Sumilon Island is one of the most beautiful remote islands in the world near Cebu Island. Sumilon Island is located just 15 minutes by boat from the whale shark spot of Oslob, and is a very popular spot in Cebu Island. You can also do a snorkeling trip to see the whale sharks in Oslob and the corals and schools of fish on the beautiful beach of Sumilon Island.
This time, CebuPre, a Cebu-specialized tour company that knows Cebu inside and out, will tell you all about the charms of Sumilon Island, including how to get there and how to join a tour. We hope that you will learn about the charms of Sumilon Island, which all visitors are reluctant to leave, and use this information as a reference when planning your tour itinerary.
- 1 A beautiful remote island near Cebu! What is Sumilon Island?
- 2 4 unique Attractions/Reasons and Ways to enjoy Sumilon Island
- 3 If you go to Sumilon Island on your own, the average daily cost, access, and accommodation information
- 4 When it comes to tours, Cebu Pre’s “Cheapest Private Tour for 1 Group” is the most popular and is the cheapest in the industry!
- 5 Sumilon Island Reviews
- 6 Things to bring and things to be aware of when going to Sumilon Island
- 7 Summary
A beautiful remote island near Cebu! What is Sumilon Island?
Sumilon Island stands out as a destination that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its natural beauty and conservation efforts making it a standout location in the Philippines. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to appreciate unspoiled nature, Sumilon Island has much to offer.
However, Sumilon Island is a beautiful remote island with emerald green seas. It is a small island that can be walked around (it takes about 40 minutes), but the inside of the island is very lush, and it is a popular spot for tourists as a resort where you can enjoy the beauty of the beach and the majesty of nature that you have never experienced before.
Sumilon Island, which offers some of the world’s most spectacular beaches, is also easy to access. It is located about a 15-minute boat ride from Oslob, which is famous for snorkeling with whale sharks. Oslob is about a three-hour drive from Cebu City, making it an easily accessible remote island from Cebu City.
4 unique Attractions/Reasons and Ways to enjoy Sumilon Island
For those considering a tour to Sumilon Island, here are four unique attractions of Sumilon Island.
We will also introduce how to enjoy Sumilon Island so that you won’t get stuck once you actually get there. This site is reporting from Cebu, so we will provide you with a wealth of information to help you avoid getting stuck there.
Attraction 1: Impressive! The emerald green ocean with outstanding transparency
Sumilon Island is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and coral reefs. It is home to diverse marine life, including colorful coral species, various types of fish, and other marine organisms.
The biggest attraction of Sumilon Island is the crystal clear emerald green sea that surrounds it. It is so beautiful that most tourists exclaim, “I’ve never seen such a beautiful sea before.” And what makes the crystal clear blue of the sea stand out is the white sandy beach.
If you dive (snorkel or dive) into the beautiful ocean waters, you can see schools of jack mackerel, sea turtles, coral, etc. Other popular creatures include clownfish, anemonefish, swallowtail batfish, and small sharks.
If you have a lot of time, why not try to find the clownfish, famous in the Disney movie “Finding Nemo”. The chances of encountering them are not high, but you’ll be excited to see them swimming cutely near the coral! One tip: to increase your chances of seeing clownfish, we recommend taking a tour trip that allows you to make smooth arrangements for transportation and meals.
We also recommend taking plenty of memorable photos with some of the world’s most spectacular views and beaches as your backdrop. There are few tourist destinations with as beautiful scenery as Sumilon Island, so be sure to take plenty of memorable photos with the panoramic views of nature.
Reason 2: The shallow waters make it safe and secure for children and those who aren’t good at swimming
The surrounding waters of the island are part of the Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary, which was established to protect and preserve the marine biodiversity in the area.
The coast of Sumilon Island has shallow waters stretching out as far as the eye can see. Even children and people who are not good at swimming can enjoy diving without worrying about being swamped by the waves or drowning. Enjoying one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with the whole family and swimming with all your friends will be the best memories you can make.
Shallow beaches like Sumilon Island are rare in the Philippines, so it’s a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the beach safely and securely.
Reason 3: Only 15 minutes by boat from Oslob! Set tours are also available!
Sumilon Island is about a 15-minute boat ride from Oslob (the return trip takes about 25 minutes depending on the tide).
