Where to Stay in Malapascua Island: Best Areas and Hotels for Every Traveler

Introduction: Why Stay in Malapascua Island?

Malapascua Island, located off the northern tip of Cebu, is one of the Philippines’ top diving destinations, famous for thresher sharks, pristine white-sand beaches, and a peaceful, low-key island vibe. Unlike more commercialized beach destinations, Malapascua offers a tranquil and intimate experience. Whether you’re a diver, a couple seeking seclusion, or a traveler craving a quiet tropical escape, Malapascua has something for you.

This guide will help you choose the best place to stay in Malapascua based on your travel style, budget, and preferred location on the island.

Quick Overview of Malapascua’s Areas

Malapascua is a small island, so most places are within walking distance. However, the island has several key zones:

Where to Stay Based on Your Travel Style

For First-Time Visitors: Bounty Beach Area

Bounty Beach is the main tourist strip on the island. It’s lined with resorts, dive centers, bars, and restaurants — all with a view of white sand and turquoise water.

Top Picks:

• Ocean Vida Beach and Dive Resort – Best overall beachfront stay with modern rooms and a reputable dive shop.

• Slam’s Garden Resort – Budget-friendly and just a minute walk from the beach.

• Malapascua Exotic Island Dive Resort – One of the longest-running dive resorts, great for beginners.

Why stay here? You’ll be close to everything — boat arrivals, restaurants, nightlife, and top diving schools. It’s the most convenient spot for first-timers.

For Divers: North and East Coast Resorts

Malapascua is world-renowned for daily sightings of thresher sharks at Monad Shoal. If diving is your priority, stay at resorts that specialize in dive packages.

Top Picks:

• Thresher Shark Divers Beach Resort – A highly-rated dive-focused resort with professional instructors.

• Evolution Dive Resort – Eco-conscious and community-oriented, with an excellent dive center.

• Blanco Beach Resort – A quiet, clean beach near diving sites, with upscale rooms and beach access.

Why stay here? Proximity to dive boats, experienced dive teams, and early morning shark dives.

For Budget Travelers: Logon Village or Inland Homestays

If you want to keep your costs low, avoid beachfront properties and look inland or within the local village. Most budget accommodations are family-run with basic amenities but warm hospitality.

Top Picks:

• Villa Sandra Guesthouse – Eco-friendly and backpacker-oriented, with a vegetarian kitchen and lively common space.

• AABANA Beach & Watersport Resort – German-Filipino owned, quiet and relaxed, with clean rooms under ₱1,000 per night.

• Tepanee Beach Resort (budget rooms) – Though mid-range in parts, they offer basic fan rooms at reasonable rates.

Why stay here? Lower room rates, home-cooked meals, and the opportunity to connect with locals.

For Couples: Secluded Corners like Guimbitayan or Lapus-Lapus

If you’re visiting with a partner, avoid the noisy central beaches. Choose quieter areas for privacy and romance.

Top Picks:

• Kokay’s Maldito Dive Resort – Has beautiful architecture, private balconies, and sunset views.

• Tepanee Beach Resort – Romantic ambiance with panoramic sea views and Italian dining.

• Buena Vida Resort & Spa – A wellness-focused stay with on-site spa, yoga, and lush tropical gardens.

Why stay here? You’ll find fewer crowds, more privacy, and higher-end facilities perfect for honeymoons or anniversaries.

For Solo Travelers: Social Hostels or Boutique Resorts

If you’re traveling solo, you’ll want either social interaction or peace of mind through safety and comfort. Choose hostels or small resorts known for community vibes.

Top Picks:

• Malapascua Budget Inn – A social hostel with dorms, rooftop bar, and daily activities.

• Villa Sandra – Again, a favorite for solo backpackers seeking eco-conscious spaces.

• Little Mermaid Dive Resort – Cozy, safe, and centrally located with its own dive center.

Why stay here? Friendly staff, fellow travelers to meet, and good walkable locations for solo exploration.

For Digital Nomads: Resorts with Reliable Wi-Fi and Workspace

Malapascua doesn’t offer many coworking spaces, and internet can be spotty. However, some accommodations offer better connectivity and quiet workspaces.

Top Picks:

• Buena Vida Resort & Spa – Reliable Wi-Fi, quiet environment, and healthy food options.

• Evolution Dive Resort – Strong Wi-Fi, beachfront bar/restaurant with work-friendly seating.

• Tepanee Beach Resort – Peaceful, with some rooms equipped with desks and good signal.

Why stay here? It’s not a digital nomad hub, but if you need to take a few meetings or send reports, these resorts will do.

Average Room Rates in Malapascua (As of 2025)

Important Tips When Booking

• Book in Advance for Holidays: Malapascua gets busy during Christmas, Holy Week, and Chinese New Year.

• Double Check Transfers: The island is boat-access only from Maya Port. Confirm if your resort includes pick-up.

• Electricity and Wi-Fi: Power outages are not uncommon. Ask about backup generators and Wi-Fi reliability.

• Eco-Friendly Choice: Some resorts lead sustainability efforts — check for reef-safe toiletries, water refills, etc.

How to Get to Malapascua Island

1. From Cebu City:

   • Take a bus from Cebu North Bus Terminal to Maya Port (4–5 hours).

   • From Maya Port, take a public or private boat to Malapascua (30–40 minutes).

   • Some resorts offer private van + boat transfers for convenience.

2. From Mactan-Cebu Airport:

   • Airport vans (via Klook or resorts) offer direct transfers (~6 hours door-to-door).

Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Malapascua Island?

Malapascua is a compact island, so no matter where you stay, you’re never too far from the beach or dive sites. Choose Bounty Beach for first-time convenience, go inland to save, or pick a secluded resort for peace and romance. Divers will love being close to Monad Shoal, while solo travelers and digital nomads have growing options that blend nature and community.

Still unsure? Here’s a quick guide: