Noordzee Hostel: Cebu Hotel Guide

Overview of Noordzee Hostel

Noordzee Hostel is one of Cebu’s most unique and memorable beachfront accommodations, especially popular among backpackers, digital nomads, solo travelers, and budget-conscious visitors seeking a relaxed coastal escape. Located in Boljoon — a quiet heritage town in Southern Cebu — the hostel offers a rare combination of affordable accommodation, beachfront dining, excellent ocean views, and convenient access to major tourist attractions like Oslob Whale Shark Watching, Sumilon Island, and Osmeña Peak.

The atmosphere at Noordzee Hostel is laid-back and social, perfect for guests who want to enjoy the beach, meet new people, and experience a more local and less commercialized side of Cebu. Its beachfront restaurant and lounge areas give it a resort-like vibe, while its affordable rooms make it accessible for any traveler.

This guide explores everything you need to know before booking, including room options, amenities, food, location, transportation tips, and whether Noordzee Hostel is right for your Cebu adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Noordzee Hostel sits right along the Boljoon coastline, offering uninterrupted ocean views and direct beach access. The town is known for its clean natural environment, Spanish-era heritage buildings, and quiet local villages.

Distance to Key Destinations

• Oslob Whale Shark Watching: Around 25 minutes

• Tumalog Falls: 30 minutes

• Sumilon Island (via Oslob port): 25–30 minutes

• Dalaguete / Osmeña Peak: 45–60 minutes

• Moalboal: 1 hour 40 minutes (via coastal road)

• Cebu City / Airport: 3 to 3.5 hours

Travelers coming from Cebu City can take a Ceres Bus bound for Oslob or Bato (via Liloan) and request the driver to stop directly at Noordzee Hostel. This makes it convenient even without private transport.

Accommodation Options

Noordzee Hostel offers a blend of dorm rooms and private rooms, making it suitable for a range of traveler types. While facilities are relatively simple, the charm lies in the beachfront setting and relaxed atmosphere.

Dormitory Rooms

Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers, the dorm rooms give excellent value for money.
Common features include:

• Shared toilets and showers

• Fans or air-conditioning (depending on room type)

• Bunk-style beds

• Secure storage areas or lockers

• Free Wi-Fi in common spaces

Guests choose dorms primarily for affordability and the hostel’s social vibe.

Private Rooms

Better suited for couples, pairs, or guests wanting more comfort and privacy.
They typically include:

• Double or queen-size bed

• Air-conditioning

• En-suite or shared bathrooms

• Simple furnishings

• Some with partial ocean views

Private rooms are basic but comfortable and provide all essentials for a beach retreat.

Amenities and Services

Beachfront Restaurant and Bar

One of Noordzee Hostel’s highlights is its open beachfront restaurant. With panoramic ocean views and direct beach access, it’s a favorite hangout spot among travelers.
The menu includes:

• Filipino dishes

• Western comfort food

• Fresh seafood

• Smoothies and juices

• Cocktails and local beers

The open-air setting makes it ideal for sunset dining or relaxing with a drink.

Beach Access

The property sits directly on the beach, allowing guests to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax on the sand. Water is typically calm, and mornings are especially peaceful.

Rooftop Terrace / Lounge Areas

Some areas of the hostel offer elevated or rooftop seating where guests can enjoy views of the coastline. These spots are great for reading, meditation, or working remotely with a sea breeze.

Wi-Fi and Work-Friendly Spaces

Wi-Fi is available in common areas and generally stable enough for browsing, messaging, or light work. Many digital nomads appreciate the beachfront work corners, although it may not be ideal for heavy online tasks.

Tours and Activities

The hostel can help arrange nearby tours, such as:

• Whale shark watching

• Sumilon Island day trips

• Tumalog Falls

• Dalaguete mountain tours (Osmeña Peak, Casino Peak)

• Motorcycle rentals

Additional Features

• Free parking for guests

• Laundry services (check availability)

• Common areas for socializing

• Sunset viewpoints

Food and Dining Experience

Guests often praise the quality and affordability of the food. The restaurant’s beachfront location adds to the atmosphere, and the menu caters to both Western and Asian tastes.

Recommended dishes include:

• Grilled meats and seafood

• Pancakes and breakfast plates

• Fruit bowls

• Pasta dishes

• Local Filipino favorites like adobo or sinigang

The dining area is often lively in the evenings, especially when travelers gather to share stories of their Cebu adventures.

Atmosphere and Guest Experience

Noordzee Hostel prides itself on offering a friendly and community-oriented environment. Travelers often highlight:

• Social, open atmosphere

• Great ocean views

• Relaxing beachfront vibe

• Helpful staff

• Affordable, backpacker-friendly pricing

The place is not a luxury hotel — expect a simple, budget-friendly setup — but it excels in providing a unique coastal and cultural experience.

It is especially recommended for:

• Backpackers

• Solo travelers

• Road-trippers exploring Southern Cebu

• Couples on a simple beach getaway

• Travelers using Boljoon as a base for Oslob + South Cebu attractions

Who Should Stay at Noordzee Hostel?

Stay Here If You Want:

• Affordable beachfront accommodation

• Easy access to Oslob Whale Shark Watching

• A social, backpacker-friendly environment

• A quiet coastal town with heritage charm

• Relaxed vibes rather than luxury facilities

• Restaurant and bar on-site

• A base for South Cebu attractions

Not Ideal For:

• Travelers who want high-end amenities

• Guests expecting resort-level facilities

• Those who need fast, stable Wi-Fi for work

• Families with young kids who require spacious rooms

Tips Before You Book

• Bring cash: Some areas in Boljoon have limited ATM access.

• Expect simple facilities: Rooms are basic but clean; this is a hostel, not a resort.

