Posted by Mactan was first known in the 1500s as one of the islands in Asia reached by world explorer and navigator Ferdinand Magellan. With over 500 years of history, Mactan has evolved into an iconic island in Cebu province which always attracts a lot of visitors per year. When visiting Mactan, here are the Top 11 Recommended Things that you can do!
Note: For those who’d like to dive deeper into our travels, our book Exploring Around the Philippines is now published and available on Amazon. It captures our journey across at least 80 provinces, told through personal stories, cultural encounters, and unforgettable experiences from around the country.
https://www.amazon.com/Exploring-Around-Philippines-Provinces-Culinary/dp/B0FCSGHD6L
1.) Staycation
More than a hundred of nice hotels and resorts are found in Mactan. Most of them offer world class hospitality at par with the most hospitable brands you may know. Some of the accommodations which are worth mentioning are Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino, Belmont Hotel Mactan Newtown, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, Savoy Hotel Mactan, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, T Shine Resort & Spa, Amaris Bed & Breakfast and Shangri-la Mactan. Read our blog here. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
2.) Beach Hopping
Mactan as an island offers you a lot of interesting and nice beaches. Some of the beaches that we have visited are the private beaches of Shangri-la Mactan, Dusit Thani Mactan, Sheraton Cebu Mactan, Newtown Beach and Maribago Beach. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
3.) Food Tripping
As a top destination for local and international tourists, you can choose up to more than 500 interesting restaurants in Mactan. We are enlisting our top favorites in no particular order. Read our blog here. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
4.) Relaxation at Spas
Going to spas in Mactan has been a trend for tourists. It is not a surprise as 4 out of our top 5 spas are from Mactan. Read our blog here. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
5.) Visit Guitar Factory
Mactan, Cebu serves as a premier destination for aficionados of fine guitars. Renowned for its status as one of the world’s leading producers of exceptional guitars, the province boasts esteemed establishments such as the Alegre Guitar factory, widely recognized for the export of its exquisite products to prominent markets including Canada, Australia, Japan, and the United States. Furthermore, patrons and prospective clientele have the unique opportunity to observe the masterful craftsmanship firsthand, gaining insight into the intricate processes involved in guitar production. Noteworthily, esteemed personalities such as Kris Aquino, Apl de Ap of Black Eyed Peas, and participants of the Miss Universe pageant have graced this esteemed locale. Cebu continues to epitomize excellence in the realm of guitar craftsmanship.
6.) Mactan Shrine
The Mactan Shrine was established to honor Lapu-Lapu, Ferdinand Magellan, and the Battle of Mactan in 1521. Lapu-Lapu is the first Filipino to have repelled European Agression. The Lapu-Lapu memorial statue shows the Cebuano hero in his native costume with a sword on his right hand and a shield on his left.
7.) 10,000 Roses
The 10,000 Roses stands as a stunning tourist attraction in the lovely Municipality of Cordova. To truly soak in the enchanting ambiance of the 10,000 lighted roses, consider planning your visit during quieter times. Weekends and holidays may not provide the most conducive atmosphere for appreciating this breathtaking sight. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
8.) Engage with Mactan Locals
The first inhabitants of Mactan are documented by Antonio Pigafetta as a proud, tall, bronzed-skin, and good-looking people. Across almost 500 years, despite significant interbreeding, the indelible mark of this illustrious Mactan bloodline still resonates within some of the local populace.
9.) Gateway for next adventure
Cebu Mactan International Airport is situated on the vibrant island of Mactan, a gateway to a multitude of incredible destinations. Imagine the thrill of embarking on your next adventure from Mactan! The possibilities are endless, with captivating cities like Taipei, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Shanghai, Singapore, Bangkok, Manila, Busuanga, Malay, Siargao, Tacloban, General Santos, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Angeles City, Ilo-ilo, Silay, and Puerto Princesa awaiting your arrival. Get ready to experience the magic of travel as you set off from this dynamic, bustling airport.
10.) Cordova Bridge
The Cordova Bridge stands as a magnificent testament to engineering and architectural prowess, stretching proudly across the waters of the Philippines. Surpassing the renowned San Juanico Bridge of Samar and Leyte, it proudly holds the title of the country’s longest bridge. A visit to this remarkable structure presents an awe-inspiring opportunity to witness its impressive stature up close, a truly breathtaking experience.
