IslandsFeatured

Sumilon Island

Oslob, Cebu

About Sumilon Island

Sumilon Island is a 24-hectare coral island located off the southeastern tip of Oslob, about 10-15 minutes by boat from Barangay Bangcogon. It holds the distinction of being the first marine protected area in the Philippines, established in 1974 under the guidance of Silliman University Marine Laboratory. The island is renowned for its stunning shifting sandbar - a long stretch of powdery white sand that changes shape with the tides and seasons. This sandbar has become one of the most photographed spots in Cebu, drawing visitors who come for the crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine beach. Beyond the sandbar, Sumilon offers excellent diving and snorkeling sites with vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. The island also features caves, a lagoon, hiking trails, a modern lighthouse, and a historic 19th-century watchtower. The Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort operates on part of the island, though day trippers can still access the public beach and sandbar areas.

Highlights

Famous shifting white sandbarFirst marine protected area in the PhilippinesCrystal-clear turquoise watersExcellent diving and snorkeling19th-century Spanish watchtowerCaves and hiking trails

Tips for Visitors

1Check tide schedules - the sandbar is best during low tide. Bring your own food and water as options are limited (unless dining at the resort). Wear reef-safe sunscreen. Book island hopping tours from the mainland. The sandbar moves seasonally, so ask locals for current conditions.

How to Get There

From Oslob town proper, take a tricycle to Barangay Bangcogon (PHP 50-100). From there, hire a pump boat to Sumilon Island (PHP 1,500-2,500 for the boat, can be shared). Some tour operators offer packages including whale shark watching + Sumilon Island.