Where to Buy Souvenirs at SM Seaside Cebu — Top 5 Must-Visit Shops for 2025

Where to Buy Souvenirs at SM Seaside Cebu — Top 5 Must-Visit Shops for 2025

Introduction

If you’re studying in Cebu or traveling through this vibrant island in the Philippines, chances are you’ll be wondering:
“Where’s the best place to buy souvenirs before heading home?”
While there are many shopping centers around Cebu, one destination stands above the rest in terms of variety, size, and convenience — SM Seaside City Cebu.

Located by the coastline with a stunning ocean view, SM Seaside is not just one of the biggest malls in the country — it’s a favorite hangout spot for students, locals, and tourists alike. Especially for students from international English schools like 3D ACADEMY, this mall has become a go-to spot on weekends for relaxing, shopping, and picking up everything from daily necessities to uniquely Filipino gifts.

But with hundreds of stores spread across a massive floor plan, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Where exactly should you go if you want authentic, affordable, and easy-to-carry souvenirs that your friends and family will love? Which stores offer real local character — not just generic tourist trinkets?

This guide has the answers.

We’ve carefully selected five must-visit shops inside SM Seaside that are perfect for souvenir shopping in 2025. These shops were chosen based on real feedback from students, their popularity among foreign visitors, and the quality of what they offer — whether it’s delicious dried mangoes, handmade crafts, custom t-shirts, or local beauty products.

Each store on this list serves a different kind of need:

• Want something stylish and traditional? We’ve got you covered.

• Looking for budget-friendly snacks for coworkers back home? You’ll find them here.

• Need something small but thoughtful for your host family or dorm friends? No problem.

We’ll also share practical tips such as where in the mall each store is located, what items are most recommended, and why certain places are better for budget travelers or last-minute shoppers.

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly where to go, what to buy, and how to make your Cebu memories last just a little bit longer — in gift bags and heartfelt thank-you notes back home.

Let’s start your ultimate SM Seaside souvenir hunt.

1. What Makes SM Seaside Cebu a Great Place for Souvenir Shopping?

With over 400 stores and a floor area that rivals any major shopping complex in Southeast Asia, SM Seaside City Cebu isn’t just another mall — it’s a full-on lifestyle destination. Located along the southern coastal side of Cebu City, this massive mall offers a unique blend of modern shopping convenience and Filipino cultural flair.

Whether you’re an international student staying long-term or a tourist spending just a few days in Cebu, SM Seaside is the kind of place where you can do all your souvenir shopping in one go — without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

Easy Access & Familiar Brands

For many English learners based at schools like 3D ACADEMY, getting to SM Seaside is simple. It’s about 20–30 minutes by Grab or taxi from most student accommodations in the city, and the ride is inexpensive.

Once inside, you’ll find everything from international brands like Uniqlo and H&M to uniquely Filipino boutiques that specialize in handcrafted items, regional food products, and traditional textiles.

A Souvenir Experience, Not Just a Shopping Trip

What makes SM Seaside ideal for souvenir shopping is the diversity of options — not only in products but in shopping experience:

• Want traditional crafts with a modern twist? There’s a store for that.

• Need food items that are well-packaged and travel-safe? Easy to find.

• Looking for a T-shirt with your name and “CEBU 2025” on it? You’ll get it made in 15 minutes.

The mall also regularly hosts weekend pop-up markets, where you can interact with local artisans, try samples, and pick up handmade goods that won’t be found in regular shops.

Bonus: Shopping by the Sea

After you’re done shopping, take a walk to the Seaview Deck or grab a cold drink at one of the many cafés with views of the ocean.
Few malls in the world let you buy souvenirs and watch the sunset over the water in the same afternoon.

✅ Summary: Why SM Seaside?

• One-stop shopping for authentic, affordable, and varied souvenirs

• Clean, safe, and air-conditioned — perfect for all-weather browsing

• Easy access by Grab or taxi from any student residence

• More than a mall — it’s a memorable part of the Cebu experience

️ 1. Kultura Filipino

Location: Ground floor, near the central Atrium

If there’s only one store you visit, make it Kultura. This flagship Filipino lifestyle brand offers everything from traditional handicrafts and fashion to local gourmet products — all with excellent packaging and presentation.
Here, you’ll find:

• Handwoven bags made from abaca and rattan

• Wooden carvings and mother-of-pearl home decor

• Dried mangoes, banana chips, and herbal teas in beautiful kraft packages

• Natural soaps and essential oils made in the Philippines

Why it’s loved by students:
“I bought all my gifts here — stylish, well-priced, and authentically Filipino. It saved me time and everyone back home loved them.”

