20 BEST Things To Do In Panglao Island, Bohol (2024)

Panglao Island in Bohol is one of the best destinations in the Philippines that offers a mecca of fun-fuelled adventures such as beaches, cave pools, cliff jumping, island hopping, and more!

Apart from the many epic things to do in Panglao, there are some great day trips to be had within a one-hour drive of Panglao Island.

Also in this guide, I have included some useful information on how to get to Panglao, where to stay, how to get around, how many days to spend on the island, and more!

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Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: PANGLAO ISLAND BOHOL

Before I go into more details about what to do in Panglao Bohol, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.

HOW TO GET TO PANGLAO BOHOL?

There are two ways of getting to Panglao Bohol, one is by plane and the other by ferry.

There are daily flights to Bohol welcoming both domestic and international travelers.

The main airport in Bohol is Panglao International Airport located on Panglao Island.

Cebu to Bohol ferry

The most common route is the ferry from Cebu to Bohol which takes approximately 2.5 hours and the cost is around 600 pesos.

There are daily ferry departures from the Cebu Pier 1 Ferry Terminal and it arrives at Tagbilaran Port in Bohol.

Once you have booked your Cebu to Bohol ferry ticket online, on the day of travel you can head directly to Cebu Pier 1 Ferry Terminal at least 30 minutes before departure and present the online booking number to the staff at the check-in counter so they can issue you a seat number.

There is also an additional 25 pesos terminal fee that must be paid in cash on the day.

Siquijor to Bohol ferry

If you happen to be on Siquijor Island and heading to Bohol from here, there are daily ferry departures from Larena Port in Siquijor to Tagbilaran Port in Bohol.

The ferry from Siquijor to Bohol takes around 1.5 hours and the cost is 850 pesos plus an additional 20 pesos terminal fee.

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HOW TO GET AROUND PANGLAO?

The best way to get around the island is to rent a scooter from one of the many scooter rental stores that can be found in Panglao.

Scooter rentals are around 300 – 350 pesos per day and a full tank of gas costs approximately 200 pesos.

Alternatively, you can get around on the back of a habal-habal (motorbike taxi) or jump on board a tricycle.

For a 20-minute drive in a tricycle or habal-habal, you can expect to pay around 100 – 150 pesos. Put your bartering skills to the test!

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BEST TIME TO VISIT PANGLAO BOHOL?

The best time to visit, weather-wise, is between April and July when temperatures are hot and there is barely any rainfall.

This is also high season so expect to see many tourists during these months.

I recommend visiting on the shoulder months of the high season between November and March which sees a bit of rainfall but usually only lasts for a couple of hours and the rest of the day is sunny.

Try to avoid the monsoon season which is between August and October.

BEST TOUR IN BOHOL

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The best tour in Bohol is without a doubt the Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Cruise, Tarsiers, and more !

It includes popular spots in Bohol, transfers from Panglao, a buffet lunch, and an experienced guide!

HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND ON PANGLAO ISLAND?

I recommend spending at least 5 to 7 days on Panglao Island to explore all of the top tourist attractions and then venturing inland to waterfalls and the famous Chocolate Hills.

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20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN PANGLAO ISLAND

I have divided this blog post into two sections – the 10 best things to do in Panglao Bohol on the island itself, and also the 10 best day trips from Panglao.

10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN PANGLAO BOHOL

Let’s jump right into the main section, the best activities in Panglao Bohol, from beaches to nightlife and everything in between!

ALONA BEACH

One of the first things you’re going to want to do when arriving is to hit the beach to cool off.

The most famous beach is Alona Beach which is arguably one of the best beaches in Panglao.

Alona Beach is located on the southern tip, approximately a 45-minute drive from Tagbilaran Port and only a 5-minute drive from Panglao International Airport.

Alona Beach features a long strip of white sandy shores fringed with coconut palms and it’s without a doubt the top things to do in Panglao.

Alona Beach is lined with many seaside restaurants, clubs, and bars that are open 7 days a week till late.

The best spot for swimming at Alona Beach is at the eastern end of the cove away from all the boats and here you can find your own little nook to enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean.

BEST ALONA BEACH TOURS

Enhance your experience in Alona Beach by embarking on one of these 3 top-rated tours, ensuring you make the most of your visit:

  • Best-Rated: Panglao Island Hopping and Dolphin Watching
  • Top-Pick: Panglao Island Land Tour With Alona Beach
  • Great for Nightlife: Panglao Pub Crawl

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PANGLAO ISLAND HOPPING TOUR

The island-hopping tour to Balicasag Island and Virgin Island is an absolute MUST on your list of what to do in Panglao Bohol.

I can’t recommend this Island Hopping Tour enough as it was by far the highlight of my trip!

