Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort: Cebu Hotel Guide

Overview of Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort is one of Cebu’s most iconic and exclusive island destinations, located just off the coast of Oslob in southern Cebu. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches, and protected marine sanctuary, Sumilon Island offers a premium escape that blends luxury, nature, and privacy. The resort itself is famous for its serene atmosphere and a wide range of experiences—beach relaxation, snorkeling, kayaking, trekking, and even glamping for travelers who want something unique.

The resort occupies the entire island, meaning guests enjoy a level of exclusivity rarely found in Cebu. Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic getaway, a family looking for an adventurous vacation, or a traveler wanting a peaceful retreat far from the city, Bluewater Sumilon is a top choice.

Location and How to Get There

Sumilon Island is located in the southeastern part of Cebu, near Oslob town. Travel time from Cebu City to Sumilon Island is about 3–4 hours by land, plus a short 15–20 minute boat ride from the mainland.

How to Reach Sumilon from Cebu City

• By private car or van: 3 hours via South Road Properties (SRP)

• By bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal: 3.5–4 hours to Oslob (Ceres Bus bound for Bato via Oslob)

• From Oslob Mainland (Sumilon Bluewater Dock): Resort-managed boat transfer included for guests with reservations

Nearby Attractions

While the resort itself is the main attraction, many travelers combine their stay with:

• Whale shark watching in Oslob

• Tumalog Falls

• Aguinid Falls (in Samboan)

• Osmeña Peak (via Dalaguete)

These attractions make the southern part of Cebu an excellent destination for multi-day trips.

Resort Atmosphere and Who It’s For

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort appeals to a broad range of travelers due to its diverse accommodations and the natural beauty of the island.

Best For:

• Couples: Honeymoons, anniversaries, private escapes

• Families: Kid-friendly facilities, safe swimming areas, guided island activities

• Adventure travelers: Snorkeling, trekking trails, kayaking, nature walk

• Luxury travelers: Villa-style rooms, infinity pool, upscale dining

• Relaxation seekers: Quiet environment with limited day-tour crowd

Not Ideal For:

• Travelers on a tight budget (premium pricing)

• Those looking for nightlife

• Visitors who prefer easy urban access

Types of Rooms and Accommodations

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort offers several room categories, each designed to blend comfort with the natural landscape of the island.

Deluxe Rooms

These rooms feature:

• Garden or sea views

• Spacious interiors

• Filipino-inspired design with natural materials
  Perfect for couples and small families who want comfort at a lower price point than the villas.

Premier Deluxe Rooms

A step up from the standard Deluxe, with:

• Larger living space

• Better view options

• Refined interior styling
  These are ideal for longer stays or guests seeking a more elevated island experience.

One-Bedroom Villas

The most luxurious accommodations on the island, featuring:

• Private outdoor seating area

• Stunning sea views

• More privacy and premium furnishings
  Some villas even include their own dipping pool, making them popular for honeymooners.

Glamping (Luxury Tents)

The resort introduced glamping for visitors looking for something different:

• Fully furnished tents

• Beds, fans, and lighting

• Access to the resort’s facilities
  This offers a unique blend of nature immersion and comfort.

Family Rooms

Perfect for groups and families:

• Multiple beds

• Spacious room size

• Easy access to resort pathways and amenities
  These rooms ensure that families with kids have ample space.

Resort Facilities and Amenities

White Sand Bar

One of the island’s most popular spots, the sandbar changes shape depending on the tide and season. It’s ideal for:

• Photoshoots

• Swimming

• Relaxing by the shoreline

Infinity Pool

A scenic pool overlooking the ocean, popular among couples and families.

Bluewater Spa

Guests can enjoy traditional Filipino hilot massages, full-body treatments, and relaxation therapies in a serene setting with ocean breezes.

Restaurant and Dining

The resort’s main restaurant serves:

• Filipino dishes

• Seafood specialties

• International cuisine

• Buffet services on selected days

Dining on Sumilon Island is elevated by the open-air ambiance and the sound of the waves.

