Where to Stay near Cebu Airport (Mactan): Best Hotels, Areas, and Tips for All Travelers

Whether you’re catching a red-eye flight, arriving late at night, or just looking for the ultimate convenience when flying in or out of Cebu, staying near Mactan-Cebu International Airport can be a smart move. The airport is located on Mactan Island—home to beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and a growing number of budget-friendly options.

This comprehensive guide explores where to stay near Cebu Airport, segmented by budget, travel purpose, and proximity, helping you find the best accommodation that fits your needs.

️ Overview: Understanding the Area Around Cebu Airport

Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) is in Lapu-Lapu City, about 40 minutes (in normal traffic) from Cebu City. It serves both domestic and international flights, making it a key hub in the Visayas region.

Key nearby areas include:

• Pusok – Directly outside the airport; great for quick stays.

• Marigondon / Suba-Basbas / Punta Engaño – Beachfront resorts and upscale hotels.

• Mactan Newtown – A modern complex with condos, hotels, and restaurants.

• Mepz 1 / 2 (Export Zones) – Ideal for business travelers.

• Lapu-Lapu City proper – Offers more local vibe and cheaper stays.

✈️ Ultra-Convenient: Walking Distance or 5-Min Drive from Airport

If your priority is being as close as possible to the airport, these hotels and accommodations are ideal:

1. Waterfront Airport Hotel and Casino Mactan

• Distance: Directly across the airport entrance (2-minute walk)

• Why Stay Here:

  • 24/7 check-in and airport shuttle service

  • Comfortable mid-range rooms

  • On-site restaurant and casino

• Best For: Late-night arrivals, early morning departures, or a 1-night stopover

2. Eloisa Royal Suites

• Distance: 5-minute drive

• Highlights:

  • Clean, well-managed boutique hotel

  • Complimentary breakfast

  • Free airport shuttle

• Ideal For: Business travelers or short-term tourists who want value and convenience

3. The Bellavista Hotel

• Distance: Around 2 km from MCIA

• Features:

  • Rooftop pool

  • Free airport transfer

  • Aged but with character

• For Whom: Budget-conscious but comfort-seeking travelers

️ Beach Resorts Close to Airport (10–20 Min Drive)

Surprisingly, staying near the airport doesn’t mean giving up on Cebu’s tropical vibes. Some beachfront resorts are within a 15–20 minute drive.

4. Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan

• Distance: 20 minutes from airport

• Vibe: High-end luxury meets tropical tranquility

• Perks:

  • Private beach, infinity pool, kids’ club

  • World-class spa

• Best For: Luxury vacations, honeymoons, or relaxation right after landing

5. Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort

• Distance: 25–30 minutes via Punta Engaño Road

• What Stands Out:

  • Infinity pool overlooking the sea

  • Modern rooms and Thai-style service

• Who Should Stay: Couples or digital nomads who want airport access without sacrificing experience

6. Mövenpick Hotel Mactan Island Cebu

• Distance: 20–25 minutes drive

• Why Choose:

  • Ibiza Beach Club onsite

  • Stylish beachfront experience

  • Fast access to diving tours

• Perfect For: Young couples, solo travelers, or beach lovers

Best Hotels for Business Travelers Near MCIA

If you’re visiting Cebu for work, you’ll want reliable Wi-Fi, smooth transfers, and perhaps access to coworking.

7. Goldberry Suites and Hotel Mactan

• Distance: 6 minutes by car

• Advantages:

  • Business-class amenities

  • Strong Wi-Fi and work desks

  • Cafe on-site

• Perfect For: Business travelers who need proximity and value

8. Chambre Hotel Mactan

• Distance: 5–7 minutes away

• Features:

  • Modern rooms

  • Conference room facilities

• Ideal For: Short corporate visits or overnight business layovers

Budget-Friendly Accommodations Near Cebu Airport

Affordable doesn’t mean uncomfortable. Here are top budget picks near MCIA:

9. Islands Stay Hotels Mactan

• Distance: Less than 1 km

• What to Expect:

  • Simple but clean rooms

  • Perfect for 1-night stays

• Target Audience: Backpackers or tight-budget travelers

10. Mactan Pension House

• Distance: ~10 mins drive

• Value:

  • Ultra-cheap with basic amenities

  • Great for Filipino local travelers

• Best For: Emergency overnight or no-frills airport transit

11. Transit Point Hostel Mactan

• Distance: 2.5 km

• Why Consider:

  • Capsule-style beds

  • Quiet, clean, and ideal for a night of rest

• Audience: Solo travelers, backpackers, budget nomads

️ Condos and Long-Term Options Near Airport

For longer stays, especially for digital nomads or business contractors, condos and serviced apartments can be better than hotels.

12. Amani Grand Resort Residences

• Distance: ~5 mins drive

• Why It’s Great:

  • Fully furnished units with kitchen

  • Pool and gym access

• Perfect For: Monthly stays or work-from-home setups

13. Mactan Newtown Condos (e.g., One Pacific Residence)

• Distance: 15–20 minutes drive

• Community Features:

  • Walkable cafes, grocery, and beach access

  • Great for work + leisure hybrid stays

• Who It’s For: Digital nomads or expats with extended stay plans

️ Access to Essentials: Malls, Food, and More

Staying near the airport doesn’t mean being isolated. Nearby essentials include:

• Island Central Mall – Closest full mall to the airport (7 mins drive)

• Mactan Marina Mall – Good for fast food and ATMs

• Savemore Supermarket – Convenient for groceries

• Gaisano Mactan – A bit older but with local flair

Airport Transfers and Transport Tips

• Taxis and Grab: Readily available at the arrivals exit. Fare to nearby hotels is around PHP 100–200.

• Shuttle Vans: Many hotels (e.g., Eloisa, Goldberry) offer free or low-cost transfers.

• Local Jeepneys: Not recommended for airport use unless you’re familiar with local routes.

Best Hotels for a 1-Night Layover

If you’re simply transiting, you need a quick-in, quick-out place with late check-in or early breakfast.

Top Picks:

• Waterfront Airport Hotel (walkable)

• Eloisa Royal Suites (shuttle, great value)

• Goldberry Suites (comfort and price balance)

Best Hotels for a Relaxing First Night in Cebu

If you’re arriving in Cebu and want to start your trip with beach vibes:

Top Picks:

• Crimson Resort (luxury)

• Dusit Thani (modern style)

• Mövenpick (beachfront with nightlife)

Kid-Friendly Options near Cebu Airport

Some family travelers arrive with kids after long flights. These hotels offer more space and fun:

• Crimson Resort – Kids’ playroom, shallow pools

• Savoy Hotel Mactan (near Mactan Newtown) – Spacious rooms and access to Newtown beach

• Mövenpick – Family-friendly menus and beach

Final Tips: Choosing the Right Place

Conclusion

Staying near Cebu Airport doesn’t have to be boring, inconvenient, or expensive. Whether you’re here for business, catching a flight, or just easing into your Cebu adventure, the Lapu-Lapu City area has a variety of lodging options to fit every need.

From 2-minute airport walks to 20-minute beachfront escapes, your next great stay in Cebu starts right here—just minutes from the runway.