The tour includes dolphin watching from the boat, snorkeling with sea turtles on Balicasag Island, and a visit to the unique sand bar on Virgin Island Bohol.

Balicasag Island boasts glistening white sands and an abundance of marine life just offshore.

You can rent snorkeling equipment from one of the many shacks dotted along Balicasag Beach when you arrive on the boat. A mask and snorkel set costs around 150 pesos.

We spent at least two hours snorkeling around the Balicasag reef and swam with about 15 different turtles and countless species of fish.

After a few hours spent on Balicasg Island, we continued our Island Hopping Tour over to Virgin Island which takes around 30 minutes by boat.

Virgin Island Bohol is essentially a sandbar in the middle of the ocean which consists of floating seafood kitchens.

Apart from that, there isn’t a whole lot to do on Virgin Island Bohol but it’s a very unique experience that I am sure you will enjoy!

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PANGLAO BEACH

The most famous beach is without a doubt the touristy Alona Beach.

However, if you are looking for an uncrowded and untouched beach I highly recommend checking out the beautiful white sands of Panglao Beach.

Panglao Beach is located on the northern coastline of Panglao. From Alona Beach, it’s a short 20-minute drive.

The 200-meter-long Panglao Beach is a small but dreamlike location, fringed with coconut palms and turquoise waters.

The only beachfront hotel is the famous and luxurious  Mithi Resort & Spa which also hosts a small island in front of their shores serving as a wedding ceremony spot.

The little island can be reached by strolling in waist-deep water and you’ll be able to enjoy the views of the coastline.

When it comes to the Panglao Beach entrance fee, you’ll pay 20 pesos per person, and that is definitely worth it!

The best time to visit is during high tide and it’s also a great location to watch the sunset in Panglao.

Full Blog Post: Panglao Beach

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GO SCUBA DIVING

Next on this list of things to do in Panglao Bohol is a scuba diving trip , and you don’t need to have experience!

Even if you’ve never tried scuba diving before, this activity is perfect for beginners.

With PADI-certified instructors guiding you every step of the way, you’ll learn about the required equipment and the proper way to breathe underwater.

Once you’re comfortable, you’ll get to explore the depths of the sea and see Bohol’s stunning corals and thriving marine life up close.

As you’ll notice when visiting Alona Beach (one of the Panglao Bohol tourist spots), these tours sell out all the time, and I recommend booking online to secure your spot!

TAKE A SCUBA DIVING SESSION IN PANGLAO BOHOL

JOIN A PUB CRAWL IN PANGLAO

When the sun goes down in Panglao Bohol, the fun is just starting to heat up. And what better way to experience the island’s buzzing nightlife scene than by joining a pub crawl tour?

That’s right, skip another tourist spot in Panglao for the night and go enjoy life!

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group of friends, this social experience is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

You’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and explore different corners of the island’s pubs and bars, all while indulging in some delicious alcoholic beverages.

Take a sip, savor the moment, and let the good times roll in Panglao!

Panglao Pub Crawl

HINAGDANAN CAVE

Hinagdanan Cave is a famed Panglao tourist attraction for its unique beauty.

Hinagdanan Cave is located on the northern coastline. From Alona Beach, it’s a short 15-minute drive to reach the cave and the entrance fee is 50 pesos.

Inside the cavern, you’ll find a large freshwater pool that glows a fluorescent turquoise color, and large stalagmite pinnacles hang from the ceiling.

The natural pool is around 3 to 4 meters deep and there is plenty of space for swimming and rock jumping.

You won’t need a flashlight inside the Hinagdanan Cave as there is natural light from the holes in the ceiling and also light bulbs in the staircase and at the back of the cave.

Around the edges of the natural pool is quite dry and you can set down your belongings here while you go for a dip.

Do note that the ground gets quite slippery especially if there are wet kids running around, so please watch your step.

Full Blog Post: Hinagdanan Cave Bohol

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The BEST Hotel in Panglao

Amorita Resort

Need a place to stay? Amorita Resort is conveniently located in the heart of Panglao.

Whether you’re here to explore the sights or relax in comfort, Amorita Resort offers the best of both worlds.

MOLAVE CLIFF JUMP

Throwing yourself over the edge of the cliffs at   Molave Cliff Diving Resort is one of the most adrenaline-pumping things to do in Panglao Bohol.

Molave Cliff Diving Resort is located on the northern coastline. From Alona Beach, it’s a short 15-minute drive and the entrance fee is 50 pesos.

The Molave Cliff Diving Resort features a 5-meter high diving board straight into the clear blue ocean below.

It’s best to run and jump off the diving board as there is a certain landing point that is clear of rocks.

