Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort

The resort offers a truly memorable island escape, distinguished by its private island setting, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant marine sanctuary teeming with diverse marine life. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional hospitality of the staff, the stunning natural beauty of the surroundings, and the wide array of activities available. It is an ideal destination for families seeking adventure and relaxation, couples desiring a romantic and serene getaway, and nature enthusiasts or adventure seekers eager to explore the underwater world and island trails. To ensure a smooth arrival, guests should carefully plan their travel around the hotel's specific boat transfer schedules. Additionally, while the sandbar is picturesque, be mindful that it can become crowded with day visitors during peak hours, so plan your enjoyment of this feature accordingly. For the best underwater experience, consider taking advantage of the guided snorkeling tours.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort provides a comprehensive array of facilities and amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. Guests can enjoy multiple swimming pools, including a stunning infinity pool that offers picturesque views, and some villas even feature private pools for an exclusive retreat. The lagoon is a popular spot for complimentary activities such as kayaking, paddle boating, and fish feeding. For those seeking adventure, the resort offers exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities in its rich marine environment, with sightings of baby sharks being a highlight. Other engaging activities include hiking trails, kite flying, and unique evening experiences like bonfires with s'mores. A spa and massage services are available for relaxation, and free Wi-Fi ensures guests remain connected throughout their stay. While some private pools were noted as being smaller than expected, the overall range of offerings caters to diverse interests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the spaciousness and overall comfort of the accommodations, many of which offer breathtaking ocean views and the soothing sound of waves. The rooms are generally described as clean and well-maintained, featuring comfortable beds and effective air conditioning for a restful stay. Many appreciate the large bathrooms, some equipped with hot water, and the convenience of a coffee maker in the room. However, some reviews indicate that certain rooms may appear dated or in need of renovation, not always aligning with the expected value. Isolated concerns about cleanliness included observations of dead mosquitoes, ants, or mold in bathrooms, and occasional dust. While most guests found the rooms quiet, a few noted minor issues with noise levels. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the majority found their rooms to be a serene and pleasant sanctuary.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on the dining and food quality is notably mixed, though many guests praise the breakfast and dinner buffets for their variety and deliciousness, often featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies. The buffet options sometimes include themed nights, such as Filipino or Japanese cuisine, which are well-received. Specific dishes like halo-halo, stuffed squid, and beef bulgogi have garnered positive mentions. However, a significant number of guests express disappointment, describing the food as average at best, overpriced, or having limited options, particularly for fresh salads, fruits, or vegetarian choices. Some found the portions small for the cost, and issues like overcooked fish or slow refills at the buffet were noted. The bar and its staff generally receive high praise, but drink prices are consistently highlighted as being very expensive.

Location & Accessibility
The resort's location on a private island is a primary draw, offering a secluded and tranquil escape from urban bustle. Its proximity to the whale shark watching area is a significant advantage, allowing guests convenient access to this popular activity. While the island itself provides a sense of isolation, reaching it often involves a considerable travel time from Cebu airport, sometimes taking up to four or five hours. Access to the island is facilitated by boat transfers from the mainland, which are generally efficient but operate on limited schedules. This can pose challenges for guests arriving outside designated times, occasionally leading to unexpected delays or additional costs for private transfers. The famous sandbar is a beautiful feature, though its accessibility and enjoyment can be impacted by the presence of numerous day trippers during peak hours.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the resort consistently receive glowing reviews, with guests frequently highlighting their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. From the moment of arrival, visitors are greeted with warm smiles and made to feel like VIPs. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and efficient. Staff members are praised for going above and beyond to accommodate requests, whether it's arranging special celebrations like proposals and birthdays, providing guided snorkeling experiences, or assisting with unexpected issues like car battery problems on the mainland. Housekeeping is noted for its thoroughness, and security personnel are commended for their vigilance. While a few guests observed some staff members seemed new or occasionally lacked immediate answers, the overwhelming sentiment is one of exceptional and dedicated service that significantly enhances the overall stay.

Additional Information
A recurring theme in guest feedback concerns the impact of day trippers on the resort's exclusivity. While the island is private, the allowance of numerous daily visitors to certain areas, particularly the sandbar and some facilities, can lead to a crowded atmosphere during peak hours, diminishing the sense of a secluded retreat for in-house guests. Some guests expressed a desire for the resort to revert to a more exclusive policy. The resort maintains a strict no outside food or drinks policy. Environmental consciousness is also a point of discussion, with observations of plastic waste on beaches and concerns regarding the use of a diesel generator and single-use plastics. Guests should be aware of the limited boat transfer schedules, as missing the last boat can lead to unexpected overnight stays on the mainland. The resort also has a no-pet policy.