Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island — The Next Tourism Hotspot of Cebu

Why Invest in Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island — The Next Tourism Hotspot of Cebu
By: Realtor Samuel Lao
Accessibility Is Driving Growth
Direct Flights: Since August 2024, direct flights from Mactan–Cebu International Airport to Bantayan Island cut travel time from six hours by land/ferry to just 30 minutes, opening the door for high-spending domestic and international travelers.
Port Expansion: A ₱500M modern port upgrade in Sta. Fe is underway, designed to handle cruise ships, ferries, and Ro-Ro vessels—solidifying Bantayan’s role as a future cruise tourism hub.
Modern Resorts Are Moving In
New and boutique resorts, villas, and hotels are already breaking ground in Sta. Fe, transforming the town’s hospitality landscape.
Early investors are gaining a first-mover advantage, securing prime beachfront and commercial sites before prices surge further.
Tourism & Commerce Are Booming
Weekend arrivals: ~6,000 tourists
Weekday arrivals: ~3,000 tourists (steady baseline for resorts & restaurants)
Cebu Province has allocated ₱126M+ for infrastructure to boost Bantayan’s tourism roads, ports, and utilities.
These numbers signal a strong upward trajectory for tourism, which directly drives local commerce, employment, and demand for accommodation.
Land Value Growth Potential
With Sta. Fe’s tourism still in the “involvement” stage (based on the Tourism Area Life Cycle model), property values are poised for rapid appreciation as infrastructure improves and branded resorts enter the market.
Beachfront and town-center land that once sold at ₱4,000–₱6,000/sqm has already doubled in recent years—and the trend is expected to accelerate as modern resorts, ports, and airports elevate Sta. Fe into an internationally known destination.
Investing now means positioning ahead of the curve, before Sta. Fe’s prime land values hit levels seen in Boracay or Panglao.
Why Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island?
Unspoiled white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters
Authentic Filipino hospitality and charm that tourists rave about
Government backing for eco-friendly, sustainable tourism
Strong potential for resorts, boutique hotels, beach clubs, and mixed-use developments
Strategic Investment Opportunities
Beachfront Resorts & Hotels – cater to growing domestic & foreign tourist markets.
Boutique Lodging & Wellness Escapes – meet the demand for unique, premium experiences.
Cruise & Marina Facilities – capitalize on Sta. Fe’s new port and cruise tourism future.
Commercial Hubs & Dining Strips – serve a booming tourist and local economy.
Conclusion
Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island is not just a postcard-perfect getaway—it’s an emerging investment frontier.
With modern resorts starting development, government-funded infrastructure, and surging visitor numbers, land prices are set to climb steadily. Early movers will benefit most from this once-in-a-generation tourism boom.
For serious investors & inquiries:
Samuel O. Lao & Associates
+63 917 323 6123 (Mobile | Viber | WhatsApp)
Sources:
SunStar: Direct Flights to Bantayan Island
Cebu Daily News: Infra Funds to Boost Tourism
ResearchGate: Tourism Destination Studies on Bantayan
Spot.ph & Sugbo.ph for hotel benchmarks
Disclaimer:
All figures are for presentation purposes only. Actual land values, tourism arrivals, and investment yields may vary. Investors are encouraged to conduct due diligence and consult with legal, financial, and property experts before making commitments.
Scource: Samuel Lao Fb