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The places locals actually send visitors to.

Expansive turquoise saltwater lagoon with palm island and multi-story resort rooms along the shore.

Plantation Bay Resort & Spa

A Mactan resort built around private saltwater lagoons and a big spa.

Lapu-Lapu

attraction

Woman with arms raised in a blue pool in front of the Jpark Island Resort hotel building.

Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark

A Mactan waterpark resort with six pools, a lazy river, and a private beach.

Lapu-Lapu

attraction

A field of thousands of illuminated white LED roses glowing at night, with a modern cafe adorned with warm string lights in the background at 10,000 Roses Cafe in Cebu.

10,000 Roses Cafe

A coastal Cordova cafe famous for its glowing LED white rose garden.

Cordova

attraction

Long turquoise infinity pool lined with white umbrellas and lounge chairs at Crimson Resort.

Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan

A flagship Mactan resort with a private beach, infinity pool, and full spa.

Lapu-Lapu

attraction

Long wooden boardwalk leading across clear shallow turquoise water toward Nalusuan Island under a bright blue sunny sky.

safari_nao

Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary

About Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary

Nalusuan Island is a small island and marine sanctuary in Cordova, off Mactan. Its clear surrounding waters, boardwalk, shallow swimming areas and low-tide sandbar make it a popular destination for island trips. Visitors can spend time snorkeling, swimming, kayaking or simply walking around the compact island. The resort also offers day-use facilities, food packages and overnight accommodation, making the island suitable for both short visits and longer stays.

What to expect

Nalusuan is best known for its marine environment. The island has clear shallow water around parts of the shore, while the boardwalk extends over the water and provides access to areas used for snorkeling and diving. Fish and reef scenery are the main draw for visitors who come for water activities. At low tide, a broad sandbar becomes visible around parts of the island, creating a different experience from swimming at higher tide. Tide conditions can substantially change the appearance and usable swimming areas, so visitors should expect the shoreline to look different during the day. A typical day visit can take several hours, especially when combined with snorkeling or other water activities. The resort also has rooms, making overnight stays possible. It suits visitors interested in snorkeling, swimming, island scenery and relaxed day trips rather than sightseeing on a large developed island.

Know before you go

The resort currently lists a sanctuary entrance fee of around ₱300 per person, while a buffet lunch is listed at around ₱800 per person with sanctuary access included; prices and packages can change, so check the official Nalusuan Island Resort website before travelling. Round-trip boat transfers are listed for roughly 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with the price depending on group size. Access is by boat from the Mactan/Cordova area, and travel time can change with sea conditions. Bring swimwear, sun protection and footwear suitable for coral or uneven surfaces. The resort lists snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boats, jet skis and diving among its activities. Weather and sea conditions can affect boat schedules, so check directly with the resort before departure.

Olango Reef, Cordova, Cebu

Cordova 16 km from Cebu City (straight-line)

Last checked September 29, 2026

⚠️ Travel & safety

Conditions, access, hours, and prices can change, and some places involve remote travel or activities with inherent risks. Verify important details locally and use your own judgment when visiting. See our Terms for important safety and liability information.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary?

Take a car or taxi from Cebu City to a Cordova/Mactan boat port, then travel by boat; allow roughly 1.5-2 hours overall depending on traffic and sea conditions.

When is the best time to visit Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary?

Around low tide if you want to see the sandbar; higher tide is better for swimming around the island.

Where is Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary located?

Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary is at Olango Reef, Cordova, Cebu. That puts it in Mactan. It is roughly 16 km from Cebu City.

Can you stay overnight at Nalusuan Island?

Yes. Nalusuan Island Resort has rooms available for overnight stays, including stilt-style accommodation and family rooms. Availability and room rates should be checked directly with the resort before booking.

What water activities are available at Nalusuan Island?

Activities listed by the resort include snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddle boating, jet skiing and banana boat rides. Availability can depend on conditions and the selected package.

What else is there to see near Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary?

Plantation Bay Resort & Spa, Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark, and 10,000 Roses Cafe are the closest places on the Cebuzone map to Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary, and are all linked below.