oslob tour from cebu city

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Day Trip in Oslob (Cebu): Things to Do + Itinerary

Oslob is a coastal town in the southern area of Cebu, popularly known for its whale shark activity where you can swim up close with whale sharks in the ocean. It’s a must-visit when you’re in the province. We visited here on a day trip during an outreach trip. Here’s our Day Trip Guide to Oslob, Cebu!

P.S. If you’re exploring the south, don’t forget to read about our Day Tour in Moalboal & Kawasan Falls and Travel Guide to Moalboal .

From Cebu City

From badian, update: why we don’t recommend this anymore, sumilon island, tumalog falls, sunset viewing in osmena peak, reminders and tips, budget and expenses, what to read next:, how to get to oslob (cebu).

There are different ways to get to Oslob.

From Cebu City, travel time is 2.5-3 hours.

• From Cebu South Terminal, ride a bus to Bato via Lilo-an (P155 per person, 3 hours). Inform the driver know to drop you off at the whale shark activity site or resort you’re heading to.
• Alternatively, you can also ride a van (P150 per person, 2.5 hours) at the GT Express Terminal along Junquera Street. Get off at Oslob town proper and then ride a tricycle or habal-habal to the whale shark activity site.
• Ride a bus to Bato and get off at the last stop. Transfer to a bus bound for Cebu City and get off at Oslob. Let the driver know you are going to the whale shark activity site or else you will be dropped off at the town center (10 km away), where you will need to take another ride.
• You can also rent a scooter for a minimal fee. This is a good option for budget travelers who are exploring the south for a few days.

Oslob Day Tour itinerary

Here is a sample itinerary for your day tour in Oslob.

7AM – 8AM Whale shark activity 8:30AM – 11AM Sumilon Island Lunch 1PM – 3PM Tumalog Falls 4:30 – 5:30PM Sunset at Osmena Peak 6PM End of tour

If you’re coming from Cebu City, it’s best to leave at 3 or 4AM so you’ll arrive early in the morning.

Here are the activities you can do on a day trip to Oslob.

Whale shark watching

Oslob is mostly known for its whale shark activity. Here, you have to ride a boat to an area where you can see the whale sharks up close. Sightings are guaranteed all year round.

The whale shark activity is located in Barangay Tan-Awan. Once you get here, you can find resorts offering boat tours to the whale shark area. The activity starts with an orientation where you will be reminded (1) to not touch the whale sharks and (2) to avoid wearing sunscreen.

First of all, we were amazed that the whale shark area isn’t very far from the shore. In fact, we could already see the tour boats before boarding.

The experience was great. The whale sharks glide in the water in ones or twos and threes, mouths hanging open. It was difficult to swim though since the currents were strong. Our guides were helpful in taking pictures. I was wearing a lifevest so one guide pushed me down the water while another took photos with our action camera.

What I noticed though is that it was easy to touch or hit the whale sharks unintentionally, due to the strong current and the fact that the whale sharks swim too close to humans.

• The activity starts from 5:30AM to 12 noon only. It’s best to get in the wharf early in the morning before the current gets strong.
• The activity is good for 30 minutes only.
• Bring an action camera. If you don’t have any, you can rent one with CD copy for P550.

After this trip, I’d read about whale shark watching in Oslob and learned that it is harmful to the whale sharks for various reasons . If you still want to have a whale shark encounter, a good alternative is that in Donsol, Sorsogon, where whale sharks are left in the wild.

Here’s further reading on ethical animal encounters around the world.

Sumilon Island is a private island famous for its picturesque sand bar. Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort is located here, but it is also open for day passes.

The island is just several minutes away from the main beach in Tan-Awan. You can arrange a boat trip to Sumilon Island.

We stayed here for a few hours, and it was time well spent. The water was clear and from there were different shades of blue.

• Day pass starts from 7AM to 5PM.
• If you’re on a day tour, you can only stay in the sand bar area.
• There are no stores here. Bring packed lunch or food from the stores or restaurant in Oslob’s beachfront.

Tumalog Falls is a 15-minute ride from the resort area. Ride a habal-habal to get here.

Tumalog Falls is an 80- to 100-meter high waterfall with umbrella-like formations, similar to Ulan-Ulan Falls in Biliran . The water falls gently into a man-made pool, which then flows down to smaller pools. The pool is a beautiful light blue. It’s shallow so it’s safe for kids, but it’s also freezing cold.

All I can say is that Tumalog Falls is lovely. It’s high so it’s difficult to capture whole in the camera. It’s also one of the best waterfalls in the Philippines I’ve seen as of yet. I highly recommend including this stop in your Oslob day trip itinerary.

Interestingly, I googled Tumalog Falls after the trip and noticed that the cement pool walls were a recent addition. I think I would’ve preferred it au naturale, but I understand that the local government also has to make it more “palatable” and “easy” for visitors. Anyway, as long as it’s clean and properly managed, I’m happy.

Sunset viewing in Osmena Peak is a wonderful way to finish your day trip in Oslob.

To get here, ride a bus bound for Cebu and ask the driver to drop you off at at Dalaguete (pronounced Dalaget), which is three towns away. From there, hire a habal-habal or multicab to take you to Osmena Peak.

Osmena Peak is one of the highest points in Cebu. It’s famous for its natural rugged peaks and a favorite stop for those who want to see the sunrise or sunset.

You can choose to hire a guide. The trek is relatively easy and takes only 20 minutes to reach the peak.

Here are some reminders and tips when planning your Oslob day tour:

• If you have more time, you can also visit Oslob Heritage Park , where you can explore a museum and Spanish-era buildings. Entrance is free.
• This is the usual day trip itinerary in Oslob. An alternative to the afternoon schedule includes visiting Tumalog Falls and then heading to the town of Samboan to visit its 3 waterfalls: Aguinid Falls , Dao Falls , and Binalayan Falls . However, you won’t have time to trek to Osmena Peak. (Another nearby waterfall is Kawasan Falls , although this one is best visited on a half-day tour.)
• This day trip can be done DIY. You can also booked packaged tours online.

