We stayed at Sheraton Mactan Cebu Resort. As you’d expect from a new resort,
the clean facilities and stylish atmosphere
were impressive, and above all it was a perfect place to stay with kids.
Thoughtful touches for children were everywhere, and it really felt like a true family resort. Here are the practical tips every parent should know.
Why Sheraton Mactan Is Great for a Family Trip
There are many resorts in the Mactan area, but our reasons for choosing the Sheraton were clear.
- Newly built in 2019, so everything is clean
- Excellent facilities for kids, including a kids club and shallow
pools
- Korean dishes at breakfast, so no worries about picky eaters
- Plenty of free water activities
- 20 minutes by car from Mactan Airport
If you’re planning your first family trip to Cebu, the Sheraton is a choice that’s very hard to get wrong.
1. How to Make the Most of the Pools and Beach
The Sand Pool Is a Must
The Beach Pool in the middle of the resort is the signature space of Sheraton Mactan. It’s a beach-style pool with artificial sand, so kids can enjoy splashing and sand play at the same time.
Practical tips
- The shallow area (20 to 50 cm) is wide, so it’s safe even for toddlers
- Bring sand toys
- Mornings have gentler sun and fewer people
- Always put a life jacket on your child
Don’t Miss the Free Water Activities
The Sheraton offers non-motorized water sports for free, which is a huge plus.
- Kayak: great for riding with a parent
- Stand-up paddleboard: recommended for older elementary kids
- Snorkeling gear rental
Go early in the morning when the sea is glassy and clear, and you’ll spot plenty of fish.
When to Grab a Cabana
The cabanas by the pool are free, and their shade makes them perfect for snacks or a nap. They’re popular, though, so I recommend claiming one before 8 a.m.
2. Kids Facilities for Rainy Days
Sudden showers are common in Cebu, but the indoor kids facilities are so good that we didn’t worry at all.
Kids Club (ages 12 and under)
Next to the spa building, the kids club has a warm wood-toned interior.
Facilities
- Block play area
- Art table
- Picture book corner
- Pretend play sets
Ask the front desk at check-in about hours and childcare services. There’s also a waiting area for parents.
Teens Club (ages 12 and up)
There’s a separate space for older kids and teens, with video games and table football so they can easily make friends their own age.
3. Sheraton Mactan Breakfast Buffet Tips
The breakfast restaurant at Sheraton Mactan, 5 Cien, has a huge variety of dishes. It gets very crowded in peak season, so timing matters.
Breakfast timing strategy
Hours: 7 to 10 a.m.
- 7:00 to 7:30: opening time, plenty of seats and the freshest food (recommended)
- 8:30 to 9:30: the busiest time, you may have to wait
- 9:30 to 10:00: a little less food, but quiet
With kids, aim for right after opening or just before closing.
Menu and tableware for kids
- Kids’ plates and cups available
- Plenty of cereal, yogurt, fruit and bread
- Seaweed soup, braised short ribs and kimchi stew made by a Korean chef
- Don’t miss the Philippine mangoes
Extra tip: rooms have an electric kettle for cup noodles or warming baby food. Buying snacks at a nearby mart in advance is handy.
4. What to Check When Booking a Room
Recommended room type
I recommend the Double/Double Room with two double beds. It’s spacious, so storing family
luggage is easy and kids can move around freely.
Requests to make in advance
- Crib: free but limited in number, so request it when booking
- Extra bed: charged (adult rates may apply from age 3)
The staff were incredibly kind and happily handled even small requests. It touched us every time they remembered our child’s name and said hello.
As you’d expect from a new resort, the facilities were clean, and above all you could feel the care for families everywhere.
Rain or blazing sun, kids never get bored here. Parents can relax while kids run around freely, a perfect balance.
Our time in Cebu became a precious family memory, and we were truly glad we chose the Sheraton.
Planning a family trip to Cebu?
For first-timers in Cebu, I confidently recommend Sheraton Mactan.
Prices, hours and details in this post are from our visit in October 2025 and may have changed, so check the latest information before you go.