a Sumilon island adventure, part 2

Sumilon is no artificial island. The amenities are cleverly embedded in the recesses of the hill or unobtrusively hewn on the rocky terrain. The clientele mostly are foreigners seeking the experience of a tropical island but the comforts of a hotel.


an infinity pool over a hill looking over mainland Cebu
Canon EOS 350D, 1/1600s, f/7.1, 17mm, ISO 100, -2/3EV


Never mind the cost, there is the chance to enjoy a real thriving marine paradise. It is a world-famous no-take fish reserve after all. From diving for mantas, black-tip sharks and eels, to snorkeling above spectacular coral gardens, or perhaps just idling on the sandy coves and shifting sandbar, the water attractions are difficult to rival.


the saltwater lagoon inlet at the eastern side of the island
Canon EOS 350D, 1/80s, f/6.3, 18mm, ISO 100, -2/3EV


Although it still is forbidden to take anything off the island or from the waters –fishing around the western part island is illegal – there is a large seawater lagoon in the eastern end of the island for catching the fishes bred in captivity, not to mention the obligatory boating, kayaking or just exploring the mangroves.


Canon EOS 350D, 1/40s, f/5.0, 39mm, ISO 400


In the end, privacy is its best asset and although it came with a price, this is what a splurge is all about.


the shifting sandbar serves as a natural dock at the western side
Canon EOS 350D, 1/1600s, f/5.6, 17mm, ISO 100, -1.0EV



sunrise over a vast and tide-exposed coral garden
Canon EOS 5D, 1/6s, f/4.0, 19mm, ISO 100



sunset over the no-take marine sanctuary on the western side of the island
Canon EOS 5D, 3.2s, f/4.0, 17mm, ISO 50, +4/3EV



beachcombers at a secluded cove
Canon EOS 350D, 1/1000s, f/5.6, 300mm, ISO 100, -4/3EV

Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort
Sumilon Island, Oslob
Cebu 6025
Philippines
Telefax No. +6332 4810801
sumilonreservations@bluewater.com.ph
www.bluewater.com.ph

continued from Sumilon, part 1