Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila is one of the city’s classic bayfront resort hotels, a sprawling property on Roxas Boulevard in Pasay that feels more like a tropical retreat than a city hotel. It sits in extensive gardens on the edge of Manila Bay, next to the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex, and its signature feature is a large lagoon-style outdoor pool surrounded by palms and lounge chairs, one of the biggest hotel pools in the capital. The hotel has several hundred rooms, most with views of the bay or the gardens, and the bay sunsets from the terraces and the bar are among the best in the city. Dining ranges from a well-known international buffet restaurant to Asian and French options and relaxed bars by the water, and there is a spa and a fitness centre for rainy days. It is a family-friendly, relaxed base for a longer stay, particularly in the hotter months when the pool and the sea breeze matter most.
Location and getting around
The hotel is on Roxas Boulevard, the long bayside road that runs from Rizal Park south to the airport district. The Cultural Center of the Philippines complex, with its theatres and galleries, is on the doorstep, and Rizal Park, the National Museum and Intramuros are a short drive north, usually twenty to thirty minutes depending on traffic.
The airport is also a short ride away, though journey times vary a great deal with the time of day, so allow extra time, especially on weekday evenings. Grab is the easiest way to get around.
Rooms
Expect large, comfortable rooms in a classic resort style, many with balconies and bay or garden views. Bay-facing rooms are the most sought after because of the sunset, and rooms in the garden wings are quieter. Check the latest room types and what is included when you book, as the hotel has refurbished parts of the property over the years and standards can differ between floors.
Who it suits
Families and groups who want a big pool and a garden setting, couples who want sunsets and a resort feel in the city, and travellers who plan to see Intramuros and Rizal Park by car rather than on foot. Food lovers will find plenty of choice on site, including the buffet that many Manila residents visit for celebrations. Business travellers who need to be in Makati may prefer a hotel there, as the cross-city drive can be slow.
Good to know
Weekends and holidays are busy, with weddings and events, so ask about noise and quiet areas if you want peace. The pool is the heart of the hotel, so go in the morning for the quietest time. Book well ahead for Christmas and New Year, and confirm current facilities before you reserve.
Why stay here
- ✓Lagoon-style outdoor pool
- ✓Tropical bayfront gardens
- ✓Manila Bay sunset views
- ✓Spa
- ✓Fitness centre
- ✓International buffet restaurant
- ✓Bars and lounges
- ✓Beside the Cultural Center of the Philippines
Good questions
Where is Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila?+
It is on Roxas Boulevard in Pasay, beside the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex and facing Manila Bay. Rizal Park and Intramuros are a short drive north.
Does Sofitel Philippine Plaza have a big pool?+
Yes, its large lagoon-style outdoor pool in tropical gardens is the hotel’s signature, and the bay sunsets from the terraces are a highlight.
Can you walk to Intramuros from Sofitel Philippine Plaza?+
No, Intramuros is a drive of roughly twenty to thirty minutes depending on traffic, so use Grab or a taxi for sightseeing.
