How I Went Island Glamping in Sumilon, Cebu

Image credit: Bluewater Sumilon

ISLAND GLAMPING in Sumilon Island

The easiest way to get a quick break is an island escapade. But I’m not talking about hopping from one island to another or go swimming or fun dive.  The best way to spend your weekend getaway is to go glamping.

GLAMPING or “glamorous camping” is a new camping option that is a growing trend in the travel and hospitality industry. Glamping offers the beauty of luxury camping giving them a sense of adventure but enjoying the amenities never had before in traditional camping. Think big roomy tents with beds and lamps. But instead of glamping on the mountains or on a vast expense of grassy land, Cebuano glamping is experienced in Sumilon Island.

Also read: Insider’s Guide to Cebu: All You Need to Know Before Your Trip

Image credit: Bluewater Sumilon

COMFY BEDS inside the tent

Sumilon Island is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. There is a thin veil between comfort and the great outdoors and Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort offers it. In Sumilon, one may seek sanctuary from the stress of the daily life, an apt definition of the island’s name.

Vacation starts from the moment the ferry docks on the beautiful coast of the island. As you breathe in the salty sea breeze, you may find yourself thinking of taking a luxurious dip in the inviting blue-green waters. The picturesque view alone makes you leave all your worries in the mainland Cebu.

DOCKING at the famous shifting sandbar

One of Sumilon’s highlights is its sandbar—known for changing shapes and shifting locations around the island, depending on the season. The island also boasts of its natural lagoon, teemed with tall mangroves that make a good maze when one goes kayaking.

Also read: You’ll Want to Move to Cebu After Seeing These 23 Stunning Photos

NATURAL LAGOON fringed with mangroves–view from the top

ISLAND TREKKING is best taken in the morning

An early morning adventure trek offers breathtaking views of the island terrain skimmed by the lapping aquamarine hues of the ocean. A leisurely walk along the protected forest will reward one with lush foliage and the harmonic symphony of the birds will be your personal island soundtrack. Nearby is a “parola” (lighthouse). For the brave, a quick climb can give a 360° aerial view of the neighbouring islands. Beside it is a “baluarte”, a 19th century watchtower used to guard against invading pirates.

SUNRISE magic hour at the lagoon

At the end of the island tour, you can just kick back and relax. The good thing about glamping, you don’t have to worry about setting up the tent or making dinner. Sumilon glamping comes in a resort-style luxury that offers more than just the convenience of your home. Sleeping bags were replaced with soft mattresses, gourmet food over canned goods and the tents are also linked to electrical sources so glampers can enjoy a good light and some music. The glamping package also comes with a Camp Assistant who also acts as the tour guide-cum-butler.

HAMMOCKS are everywhere in the island

Sumilon Island goes all out for the palate. Glamping lunch has the option to have it at the Pavilion restaurant or at the floating hut that hovers over the lagoon. In the evening, opt for the bonfire dinner (if the weather permits) and indulge yourself with an interesting conversation with the Resident Manager, as he makes you feel at home.

Image credit: Katsy Borromeo

LUNCH at the lagoon

Image credit: Katsy Borromeo

BONFIRE party for four

Glamping is ideal for all ages. Perfect for thrill-seeking couples looking for a romantic getaway, for families or group of friends who chose to bond over water-sport activities and for kids growing up on gadgets, it’s the best way to give them a nature vacation with the comforts of the hotel room.

BACK TO REALITY and Mainland Cebu

If you’re looking for a unique holiday adventure, island glamping in Sumilon is the best choice. Get even closer to nature. Go glamping.

Also read: 20 Best Islands in The Philippines for Beach Getaways

How to get there

Catch the earliest bus ride at 6 AM or 7 AM at the Cebu South Bus Terminal going to Oslob. As you arrive at Bancogon, Oslob, you may board Sumilon Island’s ferry.

Ferry schedule

Arrival (Mainland Cebu to Sumilon Island)
8:00 AM
9:30 AM
11:00 AM
12:30 PM
2:00 PM
4:30 PM

Departure (Sumilon Island to Mainland Cebu)
9:00 AM
10:30 AM
12:00 NN
1:30 PM
3:30 PM
5:30 PM

Things to do

1. Island Treks (best taken in the morning)
2. Take the glass-bottom boat ride and swim among the fish (the underwater world is a spectacular sight to behold)
3. Kayaking and fish feeding in the lagoon
4. Take your lunch at the floating hut in the middle of the lagoon
5. Bonfire dinner outside your tent

Cost

PHP 10,000 nett (weekday) and PHP 12,000 nett (weekend) per night for two person with full board meals, in-tent mini bar and all-access to island activities.

Contributed by Red Maleta.