One of the attractions of Oslob is snorkeling with whale sharks, but it is also possible to enjoy a set tour by snorkeling in Oslob in the morning and then relaxing in the waters of Sumilon Island in the afternoon (to enjoy both the whale sharks and the beaches of Sumilon Island, it may be best to switch the order of the morning and afternoon tours depending on the weather and climate conditions on the day). Visitors can also enjoy activities such as diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. The island is also a great place for relaxation and enjoying scenic views.
Also, during the 15-minute boat ride, you can feel the pleasant breeze from the sea, making the air feel very pleasant throughout the trip.
Attraction 4: Lunch on Sumilon Island | Day use plan at Blue Water Island Resort
The island hosts the Sumilon Island Bluewater Resort, which offers luxury accommodations with a focus on blending with the natural surroundings. The resort provides various amenities including beachfront villas, an infinity pool, and dining options. There is only one restaurant on Sumilon Island where you can eat lunch, at Blue Water Island Resort. Lunch is only available to hotel guests, so unless you are staying at Blue Water Island Resort or using a day use plan, you should eat somewhere like Oslob before heading to Sumilon Island.
Lunch at Blue Water Island Resort is a Filipino buffet. The price for the day use plan at Blue Water Island Resort is 1,500 pesos (approx. 3,170 yen) on weekdays and 2,000 pesos (approx. 4,140 yen) on weekends. It may seem a little expensive for lunch, but the day use plan includes various benefits that allow you to enjoy Sumilon Island to the fullest.
- Day Use Plan
: A day use plan is a plan for day-trippers that includes use of hotel facilities and a variety of activities.
The Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort’s day-use plan typically includes a range of services and amenities to ensure guests have a memorable experience. While specific offerings may vary and it’s always best to confirm directly with the resort, the following are common inclusions in their day-use package:
- Access to Resort Facilities:
Swimming Pool:
Enjoy access to the resort’s infinity pool, which offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean.
Beach Access: Relax on the resort’s pristine white sand beaches and take a dip in the clear blue waters.
Beach Loungers and Towels: Use of beach loungers and towels is usually provided to enhance your comfort.
- Dining:
Lunch:
A delicious buffet or à la carte lunch is included, featuring a selection of local and international dishes.
Drinks: Some plans may include complimentary drinks or beverages. Check if soft drinks, juices, or water are part of the package, and if alcoholic beverages are available at an additional cost.
- Water Sports and Activities:
Kayaking and Paddleboarding:
Access to kayaking and paddleboarding equipment is often included, allowing guests to explore the surrounding waters.
Snorkeling: Equipment for snorkeling may be provided so you can enjoy the vibrant marine life around the island.
- Amenities:
Shower Facilities:
Use of shower facilities to freshen up after a swim or other activities.
- Changing Rooms:
Access to changing rooms for your convenience.
- Use of Resort Services:
Wi-Fi Access: Complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the resort.
Fitness Center: If the resort has a fitness center, you may have access to it during your visit. - Additional Services:
Guided Tours: Some day-use packages might include guided tours or educational talks about the island’s natural environment.
Special Requests: The resort may accommodate special requests or provide additional services such as arranged transportation, special dietary needs, or celebratory setups. - Booking and Confirmation:
Reservations: To ensure availability, especially during peak times, it is recommended to book your day-use plan in advance.
Confirmation: Check with the resort for a detailed list of what’s included in your specific day-use package, as services can vary.
With all these services included, if you are only visiting Sumilon Island for a day trip, it is not a bad idea to use the day use plan.
If you go to Sumilon Island on your own, the average daily cost, access, and accommodation information
For those who are thinking of going to Sumilon Island on their own without using a tour, we will introduce information on access and accommodation for one day. However, in conclusion, there are many risks and disadvantages to going on your own, so we definitely recommend a tour.
<How to get to Sumilon Island from Cebu City and fares>
Next, we will introduce how to get to Sumilon Island from Cebu City on your own without using a tour.
1). Cebu City ⇒ South Bus Terminal (taxi)
To catch a bus to Oslob, take a taxi from Cebu City.
2). South Bus Terminal ⇒ Oslob (bus)
There are two types of buses to Oslob: air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned. Air-conditioned buses are very air-conditioned, so a jacket is essential. Non-air-conditioned buses have open windows, so you should wear a mask as there is a lot of dust and smog. It takes about three hours from South Bus Terminal to Oslob.