If you are not 100% confident, just ask the lifeguard on duty exactly where to land and watch some other keen jumpers go first.

To exit the water, it’s a 20 to 30-meter swim in shallow waters to a staircase that leads back to the cliff top.

Once you’ve tired yourself out from all the cliff diving, you can rent a mask and snorkel for 150 pesos and check out the underwater world in Molave Cove.

Full Blog Post: Molave Cliff Diving

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STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING ON THE LOBOC RIVER

Explore the hidden gem of Loboc River in Panglao Bohol by going stand-up paddleboarding .

It’s like seeing the river through a different lens, as you paddle through the lush greenery surrounding the river.

With the help of a professional instructor, you’ll learn the secrets of stand-up paddling, making it a fun and safe experience!

For a truly magical evening, try the night tour where you’ll have the chance to witness the fireflies glittering upon the trees lining the river. How’s that for an experience!

The best part? This tour only costs around $15 per person, making it a fun activity to add to your Panglao itinerary.

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MOMO BEACH PANGLAO

Momo Beach is one of my favorite beaches and it’s still yet to make an appearance on the radar as another tourist spot in Panglao.

Before it does, I highly recommend stopping at Momo Beach for a quick swim while it is still untouched.

Momo Beach is located on the northern shores, a short 15-minute drive from Alona Beach.

I stumbled across Momo Beach on my way to Hinagdanan Cave, so keep an eye out for the sign on the side of the road.

Momo Beach features a strip of white sandy shores lined with coconut palm trees and a few wooden shacks dotted along the beach.

There was not one other tourist in sight when I visited this little slice of paradise and I enjoyed a refreshing dip in the ocean all to myself.

At one end of Momo Beach is a dive resort but other than that there is nothing more than a few small fishing boats along the sand and beautiful turquoise waters await.

Must Read: 3 Weeks Philippines Itinerary

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 WHITE BEACH PANGLAO

White Beach is another beautiful secluded beach with sandy shores and well worth a visit if you are searching for what to do in Panglao Island Bohol.

White Beach is a short 10-minute drive from Alona Beach and it’s far less crowded if you want some peace and quiet away from all the hype in Alona.

Relax under one of the beach umbrellas, snorkel around the nearby reefs, take a dip in the ocean and simply enjoy the peaceful vibe that White Beach offers.

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10 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM PANGLAO ISLAND BOHOL

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Panglao Island, here are the 10 best day trips you can take from Panglao to explore the rest of Bohol!

CHOCOLATE HILLS

Chocolate Hills is a must-see destination in Bohol. In saying that, the majority of travelers who visit Bohol just come to see the famous Chocolate Hills, so I am sure it’s already on your itinerary!

Chocolate Hills is located in the Carmen region on Bohol island, Philippines. From Panglao, it is a 70km drive that takes around 1.5 hours to reach Chocolate Hills and the entrance fee is 50 pesos.

You can visit Chocolate Hills DIY or alternatively, you can book a Bohol Chocolate Hills Tour which is a half-day tour from Panglao.

This tour includes Chocolate Hills, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Loboc River Cruise, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Baclayon Church.

I visited Chocolate Hills at sunrise and had the entire viewpoint to myself, so if you want to beat the crowds definitely try to get here as early as possible.

Full Blog Post: Chocolate Hills Bohol

At the top of the stairs is a panoramic observation deck boasting extensive views of the 1,268 cone-shaped Chocolate Hills and the surrounding Carmen region.

The mysterious landscape is very impressive, to say the least.

These limestone Chocolate Hills are covered with grass and appear to be bright green during the rainy season. However, they turn brown by the end of the dry season, hence the name Chocolate Hills.

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CAMUGAO FALLS

Camugao Falls is one of the best waterfalls on the island. Although it’s not quite as popular as  Can-umantad Falls,  it is equally as impressive with its sheer size and irresistible rock pools!

Camugao Falls can be found in Balilihan on Bohol. From Panglao, it’s a 42km drive that takes around 1 hour to reach Camugao Falls.

The entrance fee is 25 pesos and an additional 20 pesos  must be paid for parking also.

It’s no more than a 10 to 15-minute hike to reach the bottom of the cliffs and to where the jungle trail emerges at the base of Camugao Falls.

Camugao Falls is surrounded by a towering curved cliff face that makes you feel as though you’ve just stepped inside an enormous amphitheater.

To add to the ambiance, lush green plants and vines surround the canyon.

A number of huts and rest areas can be found around the edge of the swimming hole beneath the falls where you can perch up and marvel at the beautiful surroundings.

There are no food and drink options at Camugao Falls so best to pack your own snacks and drinking water if you plan to spend some time at this epic tourist spot.

