Five Reasons Why You'll Love Going Back to Sumilon Island, Cebu

If you're a frequent traveler to Cebu, and you've already been to the beaches of Mactan Island, Malapascua, Bantayan, Argao and Moalboal, perhaps you'd say that you've seen all that the place offers. But wait, have you ever been to Sumilon Island? The island is located off the coast of Oslob, the town that's made famous for its whale shark-watching excursions. And although it’s a compact island, it's not bereft of attractions and activities. Here are five reasons why you'll love going back to Sumilon Island.  

1. The Amazing Sand Bar & Pristine Beaches

Sumilon Island's top crowd-drawer is its shifting sand bar, as well as its lovely white-sand beaches. The sand bar protrudes like a small sliver of land, and shifts locations at certain times of the year. A hike across the island will give visitors access to the other great swimming, diving and snorkeling spots. Now isn't this a great place to spend your Philippine beach holidays?

2. The Sumptuous Food, At Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort

The breakfast, lunch and dinner treats at Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort are so tasty, perhaps you'll wish that you'd never have to leave the island. The resort's chefs have created a hearty selection of Filipino and international cuisine, from the crunchy and super-delicious lechon kawali to the Cebuano dry abodo with adodo rice (and served inside a bamboo container), as well as the grilled crab-stick wrapped in bacon, the salmon sinigang, fresh vegetable salads and more! 

3. Hike the Trails Around The Island

As mentioned earlier, Sumilon Island may be quite compact, yet it's not bereft of activities or attractions. For avid hikers, there are three trails to choose from, which you can do with or without a guide. On the trails, you'll discover the wreckage of an old Spanish fort as well as get glimpses of the mangrove swamp, the lagoon, as well as the coast of Oslob.

4. Enjoy the Diving And Snorkeling Spots

The waters around Oslob (as well as in all of Cebu) are truly spectacular , as you'll witness an explosion of marine life. From picture-perfect coral reefs to marine sanctuaries and centuries-old wrecks, it's no wonder that Sumilon Island and the rest of Cebu, are regularly visited by millions of tourists from the Philippines, and from all over the world.

5. Go Bird-watching

Because of its well-preserved forests and mangrove swamps, Sumilon Island is a paradise for avid birdwatchers. Here, you'll find starlings, sunbirds or “tamsi”, herons, doves, and a whole lot more! These 5 reasons, and more, make Sumilon Island one of the top Philippines beach holiday destinations.

A Glimpse At Samar Island's Most Visited Tourist Attractions

 Ever been to the Visayas, particularly the eastern side? Well, it seems that the most you can hear about the region is that, oftentimes, it is visited by typhoons plus, there's the alleged insurgency on the countrysides.

That may be one side of the picture but the brighter side is that, Samar, a major Visayan island, has many things to boast of – like having some of the best Philippine beach holidays!

• Malajog Beach, Calbayog City

Otherwise known as the Looc Beach, it is actually a black-sand beach, one of the few black-sand beaches the country has. The area, a mere 35-minute ride away from the city proper, is touted to be one of the most popular and excellent beaches of Samar Island. 

Visitors from near and far flock to this resort to savour the iconic views of the towering rock formations, its three balconied cottages, as well as the magnificent grotto of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary.

With cheap cottage rentals, sea lovers enjoy snorkeling and boating – where the tropical water is clear and calm. Boat rentals are also affordable; you can ask the friendly fisherman/boat captain to take you to Bugo Islet to witness colorful marine life. Besides, this relaxing beach offers a very exhilarating view of the sunset. Just bring your own food and other provisions as there are not lots of food stalls around as yet. 

• Bangon-Bugtong Falls, Calbayog City

Another spectacular attraction the city is known for is the falls that is approximately over an hour's ride towards Brgy. Tinaplacan, Tinambacan District. From the highway, you can ride a habal-habal or walk for around 45 minutes over the cascades before you get to the main falls.

This is because this majestic natural wonder has several layers of cascades which has a circular pool of around 30 meters in diameter, large enough for diving. Its seemingly endless stream flows into a twirling path, continuously increasing in pressure as time goes by. It's even eyed by the local authorities as a potential source of power for Calbayog City and its neighboring localities.

The above mentioned are just two of the most-visited spots of Samar Province. Explore many of the best Philippines beach holiday destinations in the region now.

4 Beach Manners for Every Beach Bum

It’s that time of year again, summer vacation! After long weeks of being cooped up in the routine of your everyday lives, you finally get a break from it all. What’s the better way to spend your vacation time? Why plan a beach getaway of course, the best vacation idea there is!

If you are planning on a Philippine beach holidays getaway, you’re in luck! The Philippines has a lot of beaches you can visit! The famous ones include Boracay and El Nido, Palawan. 

However, if you’re planning to rev it up in the Philippines, you must remember the following to make your vacation more fun with less drama:

AVOID SMOKING

Yes, the sand may tempt you to see it as your personal ashtray, but in reality, it’s not. Remains such as the cigarette butts and ash make the beach look more unpleasing. If you really can’t go a day without smoking, you’d better go to the nearest smoking area and smoke there.

