For more than three decades, Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu has remained one of the country’s most enduring luxury resorts, welcoming generations of travelers who continue to return to its shores. It first opened in 1993, when Mactan was only beginning to emerge as a leisure destination, and has since grown into an icon—an address that has evolved with the times while staying true to what guests seek most: an experience that feels indulgent, personal, and effortless.
The resort’s timeless appeal lies in how it balances heritage and reinvention. While its 530 rooms and suites have been refreshed to keep up with contemporary tastes, the essence of Shangri-La hospitality—thoughtful, intuitive service—has never changed. “We are constantly evolving with our guests, but our commitment to anticipating their needs before they even ask has always been at the core of what we do,” said Dave Junker, the resort’s general manager.
That attention to detail is what allows guests to simply arrive and immediately ease into relaxation. In a span of four days at the property, everything one could possibly need—whether a quiet space to recharge, a taste of Cebu’s rich flavors, or activities that bring in a sense of adventure—is within reach. The 13-hectare grounds are lush and expansive enough for jogging or leisurely walks, yet intimate enough to feel like a self-contained retreat.
One of the reasons Shangri-La Mactan continues to resonate is how it has become a destination in itself, reflecting the essence of Cebu. Its dining outlets showcase both the island’s abundant seafood and global flavors, while its cultural programs highlight its rich local heritage. Guests who choose never to step outside the property still leave with a sense of Cebu’s character and warmth.
Experiences such as the weekly dragon boat activity capture both the island’s spirit of camaraderie and its connection to the sea. Organized every Saturday with an experienced group—and available on other days for large parties—it lets guests paddle together in rhythm, building bonds while enjoying the island waters. For those seeking other adventures, yachting excursions and sunset cruises extend the experience beyond the shore, blending leisure with discovery.
Nowadays, getting to Cebu is a breeze. On our most recent trip, we flew with Sunlight Air, leaving Manila early enough to enjoy a full first day on the island. What followed was a four-day stay that unfolded at a slower, more thoughtful pace.
The art of effortless luxury
Luxury at Shangri-La Mactan is never loud or overbearing. Instead, it’s the quiet, seamless kind that makes a stay feel natural and restorative. Meals are curated to highlight the freshest local ingredients. Spa treatments draw from traditional Filipino healing, enveloping guests in both comfort and cultural connection.
Even the smallest details—like towels appearing at the right moment after a swim, or a thoughtful staff member remembering a guest’s favorite drink—speak of the resort’s philosophy that true luxury comes from anticipating, not just providing.
This philosophy is what allows the resort to remain relevant. In a world where new hotels and resorts continuously emerge with cutting-edge designs and trends, Shangri-La Mactan’s strength is its ability to evolve while staying grounded in the values that made it beloved in the first place. Its design and facilities may adapt to the times, but the human touch continues to define the experience.
The human touch
At the end of the day, what makes Shangri-La Mactan stand apart is its people. The resort’s staff have long been known for a warmth that feels less like service and more like genuine care. It is this spirit, more than anything else, that leaves guests with the sense that they have truly been looked after.
In its 30-plus years, Shangri-La Mactan has proven that effortless luxury is not about extravagance, but about creating spaces where travelers can breathe, connect, and belong. It is a philosophy that has kept it relevant, beloved, and timeless—a resort that continues to define what it means to escape, and to come home, in Cebu.