Here are the current rates ( Updated as of 2020 ):

In a group of 5 people, a safe budget is P1400-1500 per person .

That concludes our guide for day trip in Oslob! Has this been helpful to you? Let us know in the comments below!

Visiting Cebu? Here are other posts you might be interested at:

• Day Tour in Oslob
• Day Trip in Moalboal and Kawasan Falls
• Travel Guide to Moalboal
• Travel Guide to Bantayan Island and Top Things to Do in Bantayan Island
• Travel Guide to Malapascua Island

Looking for accommodations?

• [Top Picks] Villas and Private Resorts in Cebu

Get discounts on your travels!

Enjoy discounts with KLOOK using our promo code: TARALETSANYWHERE

Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

20 Comments

Kristine adan.

Hi! Thank you. Your blog is very helpful. I have a question. Do you know when’s the first trip of the vans going to Oslob? Thank you!

Hi! Did you guys just do this tour by yourselves or you availed a tour package from a tour agency? Many thanks!

Katherine Cortes

DIY lang but there’s a lot of tour agencies offering this type of tour rin naman.

hi! can you share info regarding boat rental? I’ve been looking through FB, but all are linked to a tour package. we only need a pumpboat for the Sumilon island trip

Hello. You can ask at the resorts in the area once you arrive. Ganun lang rin ginawa namin.

Im so xcite because i read a lot about in cebu theres a lot of fun..this is my list bucket for my vacation dis coming december in the philippines…i never canceled to go there with my family..thanks for sharing the xpirience in cebu

Hi. Just want to know if you can book directly in oslob for the swimming with the whale sharks? And can we join other groups for this activity to cut the cost since the tours i’ve seen in various websites are expensive for 2persons? Thank you.

Hi Em. Pls read our update. We don’t recommend the whale shark activity in Oslob – https://www.taraletsanywhere.com/swimming-with-whale-sharks-philippines/

Alana Delia

Thanks so much for this! I am planning my first trip with my sister and filipino boyfriend to do this travel together in south cebu,looking forward to it! Thanks

I’m planning a day tour for Oslob for my family. Would you know any beach resorts around the area where we can wash up?

2traveldads

What a beautiful place and an incredible experience! I feel like 4 meters is still too close for the creatures’ own comfort though, when considering their size in comparison. Was this area baited/krill-stocked to attract the sharks? I’ve read of that being done, which would be my only concern with visiting.

I think so, yes. It turns out there’s a controversy about whale shark watching, with environmentalists saying it changes the natural behavior of the sea animals. I think whale shark watching in Donsol, Sorsogon, is a good alternative to Oslob.

Adrenaline Romance

Amazing trip! On your next trip, try the other side as suggested by Mustachio. There’s snorkeling and scuba diving in Moalboal, falls hopping in Samboan, and more! Cebu has so many adventures and sites to visit. 🙂

Next time we’ll do that! 🙂 We only had a day to spare because we were on a connecting flight to Siargao then.

Have you been to the southwest municipalities in Cebu? I recommend boating/snorkeling in Moalboal, canyoneering in Alegria (though I haven’t tried this myself), going to the waterfalls in Samboan, Ginatilan, and Badian.

Haven’t yet! This is literally the only time I’ve been in Cebu haha. 🙂 But I’ve been seeing so much photos of Moalboal, Alegria and the waterfalls you’ve mentioned I think it’s time I actually schedule another visit.

I love the beach and the falls, swimming w/ whale sharks seems fun, but according to studies, it disrupted the normal behaviour of this gentle creatures.

Cai Dominguez- Travelosyo

I never been to the southern part of Cebu, I’ve been planning to visit oslob ever since. I love to do diving with Butandings too that’s sooo awesome. Lovely beach plus falls. Ohhh Cebu has a lot to offer. By the way, I explored the northern part of the Province when I went there 🙂

donnamariebb

The beach in Sumilon looks amazing!

Yes it does. 🙂 We plan to go back and stay in the resort.

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What travelers are saying.

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ADVISORY: Tumalog Falls is closed starting March 17, 2024 until further notice.

Join us in this incredible and unique swimming experience with​ Whale sharks

Whale shark watching activity in oslob cebu is undeniably a popular and unique attraction worldwide and yet also controversial. this incredible experience prompts tourists to flock to oslob shores to encounter these gentle giants. whale shark watching tours combined with other popular tours in southern cebu can fill your day with full of fun and fascinating adventures., we have the best whale shark tours, choose your favorite , snorkeling with whale sharks popular.

Experience the once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling with the largest fish and cold waters of Tumalog falls in one day adventure.

Scuba Diving with Sharks

Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, scuba diving is excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with whale sharks.

Whale Shark Watching + Canyoneering Best Seller

A full day of adventures from snorkeling to biggest fish, jumping into canyons, and swimming in clear waters of Badian.

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All-day pack tour packages....A day full of adventures !

Whale sharks + sumilon island sandbar + canyoneering.

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Overnight in oslob tour packages , 2d1n tour package a.

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Top attractions and activities in Cebu south for two days full of adventure and exciting water activities.

Life is either daring adventure or nothing at all!!

Reserve your spot on this unique and exhilarating adventures..., what do tourists say about whale shark watching experience, read more reviews on.

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Office closure advisory.

We want to inform you that the Island Trek Tours office will be closed on March 29   (Friday) .

During this time, online chat and calls are not accessible. But still, we will be providing email support on your immediate needs and concerns, should there be any. Kindly expect minor delays in responses during this day.

Online reservations for March 30 will still be accepted and will be arranged accordingly. 

Announcement!

