Baygrass Top Excursions - Whale Shark Snorkling, Sardine Run and Sumilon Seclusion at Cebu(#10)

Whale Sharks are a big draw for the local tourism industry in Oslob, located on the southern tip of Cebu Island in the Philippines. People from across the globe travel to Cebu to watch, and swim with these sharks. This took off in 2011, when the local fishermen realized that they could lure the sharks with bait. Soon after, they were being lured to a whale watching spot with food. The word spread like wildfire and the rest is history.

This however is also the root of an ethical dilemma. Whales being migratory creatures are not usually conditioned to remain in one place.But when fed regularly like in Oslob, it affects their  migratory pattern in turn affecting their mating habits. 

Dry months between November to May are the best to visit with calmer seas and predictable weather. The peak season however is between March to May. So, if you want to avoid the crowds, you know when not to travel.

• The best way to reach Oslob is to fly to Cebu city from Manila or other major cities in the Philippines.

• From Cebu’s South bus terminal, take a bus going to the Barangay Bato, via Liloan. Ask to be dropped off at Tan-awan in Oslob. This journey takes about 3-4 hrs.

• Else, take a private car from Cebu which is also faster. For bigger groups, private vans can also be rented.

• If traveling from places like Bohol, one can opt for a ferry to Oslob which is an hour away and costs about Rs 1500 per person. The ferries usually take off in the morning.

Just behind South Africa, sardine run in Moalboal is the second largest in the world. Sardine run, also called the bait ball , is a natural phenomenon wherein massive schools of sardine swim in shallow waters to feed on plankton. Unlike other places where sardine runs occur far from shore, in Moalboal, you can witness this extraordinary event just a few meters off the coast.

Fishermen are prohibited from fishing here so the tourists can have this spellbinding experience. Beyond the sardines, Moalboal’s waters are filled with other marine life, making it a haven for underwater photographers and marine enthusiasts alike.Best time to witness the dry season between December and June, for clearer underwater and calmer weather. Things to keep in mind is while you are allowed to take photos, touching or harming the marine creatures is prohibited and punishable by law. 

A trip to Cebu would be incomplete without visiting Sumilon Island. Known for its sandy white beaches and vibrant turquoise waters, this island is a sanctuary for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Explore Sumilon’s diverse marine life while snorkeling in the coral ridden waters, home to a wide variety of fish and other sea creatures.

For those looking for adventure, hiking along scenic trails provides breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. Whether you prefer basking in the sun on a secluded beach or exploring the natural wonders of the island, Sumilon offers a perfect escape.

You can choose to kayak or paddleboard to explore the Sumilon coast or picnic on the sandbars that emerge during the low tides. Sumilon can also be a base point to do island hopping to go around nearby islands.

For nature lovers, the island offers bird-watching experiences where you can spot rare species, all while taking in panoramic views of the ocean.

You can reach Sumilon from Oslob by a 15-20 min long boat ride.

Depending on what you want to visit one can stay either in Oslob or Sumilon. Following are some recommendations:

Oslob: Budget and Mid-Range Stays

Oslob is a small town and the accommodations here are mostly mid-budget or budget (Rs 1500 to Rs 5000):

Budget Stays: (Rs 1500 - Rs 3000 per night)

Oslob has several budget-friendly options, ideal for backpackers and travelers looking for a basic stay. These include simple lodges, guesthouses, and bed-and-breakfasts, which offer clean rooms and essential amenities.

• Sascha’s Lodge – A basic, no-frills accommodation with clean rooms and close proximity to the whale shark tours.

• Aloha – A cozy guesthouse offering budget-friendly rooms and a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for backpackers.

• Stay N Save B&B – Located right by the beach, this bed and breakfast offers simple but comfortable rooms at affordable rates, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

Mid Range Stays: (Rs 4000 - Rs 7000 per night)

For those seeking more comfort, Oslob offers hotels and resorts that provide beachside views, swimming pools, and on-site restaurants. These accommodations are perfect for families or couples looking for a relaxed stay with extra conveniences.

• GingGing Hotel & Resort – A beachfront property offering clean, comfortable rooms with a restaurant on-site. Ideal for families or couples looking for a peaceful stay.

• Downsouth 118 Beach Resort – Known for its beachfront rooms with stunning views, this resort offers modern amenities and easy access to Oslob’s whale shark attractions.

• Serene Oasis Resort – A mid-range resort offering an intimate atmosphere, excellent service, and rooms that open to scenic ocean views.

Sumilon Island: Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury Stays

For a more secluded experience, Sumilon Island offers options ranging from budget to luxury accommodations:

Budget Stays: (Rs 4000 - Rs 6000 per night)

Budget travelers can opt for simple yet scenic accommodations like beach camps or eco-friendly lodges. These stays allow you to experience the island’s natural beauty without breaking the bank, offering beach access and basic amenities.

1. Sumilon Bluewater Beach Camp – For the adventurous traveler, this camping-style accommodation offers tents on the beach at an affordable price, providing a unique experience of sleeping under the stars while being just steps from the ocean.
   
   

Mid-Range Stays:(Rs 8000 - Rs 12,000 per night)

For those looking for more comfort, mid-range resorts on Sumilon offer private cottages or beachfront rooms. These stays typically include ocean views, access to resort amenities like pools, and on-site dining options, making it ideal for couples and families.

1. Sumilon Island Resort Eco-Friendly Cottages – Offering eco-friendly accommodations, this resort combines comfort with sustainability. The cottages provide a perfect blend of nature and relaxation, with stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach.
   
   

Luxury Stays: (Rs 14,000 - Rs 35,000 per night)

Luxury resorts on Sumilon Island provide high-end experiences with private villas, exclusive sandbar tours, and guided snorkeling or boat trips.

1. Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort – This luxury resort offers top-notch accommodations with breathtaking views and private beach access. The resort provides an array of unique experiences, including guided snorkeling tours, sunset cruises, and an exclusive sandbar tour. The resort’s infinity pool, wellness spa, and fine dining restaurant also add to the luxury experience.

2. Sumilon Island Private Villas – If you’re looking for a more intimate stay, these private villas offer luxury accommodations with personal butlers and bespoke services. Guests can enjoy exclusive boat trips around the island, private picnics on the sandbar, and underwater excursions to explore the coral reefs surrounding the island.

Most major Indian cities have connecting flights to Cebu with a stopover at Singapore or HongKong. From Cebu one can either take a private cab or public transport (bus) to travel to Oslob or Moalboal. If traveling to Manila, there are domestic flights one can take from there to Cebu.