Inside Nustar Cebu: What to Expect from the City’s First Integrated Resort (2025 Edition)

✨ Introduction

For years, Cebu has been known for its pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant English study-abroad culture. But in 2025, there’s a new star rising on the island’s horizon—literally.
Welcome to Nustar Resort & Casino, the first world-class integrated resort (IR) in Cebu City, and the most ambitious entertainment and luxury project the island has ever seen.

Located in the fast-developing South Road Properties (SRP) district, Nustar is not just a hotel, not just a mall, and not just a casino—it’s all of those, and more, brought together in a massive coastal complex facing the Mactan Channel.

Opened in stages since 2022 and reaching full momentum in 2024, Nustar has transformed Cebu’s skyline, offering:

• A luxurious 5-star hotel with sea-view suites

• A massive, modern casino floor with international gaming standards

• High-end shopping featuring designer and lifestyle brands

• A theater and events hall for concerts, conferences, and shows

• Multiple fine-dining restaurants, cafes, and rooftop lounges

• Kid-friendly zones and a soon-to-open water feature area

From the moment you step inside, it’s clear: this is not just another mall or hotel. With a design inspired by the waves and movement of the sea, floor-to-ceiling glass views, and a mix of local warmth and international polish, Nustar brings “resort living” to Cebu City in a way that’s never been done before.

Who is Nustar for?

Whether you’re:

• A traveler looking for an elevated experience

• A 3D ACADEMY student who wants a memorable night out or a fancy weekend meal

• A family hosting relatives in Cebu

• A business professional attending an event

• Or just a local Cebuan@ curious about what all the buzz is about…

Nustar is designed to impress—from its marble floors to its glowing casino towers.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before visiting Nustar:
From what’s inside, to what to wear, what to eat, how to enjoy the casino responsibly, and how to make the most of a quick visit—even on a student budget.

Ready to see the future of Cebu? Let’s go inside.

Chapter 1: What Is Nustar? – Inside Cebu’s First Integrated Resort

Nustar Resort & Casino is the first-ever Integrated Resort (IR) in Cebu and the entire Visayas-Mindanao region—bringing together a luxury hotel, casino, lifestyle mall, and entertainment venues in a single, interconnected seaside complex.

️ Location: South Road Properties (SRP)

Strategically located at the southern end of Cebu City, right by the sea, Nustar sits in the heart of SRP (South Road Properties)—an area long envisioned as Cebu’s next commercial and tourism hub.
It’s only:

• ~20 minutes from the city center

• ~25–30 minutes from JY Square/3D ACADEMY

• And directly connected to Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), making it ultra-accessible from Mactan

A Quick Look at What’s Inside Nustar

Here’s what makes Nustar truly integrated:

Design & Ambiance

Nustar was designed to match global standards. You’ll notice:

• A wave-inspired architecture with flowing curves and wide open spaces

• Marble interiors, high ceilings, and waterfront-facing glass panels

• Sophisticated lighting and water features that come alive at night

The experience is comparable to major Asian resorts like:

• Marina Bay Sands (Singapore)

• Okada Manila

• Resorts World Genting (Malaysia)

But it comes with Cebuano warmth and a slightly more relaxed dress code and atmosphere—making it accessible even for students and budget-conscious visitors.

Current Status (2025)

• ✅ Hotel, Casino, and Mall: Fully operational

• ✅ Events Center: Hosting local concerts and business expos

• Water features & family zones: Partially open, with more launching soon

Chapter 2: Best Places to Eat, Drink, and Explore Inside Nustar

Whether you’re a student from 3D ACADEMY looking to treat yourself, or a tourist craving an upscale dining and leisure experience, Nustar offers a wide variety of culinary and recreational choices that cater to every taste and budget.

1. Fina Restaurant – Modern Filipino Cuisine (Fili Hotel)

Located inside the luxurious Fili Hotel, Fina offers a fresh take on Filipino dishes—elevated presentation, rich flavors, and sea-view seating. Think:

• Adobo reimagined with a gourmet twist

• Sinigang with fresh local seafood

• Grilled meats and desserts like leche flan and ube cheesecake

Budget: 500–1,200 PHP per person
Perfect for: Weekend family meals, romantic dinners, or a cultural introduction for international students

2. Mazu – Asian Fusion and Seafood Dining

With a name inspired by the sea goddess of Chinese tradition, Mazu brings together Korean, Japanese, and Southeast Asian cuisine in a sophisticated setting. Their fresh seafood platters, sushi rolls, and wagyu donburi are especially popular.

Budget: 800–1,500 PHP per person
Ideal for: Group dinners, birthdays, or visitors from abroad

☕ 3. Cartel Deli – Gourmet Café and Wine Shop

Tucked inside The Mall at Nustar, Cartel Deli is the spot for brunch, pastries, charcuterie boards, and espresso-based drinks. The atmosphere is relaxed but upscale.

Budget: 300–800 PHP
Great for: Study sessions, afternoon breaks, or a light meal before a show

4. Sky Lounge by Fili – Rooftop Bar with a View

Overlooking the sea and Mactan Island, the Sky Lounge provides a chill vibe with cocktails, tapas, and music. It’s perfect for watching the sunset or enjoying a classy night out—without needing to leave Cebu.

Budget: 500–1,000 PHP for drinks/snacks
Recommended for: Socializing with classmates, relaxing weekends

️ 5. The Mall at Nustar – Luxury Meets Local

You’ll find both global and Filipino luxury brands here, including fashion, beauty, watches, and accessories. While it’s not a budget mall, window shopping and enjoying the interior design (especially at night) are experiences on their own.