PRIVATE: Oslob Whale Shark + Tumalog Falls Tour Package

Divers with the whale sharks in Oslob

Couple swim with the whale sharks in Oslob

A girl Snorkeling with the Oslob whale sharks

Beautiful waters of Tumalog Falls in Oslob

A nice view from the restaurant

Cebu Tours guests during their whale shark watching

Duration: 10 Hour (s)

Swim and snorkel with the whale sharks in Oslob and enjoy a scenic hours drive from Cebu City or Mactan. This private tour will be accompanied by an experienced driver and tour guide. The whale shark watching activity in Oslob is a must do which you should never miss. After the whale shark experience , our package includes climbing up to the amazing Tumalog water falls. The falls is just 10 minute drive from the whale shark area in Oslob. There are other tourist spots in Oslob that you can include in your trip. If you have more time, then it’s best to include other scenic spots in Oslob. You can try our Oslob package which includes a visit to the beautiful Sumilon sandbar .

Rates and Inclusions

Sample itinerary:.

• 04:00 AM – Pick up from the hotel
• 06:30 AM – Light Breakfast in Oslob
• 07:30 AM – Swimming or Snorkeling with the Whale Sharks
• 08:30 AM – Cool Down at Tumalog Falls – (temporarily closed)
• 10:00 AM – Lunch with One Round of soft drinks
• 11:00 AM – Prepare to go back to the City
• 02:00 PM – Arrival in the Hotel

Note: This is just an estimated time. Pick up time will also change during peak season.

The pick up time is  moved to 3:30am instead of 4:00am during peak season. Oslob is the main destination if you are in Cebu so it is expected to have many guests everyday. The ticketing office there will sometimes be closed earlier than the normal hours because of several reasons. For example, big waves in the late morning or at noon time which is uncontrollable. So they have to stop issuing tickets. With this, please understand if we have to move the pick up time for this whale shark watching tour to 3:30 o’clock in the morning. We just don’t want you to miss to get close with these gentle  giants, the whale sharks.

What to Expect

You will take breakfast and lunch which are included in the package few minutes away from the whale shark watching area.

Right after the breakfast, you will now swim with the whale sharks which is the first activity for the day and then cool down at the Tumalog Falls.

Next, when you are done in Tumalog Falls, you will be taken back to the restaurant where you will be having your lunch. Right after your lunch, you will go back to the city or to your hotel. Most of our guests who booked for Whale shark watching and Tumalog falls, will add another tour destination since it will be very early to go back to the city. Here are your few options.

• Whale Shark Watching with Tumalog Falls + Kawasan Falls
• Whale Shark Watching with Tumalog Falls + Sumilon Sandbar

BOOKING FORM

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SHARED: Oslob Whale Shark + Tumalog Falls with Lunch & Transfer

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ADVISORY: Tumalog Falls is closed starting March 17, 2024 until further notice.

2 Days and 1 Night standard room accommodation in Oslob with private car transfers, Oslob whale shark watching, Sumilon island sandbar, and Canyoneering Adventure + Kawasan falls. 

• Swim and snorkel with the gentle giants and largest fish in the world
•  Take instagrammable photos in the clear waters and long stretch of white sands of Sumilon island sandbar
• Check your bucket list for wild and extreme adreline rush activity of Badian Canyoneering

2D1N A Tour Package Inclusions

• Accommodation in hotel of your choice
• Private air-conditioned car transfers
• Day 1: Whale Shark Watching + Sumilon Island Sandbar
• Pick up hotel or Mactan airport and drop off hotel in Oslob after the tour using private car/van transportation
• Local guide
• A boat ride and life vest
• All entrance and watching fees
• Watching from the boat or snorkeling with the whale sharks for 30 minutes
• Light Breakfast / Snacks for late pick-up
• Lunch with one round of soft drinks or bottled water
• Optional side trips to Tumalog waterfalls, monkey watching, and cuartel ruins
• Trip to Sumilon island sandbar with round trip boat transportation
• Day 2: Canyoneering in Badian
• Pick up hotel in Oslob and drop off Cebu City or Mactan airport
• Trained and municipal tourism accredited local guide
• A motorbike ride to jump-off point
• Entrance fees
• Life jacket
• Rubber Shoes
• Waterproof Drybag
• Picture taking and swimming in Kawasan falls

Package Exclusions

• Round trip airfare
• Sumilon island sand bar – snorkeling gear
• Meals that are not stated above
• Travel Insurance

Day 1 - Oslob Whale shark watching + Tumalog Falls + Sumilon island sand bar

• Pick up Mactan Airport (latest is 6:00 AM) / Cebu City hotel / Mactan hotel
• Whale shark watching + Tumalog falls + Sumilon island sand bar
• Check in hotel after tour
• Free and Easy

Day 2 - Canyoneering Adventure then drop off Cebu City / Mactan

• 7:00 AM – Pick up hotel in Oslob
• 8:00 AM – Arrival in Badian, gear preparation
• 9:00 AM – Start of Canyoneering
• 12:00 PM – End of Canyoneering
• 1:00 PM – Depart Badian
• 4:00 PM Estimated drop off Cebu City / Mactan airport

Important Notes Before You Book

• Check in time is 2:00 pm / 3:00 pm  and check out time is 12:00nn / 11:00 am depending on hotels
• Room sharing: 1 (single), 2 (twin), 3 (triple or single & double (depending on hotel without extra bed)), 4( twin x 2 or quadruple x 2), 5 (twin, triple), 6 (triple x 2), 7 (twin x 2, triple, or quad and triple), 8 ( twin, triple x 2), 9 ( triple x 3), 10 ( twin x 2, triple x 2), 11 (twin, triple x 3), 12 (triple x 4)
• Booking will be confirmed only after receiving the advance payment and on the availability of hotels mentioned, we do not block rooms at the time of sending a confirmation
• In case of non-availability of rooms in the mentioned hotels, this will be communicated to you and will give you different options, and the rate of the package will increase or decrease depending on the hotel selection
• In case you are not convinced with the new options, the advance paid will be refunded without deducting any service charge and this needs to be communicated to us the day after we send the new hotel list
• We strongly suggest you check the reviews and locations of the hotels mentioned to make sure it is as per your preferences before confirming the package. Change of hotel upon arrival would charge retention
• Island Trek Tours does not have any hidden charges except your meals not mentioned and personal incidental expenses
• During the journey, if someone asks for extra money, you may inform us and we will not be responsible if you pay the amount without our concern
• Vehicle to be used for transfers and tours: Sedan 1-3 pax, MPV/AUV for 4 – 6 persons, and Van for 7 to 12 persons
• Tour packages can be customized, ex. add Pescador island hopping after canyoneering or replace canyoneering with other tours. Just fill up the inquiry form for customization requests.
• Rates are subject to change without prior notice.