Full Blog Post: Camugao Falls

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TARSIER CONSERVATION AREA

The Tarsier Conservation Area is a sanctuary where you can observe the Tarsiers in Bohol close-up and learn more about their nature.

The Tarsier Conservation Area can be found in Loboc. From Panglao, it’s a 50km drive that takes around 1 hour to reach the sanctuary and the entrance fee is 80 pesos.

You can visit the Bohol Tarsier Sanctuary DIY or alternatively, you can book a Bohol Countryside Tour which is a full-day tour.

This tour includes Bohol Tarsier Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills, Bilar Man-Made Forest, Loboc River Cruise, and Baclayon Church.

The 30-minute walk through the Tarsier Conservation Area will take you on a fun little jungle walk around the sanctuary.

You will find some viewing areas where you can spot the little tarsiers sitting in the trees and it’s easy enough to get some photos.

Tarsiers are a rare and endangered creature, as well as an iconic symbol of the island, making it one of the best things to do in Bohol Panglao.

They are considered one of the smallest primates in the world and you practically won’t see them anywhere else in the country.

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MAG ASO FALLS

Mag Aso Falls is one of Bohol’s natural treasures and an adventure not to be missed.

Gatorade pools and epic cliff jumps are just some of the reasons why you should add Mag Aso Falls to your list of things to do.

Mag Aso Falls is located in the town of Antequera in Bohol. To reach Mag Aso Falls it’s approximately a 1-hour drive from Panglao.

The Mag Aso Falls entrance fee is 20 pesos and an additional 15 pesos for parking.

There are 197 concrete steps with metal handrails leading down to the falls, and it is an easy 5 to 10-minute hike to reach the bottom.

Full Blog Post: Mag Aso Falls

At the halfway mark on the way down to Mag Aso Falls, there is a viewpoint that overlooks the waterfall, which makes for a great photo opportunity.

Mag Aso Falls is an 8-meter waterfall that is surrounded by a tropical backdrop of tall trees and wild plants.

Carved out under the waterfall is a natural pool that is particularly inviting to go for a swim due to its milky blue-colored water derived from the limestone rocks in the area.

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INAMBACAN CAVE & SPRING

Yet another off-the-beaten-path location is the Inambacan Cave and Spring. Although it’s not yet on the radar of most tourists, it’s definitely worth visiting during your trip to Bohol.

Inambacn Cave and Spring is located in Maribojoc in Bohol. From Panglao, it is a 40km drive that takes around 1 hour to reach Inamabacan Cave.

There is a small ticket office at the entrance to Inambacan Cave and Spring, and the entrance fee is 20 pesos.

The Filipino lady who owns the land was very friendly and welcoming when we arrived, and she showed us the way down the path to the cold springs.

Inambacan Spring features a large lagoon and swimming area that is fed by a running freshwater stream.

There are many nooks and crannies to take a dip in the springs which are the perfect opportunity to jump on in and cool off.

In one corner of the lagoon, there is a small cave that you can swim into, which is another cool feature of this attraction.

The Inambacan Cave itself is a natural cave carved out of the hillside, and a man-made pool has been built around it.

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KAWASAN FALLS BOHOL

Kawasan Falls Bohol is still yet to make a name for itself as one of the most beautiful places on the island.

I stumbled across Kawasan Falls as I was heading from Camugao Falls to Mag Aso Falls as they are all relatively in the same area.

Kawasan Falls is located in the town of Antequera in Bohol. To reach Kawasan Falls Bohol it’s approximately a 1-hour drive from Panglao and there is a small entrance fee of 20 pesos.

Kawasan Falls is not an outrageous waterfall with a heavy flow of water but it’s the jungle surrounding it and the nearby Abatan River that makes this place so tranquil.

It’s safe to say that it’s another great Panglao tourist spot!

You can enjoy a nice walk through the forest along a jungle trail down to the Abatan River where you can find a few sheltered huts on stilts. A perfect spot to have a picnic with your friends!

Once you have checked out the river, continue on the trail for a few minutes to reach Kawasan Falls.

A trickle of water flows down a tall rock face from the rice terraces on top of the hill and into a small lagoon at the base of the falls.

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MAN-MADE FOREST BOHOL

The Bilar Man-made Forest is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Panglao Bohol and not to be missed on your list of things to do.

The man-made forest is located between the towns of Bilar and Loboc. From Panglao, it’s approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute drive to reach Bilar Man-made Forest.

The Bilar Man-made Forest is composed of mahogany trees that stretch for more than 2 kilometers and w hen you enter this parallel tunnel of trees, you’ll feel like you’ve just entered another realm.

You will also notice the temperature drop drastically as you drive through the man-made forest because the canopy above almost completely cuts out the sun.

