could ever need. – a fan, comfortable beds, and a mosquito net.
There is also a dormitory room with bunk beds if you don’t mind sharing a room with other guests.
Avila’s Horizon Dive Resort has a restaurant just next door with delicious food and the wifi is pretty good!
For all you budget travelers, I can highly recommend staying here during your visit to Malapascua Cebu.
BANTAYAN ISLAND – BEST AREA IN NORTH CEBU FOR CULTURE
LUXURY: CORAL BLUE ORIENTAL BEACH VILLAS
✔️ Rating: 8.3/10 | Reviews: 100+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Coral Blue Oriental is one of the best semi-luxury beach resorts in North Cebu located on Bantayan Island and centrally located in Santa Fe.
Offering beachfront villas and suites with free wifi, a private beach area, a seaside restaurant, and a bar.
There are one-bedroom and two-bedroom villas available which are air-conditioned and fitted with a flat-screen TV, DVD player, lock safe, fridge, and balcony with ocean views.
Coral Blue Beach Resort in northern Cebu is recommended for couples, families, and friends!
LUXURY: ANIKA ISLAND RESORT
✔️ Rating: 8.2/10 | Reviews: 100+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another luxurious place on Bantayan Island is Anika Resort. This beachfront resort has everything you need for the ultimate island vacation.
Lounge by the outdoor swimming pool, take in the beautiful sea views from your private balcony or indulge in some delicious local or international cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
And let’s not forget about the activities – the friendly staff is more than happy to help you arrange some snorkeling adventures.
With free WiFi throughout the property, air conditioning in every room, and room service available, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and exciting vacation!
MID-RANGE: PEARL OF SANTE FE
✔️ Rating: 9.1/10 | Reviews: 100+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Pearl of Santa Fe is rated 3 stars and can be found on the ocean’s edge on Bantayan Island.
This property features intricately designed 3-bedroom apartments with air-conditioning, a self-contained kitchen, double and twin beds, flat-screen TV, free wi-fi, outdoor furniture, and sundeck on a terraced garden.
Pearl of Sant Fe also features BBQ facilities, a picnic area, billiards, fishing, free bikes, and a games room.
No restaurant on-site but plenty of restaurants nearby in the Santa Fe area. With personable staff, daily housekeeping, and a 24-hour front desk, you can be assured your stay at this wonderful beach resort in northern Cebu will be pleasant and comfortable.
This unbeatable beach resort is perfect for two travelers, couples, families, and groups.
MID RANGE: AMIHAN BEACH CABANAS
✔️ Rating: 8.6/10 | Reviews: 100+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amihan Beach Cabanas is one of the top 3-4 star beach resorts in North Cebu with free wi-fi, bar, restaurant, and 24-hour desk service.
Fantastic reviews aren’t enough to describe this little island paradise. These perfectly located, cozy, incredible, beachfront cabanas, are all you need for a relaxing holiday.
Imagine your own terraced garden cabana with a built-in seating area on your own private beach – it doesn’t get better than this!
Choose between a Delux Bungalow with Garden or Sea View – offering a queen-sized bed with mosquito net and private bathroom, air-conditioning, and room service.
Guests can have a choice of Continental, Asian, or American breakfast.
Amihan Beach Cabanas is recommended for two travelers, couples, and friends, and it’s hard to think of better resorts in Northern Cebu.
BUDGET: ANAYA BEACH RESORT
✔️ Rating: 7/10 | Reviews: 70+ | Class: ⭐️⭐️
Ending this list of best beach resorts in North Cebu is Anaya Beach Resort, the perfect place for a little adventure on Bantayan Island.
This 2-star accommodation offers a private beach area, a beautiful garden, and even a bar right on the beachfront. And if you’re traveling with family, they’ve got you covered with family rooms and a picnic area.
But the real trip begins with rooms that offer balconies and terraces with stunning views of the ocean, as well as free Wi-Fi and everything you need.
To top it off, they even have a barbecue onsite for you to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the scenery.
While this is a budget property, it’s a good choice as a base for a couple of nights.
THINGS TO DO IN NORTH CEBU
Other than the Cebu North beach resorts, there are a tonne of activities and beautiful beaches to see in the area, which I have put together in separate travel guides which you can find below.
HOW TO GET TO GET TO NORTH CEBU
The most common route is from Cebu City to North Cebu with the use of the public bus and then a short boat ride to the islands.
The bus from Cebu City to North Cebu operates on a daily basis and departs every hour from the Cebu North Bus Terminal bound for New Maya Port at the northernmost tip of Cebu Island.
The cost of the bus is around 260 pesos and the journey time is 4 hours.
Another option how to go to North Cebu is to ride in a shared minivan or take a private transfer which includes a pick-up from your hotel in Cebu City and drop-off at New Maya Port.
This is the option that I went for because it was much more comfortable than the bus and the journey time was faster.
NEW MAYA PORT TO MALAPASCUA ISLAND
The bus or minivan will arrive at New Maya Port and from here you will be able to take an outrigger boat over to Malapascua Island which takes around 30 minutes.
The cost of the boat from New Maya Port to Malapascua is 200 pesos providing there is a minimum of 15 passengers to fill the boat.
If there are less than 15 passengers the cost of the boat is 2000 pesos total which can be divided between you and other travelers heading over to Malapascua Cebu.
Boats depart from New Maya Port to Malapascua every hour, 7 days a week, between 6:30, am and 4:30 pm.
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MALAPASCUA ISLAND – THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
There are no ATM machines on Malapascua Island so you will have to stock up on cash before you arrive. I recommend doing so in Cebu City where there are hundreds of ATM machines located around the city.
Getting around the island is quite simply done by either motorbike, bicycle, or on foot.
The majority of travelers will get around Malapascua by walking as the island is so small and you can literally walk from one end to the other in less than one hour.
If your legs are painted on, you can rent a motorbike from a local for around 300 pesos per day or get a ride on the back of a motorbike taxi for as little as 30 pesos.
The internet connection in Malapascua is relatively good. Both Smart and Globe SIM cards will work just fine.
MALAPASCUA TO BANTAYAN ISLAND
To continue your North Cebu itinerary from Malapascua Island to Bantayan Island you’ll have to take an outrigger boat and the cost is around 800-900 pesos per person.
If you can find a small group of people to share the boat with the cost will be lower.
The journey time between Malapascua Cebu and Bantayan Island is 2 to 3 hours depending on the sea conditions and you can contact your Cebu North beach resort to get there from the pier.
See More → 15 Things To Do In Bantayan
GETTING AROUND BANTAYAN ISLAND
There are a couple of options on how to get around Bantayan Island and they are by scooter, habal habal, tricycle, or jeepney.
You can rent a scooter in Bantayan for as little as 250 pesos per day and make your own way around all of the Bantayan Island tourist spots at your own pace. The best place to rent a scooter is via your accommodation.
If you are not confident driving a scooter, the other option is to hail a tricycle or habal habal (motorbike taxi) along the main road in Santa Fe. For a 15-minute drive, you can expect to pay around 50-100 pesos.
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SUMMARY – RESORTS IN CEBU
I hope you find this guide useful and if you have any questions about beach resorts Cebu North, please don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
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