Sumilon Serene

the infinity pool where this writer loves to laze the whole day away

Sumilon (derived from the word ‘silong’ meaning refuge) is an irresistible invitation to immerse one’s self in the serenity of open-air seclusion. The island’s breath-taking ocean views, lush tropical environment, and tranquil seas provide both secluded space and boundless peace that will ease and allow you to surrender to the leisurely flow of island life.
Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort is an unobtrusive development on Sumilon Island which remains one of Cebu’s best kept secrets. Located at the south-eastern tip of the mainland, it is part of the historic municipality of Oslob which is 125 kilometres from Cebu City and is in close proximity to Dumaguete.
To reach the island, one can take a scenic drive through the southern coastal towns and enjoy glimpses of Cebuano rural life. Outside city limits, a relaxing drive goes through tree-canopied highways with wonderful view of eastern seashores. One also passes through interesting towns such as Carcar with its 17th century church, ancestral homes, local delicacies and “chicharon “ (deep-friend pork rind), Argao with its caves and centuries-old church, Boljoon with its ‘Eli” or natural barrier against Moro raids and watchtowers, and Oslob with its Old Spanish cuartel ruins, 1788 church belfry, and “Mainit” medicinal hot springs.
The trip takes about two and a half to three hours and ends at the seaside reception hall of Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort where refreshing cold drinks are served by an attendant. From this point, one boards an outrigger for ten to fifteen minutes crossing towards the 24-hectare Sumilon Island.
Sumilon, with its crystal clear waters in varying aquamarine hues is a protected marine sanctuary. Four surrounding dive sites make it a popular, premier dive area. A visit to the island would be a perfect time to learn the basics of SCUBA from a PADI-certified expert instructor or to take further certification courses. For those who cannot equalize however, such as this writer, snorkelling is a good alternative to view aquatic life which is one of the best in the country.
There are numerous activities for those with unbridled sense of energy. There are rugged uphill trails for a challenging cardiovascular exercise which will be rewarded with a spectacular overview of the natural lagoon teeming with high mangroves undulating towards the sparkling sea. Further southward up the trail are the historical “Baluarte” (Watchtower) which was built as part of a warning system to thwart slavers and marauders in the 19th century and the “parola” or lighthouse amidst a protected tree park.

view from an old tree trunk that hangs over aquamarine waters

From Aquamania, the dive shop at the eastern beach area, one can rent paddle boats, windsurfing boards, and kayaks aside from snorkelling and diving gears.
For those who prefer lazing the day away, there are numerous “payag payag” or open bamboo huts draped with gauze in vibrant colors where one can read books, play cards or board games, indulge in sybaritic shiatsu massage or simply be lulled away by the soothing sea rhythms.
There are six cottages, each with two adjoining rooms and private verandas that look out to a breathtaking view. Each room has an area of 48-square meters and accommodates a maximum of 3 guests.

my favorite "payag payag" where i have late afternoon shiatsu massages

The Island Pavillion houses the resort's restaurant that serves delectable local and international cuisine. Adjacent to it are the bar where one can take island coolers or cocktails, and this lazy cancerian's favorite spot, the infinity pool.
Sumilon is an epicurean experience, a reverie with a translucent feel of a waking dream.