️ 2. Islands Souvenirs

Location: North Wing, 1st floor, along the main hallway

This is THE place to get your “CEBU” T-shirt. Known for its bright colors and playful style, Islands Souvenirs specializes in customizable shirts and accessories. You can get your name or graduation year printed right on the shirt for a personal touch.

Also available:

• Tote bags, caps, mugs, magnets

• Cebu-themed graphic hoodies and baby clothes

• Bulk discounts on souvenir sets

✨ Fun fact: You can get a customized shirt made in under 20 minutes!

️ 3. Metro Department Store

Location: Lower Ground Floor, beside SM Supermarket

Metro is where smart shoppers go for bulk buys of local snacks and delicacies. Skip the expensive airport souvenir stalls — this is where you get top brands at local prices. Perfect for:

• 7D or Cebu Best dried mangoes

• Chicharon (fried pork rinds)

• Banana chips and roasted peanuts

• Local candies and native coffee

3D Student Tip:
“I filled half my suitcase with Metro snacks and saved a ton. Great for giving something to coworkers or classmates.”

️ 4. SM Supermarket

Location: Lower Ground Floor, next to Metro

Beyond daily groceries, SM Supermarket also carries an impressive variety of Philippine-made goods that work great as souvenirs:

• Packaged polvoron (shortbread)

• Coconut-based products like oil, jam, and vinegar

• Filipino brand toiletries and soaps

• Snack-size bundles for travel

The best part? You’re shopping where locals shop, so you’ll see what real life in Cebu looks like — and save a few pesos while you’re at it.

️ 5. Weekend Local Market (Pop-Up Stalls)

Location: Central Atrium, weekends & holidays

Every weekend or during holidays, the central Atrium transforms into a pop-up market filled with handmade crafts, locally sourced products, and small-batch treats. You can:

• Talk directly to local artisans (great for practicing English!)

• Find one-of-a-kind items like shell jewelry, woven wallets, or hand-poured candles

• Taste samples before buying — often free!

Perfect for: Travelers who want something truly unique and not mass-produced

3. Smart Tips for Buying Souvenirs at SM Seaside Cebu

Buying souvenirs in a massive mall like SM Seaside can be fun — but also overwhelming if you go in without a plan. Here are some practical tips to make sure you shop efficiently, save money, and go home with the best gifts possible.

1. Visit on Weekdays (if possible)

Weekends can be crowded, especially when local families come to shop or hang out. If your schedule allows, go on weekday mornings or early afternoons. The stores are quieter, and staff are more available to assist you with sizes, prices, and suggestions.

2. Bring a Reusable Bag (or Two)

Although most stores provide plastic or paper bags, it’s always smart to carry an eco-bag or foldable tote — especially if you plan on hopping from store to store or buying in bulk at Metro or the supermarket.

Bonus: Some stores give small discounts if you say “No bag, please.”

3. Think About Customs & Airport Security

Avoid buying liquids over 100ml unless they go into checked luggage. Oils, sauces, and alcohol can be great gifts, but always pack them securely and check if they’re allowed into your country.

Some items like knives, lighter-shaped trinkets, or herbal medicine may be flagged by airport security — always double-check!

✈️ 4. Choose “Light & Local” Gifts

Especially if you’re flying with budget airlines or have limited baggage space, go for lightweight, non-breakable items such as:

• Dried mangoes in vacuum packs

• Handmade soaps

• T-shirts and pouches

• Postcards or bookmarks from artisan booths

These gifts are easy to pack and universally appreciated.

5. Practice Your English While You Shop!

Buying souvenirs is also a great excuse to practice speaking English — whether you’re asking,

“Do you have a bigger size?”
or
“Can I get a discount if I buy two?”

Vendors and staff are generally friendly, and many will happily engage with international students.
Some even give bonus deals or small freebies when you connect with them in conversation.

✅ Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Souvenirs, Cebu Style

Souvenir shopping doesn’t have to be stressful — and at SM Seaside Cebu, it can actually be one of the most enjoyable parts of your stay. Whether you’re looking for high-quality gifts, tasty Filipino snacks, or something uniquely handcrafted, this guide has shown you where to go, what to buy, and how to shop wisely.

Let’s quickly recap the top 5 spots to visit:

From 3D ACADEMY students to first-time tourists, these five destinations have been tested and loved by real visitors who wanted more than just a refrigerator magnet — they wanted something with a story.

So before you leave Cebu, make time for a visit to SM Seaside. Bring your curiosity, your tote bag, and a little extra luggage space — you’re bound to find souvenirs that spark smiles when you get home.

Happy shopping, and enjoy the rest of your Cebu experience!

この記事の 日本語版はこちら。

SM Seaside Cebu: The Ultimate Shopping, Dining, and Leisure Destination in Cebu (2025 Edition)