There is a windy road that goes all the way through the man-made forest and it acts as an enchanting pathway that cuts through the natural-arched tunnel of large mahogany trees.

The man-made forest draws many visitors so be prepared to encounter crowds of people and constant traffic on the road that weaves its way through the forest. No wonder that it’s a must when planning Panglao what to do!

Full Blog Post: Bilar Man-made Forest

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DIMIAO TWIN FALLS

Dimiao Twin Falls, also known as Pahangog Falls, is my favorite waterfall in Bohol!

Its Gatorade rock pools and jungle surrounds are irresistibly inviting and I highly recommend adding this epic spot to your list of things to do.

Dimiao Twin Falls is located in Dimiao on Bohol. From Panglao, it’s a 60km drive that takes around 1.5 hours to reach Twin Falls and the entrance fee is 20 pesos.

Once you arrive at the jump-off point, follow the rocky trail which then leads onto a steep set of concrete stairs with handrails to get down to the falls.

It is an easy to moderate hike that takes no more than 10 minutes to reach the bottom.

Dimiao Falls is a twin set of falls that are around 25 meters tall, flowing down a limestone rock face and filling a large catch basin below.

The turquoise natural-made swimming pool is deep enough in some areas to do some rock jumping but be sure to do a depth check first.

One of the best things to do at Dimiao Twin Falls is to grab a rubber ring for 20 pesos and float around the rock pools.

You can even swim up underneath the falls for a free head massage. In between the two sets of falls are a small sandy islet and a cave that you can also explore.

Full Blog Post: Dimiao Twin Falls

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INGKUMHAN FALLS

Ingkumhan Falls is another best Panglao tourist spot and one of the best waterfalls on the island.

Cliff jumps and rope swings are just some of the reasons that make this waterfall one of the top locations to visit!

Ingkumhan Falls is located in Dimiao. From Panglao, it’s a 65km drive that takes around 1 hour and the entrance fee is 20 pesos.

The main set of falls features a flow of water that stretches across a limestone rockface around 10 meters wide and approximately 8 meters tall.

The water fills a huge natural pool at the base of the falls that reminded me of blue Gatorade which I was almost tempted to drink.

There is a rope swing that can be used about halfway up the falls, so you will have to climb up the rock face to reach it.

Surprisingly the surface of the rock isn’t that slippery and the depth of the pool is around 3 to 4 meters deep so you won’t need to worry about hitting the bottom when you swing.

There is also a 5-meter cliff jump that can be found on the left-hand side of the falls which is a lot of fun!

Full Blog Post: Ingkumhan Falls

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LOBOC RIVER CRUISE

The Loboc River Cruise is one of the top-rated things to do which includes a hearty lunch and a scenic cruise along the mesmerizing Loboc River.

Loboc River is located in the Loboc region which is a 40km drive from Panglao that takes around 1 hour.

I recommend booking a Bohol Countryside Tour which includes the Loboc River Cruise as one of the Panglao activities.

While I have recommended this tour a few times, there’s a good reason for that as it covers the best spots on Panglao Island Bohol and other parts of Bohol.

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WHERE TO STAY IN BOHOL

Panglao is the main tourist area in Bohol and has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from.

I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

LUXURY: AMORITA RESORT

Experience 5-star luxury at Amorita Resort in Panglao Bohol, featuring ocean views, an outdoor infinity pool, an in-house dive shop, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and bar, and breakfast included.

The rooms are elegantly furnished each with large comfortable beds, air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, a private ensuite bathroom, and a minibar.

Amorita Resort is the perfect place to stay for couples or families on a luxury budget.

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MID RANGE: ALONA VIDA BEACH RESORT

Centrally located on Alona Beach, Alona Vida Beach Resort features an outdoor pool, direct beach access, massage services, and watersport Panglao Bohol activities.

They have many room options to choose from including standard, deluxe, superior, and family rooms to suit all travelers.

Rooms are spacious with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, air-conditioning, a balcony with pool views, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar.

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BUDGET: MOON FOOLS HOSTEL

Located right in the middle of the tourist hub of Panglao, Moon Fools Hostel is a modern, green, and eco-friendly hostel perfect for budget backpackers.

It’s within walking distance of local restaurants, cafes, and a convenience store, and public transport is easily accessible.

Breakfast is included for all guests and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

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For More Options, See My Complete Guide On Where To Stay In Bohol

Best bohol tour.

A great way to see all of the best Bohol tourist spots is to book a  Bohol Countryside Tour. 

This particular tour is the  top-rated tour in Bohol  with great reviews. I can’t recommend this amazing tour enough, especially for first-timers to Bohol.