AVOID PLASTIC, USE REUSABLE INSTEAD

To keep your littering to a minimum, avoid using disposable plastic bags and containers. Instead use durable canisters and containers for your chips and drinks. If you need to recharge your stocks, you can easily fill in these containers after just washing them. You’ll be enjoying your favorite food and drinks at the same time helping the environment!

EAT AT DESIGNATED AREAS

You could eat at the prepared huts or areas when you’re at the beach. They usually have tables and chairs you can use at any time. However, if eating at the beach is your cup of tea, just remember to clean your mess after you eat.

ALWAYS BRING A TRASH BAG

The use of such is to clean up after the mess you’ve made from eating. You should always have some with you whenever you’re travelling. It’s also helpful because along the trip, if you need to dispose of something, you’ll have a trash bag handy.

The main point of it all is the beach isn’t yours to begin with. It’s for everyone to share and no one can claim ownership over it. Now, the time you plan your Philippines beach holidays getaway, always bring these manners with you along to avoid fuss and have more fun.

Must-Visit Incredible Waterfalls In Mindanao

The Philippines is so blessed with fabulous attractions that never fail to draw crowds, whether they come from near or far. Lucky for travel enthusiasts who love nature and the outdoors - the country, particularly Mindanao region, is bountiful of white sand beaches and magnificent waterfalls.

If you'd like to discover the Philippines beach holiday destinations by yourself, why not go visit Cotabato and Surigao? Here, you'll discover the allure of cascading waters thundering mightily into marvelous pools down below.

• Asik-Asik Falls in Alamada, North Cotabato

Most people especially those from outside Mindanao only hear about Cotabato as a conflict-ridden province. Yet, many are unaware that Alamada town is peacefully endowed with splendid natural landscapes. Deep in one of its mountainous forests can be found Asik-Asik Falls, its waters bursting from the abundant wall of the mountain.

The lush vegetation that covers the mountain walls is the perfect backdrop for photo opportunities. However, the place is only for the brave of heart, as going up is quite tough, the path being unpaved. But, those who make it successfully can become proud of such a once-in-a-lifetime feat.

To get to the area, take the van from Cotabato City to Midsayap which should be about an hour. Then, find a habal-habal that will take you to Upper Dado in Alamada for about an an hour and a half. Upon arrival, you have to transfer to a tougher ride towards the jump-off point and pay a certain amount for entrance fee. You likewise have to register at the tourism booth in Upper Dado. Upon reaching the jump-off point, start your 30-minute trek towards the falls.

• Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, Surigao del Sur

Perhaps, no other water formation in the country can equal the grandeur of Tinuy-an Falls, aptly dubbed as the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines”. Visitors will be awe-inspired by the tremendous volumes of water crashing down amidst a scenery of rich vegetation and rock formations.

Enjoy a water massage by riding a raft for an affordable fee that will take you to the cascades and feel the powerful downpour against your body. Explore the upper region and savor the spectacular view down below and around the falls. There are picnic tables for rent in designated areas.

For more time to discover the best beach holidays Philippines, start your journey today.

Must-See Amazing White Sandbars of Mindanao

The Philippines boasts of a myriad of exhilarating attractions regardless of whether they are situated in Mindanao, Luzon or Visayas. If you're a northerner or hailing from the central region, it's about time to see the southern areas and be amazed by various tourist spots.

Here in the Land of Promise are a plethora of stunning Philippines beach holiday destinations just waiting to be explored. For this journey, let's experience magnificent sandbars you may never have seen before in your entire life.

• Puting Balas in Zamboanga del Sur

Powdery cream sand set in crystal clear, deep, cerulean waters – are what greet the travel enthusiast upon reaching this stretch of sandbar made even more beautiful by the low tide. Puting Balas, meaning white sand in English is found off the coast of Pagadian City. It is rather isolated as the place rarely sees visitors, so expect it to be something of a haven if what you're need is a venue far away from the harried metropolis. 

Ideal for leisure swimming, snorkeling, jet skiing and diving, this impressive piece of sand-island has its ecosystem still well-preserved in its natural form. There are no commercial establishments out to adulterate the area, hence, a wide assortment of marine life thrives and even roam/swim around its surroundings.

It's easy for to reach the place since the sandbar is just a  just few kilometers off the southern part of Pagadian seaport. Find private motorized bancas in Brgy. San Pedro that can be hired roundtrip for  very reasonable rates. For a much-needed respite from the humdrum of urban living, Puting Balas is the perfect place to be.

• White Island in Camiguin

Unlike the destination mentioned above, the more than kilometer long White Island sandbar is popular with tourists from all over. Perhaps, its fine sands set in emerald green and azure waters plus the postcardesque panorama of Mt.Hibok Hibok and Mt.Vulcan, are its greatest attractions. Here, visitors could just bask in the sun or go leisure swimming in its calm waters.

