In short
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine sanctuary.
- Aqua shoes for walking on the rocky coral beaches.
- Small cash bills for the boat and environmental fees.
In this article
A day trip to this 24-hectare coral island requires a bit of planning. You will take a 15 to 20-minute boat ride from the mainland, so keeping your gear dry is a priority. Bring the right essentials to enjoy the sandbar and marine sanctuary comfortably.
What should I wear to Sumilon Island?
Wear your swimwear under your clothes and bring aqua shoes.
Pack a change of dry clothes for the ride back to Cebu. You will walk on shifting sand and rocky coral areas. Aqua shoes or secure water sandals are highly recommended to protect your feet from sharp edges.
How do I protect my belongings on the boat?
Use a waterproof dry bag to keep your phone and wallet safe during the crossing.
The 15 to 20-minute pump boat ride from Bancogon port can get wet. A dry bag secures your electronics and dry clothes. If you plan to use the storage lockers at the pier, bring a personal padlock.
What snorkeling gear do I need?
Bring a personal mask and snorkel to save on rental fees.
The island is the first marine protected area in the Philippines. You can rent gear there, but bringing your own is cheaper and more comfortable. Pack an underwater camera or GoPro to photograph the coral reefs and marine life.
Should I bring my own towel to the island?
Bring a beach towel unless you purchase the Bluewater Resort day pass.
The standard public entry does not include amenities. If you buy the resort day pass, they provide a towel for you to use. Otherwise, pack a quick-drying microfiber towel in your dry bag.
Why do I need small cash bills?
You need cash in small denominations to pay mandatory local fees and boat rentals.
The local municipality collects a 50 PHP per person environmental fee before you board. You also need to pay the 1,500 PHP boat transfer fee. Small bills make these transactions much faster at the port.
What type of sunscreen is allowed?
Only use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.
Sumilon Island is a protected marine sanctuary. Standard chemical sunscreens damage the coral reefs. Apply a mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen before arriving, and consider wearing a long-sleeve rash guard for extra sun protection.
Questions travellers ask
Can I bring food to Sumilon Island?
You can bring small snacks and water if you are only visiting the public sandbar. If you buy the Bluewater Resort day pass, it usually includes a lunch buffet or consumable food credit.
Do I need to book Bluewater Sumilon to visit the island?
No. You can visit the public sandbar and marine sanctuary by paying the 50 PHP environmental fee and the 1,500 PHP boat fee. The resort day pass is entirely optional.
Are there lockers on the island?
There are storage lockers available at the mainland pier in Oslob before you board the boat. Bring your own padlock to secure your belongings safely.
