Every year, my friends and I set aside a weekend for what we jokingly call our “freedom weekend” (which actually coincides with the Independence Day long weekend), a short escape from deadlines, traffic, notifications, and everything else that comes with city life.
This year, that tradition brought us back to Bantayan Island (same as in 2023 and 2025). While we’ve visited the island several times before, this was our first time staying right in the heart of Santa Fe, where restaurants, cafés, bars, convenience stores, and the beach are all within walking distance.
For our stay, we checked into Sunrise Beach Resort, and after spending a few days there, I can confidently say that the resort’s name is not just branding but a promise.
Location: Right at the Center of Santa Fe
One of the things I appreciated most about Sunrise Beach Resort was its location.
Situated along C. Batiancila Street in Santa Fe, the resort puts you within easy reach of everything you might need during your Bantayan getaway. Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee, a late-night drink, a seafood dinner, or simply want to stroll around town, everything is just a few minutes away on foot.
For travelers who prefer exploring without constantly hiring a tricycle or renting a motorcycle, the convenience is a huge plus.
Staying in the Beachfront Family Villa
Our group of four stayed in the resort’s Beachfront Family Villa, which turned out to be the perfect setup for a barkada trip.
The villa features:
- Beachfront location
- One bunk bed and two double beds
- Air-conditioning
- Private bathroom
- Hot and cold shower
- Bathroom amenities
- Towels and linens
- Wi-Fi access
- Private terrace with seating
- Non-smoking accommodations
What stood out most was the amount of space available. Nobody felt cramped, and the beachfront location meant we could enjoy the sea views without even leaving the villa.
Stepping out onto the terrace in the morning with a cup of coffee quickly became one of my favorite parts of the stay.
A Small Detail Frequent Travelers Will Appreciate
As someone who travels regularly, I’ve learned never to leave home without an extension cord.
At the end of every trip day, I usually have multiple devices that need charging at the same time: two phones, a power bank, my drone, the drone remote, and even a hair dryer. Since there were four of us staying in the villa, I had already assumed that power outlets would be limited.
To my surprise, I never had to unpack my extension cord.
The Beachfront Family Villa had an abundance of conveniently placed power outlets. There were outlets beside each bed, near the work desk, and in other areas where you would naturally need them. It may sound like a small detail, but seasoned travelers know how frustrating it can be to hunt for available sockets or take turns charging devices.
It’s one of those thoughtful touches that often goes unnoticed until you need it. For content creators, remote workers, or simply travelers carrying multiple gadgets, it’s something you’ll definitely appreciate.
Traveling as a Couple or Duo? Consider the Standard Double Room
While our group stayed in the Beachfront Family Villa, I also had the chance to take a look at the resort’s Standard Double Room.
If you’re visiting Bantayan as a couple, with a friend, or simply don’t need the extra space of a family villa, this room offers a more budget-friendly option while still providing the essentials for a comfortable island stay.
The Standard Double Room features a garden view, one double bed, air-conditioning, a private bathroom with hot and cold shower, Wi-Fi access, bathroom amenities, and a private patio with seating, perfect for enjoying a quiet morning before heading out to explore Santa Fe.
The Main Character: The Sunrise
Of course, there’s a reason why the resort is called Sunrise Beach Resort.
Every morning, the sky transformed into a canvas of warm oranges, yellows, and soft blues. The sunrise here isn’t something you catch accidentally while rushing to breakfast. It’s an experience that naturally slows you down.
During our stay, I found myself waking up earlier than usual, not because I had to, but because I didn’t want to miss the view.
Watching the first light reflect on the water while the rest of the island slowly came to life was easily one of the highlights of the trip.
In a world where vacations often revolve around packed itineraries and endless activities, Sunrise Beach Resort reminded me that sometimes the best travel experiences are the simplest ones.
A quiet morning.
A sea breeze.
And a front-row seat to nature’s daily show.
Breakfast at Amihan Beach Cabanas
Guests who avail of breakfast can enjoy their morning meal at Amihan Beach Cabanas, Sunrise Beach Resort’s sister property located right beside the resort.
The short walk is hardly an inconvenience, especially when you’re rewarded with a hearty breakfast and more beautiful beachfront views.
Rates and Booking Information
Beachfront Family Villa
Without breakfast:
₱3,900 per night
With breakfast:
₱4,500 per night
Additional Guest:
- ₱800 per night (without breakfast)
- ₱1,000 per night (with breakfast)
Maximum occupancy: 7 guests
Standard Double Room
Without breakfast:
₱2,500 per night
With breakfast:
₱2,800 per night
Good for 2 guests
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a beachfront resort in Bantayan Island that combines convenience, comfortable accommodations, and beautiful sunrise views, Sunrise Beach Resort deserves a spot on your shortlist.
The rooms are comfortable. The location is excellent. The beachfront setting is relaxing.
But what you’ll probably remember most is exactly what the resort promises from the moment you read its name.
The sunrise.
And sometimes, that’s all a great island getaway needs.
Sunrise Beach Resort
Location: C. Batiancila Street, Talisay, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu 6047
Email: hello@sunrisebantayan.com
Phone: +63 960 627 3477