The Bohol Tour includes the following:

  • Chocolate Hills Bohol
  • Bilar Man-made Forest
  • Bohol Tarsier Sanctuary
  • Loboc River Cruise with lunch
  • Baclayon Church

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WHAT TO PACK FOR THE PHILIPPINES

When visiting the Philippines, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

anti theft money belt

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

Nomatic 20L Bag

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

travel towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

anker powerbank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Philippines Travel Guides

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Click the button below to view all articles related to the Philippines!

FINAL THOUGHTS

I thoroughly enjoyed the week that I spent on Panglao Island and it definitely won’t be my last visit to this tropical paradise.

From the beaches to the waterfalls to the mountains, there are endless things to do in Panglao Island Bohol for all kinds of travelers and I guarantee you will have an incredible experience exploring this beautiful island in the south of the Philippines!

I hope you enjoyed reading this post and if you have any questions at all, feel free to drop me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

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TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

bookingcom

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

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Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

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Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

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Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

discover cars

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

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Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

PIN IT FOR LATER

Panglao Island Bohol

4 thoughts on “20 BEST Things To Do In Panglao Island, Bohol (2024)”

Hi Jonny! I loved the post! I think it’s probably the best post about what you can do around Panglao/Alona Beach.

I’d like to recommend Yoga as well in a new nifty place called Jing Yoga & Wellness in Alona. You can check it out on their site 🙂

Hey Dani, thanks for your positive feedback! Oh nice, I will for sure consider adding this, thank you 🙂

Hey Jonny, Great job covering the waterfalls there in Bohol, as well as the other topics also. I like that your info includes off the beaten path options. You’re my kinda traveler.

Hey Patrick, you’re welcome and thanks for the great feedback! Have a good one!!

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Journey Era

13 Best Things To Do On Panglao Island, Bohol: Ultimate Guide

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: June 24, 2023

Categories PHILIPPINES

13 Best Things To Do On Panglao Island, Bohol: Ultimate Guide

Panglao Island is the most popular tourist spot in Bohol. It is the tourist hub for all activities and there are hundreds of resorts, hotels, and restaurants in this area. Having said that, it still remains a beautiful beach getaway with lots of exploring to do.

In this blog post, I have picked my top things to do in Panglao Island. Whether you want the sunset spot, the cliff jumps or swimming with turtles this list of the best things to do in Panglao Island has you covered.

Table of Contents

BEST THINGS TO DO IN PANGLAO ISLAND

Alexis cliff dive resort/molave  cove.

The first spot on the list is going to be the easiest to get to and probably the safest jump. Overall it is probably the best and most popular cliff jump in Bohol. It’s in Panglao which is a great star as 99% of tourists are staying in Panglao.

There is a diving board set up at Alexis Cliff Dive Resort. There is an entry fee of about $1 but you get to enjoy quite a few attractions for the price of one entry fee.

Firstly, you have the sardine balls waiting right here at the reef just like in Moalboal. Secondly, you can enjoy the use of the huts, benches, and stairs down to the ocean for a swim. Finally, you have the diving board for cliff jumping. I would say it is about 5-6 meters high and while you need to jump out a few meters for the deep water it seemed pretty safe all day. 

View full blog post:   BEST CLIFF JUMPING SPOTS IN BOHOL, PHILIPPINES

Venture out on a Bohol countryside tour to Chocolate Hills

Chocolate Hills is an  am azing landscape and any adventure on Bohol is fun. I had just seen a few photos online where the brown of the hills was very distinct and as you can see it wasn’t quite like that in reality when I visited. It’s a long drive from Alona Beach, so if you are staying there, make sure you plan a few other spots along the way like Twin Falls in Dimi Ao or the Tarsier sanctuary to make the journey worth it.

One of the best ways to visit Chocolate Hills is with a Bohol Countryside Tour . This tour is great because you get to do a lot just in one day for under $30! In just one day your countryside tour will take you to the following places.

  • Visit the historical Blood Compact Shrine, and learn about the story behind its name
  • Marvel at the Neoclassical architecture of the Baclayon Church, which was completed in 1727
  • See the world-famous Chocolate Hills with its 1,268 cone-shaped hills that turn brown in the summer
  • Stroll through the beautiful Bilar Manmade Forest, a mahogany forest stretching in 2 kilometers long
  • Enjoy a delicious local buffet lunch on a floating restaurant that cruises through the Loboc River
  • Meet the tarsiers at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, which was built to protect the world’s smallest primates

To book your countryside tour, (I think it is the best value tour you will find on Bohol!) you can Click Here to book online .

 Read the full blog post:   CHOCOLATE HILLS – WAS THE JOURNEY WORTH IT?