Activity Policy​

Activity requirements.

• Only 12 years old and above can join canyoneering
• Canyoneering participants must be in good health and can walk to rough terrains (30 minutes walk)

Whale Shark No Sighting Policy

Cancellation.

Free cancellation for at least  a week noticed prior to departure time, otherwise will be based on our Terms and Conditions .

From ₱6,431 per person price per person varies by group size BOOK NOW

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Canyoneering adventure, whale shark watching + canyoneering adventure, bohol day tour, office closure advisory.

We want to inform you that the Island Trek Tours office will be closed on March 29, 2024 (Friday) .

During this time, online chat and calls are not accessible. But still, we will be providing email support on your immediate needs and concerns, should there be any. Kindly expect minor delays in responses during this day.

Online reservations for March 30 will still be accepted and arranged accordingly.

OSLOB TRAVEL GUIDE With Budget, DIY Itinerary, How To Get There And More

Budget travel guide to oslob cebu for first-time travelers.

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The Ultimate Oslob Travel Guide

Table of Contents

C ebu, Philippines — For many decades, the island of Cebu has remained one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, offering a wide variety of attractions and experiences suited for different types of visitors, from history buffs to beach bums. Cebu is truly blessed not only with breathtaking attractions but also stunning beaches.

Within a two to three-hour bus trip from Cebu city, is a quiet place that has created a lot of noise in recent years. Oslob is a coastal town in the southern part of Cebu, and it’s one of the best places to visit in this province. It used to be a place where life is laid back and is celebrated, perhaps with a visit to the church or by attending to one’s basic household chores and agricultural work.

Nonetheless, Oslob suddenly became a tourist attraction, when nature turned its course, bringing significant gifts of the sea and turning it into a beautiful destination, on the island province of Cebu.

In this Travel Guide to Oslob, Cebu Blog, we listed some tips on how you can do your own DIY trip to Oslob. We also included Oslob Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there, and more.

We’ve listed some of the best places to visit and where to stay if you happen to visit Oslob. Read along.

Best time to Visit Oslob

You can visit Oslob any time of the year but if you want to enjoy water activities and experience whale shark interaction, avoid the wet season. If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Oslob, the hottest months are May, April, and then June.

How to Get to Oslob, Cebu

Cebu city to oslob.

From South Bus Terminal in Cebu City, hop on an Oslob-bound bus (P150, 3 hours bus ride) If you plan to go whale shark watching straight away, ask to be dropped off along the highway at Barangay Tan-Awan.

You can also rent a habal-habal to take you to the tourist spots, such as Tumalog Falls and the heritage areas.

Dumaguete City to Oslob

From Dumaguete airport, hire a tricycle to take you to Sibulan Port. Special trips will most likely cost around P100, with travel time around 10-15 minutes.

If you’re coming from Liloan Port, you won’t have to wait too long because there are trips to Liloan Port every hour. Fast craft fare (Around P70) Liloan Port in Cebu is located south of the province. From there, ride the bus that will take you North, to Oslob. Ceres buses are just outside the port waiting for passengers.

Things to do in Oslob

Visitors who take a little longer to visit Oslob may also find themselves overwhelmed with the long list of things to do. Which to choose? Where to stay? No need to fret as this guide is a concise list of not-to-be-missed activities for first-time visitors of Oslob.

Visit the historical treasures in the south of Cebu at the Cuartel de Espana

This building, according to history, served as the first line of defense for naval infantry, due to the town’s strategic location. The structure is said to be made from the remnants of a collapsed, five-story bell tower, near the town church. The Cuartel de Espana is a recycled structure, belonging to the past. It’s quite an excellent place to take a photo while enjoying the view.

Get a peek and swim with nature’s gentle giants of the sea.

Tick off a bucket list experience and get a chance to swim and snorkel with whale sharks in the Philippines! It’s such a dream to float peacefully with the biggest creatures in the ocean, and here, in Oslob, there is a 99 percent chance that you not only will get the opportunity to swim with these magnificent creatures but to feed them as well.

Oslob Whale Shark Watching Tour

Tick off a bucket list experience: swim and snorkel with whale sharks in the Philippines. Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive along the Southern Cebu coastline accompanied by an experienced local driver. Participate in shark feeding and explore surrounding coral reefs. After your whale shark experience, you may opt to climb up the amazing Tumalog Falls!

• Book Oslob Whale Shark Watching from Cebu City or Mactan Island
• Oslob Whale Shark Snorkeling and Badian Canyoneering Adventure
• Oslob Whale Shark Watching Join In Day Tour from Cebu

Visit nature’s magnificent and diaphanous drapery, Tumalog Falls.

Nothing compares to the cold mist that you get from a waterfall, during a hot summer day. The vastness of the horseshoe-shaped landscape is a vision to behold. Make this a grand finale to your Oslob trip.

Where to Stay in Oslob

Also, as part of Cebu, Oslob is one of the places famous for tasty Cebu Lechon. Here are some accommodations in the fine town of Oslob for you to consider.

Melronz Inn

Located on the beachfront in Oslob and featuring a garden, Melronz inn has big family rooms and also provides guests with a barbecue area. There is free private parking, and the property offers paid airport shuttle service.

Villa On A Cliff

If you fancy a beautiful cliffside villa, this can comfortably fit a group of twelve friends in its four bedrooms, all with a queen bed each, and two with provisions for two-floor mattresses. There are also three complete bathrooms, and guests will be provided access to the dining rooms and living areas.

