Sumilon Island is a small, but breathtaking island located in the southeastern part of Cebu, Philippines. It boasts crystal clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, lush forests, and diverse underwater scenery. Whether you want to relax on the beach, hike in the forests, or go diving, Sumilon Island has something to offer. In this beginner's guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most out of your trip to Sumilon Island.
Getting There
To get to Sumilon Island, you'll need to take a 3-hour bus ride from Cebu City to the town of Oslob. Once you've reached Oslob, you can rent a boat that will take you to Sumilon Island. Boats can be rented from the Oslob Whale Shark Watching Center for around PHP 1,500 ($30 USD) to PHP 3,500 ($70 USD), depending on the size of the boat and the number of passengers.
The Sandbar
The first thing that will greet you on Sumilon Island is its famous sandbar. The sandbar is a natural strip of white sand that stretches for almost a kilometer, surrounded by pristine turquoise waters. This is a great spot for taking photos, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. It's important to note that the sandbar disappears during high tide, so make sure to check the tide schedule before visiting.
The Forests and Mangroves
If you're up for some adventure, you can explore Sumilon Island's forests and mangroves. The island's forests are home to different species of birds, lizards, and monkeys. There are also several hiking trails that you can take to explore the island's diverse flora and fauna.
Meanwhile, the mangroves are located on the eastern side of the island and can be explored through kayaking. Kayaks can be rented for PHP 250 ($5 USD) per hour. While kayaking, you'll also get to see different marine creatures such as crabs, shrimps, and fish.
Underwater Scenery and Coral Gardens
Sumilon Island is famous for its colorful coral gardens and diverse marine life. Snorkeling is the best way to experience this and can be done in several areas around the island. Rental snorkeling gear is available for around PHP 150 ($3 USD) to PHP 250 ($5 USD) per set.
If you're a certified diver, you can also go diving in Sumilon Island. The island offers different dive sites suitable for both beginners and advanced divers. Some of the marine creatures you can see while diving are blacktip sharks, turtles, and different varieties of fish. The cost of diving starts from PHP 2,500 ($50 USD) per dive.
Swimming
Of course, one of the best things to do on Sumilon Island is to simply enjoy swimming in its pristine water. Its waters are ideal for swimming as the island is located on the edge of the deep sea. There are no strong currents, making it safe for even novice swimmers.
Tips and Reminders
As with any other travel destination, it's important to keep in mind some tips and reminders when visiting Sumilon Island. Here are some things to remember:
- Always practice responsible tourism. Do not litter or harm the island's natural environment.
- Bring enough cash as there are no ATMs or banks on the island.
- Sumilon Island can be crowded during peak season, so make sure to book your boat and accommodation in advance.
- If you're planning to go diving, make sure to bring your diving certification and log book.
Sumilon Island is a gem in the heart of Cebu, Philippines, waiting to be explored. Whether you're into outdoor adventure, marine exploration, or simply taking in the beautiful scenery, Sumilon Island has something to offer. Just remember to follow responsible tourism practices and keep the island clean and beautiful for future generations to enjoy.
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