Summer Destination Cebu White Sands

Summertime beckons with arresting lures and appealing surprises giving no one an excuse to stay idle and remain in hibernation. 'Tis the season to get sun-kissed, the season for private rendezvous, family sojourns and reunions, the season when sidetrips and roadtrips alike are religiously practiced, and above all else, it is the season for great escapes!

Suroy-suroy or laag-laag – this has become a hobby, a tradition since time immemorial, that has to be memorable and a stress reliever. The great thing about Cebu is its rich options of venues for relaxation and pleasure. “Suroy ta's Mactan!” We often hear this line summoning friends and kins when a need for a break arises. Mactan is one of Cebu's great treasures when it comes to beaches. To spare one from a long drive to somewhere south or north, Mactan is an alternative for sure.

One of the most popular beach destinations in Mactan is Cebu White Sands. This more-than-a-decade-year-old beach resort is situated on the east coast of Mactan Island, amidst natural attractions of lush greenery and comfort of trees, shrubs and flower varieties. The Filipino hospitality is very much felt at the foyer while employees greet valued guests, ushering them into their “home away from home.” The tropical landscape is a glorious sights for every beach junkie to marvel. Right at the corner of the well-manicured lawn is a pond where a school of kois swim freely.  Moving forward, at the core is a lagoon-shaped 500 square meter swimming pool is a main attraction. Aquanaut wannabes, beach bums  and the likes will take pleasure in the aqua sports and recreations offered such as parasailing, fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling, island hopping to Islas Tres Rosas, jetski, pumpboat, waterski, paddle boat, banana boat, kayak and floater rentals, plus Bohol Day tour and bird sanctuary tour in Olango Island. So, get those bikinis on and prepare to bask under the sunshine or either swim through the crystalline waters of Mactan.

Cebu White Sands has been in operation since December 1995 with 15 rooms – 13 deluxe and two semi-deluxe – with a tropical architectural wash. These rooms, each having a private balcony, still stand proud offering a fantastic view of the pool and the seascape. Its owner; the Unchuans saw the resort's potential in accommodating jet setters and families, reason that they added more high-end and sophisticated rooms amounting to 49 rooms in all. The Courtyard villas, Mabuhay rooms, and semi-suite rooms meet the demands of vacationers who wish to experience a serene and restful break. The courtyard is its latest innovation. Spa-inspired villas offer a rejuvenating atmosphere wherein one will absolutely relax in opulence. Complete with state-of-the-art room amenities, the courtyard also boasts of its koi ponds apt for peaceful retreats where guests can feed the colorful kois during feeding time. The Mabuhay rooms have the same sophistication as the villas however display modern and elegant furnishings. Also, the semi-suite room is elegantly furnished with a jacuzzi, ideal for honeymooners.

The resort's distinctive stamp is its ability to astound guests with its antique furniture pieces that are exhibited within the vicinity. The Unchuans are known to be antique collectors. Artsy details show how each piece was intricately done – some of these are wooden rocking chairs, huge drum tables, dining sets, cabinets, among others. These are but only fascinating to look at, truly a feast for the eyes.

A feast for the palate also awaits guests.  Take your pick from any of the Filipino, Continental or Western fare offered at the resort's gastronomic hubs: Patio Gavino Restaurant (poolside), Buena Vista Restaurant (beach area) and Doña Estrella Restaurant (fine dining). Buffet spreads of mouth-watering cuisine are served during lunchtime every Saturday, Sunday and legal holidays.  More lined-up themed treats hypes up a stay: Kumbira, a dinner buffet with a cultural show, every Saturday; Chill Out Sunset – beer and wine drink-all-you-can daily from 4p.m. to 9p.m.; the daily breakfast buffet; and Sugba-sugba Sa Baybayon, with live performances of the "Puting Balas Dance Troupe" composed of the resort’s in-house talents, every Friday and Sunday.  Executive Chef Renato Amahan, who has an overseas experience, is at the helm of the culinary   endeavors.

Cebu White Sands is located in Maribago, Lapu-lapu City  (tel. nos. 495 2226 / 236 1276). They also accept bookings for corporate functions.