3). Oslob ⇒ Sumilon Island (boat)
To get to Sumilon Island from Oslob, you can either charter a boat or use a hotel’s day use plan. Boat charters are initially quoted a slightly higher price, so be sure to negotiate well to avoid losing out.
You can access Sumilon Island in just three steps. It may seem too easy, but it’s not that easy.
<Reasons why it is difficult to access on your own>
・Time is taken up arranging and negotiating transportation, which cuts into sightseeing time
・Buses and other transportation only run at set times, so you have to keep an eye on the time
・The security situation in the Philippines is different to that in Japan (you are more likely to be the victim of pickpocketing and theft)
・On tours, toilets and changing locations and times are set while traveling, but on individual tours you have to find them yourself (you also need to manage your luggage while changing clothes and take measures against theft)
The only accommodation on Sumilon Island is Blue Water Island Resort.
<Day Use Plan>
The Day Use Plan is a plan for day-trippers that includes the hotel facilities, various activities, lunch, etc.
1,500 pesos (about 3,170 yen) on weekdays, 2,000 pesos (about 4,140 yen) on weekends.
<Accommodation Plans>
Blue Water Island Resort has a total of 14 accommodations, and you can make arrangements for accommodation from within Japan. Prices start from about 26,000 yen per night, which is a little high for Cebu Island.
*Blue Water Island Resort may not have staff who speak Japanese, so it is best to make a reservation in advance from within Japan.
Blue Water Island Resort Basic Information
Address: Bangcogon, Oslob Cebu Philippines
Phone number: +63-2-817-5751
Check-in: 15:00
Check-out: 11:00
When it comes to tours, Cebu Pre’s “Cheapest Private Tour for 1 Group” is the most popular and is the cheapest in the industry!
When taking a sightseeing tour, Sumilon Island is often combined with Oslob on a set course. The most common plan is to swim with whale sharks in Oslob and then enjoy the spectacular beaches of Sumilon Island. Here we will introduce the “Cebu Pre” tour, which is the cheapest tour for one group.
Compared to other tours, and even compared to individual travel, CebuPre tours are cheap and have many benefits, so we will introduce them while comparing them.
There are three main points to CebuPre tours:
1). Low cost
2). Safety and security (with a guide who can support you in Japanese even in the Philippines, where security is worse than Japan)
3). Enjoy your trip to the fullest (because there are services such as a guide checking the availability of food on your behalf while you wait at a restaurant)
Here is an example of Cebupre’s Sumilon Island tour.
- Swim with whale sharks + Sumilon Island & Kawasan Falls tour (5,800 pesos = approx. 9,800 yen)
4:00: Pick up at your hotel with Cebu Express (private vehicle. You can take breaks on the way)
5:00: Breakfast at Jollibee (Breakfast at Jollibee, the No. 1 fast food restaurant in the Philippines)
6:30: Arrive in Oslob
7:00: Snorkel with whale sharks
8:00: Exploring Sumilon Island
11:30: Arriving at Kawasan Falls
18:00: Drop off to your accomodation
Services included in the tour: Snorkeling mask, life jacket rental, transportation fee (chartered car, hotel pick-up and drop-off), commemorative photo support
*Additional charges: Underwater camera GoPro rental (approx. 2,100 yen = 1,000 pesos), breakfast at Jollibee (approx. 170 to 414 yen = 80 to 200 pesos)
This plan allows you to enjoy three courses in luxury. Since it is a private tour, you can enjoy each course to the fullest.
Examples of tours from other companies
Next, we will introduce some examples of typical tours from other companies for your comparison reference.
- Tour A (whale shark, Sumilon Island, Kawasan Falls one-day tour) approx. 12,800 yen
Tour contents: Transportation fee (chartered car, hotel pick-up and drop-off), breakfast (on the bus or McDonald’s), lunch (local restaurant), entrance fee, snorkeling set
Schedule:
*4:30: Pick up at hotel in Cebu city
5:00: Depart Cebu city by bus
9:00: Snorkeling (whale sharks) in Oslob
10:00: Change clothes and depart for Sumilon Island
10:30: Arrive at Sumilon Island (diving at the beach, swimming in the sea, etc.)
