Sun, Sea, and Memories: A Family Adventure on Sumilon Island, Cebu

For those yearning for a tropical escape brimming with natural beauty, Sumilon Island in Cebu is an unbeatable destination. This marked our fourth journey to the southern part of Cebu, and despite previous visits, the allure of Sumilon’s pristine waters and stunning landscape remains as captivating as ever.

Setting Out for the Adventure

Our day began at Island Front Resort and Restaurant, where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast surrounded by the early morning breeze and breathtaking ocean views. The resort’s welcoming atmosphere and delicious local dishes set the perfect tone for the day ahead. We embarked on our island adventure at around 7:30 am, opting for the second boat trip—a slight delay, courtesy of our son’s Mobile Legends ranking game! This small pause only added to the excitement as we geared up for the trip. This time, only our two sons joined us for the adventure, as our daughters decided to stay back to avoid the intense sun and enjoy a more relaxing morning at the resort.

How to Get to Sumilon Island from Lapu-Lapu City

If you’re starting from Lapu-Lapu City, as we did, the journey to Sumilon Island involves a combination of road and sea travel. Here’s how you can reach this beautiful island:

1. By Car or Bus:

   • Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours by private vehicle or 4-5 hours by public bus.
   • Route: Drive or take a bus southbound via the Cebu South Road, passing through Talisay, Carcar, and finally reaching Oslob.
   • Mode of Transportation: If you’re driving, the scenic coastal views and quaint towns along the way make the journey enjoyable. Public buses from Cebu South Bus Terminal also provide an affordable and comfortable ride.
   • Fare: The bus fare from Cebu City to Oslob ranges from P180 to P250, depending on the type of bus (non-airconditioned or airconditioned).

2. Boat Ride to Sumilon Island:

   • Boat Service: Prices for boat transfers are P1,500 for groups of 2-5 people and P2,000 for 5-10 people.
   • Departure Point: Most boats depart from Oslob, where you can coordinate with local resorts or tourist service providers.
   • Entrance Fees: Entrance to the island is P100 per person, with an additional P100 for access to the marine sanctuary and P100 rental for snorkeling gear.

Island Experience and Reminders

Sumilon Island is famed for its white sandbar and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. As soon as we docked, the island’s beauty greeted us with open arms. The shimmering turquoise water seemed to stretch endlessly, inviting us to dive in. We spent our time capturing countless photos against the backdrop of the picturesque sandbar, sharing laughter, and making memories that will last a lifetime. A quick headstand added some playful fun and energy to our morning. Although I swam just a little—savoring the cool water and gentle waves—our sons fully embraced the sea, splashing around and snorkeling to their hearts’ content.

The Island’s Unique Charm

Sumilon Island’s appeal extends beyond its picturesque sandbar...

 A Delicious Birthday Dinner at Seafood Island Crabhouse & Seafood Grill Resto in SM Seaside, Cebu City

Last night, we celebrated my birthday with a delightful dinner at Seafood Island Crabhouse & Seafood Grill Resto, located inside SM Seaside, Cebu City. It was a perfect spot for a family gathering, filled with good food, a vibrant atmosphere, and live music.

For the main feast, we opted for their famous Tali Boodle Feast, a sumptuous spread featuring a variety of fresh seafood and grilled meat. The platter included shrimp, crabs, grilled fish, squid, and more, all arranged beautifully on banana leaves for that authentic boodle fight experience. Every bite was flavorful, and the portions were generous, leaving everyone completely satisfied.

To quench our thirst, we had a pitcher of iced tea along with refreshing Island Punch cocktail drinks, which added a tropical vibe to the evening. For the special birthday cake, we brought along a delightful Ube Cake from Dessert Factory. Its rich, creamy ube flavor was the perfect way to cap off our meal.

One of the highlights of the evening was the live band performing inside the restaurant. They entertained us with soothing tunes while we waited for our food, creating a lively yet cozy atmosphere. The service was impeccable—the staff were approachable, friendly, and quick to attend to our orders and any additional requests we had.

The ambience at Seafood Island was cool and relaxed, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with family. They have a lavatory for handwashing and a comfort room, which is convenient if you don’t want to step out into the mall for a quick wash or break.

The food arrived in about 20 minutes, which was quite reasonable considering the feast we ordered. For payment, they accept both cash and credit cards, making the whole dining experience hassle-free.

Overall, it was a delightful birthday celebration, and I highly recommend Seafood Island Crabhouse & Seafood Grill Resto for anyone looking to enjoy delicious seafood, good music, and excellent service in Cebu City.

A Delightful Stay at Old Orangewood Bed and Breakfast

My family and I recently stayed at Old Orangewood Bed and Breakfast in Baguio City from July 26 to 28, and it was a wonderful experience. We booked the Standard Quadruple room named "Tamawan," perfect for my husband, our children, and me.

The hotel's location is quite convenient, being just a short taxi ride from the Victory Liner bus terminal, costing us less than a hundred pesos. This made it easy for us to get around and explore Baguio.

See more AGODA Accommodation - Old Orangewood Bed and Breakfast

Our family trip to Baguio City began with anticipation and excitement as we embarked on our journey from the Victory Liner Cubao Bus Terminal. Known for its reliable service and comfortable buses, Victory Liner has long been a trusted choice for travelers heading to the Summer Capital of the Philippines. Here’s a recount of our experience on the deluxe bus service.

