The Philippines is famous for being home to some of the best beaches in Asia. With over 7,000 islands, the country offers a wide variety of beach destinations, with each offering a unique experience. With so many beautiful beaches to choose from, if you are confused about which beach to add to the itinerary, you can consider an off-beat, secluded island unlike the other crowded beaches. So, if you are looking for some of the hidden gems, Sumilon Island is perfect. It is one of the most exotic islands, and it is located in Oslob, Cebu. Known for its crystal clear water and pristine white sands, this small crescent-shaped island is encompassed by a lush forest and surrounded by coral reefs. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Sumilon Island, Philippines offers a unique experience that makes it a must-visit spot for the Philippines. So, let us look at the detailed guide to visit Sumilon Island—the best time to visit, how to get there, and things to do there.
The Beauty of Sumilon Island
A 2-hectare island located in the southeastern part of Cebu, Philippines, it is home to thousands of rare coral reefs and rich seagrass meadows. The Sumilon Island is also known for its crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for snorkelling, diving, and witnessing the diverse marine life that thrives in the area. These coral reefs are all protected by the Sumilon Marine Reserve. Managed by the Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort, the island remains well-preserved and maintained, offering visitors a truly pristine and unforgettable experience in nature.
How to Get to Sumilon Island
Getting to Sumilon Island is an adventure in itself. Travellers can reach the island via Cebu or Dumaguete, with different transportation options available.
Getting to Sumilon Island from Cebu
- By Flight: The nearest airport is Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), which has regular domestic flights from Manila.
- By Bus and Boat: From Cebu City, take a bus or a taxi to Oslob, which is approximately a 3 to 4-hour scenic drive along the coast. Once you reach Mainland Bancogon Port in Oslob, take a boat to Sumilon Island. The boat trip takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
Getting to Sumilon Island from Dumaguete
Take a cab or a bus from Dumaguete City to Sibulan Pier which is about 30 minutes. You can cross the Tañon Strait to Cebu via a ferry. Once in Cebu, take a bus heading to Oslob and proceed to Bancogon Port.
From Bancogon Port, take a boat to Sumilon Island, ensuring you arrive in time for the ferry schedule. The entire journey takes about 1.5 hours.
Best Time to Visit Sumilon Island
The Sumilon Islands are prone to typhoons. So, it is pertinent to check the weather conditions before planning your trip. The best time to visit Sumilon Island is from November to May when the weather is sunny and ideal for beach activities. You can visit the island year-round, but the rainy season (June to October) may bring incessant rainfall. Hence, it is best to avoid visiting Sumilon Island Beach during these months.
Top Attractions and Activities in Sumilon Island
Despite the small size of the island, there are many unique Sumilon Island activities one can do, which is why it should be on your bucket list.
Sumilon Island Sandbar
It is one of the most stunning attractions on the island. What’s so special about the sandbar of Sumilon Island? One of the island’s most iconic spots, the Sumilon Island Sandbar, changes shape depending on the season and tide. At times you will notice an excellent white bed of sand covering a larger area with shallow water when the waves are low. Other times you will see crystalline seawater engulfing these stretches as they rise. With its pristine white sand and clear waters, it's one of the perfect places to visit in Philippines for sunbathing, photography, and swimming.
Snorkeling and Diving
The Sumilon Island, Philippines is the first protected national park in the country and is surrounded by a marine sanctuary, making it a prime location for snorkelling and diving. There are four major diving sites on Sumilon—Graden Eel Plaza, Nikk’s Wall, Coral Landscape, and Julie’s Rock. In these sites, one can see a variety of marine species including fish, turtles, whale sharks, black-tipped reef sharks, whales, dolphins, and colourful reefs. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned diver, you will have an unforgettable diving experience.
Kayaking in the Lagoon
In Sumilon Island, Philippines, surrounded by the dense tropical jungles is Sumilon Lagoon. It is a sweet-water pond, which is a great place to enjoy kayaking. Surrounded by lush mangroves, kayaking is a more relaxing activity visitors can experience in the island’s lagoon. You can also ride around in paddle boats or fish in the lagoon. If you find the afternoons too hot, the lagoon is the best place to be, as there is plenty of shade thanks to the mangroves.
Trekking and Exploring the Lighthouse
Adventure seekers can enjoy trekking trails that lead to a historic lighthouse and watchtower, offering panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. The tropical jungles surrounded by the beaches have plenty of trails. You can plan a hike to the top of the watchtower as a part of the Sumilon Island day tour package, which was built in the 19th century by the Spanish. The hike to the watchtower provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in both nature and history simultaneously. The stunning views from the top are definitely worth a climb.
Sumilon Island Tour
If you want to explore other parts and beaches of the island, you can hire a boat for the Sumilon Island tour. These boat trips will take you island-hopping to even more exotic islands. Since Sumilon is near Oslob, which is known for whale watching, the island tour can include a whale-watching activity. This activity allows you to interact and get closer to the whale sharks.
Spend a Day at Infinity Pool
Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort has a small but beautiful infinity pool from where people can enjoy 360-degree views of the sea. Even if you are not staying at the resort, you can use the pool by paying per hour and enjoy all the amenities. So, enjoy the stunning view of the sea in different shades and just chill by the pool.
Travel Tips for Visiting Sumilon Island
- Book your Sumilon island day trip or resort accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Bring cash, as there are no ATMs on the island.
- Use sunscreen which is reef-surface to help preserve marine life.
- Follow eco-tourism guidelines by not leaving trash behind.
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing, especially if you plan to hike.
Sumilon Island, Philippines is a must-visit destination in the Philippines, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you are snorkelling in its vibrant marine sanctuary, lounging on the sandbar, or exploring its hidden trails; the island promises an unforgettable tropical escape. If you’re planning a trip to Cebu, add this place to your Philippines tour package and don’t miss the chance to explore this paradise.
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