Best Western Cebu Sand Bar Resort is a mid-range resort located in Cordova on Mactan Island, offering travelers a quieter alternative to the busier resort areas of central Mactan. The property opened as a 58-room resort and was designed for both leisure and business travelers. Hotel News Resource
The resort features swimming facilities, landscaped grounds, restaurant and bar areas, meeting facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, parking and family-oriented amenities. Older descriptions of the property also highlight its entertainment center, playground, massage services and car-rental desk. Hotel News Resource
Current Tripadvisor information lists amenities including free parking, Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, breakfast, business facilities, meeting rooms and concierge services. The property is approximately 6.5 km from Mactan-Cebu International Airport according to the current listing. Tripadvisor
Rooms and Accommodation
The resort offers rooms and suites designed for leisure travelers, couples and families. Tripadvisor’s room information highlights air conditioning, Wi-Fi, housekeeping, room service and non-smoking accommodation, with some rooms offering views of the pool and hotel grounds. Tripadvisor
A previous guest review specifically praised the spacious feel of the rooms, high ceilings and views of the pool and grounds from the balcony. Tripadvisor
Resort Facilities
- Swimming pool
- Children’s swimming facilities
- Beach access
- Restaurant and bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Breakfast
- Playground
- Entertainment facilities
- Meeting rooms
- Ballroom
- Business facilities
- Concierge
- Massage services
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Air-conditioned rooms Tripadvisor
Travel Guide
Staying at Best Western Cebu Sand Bar Resort gives travelers an opportunity to explore Cordova and Mactan Island while remaining within reach of Cebu City’s major attractions.
Cordova
Cordova is located at the southern end of Mactan Island and is known for its coastal scenery, seafood restaurants, mangrove areas and views across the surrounding waters.
The area is a good choice for travelers who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere than the major hotel zones around Punta Engaño and Maribago.
10,000 Roses Café
The famous 10,000 Roses Café in Cordova is one of the area’s most recognizable attractions. The illuminated artificial roses become especially atmospheric around sunset and after dark.
Mactan Shrine
Mactan Shrine is an important historical attraction associated with the Battle of Mactan and the legacy of Lapu-Lapu. It is a worthwhile stop for visitors interested in Cebu’s history and culture.
Mactan Beaches and Island Activities
Mactan Island is known for snorkeling, diving, island-hopping and beach resorts. Travelers can arrange water activities through local operators or resort activity desks.
Cebu City
For visitors with additional time, consider crossing to Cebu City to explore historical and cultural attractions, shopping centers, restaurants and museums.
Suggested 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival and Resort Relaxation
Morning/Afternoon
Arrive at Mactan-Cebu International Airport and travel to the resort. Check in and settle into your room.
Late Afternoon
Spend some time at the swimming pool and explore the resort grounds.
Sunset
Enjoy the coastal scenery around Cordova before having dinner at the resort or a nearby restaurant.
Day 2 — Cordova and Mactan Exploration
Morning
Have breakfast and start with a relaxed exploration of Cordova.
Visit nearby coastal attractions and enjoy a local Filipino lunch.
Afternoon
Continue toward Mactan’s historical attractions, including Mactan Shrine.
Evening
Visit 10,000 Roses Café around sunset and stay until the roses illuminate after dark.
Day 3 — Island-Hopping Adventure
Morning
Join an island-hopping excursion around Mactan.
Depending on the package, activities may include:
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Island visits
- Sandbar stops
- Beach activities
Afternoon
Return to Mactan and relax at the resort.
Evening
Have dinner and enjoy a quiet evening by the pool.
Day 4 — Cebu City and Departure
Morning
Enjoy breakfast before checking out.
If your flight is later in the day, cross to Cebu City for shopping or sightseeing.
Afternoon
Return to Mactan and head to Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
Recommend Where to Eat
Mactan and Cordova offer plenty of choices, from Filipino seafood and grilled dishes to international cuisine.
Coco Cebu Restaurant
4.6Filipino restaurant
Located along Punta Engaño Road, this Filipino restaurant is a good option for travelers looking for familiar local dishes in the Mactan area.
Buko Seaside bar and Restaurant
4.8Asian fusion restaurant
Located in Maribago, Buko Seaside offers an Asian-fusion dining experience with a seaside atmosphere. It is a good option for travelers who want dinner near the water.
The Cove Beach Resto
4.8Seafood restaurant
For seafood and a beach-oriented dining experience, The Cove Beach Resto at The Mark Resort is another option in the Mactan area.
Maribago Grill
4.5Filipino restaurant
Maribago Grill is a convenient choice for travelers looking for Filipino-style dishes and grilled favorites.
Morning Glory Grill
4.8Asian fusion restaurant
Located along Punta Engaño Road, Morning Glory Grill is another option for Asian-fusion dishes.
