The Legend of Sumilon Island

When I was in Moalboal, I heard stories about an island off the South Eastern Coast of Cebu.
I was told it is a romantic, back-to-nature island escape, and that it has a lush forest, white sand beaches and good food.

It is called SUMILON Island. 

(It takes its name from being a storm shelter for fishermen, where they can take cover - sumilong - from strong typhoons.)
Since then, I've always wanted to experience it and that dream came true last January, together with awesome company.

Here is a glimpse of our memorable Sumilon Island experience...

Sumilon is located 3 hours away from Cebu, in the town of Oslob. (Read: History of Sumilon)


The banca named Izara picks you up at the Puerto Sumilon port. (Boat Transfers Schedule)


A comfortable 15-minute boat ride takes you to the island.

Welcome to SUMILON Island

The island has 14 deluxe rooms, 2 glamping tents, and future plans of luxurious villas.


The rooms are spacious with 2 queen beds, TV with DVD, and a simple study table.

(Check out In-Room Dining Menu)

The restroom is also roomy, clean, and has reliable hot/cold showers.
Although the rooms have this old-school feel, they are well-maintained.


A duyan is located outside each room, where you can hang around al fresco with a great sea view.


An outdoor massage area is available for ultimate pampering. (Amuma Spa Rates and Schedule)


An inviting infinity pool overlooking Oslob welcomes you to jump in. (Pool Guidelines)
(Tip: It's not heated, unfortunately, and it can get cold at night.)



Thin-crust, oven-baked pizza -- a wonderful treat on the island.

 
Sometimes, when you are on an island, eating really good pizza becomes a simple luxury.

The SUMILON Hike

Sumilon Island Hiking Map


A big part of the island is undeveloped. You can have a nice 40-minute hike around the lush forest and cliff-side elevated views of the island.

As you hike, you get to appreciate a bird's eye view of the natural lagoon and the white beach.

Some of the white beach areas of the island are still untouched and undeveloped.

It is a haven for birdwatchers. (Photo by Benji Reyes)

When you arrive at the highest point, you'll see the historic watchtower ruins (Punta Baluarte Spanish lighthouse) and this modern lighthouse you can climb to get a 360^o-view of the island.

On the other side of the island, you'll see the first Marine Sanctuary in the Philippines.

You can go underwater for a closer look. (Photo by Aman) (Aquamania Diving Rates)

The corals are rehabilitated and are now teeming with life. (Photo by Aman)

Finding Nemo is actually not that hard... (Photo by Aman)

My favorite part of the island is the shifting White Sand Bar Beach where you can swim, snorkel, sunbathe or have a picnic with your special someone.

It's also a place where you can be inspired and get creative... (Photo by Aman)

SUMILON Nights

As the sun sets, Sumilon transforms into a dramatic and romantic place...

At night, you can witness how the fishermen catch krill to feed the butanding the next day.



The island ambiance is conducive to sharing secrets and forging relationships. (Alcoholic drinks are not required...)

The white sand beach turns into a bonfire dinner setting...

What happens in Sumilon stays in Sumilon, with only the bonfire as your witness. :) (Photo by Benji)

One of my favorite feasts is the Clambake and Barbecue Dinner Buffet by the beach...

with grilled fresh squid, fish, and seafood skewers,...

with fresh scallops from Bohol,...

with occasional servings of lobsters, and...

charcoal-grilled steaks!

For dessert, fresh fruits (pineapple, watermelon and buko) are served...

alongside innovative desserts like Uum Ali Pudding, Peanut Butter Buchi, among others. :)

The man behind all these yummy food is Chef Eugene, who was part of the original Lolo Dad's Chef Team. :)

Sumilon Island lives up to its legend of unspoiled nature experience, awesome dining memories, relaxing spa and no-worries Cebuano hospitality.

Plus, Wireless Internet is available in the main dining pavilion. :)
It would be nice if the rooms were upgraded with bathtubs, and the cliff-side villas were added with their own private infinity pool. But even without those, Sumilon already has a lot to offer.


BLUEWATER SUMILON BEACH RESORT
Sumilon Island, Bancogon, Oslob, Cebu Philippines 6025
Telephone: +6332 481-0801, 516-7236
Mobile: +63917 631-7514, +63 917 631-7512
Email: sumilon@bluewater.com.ph
Website: SumilonBluewater.com.ph

Manila Sales Office:Rm. 704 Cityland Herrera Tower Rufino cor. Valero Sts. Salcedo Village,  Makati City
Telephone: +632 817-5751 / 887-1348
Full-Board Accommodation Package starts at P15,000 net per night.
Day Trip Packages are also available (especially when you visit Butanding Watching in Oslob).