Panglao Beach

My favorite beach on Panglao Island is Panglao Beach. This stretch of beach is great for relaxing or doing a little bit of exploring. There is a very fancy resort called Mithi Resort, which eve has its own private, mini island. On this beach, you will find tranquility amongst the many palm trees that line the shore. 

Sunset at Panglao Beach

My favorite beach for sunset is Panglao Beach as you can get some epic reflections with the right conditions. It’s pretty chill here with no bars or shops, just the beach, calm water, and palm trees on the beach. It is a recipe for a relaxed sunset session with your friends.

panglao travel guide

Join a Beach Cleanup

My friend runs Plastic Free Bohol and several times a month they do a beach clean-up and are actively working with local businesses and politicians to work on policy and change. When I was on Bohol the Adventure Bag Crew teamed up with Plastic Free Bohol at Libaong Beach for a group cleanup where we collected over 200kg of trash. Head to Plastic Free Bohol Instagram for latest updates on the next cleanup.

panglao travel guide

Hinagdanan Caves

Hinagdanan Cave is on the route to most of the waterfalls and Chocolate Hills. Often full of tourists we got lucky to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the cave to ourselves. A crystal clear pool of water reflects beautifully the stalactites hanging from the roof above. This was definitely a Bohol adventure we hadn’t planned on at all.

The entrance is super touristy and I have visited my fair share of underwhelming caves in Asia, but this one was a gem. As you can see it is more than just dodging bat poop and a smelly cave. You have this magnificent swimming pool inside, which was honestly as clear as can be. Super cool experience and in the end one of the most memorable things to do on Bohol.

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Balicasag Island

Balicasag Island is a small island with amazing water clarity and coral gardens for snorkeling. There were plenty of turtles swimming amongst the coral and swarms of colorful fish.

One of the turtles we swam with was enormous. Use my friend Jorden as a scale. Even having lived in Hawaii for two years I never saw a turtle quite that big. A huge wall drops off about fifty meters from the shore, which was a fun spot to do some free-diving exploration.

The Day trip begins with dolphin watching near Bohol and then heads to Balicasag for snorkeling before finishing at Virgin Island, which is a sandbar.  If you want to book this tour online in advance you can check the rates and availability of the top-rated tour by Clicking Here .

Read the full blog post:   VIRGIN ISLAND BOHOL & BALICASAG ISLAND DAYTRIP

Virgin Island

When I arrived at Virgin Island I trudged through the sludgy sand trying not to lose my flip-flops and was greeted by many vendors selling pearls, fresh seafood jewelry.

I was more interested in the barren sand-flats and the boats that were seemingly waiting for the tide to rescue them from the midday drought. We also found a couple of stranded starfish/sea stars, which made for a great subject but we did feel a little bad leaving them there to potentially dry out. Not sure if you are meant to touch sea-stars or not but I usually try and avoid touching animals.

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Explore the Island  Roads on a moped

While it is not a destination as such, exploring the island at your own will lead you to many unexpected spots on Bohol. It will depend on your route but here are a few examples.

After hours of driving and getting lost, we ended up at a market in the middle of who knows where. Fish heads seemed to be the delicacy, which I didn’t dare to try but we found the best friend banana ever. When we asked the lady serving us how much we owed her for this mouthgasm she told us it would be the equivalent to 20 US cents. I almost choked on the last bit of sweetness left in my mouth and ordered another four.

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Near Dimiao we stopped by the side of the road to watch the tour riverboats float by on the Loboc River and noticed a rope swing hanging from a tree. I convinced Jorden that the river water probably wasn’t that dirty and being the adventurous soul he is it didn’t take more encouragement than that. He took one for the team and waited for a riverboat to pass by.

In one of the funniest moments of our trip, he began to swing. About thirty people from the tour boat had now leaned over the side rail of the boat to see why a topless, white guy was climbing a tree. Jorden swung and at the perfect moment, the wooden handle on the rope swing snapped and he face planted in the water to the amusement of the entire boat. I just sat on the banks so glad I was dry and it was him and not me.

These are a few snippets of many, many crazy little situations we got ourselves into while journeying around Bohol and I am sure you will have your own stories to tell when you get off the beaten path.

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Alona Beach/Panglao for Sunset

While there are many spots on Bohol to catch the sunset, we headed north of Alona Beach for about ten minutes looking for a good location. On the way, we found a soccer game going on and I told Jorden that sunset wasn’t as important as a soccer game and we played barefoot with people from all over the world.

At half-time, the sky was starting to look too good to miss out on so we jumped on the moped and went to the nearest shore. It worked out perfectly as we stumbled upon an old pier, home to a handful of wooden fishing boats. A local fisherman laid in his boat, listening to Bob Marley as the sky turned orange and faded into purple. It was our last night on Bohol and this was the perfect end to an amazing Bohol Adventure.