Local Food to Try
When visiting Cebu, consider trying:
- Cebu lechon
- Grilled seafood
- Chorizo de Cebu
- Puso
- Grilled pork belly
- Fresh tropical fruits
- Filipino-style barbecue
Transportation Guide
From Mactan-Cebu International Airport
The resort is in Cordova on Mactan Island. Current Tripadvisor information places Mactan-Cebu International Airport approximately 6.5 km from the property. Tripadvisor
A taxi or private transfer is generally the easiest option, particularly for travelers carrying luggage.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
Taxis and ride-hailing services are practical options for reaching the resort and exploring Mactan. Travel times vary depending on traffic, especially during peak hours.
By Private Car
Renting a car can be useful for travelers planning to visit several attractions across Mactan and Cebu City.
The resort historically offered access to car-rental services for guests. Hotel News Resource
By Public Transportation
Jeepneys and other local transportation options operate around Mactan and Cordova. However, travelers unfamiliar with the area may find taxis or ride-hailing services more convenient.
Getting Around Mactan
For short trips, taxis and motorcycles can be practical. For a full-day sightseeing itinerary, a private vehicle or arranged tour is generally more comfortable.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Best Western Mactan Resort located?
The property commonly referred to as Best Western Mactan Resort is Best Western Cebu Sand Bar Resort, located on Juan Wahing Street, Barangay Alegria, Cordova, Cebu. Tripadvisor
2. Is Best Western Cebu Sand Bar Resort in Cebu City?
No. The resort is located in Cordova on Mactan Island, separate from Cebu City.
3. How far is the resort from Mactan-Cebu International Airport?
The current Tripadvisor listing places the airport approximately 6.5 km away. Actual driving time depends heavily on traffic. Tripadvisor
4. Does the resort have a swimming pool?
Yes. A swimming pool is among the property’s listed amenities. Historical descriptions also mention multiple pool facilities and waterslide-equipped pools. Tripadvisor
5. Is Best Western Cebu Sand Bar Resort suitable for families?
The resort has family-oriented features including a playground, swimming facilities and kids-stay-free information on its Tripadvisor listing, making it suitable for family travelers. Tripadvisor
6. Does the hotel have a restaurant?
Yes. The property has restaurant and bar facilities, and historical descriptions mention complimentary breakfast for guests. Philstar.com
7. Does the resort offer Wi-Fi?
Yes. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is listed among the property’s amenities. Tripadvisor
8. Is the resort beachfront?
The property has access to the coast, although travelers should distinguish between having coastal/beach access and staying at a resort with a large, traditional sandy beach. Historical descriptions emphasize its seaside setting and beach access. Maya
9. What attractions are near the resort?
Travelers can explore Cordova, 10,000 Roses Café, Mactan Shrine and other attractions around Mactan Island. Cebu City is also accessible by road.
10. Is Best Western Mactan Resort good for a Cebu vacation?
It can be a practical choice for travelers looking for a family-friendly, mid-range resort in the Cordova/Mactan area, particularly those who prioritize swimming facilities and a quieter location over being directly in Cebu City’s center. Current Tripadvisor reviews give the property 3.7/5 from 136 reviews, with relatively strong scores for cleanliness, service and sleep quality. Tripadvisor
Customer Reviews
Best Western Cebu Sand Bar Resort currently has a 3.7/5 Tripadvisor rating based on 136 reviews. Its category scores include 4.0 for cleanliness, 4.0 for service, 4.3 for sleep quality, 3.9 for rooms and 3.9 for value. The location score is lower at 3.3, suggesting that its position in Cordova can be a consideration depending on the traveler’s plans. Tripadvisor
What Guests Like
Guests have praised the resort’s swimming pool, spacious rooms, cleanliness, grounds and family-friendly atmosphere. Some reviews specifically mention that children enjoyed the swimming facilities while adults appreciated the size and views from the rooms. Tripadvisor
The property’s service and sleep-quality scores are among its stronger Tripadvisor categories, indicating that many guests found the resort comfortable and the staff helpful. Tripadvisor
Things to Consider
Some older reviews were less enthusiastic about the beach area and the availability or condition of certain facilities. Because the property and its facilities may change over time, travelers should check the most recent reviews and current amenities before booking. Tripadvisor
The location can also be a consideration. Staying in Cordova provides a quieter environment, but travelers planning frequent trips to Cebu City or the busier Mactan resort areas should allow additional travel time.
Why Stay at Best Western Mactan Resort?
Best Western Cebu Sand Bar Resort is best suited to travelers who want a relaxed Mactan Island base with swimming facilities, family amenities and access to Cordova’s coastal attractions.
It is particularly appealing for families, couples and travelers who prefer a resort environment rather than staying in the center of Cebu City. The property’s pool, gardens, restaurant, parking and proximity to Mactan-Cebu International Airport make it a convenient option for a short Cebu getaway. Tripadvisor
