Tourism
Discover Cordova's best attractions, restaurants, and experiences.
Attraction
CCLEX Bridge Viewpoint
The Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) is the longest and tallest bridge in the Philippines, stretching 8.9 kilometers across the Mactan Channel and connecting Cordova directly to the Cebu South Road Properties. Standing 145 meters at its highest point, the cable-stayed bridge is a stunning feat of engineering and a landmark of modern Cordova. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the sea and skyline, and is best admired at sunset from the Roro Port baywalk or the Cordova approach.
#CCLEX#bridge#landmark
Attraction
Gilutongan Island Marine Sanctuary
A renowned marine sanctuary and top snorkeling and diving destination near Cordova. Gilutongan Island is famous for its thriving coral gardens and diverse marine life — expect to see sea turtles, clownfish, parrotfish, and hundreds of other species just meters from the shore. The island also has a beautiful white sand beach perfect for relaxing after a swim. Bangka rides from Cordova take approximately 20–30 minutes.
#marine sanctuary#snorkeling#diving
Attraction
Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the most important bird sanctuaries in the Philippines and a RAMSAR Wetland of International Importance. Located on Olango Island in Lapu-Lapu City, the sanctuary is easily accessible by bangka from the Cordova pier — making it a popular day trip for Cordova visitors. Home to thousands of migratory birds from Siberia, China, and Japan, particularly between September and March. Visitors can walk through mangrove-lined trails, observe birds from elevated viewing towers, and learn about the sanctuary's rich ecosystem. A must-visit for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
#wildlife#birds#sanctuary
Attraction
Cordova Roro Port Baywalk
More than just a ferry terminal, the Cordova Roro Port Baywalk is a lively waterfront promenade and community hub. Locals and visitors gather here to enjoy the sea breeze, watch boats cross the Mactan Channel, and take in sweeping views of the CCLEX bridge. The baywalk is lined with food stalls and is the main departure point for bangka rides to Gilutongan and Nalusuan islands. A great spot for an evening stroll and a taste of everyday Cordova life.
#baywalk#port#roro
Attraction
Day-as Mangrove Boardwalk
Cordova's premier eco-tourism site, the Day-as Mangrove Boardwalk allows visitors to stroll through a nine-hectare mangrove forest via an elevated wooden walkway. Home to the Mangrove Information Center, the site educates visitors on the ecological importance of mangroves and Cordova's conservation efforts. The boardwalk winds through the dense forest canopy, offering a tranquil and immersive nature experience just minutes from the town center. A must-visit for eco-tourists and nature lovers.
#mangrove#boardwalk#eco-tourism
Attraction
Cordova Public Beach
The main public beach of Cordova, perfect for a casual swim, sunset watching, and experiencing local life. The beach fronts the Mactan Channel and offers calm waters safe for swimming year-round. Lined with local food stalls serving fresh coconuts, grilled corn, and seafood, it's a favorite hangout for locals and a great introduction to the laid-back Cordova lifestyle for visitors. Ideal for families and budget travelers.
#beach#public beach#sunset
Attraction
Bantayan Mangrove Forest
A lush mangrove ecosystem fronting Barangay Catarman in Cordova, Bantayan Bay's mangrove forest is a haven for kayaking, paddleboarding, and nature exploration. The shallow waters and dense mangrove patches make it ideal for eco-tourism, with local operators offering guided paddle tours through the forest. A peaceful escape into Cordova's rich coastal environment, best visited during high tide when the mangroves are fully immersed and most atmospheric.
#mangrove#eco-tourism#kayaking
Attraction
Nalusuan Island
One of Cordova's most iconic destinations, Nalusuan Island is famous for its stunning floating cottages perched over crystal-clear waters and its thriving marine sanctuary. The surrounding reef teems with colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral gardens — making it a top snorkeling and diving spot in the Olango Island Group. The island's turquoise lagoon and postcard-perfect scenery make it a favorite for day-trippers and photographers. Accessible by bangka from the Cordova pier.
#island#marine sanctuary#snorkeling
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Cafe
10,000 Roses Cafe & More
A seaside cafe and LED rose garden inside the Cordova Tourism Center compound in Day-as, right beside Lantaw Floating Restaurant. Ten thousand acrylic white roses, each fitted with an LED, spread across the waterfront grounds and light up at dusk against a view of the Cebu City skyline across the strait. The two-story dining area serves coffee, pasta, pizza, and Filipino favorites, and the walkway through the rose field makes it one of the most photographed spots on this side of Mactan. Best visited from late afternoon into the evening when the lights come on.
#cafe#photo spot#sunset
Local Cuisine / Seafood
Entoy's Bakasihan
The eatery that put Cordova's bakasi on the map internationally, after being featured in Netflix's Street Food series. Run by Florencio "Entoy" Escabas, who has served the local reef eel for decades, the carenderia-style menu centers on bakasi cooked nilarang-style (a sour, spicy stew), fried, and as kinilaw, alongside other fresh seafood like crabs, saang, oysters, and grilled fish. Prices stay genuinely local, and it's the first stop most food-curious visitors make when they hear about Cordova's signature dish. Note: several visitors mention flies around the dining area, so it's more about the food than the ambiance.
#bakasi#nilarang#eel