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Summary of reviewsSharky Hostel Oslob is a highly recommended destination for travelers eager to experience whale shark encounters in Oslob, thanks to its unparalleled location just a short walk from the whale shark swimming area. This proximity allows guests to be among the first on the scene for early morning tours, providing a unique opportunity to see these majestic creatures without the crowds. The hostel also offers easy access to additional attractions like Tumalog Falls, making it an ideal base for adventurers.
Accommodations at Sharky Hostel are simple yet charming, with bamboo huts that add a rustic and authentic touch to the stay. While the rooms are basic, they include all essentials needed for comfort, such as air conditioning and mosquito nets. The spacious dormitories and private rooms provide a pleasant experience for budget-conscious travelers. Although some guests have noted cleanliness concerns in the shared bathrooms, the private rooms and overall maintenance are generally admired for their cleanliness.
One of the most praised aspects of Sharky Hostel is its exceptional staff. The owners and their family are known for their warm hospitality, ensuring that guests feel welcome and cared for throughout their stay. Their dedication to organizing logistics for whale shark tours is particularly appreciated, adding a personal touch that enhances the overall guest experience.
While the hostel does not offer Wi-Fi, guests can access reliable internet at a nearby café, striking a balance between connectivity and the chance to disconnect and immerse in Oslob's scenic surroundings. The comfort of beds garners mixed reviews, with some finding them cozy and others mentioning thin mattresses and noisy structures. Yet, the overall pleasant atmosphere, accentuated by delightful bamboo bungalows and a peaceful garden, overshadows these minor inconveniences.
In summary, Sharky Hostel Oslob is a fantastic choice for those looking to maximize their whale shark adventure and revel in Oslob’s natural beauty, supported by a genuinely friendly and helpful staff. Despite minor areas for improvement, its unique charm and vibrant community spirit leave a lasting positive impression on travelers. Show more
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Hostel for Adults Only
Small Hostel
Room Types
Double Room with BalconyThe double room provides a private entrance, a seating area, a balcony with garden views as well as a shared bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 1 bed.
Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory RoomThis bed in dormitory features a private entrance.
Guest Reviews
8.0
Very Good
Location
Sharky Hostel Oslob is an exceptional choice for anyone keen on experiencing whale shark encounters. Its location is unbeatable, just a short walk from the whale shark swimming area, making it perfect for early morning tours when the waters are less crowded. The distinctive proximity of the hostel to the whale shark center—often described as mere steps or meters away—ensures that guests can be among the first to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Staying here means that the excitement of observing these magnificent creatures is practically on the doorstep. Additionally, the hostel provides quick access to other nearby attractions like the Tumalog Falls, making it an ideal spot for adventurers. While accommodations are simple, the rustic charm of the little huts adds a touch of authenticity to the experience. The staff is often praised for their helpfulness, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Although dining options in the vicinity are described as average, the hostel’s prime location for whale shark activities significantly enhances its appeal.
Rooms
Sharky Hostel Oslob offers a charming yet straightforward accommodation experience, perfect for those seeking proximity to the local whale shark excursion center. The rooms at the hostel are basic but adequate, providing all the essentials with a touch of simplicity. Guests have commented positively on the spaciousness of both dorms and regular rooms, which come equipped with air conditioning and mosquito nets—a useful addition in the tropical climate.
The unique bamboo huts are often highlighted for their cuteness and atmospheric charm, adding a distinctive character to the stay. Although the amenities are spartan, these huts are more than suitable for their price, offering a genuine rustic feel which many travelers find delightful.
In terms of sanitation, the shared bathroom facilities receive mixed reviews. While some guests find them adequately clean, others suggest they could benefit from more regular upkeep. Basic toiletries and thin mattresses are available, aligning with the hostel's minimalist approach.
For those who appreciate quirky and scenic accommodations, Sharky Hostel provides a basic yet charming lodging option, ensuring a comfortable stay close to Oslob's main attractions. Suitable for budget-conscious travelers, it meets essential needs while retaining a unique and atmospheric charm.