Our family trip to Baguio City began with anticipation and excitement as we embarked on our journey from the Victory Liner Cubao Bus Terminal. Known for its reliable service and comfortable buses, Victory Liner has long been a trusted choice for travelers heading to the Summer Capital of the Philippines. Here’s a recount of our experience on the deluxe bus service.

We recently stayed at Eurotel in North Edsa, Quezon City for 3 nights and 4 days in their family suite room. Overall, our experience was pleasant and satisfactory.

Facilities and Ambience: The family suite was spacious, clean, and well-maintained, offering enough room for our entire family. The beds were comfortable, and the room amenities, including a mini-fridge and a flat-screen TV, were appreciated. The hotel's Wi-Fi connection was reliable, which was a big plus, especially for staying connected during our downtime. The free breakfast buffet had a decent variety of dishes, catering to both local and international tastes. The dining area was clean and well-organized, making for a pleasant start to our mornings.

Ambience: The hotel has a welcoming and cozy atmosphere. The staff were friendly and accommodating, always ready to assist with our needs. The overall vibe of the hotel was calm and relaxing, which was a relief amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

As I sit down to reflect on this year's Mother's Day celebration, my heart is full of warmth and gratitude for the precious moments shared with my beloved family. It was a day brimming with love, laughter, and delicious flavors, leaving indelible memories that I will cherish forever.

Our day commenced with a meaningful visit to the church, where we lit candles and offered prayers of thanksgiving for the blessings bestowed upon our family. We sought divine guidance and protection as we navigate the journey of life together, knowing that our faith serves as a pillar of strength and solace in both joyous and challenging times.

Before indulging in a sumptuous feast at AA's Barbeque, we made a quick stop at the grocery store to pick up some essentials for the week ahead. At AA's Barbeque, we delighted in a spread of traditional Filipino cuisine that tantalized our taste buds and brought us closer together as a family. From the savory beef pochero to the succulent grilled squid, each dish was a symphony of flavors that celebrated our rich culinary heritage. The baked scallops, fried garlic shrimp, and sizzling sisig with lemon cucumber added a delightful twist to our meal, perfectly complemented by refreshing iced tea to quench our thirst.

No celebration would be complete without a decadent dessert, and we indulged in the heavenly sweetness of Goldilocks Cherry cake, accompanied by a selection of sweet treats. To toast to the joys of motherhood, my hubby and I savored a few shots of Pink Moscato from Carlo Rossi, raising our glasses in a heartfelt tribute to the incredible women who have shaped our lives.

Though distance may separate us physically, technology bridged the gap as I reached out to greet my dear Mama, sister mom, and cousin moms online, sharing in the joy of this special day despite the miles between us. Their love and support have always been a source of strength and inspiration, reminding me of the unbreakable bonds that unite us as a family.

As the evening unfolded, I was touched beyond words when my youngest daughter presented me with her most beautiful hand-drawn portrait, accompanied by the sweetest words, "Happy Mother's Day, Ma." In that moment, my heart overflowed with love and pride, grateful for the privilege of being a mother and the blessings of a loving family.

As the day drew to a close and we gathered together for dinner with the whole family over the weekend, I couldn't help but feel immense gratitude for the precious moments we shared. Seeing all our children in fine evening, laughing and sharing stories, reminded me that the true essence of Mother's Day lies in the love and connection we share with our loved ones.

In the tapestry of life, Mother's Day serves as a poignant reminder to pause, reflect, and express gratitude for the incredible women who have shaped our lives with their love, wisdom, and unwavering support. Today, I celebrate not only the joys of motherhood but also the priceless gift of family, knowing that with their love by my side, every day is filled with endless possibilities and boundless blessings.

Our one-night stay at Billy's Resort in Oslob, Cebu, was a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. As a family of six, we were in need of some quality bonding time after attending our youngest daughter's school family day affair.

Arriving at the resort late in the afternoon, we were warmly greeted by the friendly staff who quickly checked us into our spacious room. The room was perfect for our family, comfortably accommodating all six of us with room to spare. The beds were cozy, and the amenities provided were just what we needed for a comfortable stay.

One of the highlights of our stay was the delicious Filipino breakfast served at the resort's restaurant. From traditional favorites like tapsilog and longganisa to freshly baked pandesal and creamy arroz caldo, we were spoiled for choice. The flavors were authentic and satisfying, providing us with the energy we needed for a day of exploration.

The hospitality of the staff was exceptional throughout our stay. They were attentive to our needs and always ready to assist with a smile. Whether it was recommending local attractions or arranging transportation, they went above and beyond to ensure we had a memorable experience.

While Billy's Resort may not have a shoreline, its exterior ambiance more than makes up for it. The resort's swimming pool offers a refreshing escape from the heat, and its direct access to the ocean allows guests to enjoy water activities like snorkeling and kayaking right on their doorstep. The lush greenery and well-manicured gardens add to the resort's charm, creating a tranquil oasis where guests can unwind and connect with nature.

Overall, our stay at Billy's Resort was everything we hoped for and more. From the delicious food to the comfortable accommodations and welcoming staff, it was the perfect retreat for our family getaway. We left feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, already planning our next visit to this hidden gem in Oslob, Cebu.

Thanks for dropping by, for more Travel Experiences of our family of six see more at this JustMom I Travels