Nestled along the shores of Macajalar Bay, Apple Tree Resort & Hotel offers a distinct vintage charm that sets it apart from the high-rise hotels in the Cagayan de Oro city center. Located in the municipality of Opol, this 39-room beachfront property is framed by towering Talisay trees, providing a tranquil atmosphere where the sound of the waves replaces the hum of city traffic. It is a place where classic Filipino hospitality meets a relaxed, seaside pace.
Travel Guide & Expert Tips
Best Time to Visit: Aim for February if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, or September and January for the best budget deals. If you want to avoid crowds, the low season in March is ideal.
Room Selection: Book a room on the third floor for the most expansive views of the bay. If you have mobility concerns, request a ground-floor room as the hotel does not have an elevator.
Stay Connected: While Wi-Fi is available, it is strongest in public areas. If you’re working remotely, consider bringing a local SIM card (Globe or Smart) as a backup.
Visitor Policy: Be aware that the resort charges a fee (approx. ₱300) for outside guests, even if they are only joining you for a meal at the restaurant.
Nearby Attractions
Seven Seas Waterpark: A world-class pirate-themed waterpark just a short drive away, perfect for a full day of family thrills.
Opol Ostrich and Crocodile Farm: Get up close with these impressive creatures at this unique local conservatory in Malanang.
Treasure Island Garden Maze: A fun, interactive spot nearby for families and groups to navigate.
Macajalar Bay Water Sports: Right on the beach, you can arrange banana boat rides, jet skiing, or skimboarding.
Dahilayan Adventure Park: Located about an hour away in Bukidnon, this is the go-to spot for the longest dual zipline in Asia and alpine slides.
Transportation Tips
From Laguindingan Airport (CGY): The resort is roughly a 30–35 minute drive. You can take a taxi directly, use a ride-hailing app like Grab, or coordinate an airport shuttle with the hotel front desk at least 24 hours in advance.
Getting to CDO City Center: While the resort feels secluded, the city center is only 8-9 km away.
Local Commuting: Experience the Motorela, CDO’s unique version of a tricycle, for short distances. For longer trips, colorful Jeepneys are the standard.
Public Transport: The nearest bus stop is 500 meters from the hotel. If you plan to use the modern buses, having a Beep card is convenient.
Who is this hotel best for?
Families: The child-friendly pools and beachfront access make it a hit for kids.
Couples: The sunset views over the bay provide a romantic backdrop for dinner.
Local Travelers: It’s a popular choice for “staycations” for those living in Misamis Oriental who want a quick beach escape.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Direct beach access with a private feel. | No elevator; challenging for those with limited mobility. |
| Two large, well-maintained swimming pools. | Some rooms and bathrooms feel dated and need renovation. |
| Excellent on-site dining (especially the breakfast). | Water pressure can be weak in certain rooms. |
| Quiet, relaxing environment away from city noise. | Distance from the main CDO shopping malls. |
Pricing Observations & Comparison
The Price Point: Nightly rates typically hover around ₱2,400 to ₱2,800 ($45–$55).
Value Comparison: It is generally 8% cheaper than the average 3-star hotel in Cagayan de Oro. While city hotels like Seda Centrio offer modern luxury at a higher price, Apple Tree provides more space and resort amenities for a lower cost.
Savings Tip: Booking for a stay on a Thursday or Friday often yields the lowest rates compared to the peak pricing on Sundays.
Local Food & Tourism Tips
Must-Try Dish: You cannot leave without trying Sinuglaw, a local specialty combining sinugba (grilled pork) and kinilaw (raw fish ceviche).
Sweet Treats: Pick up a box of Vjandep Pastel (soft buns with yema filling) from the nearby Opol branch; it’s the most famous pasalubong in the region.
Seafood Row: Opol is famous for its seaside seafood restaurants. Head to the Poblacion area for fresh catch while watching the sunset over Camiguin Island in the distance.
Etiquette: Locals are known for the “City of Golden Friendship” spirit. A simple “Salamat” (Thank you) goes a long way.
First-Person Review: A Sunset to Remember
“Checking into Apple Tree felt like stepping into a slower version of life. While the room had a bit of a vintage vibe—think classic wooden furniture and a slightly older bathroom—the view from my balcony on the third floor made up for everything. Waking up to the sight of the Macajalar Bay and spending the afternoon under the shade of the Talisay trees was incredibly rejuvenating. The breakfast chorizo is a must-try! It’s not a five-star modern glass tower, but if you want to actually feel like you’re on vacation rather than a business trip, this is the spot.”