Marine Sanctuary

Sumilon is known for having one of Cebu’s most protected marine sanctuaries. Snorkelers can easily spot:

• Colorful corals

• Schools of fish

• Occasional turtles

The sanctuary is just a short swim from the shore.

Activities and Tours

Guests can enjoy:

• Snorkeling

• Kayaking in the lagoon

• Paddleboarding

• Trekking trails with lookout points

• Lighthouse and heritage watchtower visit

The resort also arranges guided activities for day-tour and overnight guests.

Dining Options

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort offers a relaxed yet upscale dining experience.

Main Restaurant

Features daily menus with:

• Fresh seafood

• Filipino favorites like grilled meats and kinilaw

• Pasta, salads, sandwiches

• Desserts and tropical fruit platters

Beachside Drinks and Snacks

For guests enjoying the sandbar or the pool area, light snacks and beverages are available.

Private Romantic Dinner (Optional)

Couples can book special dining setups:

• Beachfront dinner

• Garden cabana dinner

• Sunset dining at a viewpoint

These setups require advanced reservation and are great for special occasions.

Day Tour vs. Overnight Stay

Day Tour

Includes:

• Boat transfers

• Lunch buffet (on selected days)

• Access to lagoon, hiking trails, and sandbar

• Use of designated areas and picnic spots

Day tour crowds can be significant depending on the time of year, but never overwhelming since the resort limits the number of guests allowed each day.

Overnight Stay

Recommended for:

• Full access to exclusive areas

• More privacy

• Quieter island experience after day-tour guests leave

Staying overnight allows guests to appreciate the calm atmosphere, stunning sunset, and a magnificent sunrise.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (December to May)

Ideal for:

• Clear skies

• Calm waters

• Best sandbar shape

Rainy Season (June to November)

Expect occasional showers, but:

• Fewer crowds

• Lower risk of fully booked rooms

Weather can affect boat transfers, so guests should stay updated with advisories.

Tips for Staying at Bluewater Sumilon

• Book early during weekends and holidays; the resort fills up quickly.

• Bring aqua shoes for rocky areas near the marine sanctuary.

• Bring a waterproof bag for boat transfers.

• Plan at least one night—day tours are great, but an overnight stay offers the best experience.

• Combine the trip with Oslob attractions for a complete southern Cebu itinerary.

Conclusion

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort is one of Cebu’s most remarkable destinations. The combination of pristine nature, luxurious accommodations, and a wide array of activities makes it suitable for couples, families, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re exploring the marine sanctuary, relaxing on the sandbar, enjoying world-class Filipino hospitality, or simply escaping urban life, the resort promises a memorable island experience.

If you’re planning a trip to southern Cebu, staying at Bluewater Sumilon offers both adventure and relaxation in one of the Philippines’ most beautiful island settings.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Where is Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort located?

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort is located on Sumilon Island, just off the coast of Oslob in southern Cebu, Philippines. The island sits in the Bohol Sea and is accessible only by boat from the mainland. The departure point is usually the private Bluewater dock in Oslob, which is around 3–4 hours by land from Cebu City via the southern coastal highway. Because it is situated on its own island, the resort offers an exclusive and quiet environment far from the noise of the city.

How do I get to Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort from Cebu City?

From Cebu City, you can take a private car, van, or public bus from the Cebu South Bus Terminal heading to Oslob or Bato via Oslob. The land travel usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the Bluewater Sumilon mainland reception area or dock, you will board the resort’s boat for a 15–20 minute transfer to the island. It is important to follow the scheduled boat trips and arrive at the dock at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and coordination with resort staff.

What types of rooms are available at the resort?

The resort offers several types of accommodations designed to match different travel styles and budgets. These typically include Deluxe Rooms, Premier Deluxe Rooms, Family Rooms, and One-Bedroom Villas. Many rooms feature sea or garden views, private verandas, and Filipino-inspired interiors. There are also glamping tents (luxury camping) for guests who want a more nature-immersive experience but still value comfort such as proper beds and lighting. Exact room categories may change over time, so it is best to check the official website or booking platforms for the current list of available room types.