Ocean View Lodging House

Set in Oslob in the Visayas region, Ocean View Lodging House offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the accommodation, while hiking and snorkeling can be enjoyed nearby.

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort is the only resort on the island. This 24-hectare property is a 4-star accommodation with direct access to coral reef beaches. It features free WiFi in public areas and an outdoor pool. Spacious cottages at Bluewater Island Resort Sumilon feature a private veranda with lounge chairs. They are air-conditioned and have a TV, work desk and safe. A hot/cold shower is available in the private bathroom.

Check Rates and Availability

Best Places to Eat in Oslob

Brice bbq & grill.

Address: Barangay Looc, Oslob 6000 Philippines Telephone: +63 917 325 4321

Basically a new restaurant in the area, Brice BBQ & Grill is where you can indulge on great seafood and barbecue grill. It’s located across Aradive Resort and is mostly visited by huge groups because of their affordable and worthy set menus.

Address: Natalio Bacalso Avenue, Oslob 6025 Philippines Telephone: +63 32 481 9090

La Terrasse

Address: National High Way Opposite Whaleshark Briefing Center, Oslob 6025 Philippines Telephone +63 923 548 4797

This is a quaint restaurant in Oslob that serves vegetarian dishes, European, and local cuisines, which is why most tourists drop by for some downtime and to grab some great meal. Dishes are affordable, but locals recommend to visit during breakfast are they are known to offer hefty and generous servings.

The Philippine islands await you with a chance to explore their vast natural wonders, which are untouched but accessible. So, don’t waste your time waiting for the perfect time to enjoy life and make a plan to visit Oslob today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is it to swim with whale sharks in Oslob?

For international tourists, the fee is Php1,000 ($20 USD) per person and this covers boat ride, use of snorkeling gears, and 30 minutes of interaction with the whale sharks.

Can you touch the whale shark?

Touching the whale sharks in Oslob is strictly prohibited. In line with the Code of Conduct, for the safety of customers and the whale sharks, swimmers must stay a minimum of 5 meters away from the head and 6 meters away from the tail.

Do I need to book a whale shark watching tour package in advance?

No. Tourists can do walk-in and join the tour however, the first come first serve rule is being followed.

Oslob Travel Tips

• The best time to visit Oslob for whale watching is during weekdays and early morning around 9:00 am as there are fewer tourists and you got to enjoy swimming with the gentle giants more.
• Whale Shark Watching Tour in Oslob is available daily from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM only.

Searching for the best Oslob hotels and Cebu affordable flights? Check out our complete list of Oslob Cebu affordable hotels and resorts via Agoda  or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about new tourist attractions in Cebu? Please follow #TeamOutofTown,  on  Facebook , and  Twitter ,  Instagram , and  Pinterest  for more travel ideas.

• Farm, Food, Fun In The Queen City Of The South
• Whale Watching In Oslob Cebu – Tuki Encounter Is More Fun In Oslob
• Beautiful Sandbars To Explore In The Philippines

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Oslob Tour Package is one of the  best seller day tour here in cebu or best known for Cebu Oslob tour, this tour is perfect to combine with Canyoneering and Kawasan Falls  and  we have been specializing tours in cebu for more than 18 years. You may check our 4.9 star reviews in our facebook . Please check below for our wide selection of oslob tour package.

Whaleshark Watching with Badian Canyoneering

Whaleshark Watching with Canyoneering and Osmena Peak

Oslob Whaleshark Watching Day Tour

Whaleshark with Sumilon Sand Bar and Canyoneering

Whaleshark watcing with Oslob Cuartel and Simala Shrine

Whaleshark + Kawasan Falls

Whaleshark Watching + Sumilon Island Bluewaters Day Tour

Whaleshark Watching + Tumalog Falls

If your looking for a package that includes hotel accommodation and roundtrip pick up transfers from airport to hotel, you may check our all in packages here ( 2 days / 1 night — 3 days / 2 night or 4 days /3 nights package tour), oslob tour package, people who love challenge and adventure will surely be interested with this activity. or if you are the type of person who is looking for something new in life, you may include this in your bucketlist.  all in all oslob whaleshark is perfect to combine with canyoneering and kawasan falls and other tours., oslob town is now know for their whaleshark watching..

This town was a quiet town before in southern part of Cebu not until during the year 2011, these gentle giant creatures create noise in the social media world and as a result a lot of people got curious with these marine creatures. Seems like these friendly creatures love this town, hence the local government is now making sure that the whaleshark in oslob will be protected. And as a result of these, the local government created rules to protect them. 

Oslob is now famous because of their oslob whaleshark watching and because of that its one of the reasons why almost all of the tourists go to southern Cebu and want to avail the cebu oslob tour from their favorite travel agency. Which is a great thing since we are offering the package for Cebu Oslob Tour.  We don’t only limit the tour in Oslob but we can also bring you to Canyoneering and Kawasan Falls activity and can be combined with sumilon sandbar  , simila shrine and as well with other great adventures in cebu. Please check above for the perfect combination tour for oslob tour package.

Most noteworthy to combine with oslob tour package  or whaleshark tour are 

• Kawasan falls
• Sumilon Island bluewater day tours
• oslob tour package with canyoneering and kawasan falls or osmena peak 
• 3 Days / 2 Nights Package

Cebu Travel Agency and Canyoneering Cebu Badian Adventure are operated by Smartway Travel and Tours Services, A Travel Agency based in Cebu. Offering the best cebu tour package. 

Smartway Travel and Tours Services was established in January 2003. Providing quality tours for more than 20 years in the travel industry.

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Address : 5th floor Unit # 508C, KepWealth Building, Samar Loop, Cebu City, Philippines 6000 

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Phone :  0917-155-7202/ (032) 427 4961

Oslob Whale Shark + Moalboal Island Hopping Day Tour

For other payment methods such as bank transfer/deposit and cash remittance, Reservation Form Here .