• Book ahead: Especially during weekends or peak travel months (December–April).

• Consider renting a motorbike: Makes exploring South Cebu more convenient.

• Arrive before dark: Rural roads can be dimly lit at night.

• Visit Boljoon Church: A UNESCO-recognized heritage site just a few minutes away.

Final Thoughts

Noordzee Hostel is a standout choice for travelers seeking simplicity, affordability, and an authentic beachfront experience in Southern Cebu. With its peaceful coastal setting, delicious food, and proximity to major tourist spots, it remains one of the most recommended budget accommodations for backpackers and explorers heading toward Oslob and the rest of South Cebu.

If you’re looking for a relaxed beach escape with great value for money, Noordzee Hostel is an excellent option to add to your Cebu itinerary.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Where is Noordzee Hostel located in Cebu?

Noordzee Hostel is located in Boljoon, a quiet coastal town in Southern Cebu. It sits directly along the shoreline, facing the open sea. From Cebu City, the trip usually takes around three to three and a half hours by bus or private car. You can take a Ceres bus bound for Oslob or Bato (via Liloan) from the South Bus Terminal and ask the driver to drop you off near the hostel.

What types of rooms are available at Noordzee Hostel?

The hostel offers a mix of budget-friendly dormitory rooms and simple private rooms. Dorms are ideal for backpackers and solo travelers who do not mind sharing space and facilities. Private rooms generally come with a double or queen bed and are better suited for couples or guests who prefer more privacy. Facilities are basic but adequate for a relaxed beachfront stay.

Is Noordzee Hostel right on the beach?

Yes. One of the main attractions of Noordzee Hostel is its beachfront location. The property opens directly onto the shoreline, so you can walk from the common areas to the beach in just a few steps. Guests often enjoy early-morning swims, sunset views, and the sound of the waves throughout the day without needing to travel far from their room.

How do I get to Noordzee Hostel from Cebu City or the airport?

From Mactan-Cebu International Airport, you can first head to Cebu City’s South Bus Terminal by taxi or ride-hailing app. At the terminal, look for a Ceres bus going to Oslob or Bato (via Liloan). Inform the conductor that you are getting off at Boljoon near Noordzee Hostel. Bus staff are generally familiar with the area. The journey usually takes around three to three and a half hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.

What amenities can I expect at Noordzee Hostel?

Noordzee Hostel focuses on simple, practical amenities suitable for budget travelers. You can expect basic bedding, shared or private bathrooms (depending on the room type), fans or air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi in most common areas. The highlight is the beachfront restaurant and bar, where you can enjoy meals, drinks, and social interaction in an open-air setting with ocean views. There are also lounge areas and often a rooftop or elevated deck for relaxing.

Does the hostel have a restaurant or bar on-site?

Yes. Noordzee Hostel features its own beachfront restaurant and bar. The menu usually combines Filipino favorites and Western dishes, along with seafood options, snacks, and breakfast plates. Drinks range from coffee and fruit shakes to beer and cocktails. Many guests spend a lot of time here because of the sea view and casual social atmosphere, especially during sunset and in the evening.

Is Noordzee Hostel suitable for digital nomads or remote workers?

The hostel can be a pleasant base for light remote work, especially if you enjoy working in a relaxed beachfront environment. Wi-Fi is typically available in the common areas and suitable for email, messaging apps, and basic online tasks. However, because the property is in a provincial coastal town, speeds and stability may not match major city standards. If your work requires heavy uploads, video conferencing, or very reliable connectivity, you should be prepared for occasional interruptions.

Can Noordzee Hostel arrange tours and activities?

In many cases, staff can help you organize popular nearby activities, such as whale shark watching in Oslob, side trips to Sumilon Island, visits to Tumalog Falls, or tours to mountain destinations like Osmeña Peak. Some guests also rent motorbikes to explore Southern Cebu at their own pace. While the specific offers may change over time, you can usually inquire at the front desk or bar about current tour options and transportation assistance.

Is Noordzee Hostel a good base for visiting Oslob whale sharks?

Yes. Boljoon is located only a short drive away from Oslob, making Noordzee Hostel a convenient and quieter base for guests who want to see the whale sharks without staying in the busiest part of Oslob itself. Travel time to the whale shark interaction area is generally around 20 to 30 minutes by bus, tricycle, or private transport. Many travelers choose to stay in Boljoon to enjoy both peaceful beaches and easy access to Oslob.

Is Noordzee Hostel suitable for families with children?

The hostel is primarily designed for backpackers, solo travelers, and couples, so families should consider their expectations. The beachfront setting is lovely, but facilities remain simple, and some room types are compact. If your children are comfortable in a more casual, hostel-style environment, it can work as a budget-friendly option. However, families who require very spacious rooms, dedicated kids’ facilities, or resort-style amenities might be more comfortable in a full-service hotel or resort.

What should I bring or prepare before staying at Noordzee Hostel?

It is wise to bring enough cash, as ATMs in small coastal towns can be limited or occasionally offline. Pack light beachwear, sunscreen, and reef-friendly toiletries, as you will likely spend time in the sun and sea. A power bank is also useful when you are exploring outside. Since facilities are simple, bring any personal care items and medications you need. If you plan to do island or mountain tours, comfortable footwear and a dry bag are also practical additions.

Who is Noordzee Hostel best suited for?

Noordzee Hostel is best for travelers who value atmosphere, location, and affordability more than luxury or polished facilities. It appeals strongly to backpackers, solo travelers, and couples who enjoy meeting new people and staying close to nature. If you are looking for a relaxed, social, and budget-friendly base to explore Southern Cebu, especially Oslob and nearby attractions, this hostel is a strong candidate. Travelers who want high-end amenities, business-style services, or resort-level comfort may prefer other types of accommodations.

Cebu Hotel Guide