The Reef Island Resort Mactan: Cebu Hotel Guide

Overview of The Reef Island Resort Mactan

The Reef Island Resort Mactan is one of the newest and most luxurious beachfront resorts in Cebu. Located along Mactan’s beautiful coastline, the resort combines modern architecture, elegant suites, and direct access to a white-sand beach. It is especially popular among couples, honeymooners, luxury travelers, and those who prefer a private, peaceful stay away from the busier parts of Lapu-Lapu City.

Opened recently, the resort was developed by the same group behind popular luxury properties in Metro Manila. It offers a stylish, minimalist aesthetic with floor-to-ceiling windows, open layouts, and spacious balconies overlooking the ocean. Because of its modern design and high-end amenities, many travelers describe it as “the Maldives-style resort of Cebu.”

Whether you want a romantic retreat, a relaxing beach holiday, or a quiet luxury getaway, The Reef Island Resort Mactan is a strong choice.

Location & Accessibility

The Reef Island Resort sits along the quiet southeastern coastline of Mactan Island. Unlike many hotels near the airport or main city roads, this resort is located in a more private and less crowded area.

Distance from Key Cebu Areas

• Mactan-Cebu International Airport: around 25 minutes

• Mactan Newtown: 10 minutes

• Shangri-La Mactan / Mövenpick: 7–8 minutes

• Cebu City (IT Park): 40–45 minutes

• SM Seaside Cebu: around 1 hour depending on traffic

Guests can easily access the resort via taxi, Grab, or private car transfers. The resort also offers airport pickup services for added convenience.

The location is ideal for travelers who want a peaceful beachfront experience while still being close to top island-hopping jump-off points, restaurants, and major diving centers.

Rooms & Suites

The Reef Island Resort Mactan offers a selection of premium rooms and suites designed for comfort and luxury. Most rooms feature ocean views, and all come with balconies that allow guests to enjoy the sea breeze and sunrise.

Room Categories

• Ocean View Room – Perfect for couples or solo travelers who want a relaxing stay with a stunning sea view.

• Premier Ocean View Room – Larger layout with improved interior finishes and views.

• Oceanfront Suite – Spacious suite with a living area and an oversized balcony.

• Panorama Suite – A premium option designed with floor-to-ceiling windows for a 180-degree view of the ocean.

• Presidential Suite – The most luxurious accommodation, featuring multiple rooms, a large living area, and top-tier amenities.

Features You Can Expect

• Private balcony in every room

• Premium bedding and linens

• Modern bathroom with rainfall shower

• High-speed Wi-Fi

• Smart TV with streaming capability

• In-room dining service

• Mini-bar and coffee/tea facilities

The rooms follow a modern tropical design with neutral colors and wooden accents, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere suitable for long stays.

Dining & Restaurants

One of the highlights of The Reef Island Resort Mactan is its impressive dining selection. The most famous establishment inside the resort is The Elephant Room, a stylish and trendy all-day dining restaurant known for its well-crafted menu and beautiful beachfront design.

Main Dining Options

The Elephant Room

This restaurant is the resort’s signature dining space, offering international dishes, cocktails, and specialty desserts. Guests especially love its modern interior design and panoramic sea views.

Poolside Bar

A casual bar offering snacks, smoothies, cocktails, and light meals. It’s a popular spot for sunset drinks or relaxing by the infinity pool.

In-Room Dining

Available 24/7 for guests who prefer private dining on their balcony.

Dining Highlights

• High-quality international cuisine

• Perfect ambience for romantic dinners

• Excellent service and presentation

• Great coffee, wine, and cocktail selections

With its luxurious atmosphere and well-executed menu, The Reef Island Resort is considered one of the top dining destinations in Mactan.

Facilities & Amenities

The resort features a variety of modern facilities designed to ensure a premium experience.

Infinity Pool

The oceanfront infinity pool is one of the resort’s main attractions. It overlooks the sea and is especially beautiful during sunrise.

Private Beach

Guests can enjoy a well-maintained beachfront area with loungers, umbrellas, and lifeguard services.

Reef Spa

The in-house spa provides relaxing massage treatments, body scrubs, and wellness therapies—perfect for guests seeking total relaxation.

Fitness Center

A modern gym equipped with treadmills, weights, and strength-training equipment.

Event & Meeting Spaces

Suitable for small corporate meetings, intimate weddings, and private gatherings.

Water Activities

The resort can arrange several activities through local partners:

• Snorkeling

• Stand-up paddle boarding

• Scuba diving trips

• Island-hopping tours

Other Services

• Airport pickup & transfers

• Laundry & dry cleaning

• Concierge assistance

• 24-hour front desk

The resort focuses on providing a relaxing and premium lifestyle experience, making it ideal for high-end travelers.

Who Should Stay Here

The Reef Island Resort Mactan is an excellent choice for:

Couples & Honeymooners

The luxurious rooms, romantic atmosphere, and beautiful ocean views make it perfect for romantic getaways.

Family Travelers

Though more peaceful than other resorts, families can still enjoy the pool, beach, and spacious suites.

Luxury Travelers

Guests looking for high-end accommodation will appreciate the upscale design and premium amenities.

Digital Nomads Seeking Peace

With good Wi-Fi, quiet surroundings, and comfortable rooms, it works well for remote workers.

Food Lovers

The resort’s restaurant is one of the most stylish and popular dining places in Mactan.

Nearby Attractions

Guests staying at The Reef Island Resort Mactan can easily access nearby tourist activities:

• Island Hopping (Nalusuan, Caohagan, Hilutungan)

• Shangri-La Marine Sanctuary (snorkeling)

• Lapu-Lapu Shrine

• Mactan Newtown beaches and restaurants

• Diving spots in Marigondon and Hilutungan Channel

These activities make the resort a strategic base for exploring both natural attractions and historical sites.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Luxurious and modern room designs

• Stunning ocean views from almost every room

• Quiet and private beachfront location

• High-quality dining experience

• Beautiful infinity pool

• Excellent service and hospitality

Cons

• Higher rates than most Mactan hotels

• Limited nightlife options nearby

• Limited public transport; Grab or taxi is required

• Beach area is beautiful but narrower compared to larger resorts

Conclusion

The Reef Island Resort Mactan stands out as one of Cebu’s most luxurious new hotels. With its high-end design, excellent rooms, stylish restaurant, and peaceful beachfront location, it offers a sophisticated resort experience perfect for couples, luxury travelers, and anyone looking for a modern escape near Cebu.

If you’re planning a Cebu trip where relaxation, style, and comfort are priorities, The Reef Island Resort Mactan is unquestionably one of the best choices on the island.