TOUR DETAILS

• Sample Itinerary
• Whale Shark Watching / Snorkeling
• Snorkeling in Pescador island, swimming with sardines and sea turtles

Inclusions:

• Exclusive tourist transport service
• Life vest, mask and snorkel
• Entrance fees
• Government and enviromental fees
• All possible side trips (Time-Permitting) except Osmeña Peak (Additional Fee)

Exclusions:

• Round trip Airfare
• Meals that are not stated above
• Travel insurance
• Tips/Gratuity
• We can also customize package based on your request. Add or remove activities/destinations of your choice.

(Recommended Pick-up Time: 4AM-6AM)

• 5:00 AM – Pick up Hotel

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An Underrated Destination In The Philippines: 10 Things To Do In Oslob, Cebu

• Oslob is an underrated tourist spot with beautiful beaches and budget-friendly transportation options, making it a must-visit destination in the Philippines.
• The best activities in Oslob include swimming with whale sharks, visiting Sumilon Island, exploring Tumalog Falls, joining the Toslob Festival, and exploring the Baluarte Ruins.
• Other top attractions in Oslob include the Oslob Museum and Cuartel Ruins, local food at the Oslob Market, local restaurants, Oslob Heritage Park, and the monkeys at the Oslob Macaque sanctuary.

Aside from having the best whale shark tours and swimming escapades, there are a whole lot of other things to do in Oslob, a little coastal town in the Philippines’ Queen City of the South. Known for its rich cultural history, tourists can spend days outdoors exploring some of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines and trying thrill-seeking activities.

Oslob is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines , hence it's super underrated as a tourist spot. Fortunately, it's also budget-friendly; the cheapest and most common way to reach Oslob from Cebu City is by bus, with a total travel time of 3 hours. But tourists can also ride a private car or take a cab for those willing to pay more for transportation.

Visiting this little yet highly underrated coastal town should always be included when planning a trip to the Philippines . It boasts tons to do and see, from interacting with majestic whale sharks to visiting Instagrammable locations, swimming in the famous waterfalls, and sunbathing on Oslob’s famous beaches and islands.

Planning to head to Oslob for a thrill-seeking adventure? Here are the top attractions in Oslob, Cebu Province, for a fantastic vacation exploring what is one of the most underrated places in the Philippines.

RELATED: 10 Exciting Summer Activities In The Philippines (Other Than Swimming)

The Famous Whale Shark Interaction

The first on the list should undeniably be experiencing a live encounter and interaction with the famous whale sharks in Oslob . These are gentle giants, and Oslob is one of the best places to swim with whale sharks around the world.

The whale-shark experience in Oslob includes whale watching, snorkeling, or scuba diving. Guides brief visitors on what to do and how to maintain safety before starting the tour. Also, guides recommend tourists book combo packages for more budget-friendly prices, such as whale shark watching with snorkeling, canyoneering, or heading to Sumilon Island.

• Whale shark watching operating hours: 6 a.m. to 12 noon daily, except on Good Friday
• Admission fee: Around $8.81 per person for watching only

It is essential that visitors respect the whale sharks in the water. While these creatures are gentle and safe, it is important to maintain a distance and not to disturb or touch them as part of being a respectful wildlife observer. The principles of looking and not touching and giving them space are crucial in order to minimize the impact on these majestic creatures and enjoy their presence respectfully without harming them.

Visit Sumilon Island

Sumilon Island , the Philippines’ first marine-protected sanctuary, is a 59-acre coral island with Cebu’s most popular sandbar. Tourists visiting Sumilon should book a stay at the island’s only commercial facility, Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort .

As one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines , Sumilon has a long stretch of white sand beaches, famous diving sites, caves, lagoons, a modern lighthouse, and a 19th-century watchtower. Guests staying at Bluewater Resort can book a day pass to experience all activities.

• Sumilon Island day pass: $28.25 on weekdays
• Boat fare: $26 per boat with an additional $1 for an environmental fee per person

Sumilon hosts several cave tours to learn more about the island’s beautiful rock formations.

Swim At Tumalog Falls

The Tumalog Falls is also one of the top tourist attractions in Oslob, Cebu. Tourists are free to swim and jump from nearby cliffs into the cool and clear water.

Tumalog Falls is surrounded by lush vegetation, with the descending waters in constant contact with rocks. Tourists can easily reach this beauty by riding a habal-habal, a local motorcycle taxi, at around $8.81 for the entire trip to the waterfalls.

• Tumalog Falls operating hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
• Entrance Fee: $0.35

Join The Toslob Festival

Indeed, one of the essential items to pack when visiting the Philippines is a party outfit! Filipinos are famous for their parties and festivals, and tourists planning to visit Oslob during the holiday season should not miss out on joining and watching the Toslob Festival.

This annual event occurs every second week of December, celebrating the feast of the Immaculate Conception. Guests can admire colorful costumes, traditional Philippines dancing, and Catholics parading the statue of the Immaculate Concepción. Toslob Festival also serves as a day of thanksgiving and family reunions.

• No admission fee
• Venue: Starts at Oslob Heritage Park

RELATED: Beachside Adventure: 10 Best Glamping Spots In The Philippines

Explore In The Baluarte Ruins

After touring Sumilon Island, guests can head to Oslob Heritage Park and check out the famous Baluarte Ruins next to the island’s lighthouse. This old watchtower was built in 1788 and served as one of the town’s seven defense towers. Guards around the area went up to the Baluarte’s topmost floor to look for bandits and raiders.

The Baluarte Ruins also feature beautiful panoramic views of Sumilon Island and Oslob's beaches. Many tourists and locals flock to this famous spot to take Instagram photos.

• No entrance fee
• Open 24 hours all year

Visit The Oslob Museum And The Nearby Cuartel Ruins

The Oslob Museum (Museo Oslob) is near the Cuartel Ruins , where tourists can learn more about Oslob’s history and culture through various antiques and artifacts on display. Guests can find old pianos, mirrors, furniture, and other old home decor in traditional Philippines-style huts.