For adventure seekers, take time snorkeling, diving and witnessing a magnificent panorama underwater, or viewing the sunrise and sunset over Camiguin. Remember to bring your beach umbrella, parasol or anything to cover you from the heat of the sun as there are no trees or any form of vegetation around – this is a virgin sandbar! To get there, take an eastbound tricycle from Mambajao town proper for the jump off point.

From these two attractions, proceed to other areas in Mindanao to find the best beach holidays Philippines.

The Fascinating Beach Havens Of The Distant But Enigmatic Biliran

Want to see islands, beaches and natural rock formations that are nothing short of spectacular? Yet the trip won't cost you a fortune? Here's one great suggestion - go to Biliran. You may ask where the heck is that? Well, it's still in the Philippines, meaning you need not go far away. Besides, Biliran's located just a few kilometers north of Leyte province. Here's a brief look at the fascinating beach havens of the distant but enigmatic, Biliran. 

Sambawan Island

Hailed as the province's most beautiful beach destination, and touted as the next “Boracay” of sorts, Sambawan Island, is blessed with a stunning white sand beach, pristine, healthy marine life and coral gardens as well. During high tide, the island magnificently breaks down into three lovely islets. A trip tothis paradise should definitely be included in your list of Philippine Beach Holidays!

The best way to get sweeping views of the island would be to make your way to a hill, and get an awesome 360-degree view of the island. The island's southern part features a rolling hill that slopes backwards to the rocky shore.

The bigger main island and the smaller second island are attached to or connected by igneous rock, while the second and third island are so close to each other, with just a shallow sluice of water separating them. A day tour to the place perhaps would not suffice, because the stunning beauty of the three islets will  surely hypnotize you, and make you crave for further exploration!  

Maripipi Island

Located an hour and thirty minutes away from the provincial capital of Naval, the place is just off the coast of Sambawan Island, and is home to a rich collection of unspoilt and scenic beaches, coral gardens, and more. Visitors will even discover the ruins of a pre-Spanish era watchtower, which is just beside the San Miguel Church.

Higatangan Island

This is another lovely beach destination - only 45 minutes by boat from Naval. The island features a moving sand bar extending around two hundred meters to the sea. Visitors will discover a large coral reef teeming with fish and other aquatic life. Higatangan literally showcases the perks of leaving nature unspoilt and untouched as well.

From diving to snorkeling, spear fishing, hiking, kayaking, trekking and more, there's just so much to do in the province of Biliran. So, the next time you're planning to visit the country, make sure you include Biliran in your list of up-and-coming Philippine TouristAttractions! 

Off The Beaten Path – Discover The 4 Lovely Beaches of Eastern Samar

If you’re planning a well-deserved beach holiday, and you’re looking for something exotic and exciting, why not head to the less-frequented, Eastern Samar? Wait, ever heard of the place? How do you get there? Well, for those who aren’t aware, Samar Island actually faces the Pacific Ocean (and Leyte province, too). Its coastline is pristine, rugged, which is perfect for surfers and adventure seekers. Let’s take a brief look at the exotic beach destinations of the region.
Magellan And the US Army During World War 2 Were Here

Samar Island, particularly Eastern Samar, has been witness to some of the country’s greatest events. It was the area that Ferdinand Magellan first set foot in 1521, landing on Homonhon Island on the way to Cebu. The US Army Rangers were the first to land here too, in advance of Gen. Douglas Mc Arthur’s invasion flotilla in 1945. Its stunning natural beauty also makes it one of the most exotic Philippines beach holiday destinations.

The Top Beach Destinations In Eastern Samar

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Much of Eastern Samar remains forested, and relatively untouched by development.  The interior part is hilly and steep, as well as covered with dense vegetation. The coastline is also hugged by narrow plains, and its turquoise waters teem with lots of aquatic treasures. Here’s a peek a few of region’s best beach destinations:

Homonhon Island. This island bears a lot of historical significance, because Ferdinand Magellan first set foot here in 1521. Here, visitors will find a marker or plaque noting the exact area where the famed Portuguese explorer landed. The sandy beaches are calm and swarming with marine life too.

Calicoan Island. Bounded by Leyte Gulf in the west, and the Pacific Ocean in the east, Calicoan Island teems with unspoiled white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Lush tropical forests and rugged landscapes make it a perfect place for gung-ho travelers and surfers.

Sulangan and Guitagican Beach. Sulangan Beach is 24 kilometers from the capital town of Guiuan, and is great for deep-sea fishing and scuba diving, as multi-colored fishes are a regular sight. It’s also a habitat for the popular Golden Cowrie shell. Guitagican Beach is located in the village of Santa Maria, Borongan.

Divinubo Island. This pristine and lovely island is located in Barangay Lalawigan, Borongan. Its clean, crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, bountiful marine life and swaying palm trees are definitely a sweet treat for weary urbanites. The waters are great for scuba diving and snorkeling too.
To go to Eastern Samar, Manila-Borongan, Cebu-Borongan and Cebu-Guiuan flights are regularly scheduled. Buses and vans ply the Tacloban–Borongan and Guiuan routes. So, if you’re planning to get off the beaten path, head on to Eastern Samar and enjoy the best and most exotic Philippine tourist attraction.