12:00: Depart Sumilon Island
12:30: Lunch in Oslob
13:30: Depart for hotel (Cebu city)
*B Tour (Whale Sharks, Sumilon Island, Aguinid Falls Tour) Approx. 14,400 yen
Tour contents: Transportation fee (chartered car, hotel pick-up and drop-off), breakfast (snacks on the bus, etc.), lunch, entrance fee, snorkeling set, photography service (additional charge of 1,000 pesos = approx. 2,100 yen)
Schedule:
*3:30-4:30: Pick up at hotel in Cebu city and depart by bus (meals on the bus, one toilet break)
8:30: Snorkeling in Oslob (whale sharks)
9:30: Snorkeling in Sumilon Island (diving and swimming at the beach, etc.)
11:00: Aguinid Falls activities
12:00: Lunch
13:00: Depart for hotel (Cebu city)
The Charm of Cebu Pre
Even though the “CebuPre” tour is a private tour for one group, you can see that it is cheaper than regular tours. There are many benefits to a private tour, such as not being forced to move around in a group, being able to ask if you can drop by a spot you want to visit, being able to get help with taking photos, and being able to ask for support if you suddenly need to go to the toilet.
<CebuPre is planning a new plan that utilizes the day use plan of Sumilon Island Hotel>
Some people may be interested in the day use plan of Water Island Resort, an accommodation facility on Sumilon Island, which offers a wide range of activities, and CebuPre is currently planning a new plan that includes this day use plan.
As of October 2019, the details have not yet been decided, but once the plan is finalized, the range of enjoyment will be significantly expanded with the day use plan. Furthermore, with the support of a guide, you will be able to enjoy a full day of fun, so you will be able to take full advantage of the benefits of the plan compared to using the day use plan on your own.
We provide the detailed service that only local staff can provide, such as measures against pickpockets and baggage theft, arranging and introducing local activities, etc. Of course, we plan the best tours in terms of price, as we are the cheapest tours in the industry. Please look forward to the announcement of the tour plan.
Sumilon Island Reviews
Below are some reviews from people who enjoyed a trip to Sumilon Island with our Cebupre tour.
A-san: Thank you very much for this tour. We were blessed with good weather and it was a really fulfilling tour. Thank you so much for taking so many photos. You even taught us about the locations and poses, so we were able to take a lot of Instagram-worthy photos.
B: It was my first time in Cebu so I was a bit nervous, but they were very kind and helped me plan the course so I was able to enjoy myself without any worries.
C: The guide was very kind. The driver was fast and good at driving.
Mr. D: The beach on Sumilon Island was so beautiful and I was really impressed.
Things to bring and things to be aware of when going to Sumilon Island
We will introduce what you should bring and what you should be careful of when visiting Sumilon Island.
<Things to bring to Sumilon Island>
- Sunscreen
Not just on Sumilon Island, but the sun is strong all over Cebu, so prepare sunscreen to protect yourself from UV rays.
- Rash guard
Sunscreen is not allowed on the beaches of Sumilon Island, so a rash guard is essential to protect yourself from sunburn.
- Mineral water
Prepare mineral water to stay hydrated before you leave.
- Toilet paper
Many toilets in Cebu do not have toilet paper, so be sure to carry it with you.
<Notes>
– When enjoying activities, please do so according to your physical condition and circumstances (pregnant women and elderly people may not be able to participate in tour programs)
– Please note that you may not be able to enter Sumilon Island due to climate and weather conditions.-
If you are leaving from Cebu City or Mactan Island on the day, you will depart early in the morning (because it takes 3 to 4 hours to travel and whale sharks can only be seen in the morning in Oslob). Make sure to adjust your schedule for the previous day in advance (especially if you are worried about whether you will be able to sleep on the bus during the trip).
Summary
We have told you about the charms of Sumilon Island, one of the world’s best beaches. What do you think?
The beaches of Sumilon Island are unimaginably beautiful, and even though it is a small remote island only 15 minutes away from Oslob, it is a spectacular spot surrounded by nature and is perfect for Instagram. There is also a chance to encounter the popular clownfish.
It is not impossible to go on a solo trip, but taking into account the security situation in the Philippines and the fatigue involved, a tour is safer and more secure. Above all, a tour has the advantage of allowing you to focus on enjoying the attractions of Sumilon Island and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
If you would like to enjoy a tour during your trip to Cebu, please contact Cebu Plus, which offers the cheapest private tours for one group.