One trivia about the Oslob Museum is that almost all items were contributed and donated by locals who know the town’s history. The best time to visit the Oslob Museum is during the dry season so that visitors can also take a tour around the Cuartel Ruins for a more immersive experience.

• Open 24 hours

Taste Local Food At Oslob Market

Oslob Public Market has everything, including fresh meat and vegetables, fresh produce, and local delicacies like chorizo de Cebu, dried fish, and lechon. Tourists' first time in the Philippines should also look for food vendors selling banana-cue or deep-fried bananas with caramelized sugar.

The public market, one of the budget-friendly places to visit in the Philippines for foodies, also features stalls selling pastries and affordable lunch and dinner dishes. It transforms into a food park at night, where guests can try popular street food skewers, such as betamax, chicken gizzard, and pig’s intestine.

• Location: Oslob Market is a 6-minute walk from the Immaculate Concepcion Church.
• Operating Hours: 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

RELATED: More Fun In The Sun: Top 10 Tips For An Amazing Summer Holiday In The Philippines

Dine In Local Oslob Restaurants

It’s never a complete trip without trying famous local dishes in the fishing town of Oslob, especially seafood. Visitors should try sutukil , a combination of three seafood cooking methods: grilled, soup, and ceviche.

There are various excellent restaurants in Oslob and small dining spots, including AC Palayok Restaurant , Nhinz Larangan , George Restaurant , Le Bistrot, and The Big J’s Restaurant .

• Must try at AC Palayok Restaurant: Bicol Express and grilled tuna jaw
• George Restaurant favorite: Beef noodle soup or batchoy

Tourists looking for dessert should head to Sol’s Halo-halo and Desserts for the famous halo-halo and mango tango.

Tour Oslob Heritage Park

History fans will love visiting Oslob Heritage Park, which is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Oslob like Balay sa Agta, Cuartel Ruins, Oslob Museum, and the Immaculate Concepcion Church. Couples also love flocking to this tourist spot to shoot beautiful wedding photos.

The Oslob Heritage Park is near Cuartel Beach, where visitors are advised to be careful of sea urchins. It’s also near the Oslob Public Market, so guests can easily ride the bus and get off at the 7-Eleven store across from it.

• Open for 24 hours

Observe Monkeys At Oslob Macaque

Lastly, one of the unique things to do in Oslob is to visit the long-tailed macaques, endemic to the town’s woodlands and forests. Visitors can find these creatures in Oslob Macaque , a monkey sanctuary in Sitio Bulak.

The sanctuary’s staff ensures guests are briefed about what to do and not to do before entering the premises. Visitors can feed and take photos of the monkeys but must keep a safe distance because these animals are mischievous and clever.

• Affordable whale shark watching and monkey viewing package: $122.98 per person
• Operating hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

• Oslob and Cebu City Tour Packages
• Cebu Tour Packages

Day 1 - Cebu City Whole Day Tour

Start of tour: 8:00am

Tour Duration: 7-8 hours

Itinerary for Cebu City Tour:

• Sirao Garden
• Tops Skyline Gardens
• Temple of Leah
• Taoist Temple
• Sugbo Museum
• Heritage of Cebu Monument
• Magellan's Cross
• Fort San Pedro
• Plaza Independencia

Cebu City Tour Inclusion:

• Air Conditioned Transportation
• Driver which will act as guide to your destinations
• Parking Fees

Day 2 - Oslob Day Tour

Start of tour: 4:00am

Tour Duration: 10-11 hours

Itinerary of Cebu Oslob Tour Package

• OSLOB Whale Shark Encounter Swimming
• Tumalog Falls
• Oslob Cuartel- Oldest Church
• Simala Church Visit
• Private Transportation and Driver
• FREE whale shark encounter(viewing or swimming with the whale shark)
• FREE boat ride FREE snorkeling with gear and life jacket
• FREE entrance fee
• Make sure to bring extra clothes with you

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Top 7 Things to Do in Oslob aside from Whale Shark Tours

• 1. Explore the Amazing Sumilon Island​

Swim at the White Sand Bar

Go kayaking in a lagoon, join a cave tour, climb the lighthouse, snorkel and see the coral-rich underwater wonderland.

• 2. Swim at Tumalog Falls​

3. Explore the Baluarte Ruins

4. take photos of the cuartel ruins, 5. have a dip at the mainit springs, 6. see the surviving our lady of immaculate conception church, 7. spend an afternoon exploring museo oslob.

Explore tourist attractions in Oslob, Cebu beyond the famous whale shark watching tours . Find out what other activities are in store for you here in this article. 

Oslob was once a small, sleepy coastal town located in the southern part of  Cebu but has become a tourist hotspot because of the Oslob whale shark (locally known as ‘butanding’).

• Explore Oslob by checking out Cebu tours and activities you can add to your bucket list

See our popular Oslob Tours

Cebu oslob whale shark watching, sumilon sandbar, tumalog falls tour with lunch & transfers, cebu oslob whale shark watching, sumilon sandbar & tumalog falls private tour with lunch & transfers, cebu oslob whale shark watching experience with running tour, lunch & transfers from cebu city.

Beyond whale shark tours where you can swim with these gentle giants, this top destination in the Philippines offers more attractions and activities that have made it one of the top destinations among adventure seekers, nature lovers, and travelers from around the world. Thousands of people visit every single year just to see what the small coastal town has to offer.

• Visit the popular Kawasan Falls in Cebu while you're in Oslob

Here are some of the awesome places, top activities, and hidden gems that you should include in your epic travel itinerary aside from the usual ones like island hopping tours in Cebu . 

The list below will walk you through places that are often overlooked whenever people talk about Oslob.

1. Explore the Amazing Sumilon Island​

The 24-hectare Sumilon Island is located in the southeastern edge of Oslob, Cebu. Much like the butanding, Sumilon Island and its surreal sandbar are some of the top reasons travelers make the trip to Oslob, Cebu. It makes one of the most beautiful beaches in Cebu .

And when you get there for your Sumilon Island tours , you'll understand why people keep coming to this tiny slice of island paradise. Here are some of the top things you should do in this romantic, laidback island in Cebu.