Beds
Sharky Hostel Oslob seems to deliver a mixed experience when it comes to the comfort of its beds, but many guests find them favorable. The dormitory is spacious, and several reviews highlight the comfort of the beds, noting that they are more comfortable than they might initially appear. Rooms and beds are generally described as nice, adding to the overall pleasant atmosphere of the hostel, which is well-maintained with delightful bamboo bungalows and a lovely garden. Good mattresses in the dormitories further enhance the comfort level, making them suitable for a restful night's sleep.
However, some guests have observed issues such as creaky or shaky beds, potentially disturbing the tranquility for those sensitive to noise. Similarly, mattresses in some areas are mentioned as being thin, contributing to varied experiences of comfort. Fans are provided in bamboo bungalows to ensure a breezy stay, but thin sheets in air-conditioned rooms might not suffice for everyone looking for warmth.
Ultimately, despite some discomfort and external noise from the neighborhood at early hours, reviewers generally appreciate the hostel's simple charm and practicality, valuing the opportunity for relaxation in its scenic surroundings. The positive aspects often overshadow the negative, painting a favorable picture of the Sharky Hostel Oslob for many travelers.
Cleanliness
Sharky Hostel Oslob offers travelers a straightforward and uniquely rustic experience with its bamboo huts. The accommodations are described as simple but generally well maintained, ensuring a clean room environment. Some guests have appreciated the cleanliness of the private rooms and noted that communal areas such as showers and toilets maintain a reasonable level of hygiene at times. However, there have been consistent concerns regarding the shared bathroom facilities. Many reviewers observed a lack of basic amenities like toilet paper and soap, with mention of cleanliness issues involving dirt, cobwebs, and even occasional cockroach sightings. The bathrooms are noted as basic with some functional shortcomings, such as absent flush mechanisms requiring manual water pouring. While the atmosphere is welcoming, there's an evident need for improvement in the upkeep of restrooms and communal spaces. Sharky Hostel offers affordability and a chance for a raw, back-to-basics travel experience but may benefit from enhanced attention to its sanitary conditions.
Staff
Sharky Hostel Oslob stands out for its remarkable staff, consistently praised for going above and beyond to ensure guests have an unforgettable stay. The proprietors, a warm and attentive family, make visitors feel immediately welcome, offering a genuine kindness that permeates the entire hostel experience. Notably, the staff is highly efficient in organizing whale shark tours, ensuring guests are on the first boats out, often waking up in the early hours to secure prime spots. This personal touch in managing logistics, from bookings to accompanying guests to the bus stop, sets them apart, with the hostel’s owner and staff showing exceptional dedication. The care the staff provides is evident in their willingness to assist with any guest needs, from late-night arrivals to activity planning. This overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the owners and staff's role in crafting memorable adventures, earning them the reputation of being exceptionally friendly, helpful, and thoroughly dedicated to guest satisfaction.
Wi-Fi
Sharky Hostel Oslob offers a unique opportunity for travelers looking to stay connected while experiencing the beauty of the Philippines. Despite the typical challenges associated with internet access in the region, guests have noted that the Wi-Fi, when available, is impressively fast and reliable by local standards. While the hostel itself does not provide Wi-Fi, the nearby café offers a convenient alternative, allowing visitors to stay online. This feature is appreciated by guests who favor a strong internet connection for their travel needs.
However, the absence of Wi-Fi at Sharky Hostel also provides a refreshing chance to disconnect. Travelers often find solace in stepping away from constant connectivity, immersing themselves in the scenic wonders of Tan'awan. For those relying on mobile data, the 4G signal is reported to be strong, providing an adequate substitute for Wi-Fi. Ultimately, the hostel’s location offers a balance between digital accessibility and the authentic experience of embracing the charming atmosphere of Oslob.
No, Sharky Hostel Oslob doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Sharky Hostel Oslob.
No, Sharky Hostel Oslob doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Sharky Hostel Oslob.