Don’t miss: Local artisan pop-ups, special events, and exhibits held in the central atrium.

Bonus: What to Explore if You’re Not a Gambler

Even if you’re not into casino games, Nustar offers:

• Art installations and light displays

• Open-air seaside promenades

• A family-friendly vibe during the day

• Occasional live music performances and pop-up markets

Chapter 3: The Casino at Nustar – What You Need to Know Before You Go

One of the most high-profile attractions at Nustar is its casino floor—a sprawling, luxurious space that brings international-style gaming to Cebu. With slot machines, poker tables, blackjack, and roulette, it has quickly become a magnet for both locals and tourists looking for entertainment and excitement.

However, for students—especially those under 21—there are important things to keep in mind.

Age Restrictions & Entry Rules

First and foremost:

You must be at least 21 years old to enter the casino.
This is a strict regulation under Philippine law and applies regardless of nationality, tourist status, or appearance. Security staff will check your ID at the entrance.

Even if you are legally of age, be aware:

• No student uniforms or school IDs are allowed as a form of ID

• Bags may be inspected, and dress code is smart casual

‍ Why 3D Students Should Think Twice

If you’re a student at 3D ACADEMY or any ESL school in Cebu, it’s highly recommended not to engage in casino gambling, even if you are 21 or older.

Why?

• Gambling can be addictive and harmful to financial stability—especially for international students on a budget.

• Visa status as a student is for academic purposes. Spending significant time in casinos could lead to unnecessary immigration scrutiny.

• Participating in gambling activities can affect your studies, daily routines, and even relationships with classmates.

Even if visiting briefly just to see the interior, we advise students to focus on the many other entertainment options within Nustar—such as rooftop lounges, dining, shopping, or live events.

Local Tip: Just Visit the Public Areas

Curious about the casino’s vibe?
You can still walk through the common areas of the resort, enjoy the lights, the water features, and the overall atmosphere—without entering the casino. It’s perfectly fine to take photos in designated areas, especially near the hotel and promenade.

Final Thought for Students

Nustar is a beautiful place to explore, relax, and experience a new side of Cebu—but it’s important to know your boundaries.

As a student abroad, your main goal is to learn, grow, and enjoy your stay safely. So while casinos may look glamorous, remember that you don’t need to gamble to enjoy Nustar.

Chapter 4: How to Get to Nustar – From 3D ACADEMY and Around Cebu

Nustar may feel like a world apart thanks to its sleek, modern design and seaside setting—but getting there is surprisingly easy, especially if you’re staying in central Cebu.

Here’s everything 3D ACADEMY students and travelers need to know about getting to Cebu’s premier integrated resort.

From 3D ACADEMY (JY Square, Lahug)

• Grab (Recommended):
   Cost: ₱200–₱250
   Travel Time: ~25–35 minutes depending on traffic
   Best Time to Go: After 6:00 PM for cooler weather and night views

• Public Transport (Advanced Option):
   You can take a jeepney or bus heading toward SRP or SM Seaside, then transfer or walk—but this is not recommended at night for safety and comfort reasons.

Pro Tip: Set your Grab destination to “Nustar Resort & Casino” or “Fili Hotel” to avoid confusion with nearby SRP locations.

✈️ From Mactan-Cebu International Airport

• Grab or Airport Taxi
   Travel Time: ~35–45 minutes
   Cost: ₱300–₱400
   Via the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) for scenic views!

️ From Other Key Cebu Spots

Why the Location Matters

Nustar is built on Kawit Island, a reclaimed portion of South Road Properties (SRP), connected directly to the CCLEX bridge. This makes it not only an iconic seaside location but also a strategic access point for visitors from Lapu-Lapu City or Cordova.

This location also places it just:

• ️ 10 mins from Ocean Park

• ️ 15 mins from IL Corso Lifemalls

• Future neighbors: Theme parks and cruise ship terminals are in development!

Worth the Trip

Even if you’re not staying overnight or using the casino, the night view, architecture, and food make Nustar a worthy weekend destination. It’s a great spot for:

• Celebrating graduation or a birthday

• Taking your family when they visit Cebu

• Group photos with classmates before leaving Cebu

Final Thoughts: Should You Visit Nustar as a Student?

Absolutely — but with boundaries.

Nustar Cebu is not just another mall or hotel complex. It’s a landmark that reflects the future of Cebu — blending luxury, entertainment, and tourism in one seaside destination. For students studying at 3D ACADEMY or any ESL school in Cebu, it can be a rewarding weekend escape or a cultural experience worth checking out.

Whether you go there to:

• Enjoy world-class Filipino cuisine at Fina,

• Take aesthetic sunset photos at the Sky Lounge,

• Or explore the shops and open-air areas,

You’ll find something memorable at Nustar.

But a Word of Caution: Avoid the Casino

While the glitz and glamour of the casino may seem tempting, it’s not the right place for students. The risks — financially, legally, and personally — outweigh any short-term excitement. Gambling can quickly spiral into unhealthy habits, and for international students, it could even draw the wrong kind of attention from immigration or your school.

✅ Visit Nustar for the sights, food, and experience.
But steer clear of the casino floor.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Nustar without spending a peso on chips.

Balance Fun and Focus

Studying in Cebu is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and it’s perfectly okay to treat yourself once in a while. Nustar offers a glimpse into a different side of the city — modern, luxurious, and global — making it a great stop during your stay.

Just remember:
You came to Cebu to learn, grow, and explore — not to gamble.

Stay smart, stay safe, and enjoy Cebu responsibly.