See our popular Sumilon Island Tours

The sand bar is actually part of the privately-owned Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort. But don't worry, you can still swim at the sandbar even if you're not a guest. You can also book a Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort day pass to avail of the amenities. 

For a minimal fee, the resort owner allows tourists to enjoy Sumilon Island’s most remarkable asset. The sandbar is a popular lunch stopover for tours. 

However, don’t expect bamboo chairs and tables here. The sandbar is bare and tourists just take their packed lunch aboard the boats.

After a light lunch, you can walk the entire perimeter of the sandbar, swim in the azure waters, and take breathtaking photos for the ‘gram. 

On the main island, you’ll find a small cliff to climb where you can get better photos of the entire sandbar. But most people just stay in the sandbar area to swim, snorkel, and take a lot of photos.

If you’re thinking of proposing to someone this year and you happen to be planning a trip to Oslob, Cebu, the sandbar at Sumilon Island is one of the most romantic and magical places to do it!

There are a lot of places in the Philippines you can go to for a fun kayaking experience. One of them is the natural lagoon on Sumilon Island that is surrounded by towering mangroves. 

The area feels secluded, away from the hustle and bustle of island living, and kayaking is a low impact water sports that you can try regardless of skill level.

You can kayak on your own, with a buddy or a guide and navigate the calm waters of this natural, almost secret lagoon in Sumilon Island. 

If you’re traveling with family, the lagoon is a nice, safe place where the children can have supervised play in the waters. And when you’ve had your fill, you can move on to explore the caves.

Cave tours are very popular in the Philippines. There are several natural caves on Sumilon Island that local fishermen use as a temporary refuge from storms. 

In fact, the word sumilon means "to take refuge" and the fishermen were actually the ones who gave the island its name.

You'll hear people talking about the Yamashita Cave, which actually refers to a group of caves, explored and unexplored, which are believed to be the hiding places of ill-gotten wealth of former Filipino president and dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Dark and secluded among the banyan trees, you’d need some gear, including a headlamp, to explore the cave further. 

There’s also a rock shelter on Sumilon Island with a statue of the Virgin Mary. The area has been turned into a grotto and many people come here to pray.

Sumilon Island has a simple, rugged lighthouse that you can climb. On top, you’ll get a fantastic 360-degree view of the entire island. 

The sandbar looks even more surreal from the top. If you’re into photography, this is one of the top places to get those money shots.

Sumilon Island is a sanctuary for marine life in Oslob, Cebu. Here, you will find underwater species in their natural habitat, including blacktip sharks. The dive sites here are bursting with corals and tropical underwater species.

Back then, the corals here were heavily damaged by the dynamite fishing activities of Muro Ami fishermen.

The combined efforts of the locals, research groups, and the Bluewater Sumilon Resort , the 39-hectare dive sites are back to its former glory as well as the aquatic species.

2. Swim at Tumalog Falls​

There are many waterfalls in Oslob, Cebu but the most majestic of all is the Tumalog Falls. 

This picture-perfect natural wonder is a classic example of what they call a horsetail waterfall. The descending waters are always in contact with the rocks creating a beautiful, curtain-like or veil effect.

Tumalog Falls is so popular that you’ll see people taking photos everywhere. Every angle is just picture-perfect and the waters are cool for swimming.

Tumalog Falls is part of many Oslob tours. One of the best ways to reach it is by riding a habal-habal. You can stay here for a few hours and just cool off after a long day of walking and exploring.

The Baluarte Ruins is tucked away on Sumilon Island, next to the lighthouse. It’s the remnants of six 19th century Spanish watchtowers that dates back to 1788.

Back then, people use the baluarte (which means watchtower) to warn the villagers of Moro raiders and bandits. It’s one of the most photographed attractions in Oslob.

Today, the unfinished structure stands as one of Oslob’s heritage sites. Beautiful, unfinished, and eerie at night. But during the day, the Cuartel Ruins provides a rustic background for pre-wedding photos.

The Mainit Springs in Cebu is located in the municipality of Malabuyoc, but since it is close to Oslob, many people make the side trip to explore it. Travelers swear that it’s one of the most beautiful hot springs in Cebu that you experience.

It is part of many experiences in Cebu and you can inquire at your hotel/hostel on how to get there. It is both accessible via bus, a short 20-minute walk up a small hill, or just rent a habal-habal.

The water temperature ranges but sometimes, it can go up to 42 degrees. Be careful and take your time lowering your body into the hot water. If you’re visiting the Mainit Spring, make sure you come early because it closes at mid-afternoon.

See our popular Pilgrimage Tours

Iloilo city top heritage attractions & garin farm day tour with transfers, cebu simala shrine & churches pilgrimage private tour with transfers, pangasinan churches pilgrimage tour with lunch & transfers.

In Oslob, the Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church dates back to the 1830s. Aside from laying witness to centuries of oppression, war, and distress, the church had been ravaged by two fires.

The fire incident in 2008 destroyed the church’s interiors. Amazingly, the image of its patron saint was spared because it was enclosed in a glass case. The 73 icons located near the centuries-old bell tower also survived.

Today, you can visit the newly renovated Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church. Despite being relatively new, its history of birth and survival will definitely leave you in awe like the other churches.

After your trip to the Cuartel Ruins, do stop by at Museo Oslob to see some of the artifacts and antiques on display. These are the items you can find in one’s home, like old pianos, old furniture, and old mirrors. 

But these items were contributed by the locals, which make up their town’s history. Like most of the museum tours in the Philippines, you can visit Museo Oslob for free.

To make your trip more meaningful, try and use some helpful Cebuano phrases such as maayong buntag (good morning) and daghang salamat (thank you very much).

Learning to speak the local dialect is a great way to show the locals that you care. Check for other nearby trips in Cebu you can join if you have more time to explore.

Use this article to come up with your best Oslob trip ever! Check out Cebu tours and activities to add to your travel itinerary so you can maximize your trip.

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