Is Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort suitable for families with kids?

Yes, Bluewater Sumilon is family-friendly and is a good choice for parents traveling with children. Family Rooms and some Deluxe or Premier units can accommodate multiple guests, and the island offers safe swimming areas, shallow sections of the beach, a lagoon for kayaking, and an infinity pool. Children can enjoy the sandbar, nature walks, and supervised activities arranged by the resort on selected days. Parents should still supervise kids near the water and during boat transfers, but overall, the resort environment is relaxed and welcoming for families.

Is the resort good for couples and honeymooners?

The resort is highly recommended for couples, honeymooners, and guests celebrating anniversaries. Its private island setting, scenic viewpoints, and quiet atmosphere create a romantic backdrop. One-Bedroom Villas and select Premier rooms offer more privacy and more luxurious interiors. Couples can also arrange private dinners by the beach, on the sandbar (weather permitting), or in a secluded garden cabana. Sunset viewing, stargazing at night, and early-morning walks along the shore are simple but memorable experiences for romantic trips.

What activities can I do on Sumilon Island?

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort offers a wide variety of activities for both day-tour and overnight guests. Popular options include snorkeling in the marine sanctuary, swimming at the white-sand beach or sandbar, kayaking and paddleboarding in the lagoon, and trekking along marked trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, a lighthouse, and a historic watchtower. You can also relax at the infinity pool, enjoy spa treatments, or simply lie on the beach with a book. Many guests also combine their stay with whale shark watching in Oslob or visiting nearby waterfalls on the mainland.

What is special about the sandbar and marine sanctuary?

Sumilon Island is famous for its shifting white-sand sandbar, which changes shape and size depending on the tides and season. It is a favorite spot for photos, swimming, and sunbathing. The island’s marine sanctuary is one of the earliest protected areas in the Philippines, known for clear water, vibrant coral formations, and abundant marine life. While snorkeling, guests can often see colorful reef fish and, occasionally, turtles. To protect the reef, guests are encouraged not to step on corals or disturb marine life, and to follow all guidelines provided by resort staff.

Can I visit on a day tour, or do I need to stay overnight?

You can choose between a day tour and an overnight stay. Day tours typically include round-trip boat transfers, lunch (often buffet on selected days), and access to common facilities such as the lagoon, hiking trails, sandbar area, and designated swimming spots. An overnight stay is recommended if you want to experience the quieter side of the island, especially after day-tour guests leave. Staying at least one night allows you to enjoy sunrise and sunset, have more flexible time for activities, and relax without rushing back to the mainland.

What dining options are available on the island?

The resort’s main restaurant serves a mix of Filipino and international cuisine, including seafood dishes, grilled items, pasta, salads, and desserts. Breakfast is typically served buffet-style or as a set meal for in-house guests, depending on occupancy. There are also light snacks and drinks available near the pool or beach areas. For special occasions, you can arrange a private romantic dinner by the shore or in a more secluded spot on the island, subject to weather and availability. Guests with dietary restrictions should inform the resort in advance so appropriate options can be prepared.

When is the best time to visit Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort?

The best time to visit is generally during the dry season, from around December to May, when the weather is more predictable, the sea is calmer, and the sandbar is at its most photogenic. However, this is also the peak season, so rooms can sell out early and the island may have more guests. The rainy season, from around June to November, can still offer good days, but there may be more frequent showers and occasional rough seas that can affect boat transfers. It is always wise to check the weather forecast and any travel advisories before your trip.

What should I bring when staying at Bluewater Sumilon?

For a comfortable stay, consider bringing swimwear, light and breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat or cap, sunglasses, and aqua shoes for rocky areas. A waterproof bag is useful for protecting your belongings during the boat ride. If you plan to snorkel, you may bring your own mask and snorkel, although the resort may provide or rent equipment depending on current policies. Don’t forget personal medications, insect repellent, and a power bank if you expect to take many photos around the island. Finally, always bring a copy of your booking confirmation and valid ID for a smooth check-in process at the mainland reception and on the island.

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