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WHERE TO STAY IN PANGLAO

Area: alona beach.

A tropical paradise in Southwestern tip of Bohol, Alona Beach has garnered numerous praises for its white sand beauty, crystal clear waters, and numerous tourist-friendly activities. It houses many hotels and restaurants with wide choices.

Alona Beach is where the real action of adventure takes place making it an ideal hub for those who are in the mood for parties. This is where most tourists to Bohol stay and it is central to everything. Personally, the accommodations in the area are ideal for travelers who are looking for a blend of diverse cultures. Below are some of my highly recommended places to stay.

Henann Resort Alona Beach (Luxury): Located by the beach of Alona, Henann guests have the edge to see the panoramic view of the sea, which is the prime location. If you are not in the mood for the beach exploration, then its pools and other amenities will keep you entertained. It’s pretty much the premier resort in Bohol and if you can afford it it is one of THE BEST places to stay in Bohol. This Bohol beachfront resort is just simply amazing and really delivers the island luxury many tourists are seeking. 

Click here to check the best current rates and availability of Henann Resort Alona Beach.

Donatela Resort (Luxury): If tranquility and serene ambiance is your top priority then Donatella Resort is what you are looking for. Tucked away in a botanic garden inspired ambiance, this place is just a haven to recharge your battery after a long island-hopping trip. The property includes some garden villas with its private pool so you will have all the time in the world to yourself. If you are traveling with family, the kids would really enjoy the activities this resort offers.

Click here to check the best current rates and availability of Donatella Resort.

Venezia Suites  (Value) : The Venezia Suits present the best value on Bohol. If you are looking for luxury but only want to spend mid-range often you need to get lucky. Venezia will hook you up with a beautiful suite that comes with a pool and living space. It’s a damn good deal and located right near all the action of Panglao so you are in a good spot.

Click here to check the best current rates and availability of Venezia Suites.

HM & B Backpackers Inn : As a backpacker generally you check price, location and cleanliness. HM & B ticks all those boxes as one of the cheapest hostels near Alona Beach but also maintains good reviews, cleanliness and is pretty cheap compared to everything else near Alona Beach.

Click here to check the best current rates and availability of HM & B Backpackers Inn

Island World Panglao (Budget): Want to stay in a property with so much to offer yet charge you less? Island World Panglao would be delighted to have you as a guest. The property includes a beautiful pool and the rooms are equipped with a balcony and a good garden view.

This property is only a few blocks away from attractions such as Danao and Alona Beach so you will not miss the beach fun. If you are tired of all the energy draining activities, you can have a massage with relaxing music of cicadas. This is a great choice for where to stay on Bohol if you want to budget but still, want the basics done really well. 

Click here to check the best current rates and availability of Island World Panglao.

panglao travel guide

Area: Northwest Side of Panglao

It might be distinctly low-key and quiet compared to the opposite side of the island, but with its inviting white sand beaches, Doljo Beach is surely a must see place in Bohol. The thick forest of coconut palms gives a tropical paradise look. Interestingly, anyone who visits this area will surely be amazed because this place would allow you to be in touch with the local community.  

North Zen Villa (Value): A quiet place with an amazing view of the beach is what North Zen Villa offers. The pool and other facilities are stunning and absolutely lovely for vacationers. This property has a backyard forest with a bridge that you can walk on to go to the sea, so you would really enjoy admiring the beauty laid before your eyes.

Click here to check the best current rates and availability of North Zen Villa.

Mario Dive Resort (Budget): Although this property is not so close to the beach, the quiet location and the seclusion it gives from the merriment at the beaches make this place a haven. This property is equipped with all practical amenities that will make you feel at home. The hotel also has a shared lounge area and a bar where guests can relax after a long day.

Click here to check the best current rates and availability of Mario Dive Resort.

Panglao Moravian Apartments (Family Pick): Conveniently located at the center of the famous white sand beaches of Panglao (Alona, Danao, Momo, and Doljo), Panglao Moravian Apartments will be an ideal place to stay. Like any other resorts, this property also provides an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and an air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free internet access. The price is reasonable and will be a perfect place for those who want to linger on the island for a while.

Click here to check the best current rates and availability of Panglao Moravian Apartments.

panglao travel guide

ARE YOU KEEPING UP WITH MY BOHOL SERIES

I’ve been to Bohol twice and both times I explored extensively on my motorbike to the popular tourist spots and to locations many people have never heard of. I document it all in my BOHOL TRAVEL GUIDE: 27 Awesome Things To Do

Are you a waterfall chaser? I’ve put together a list of My Favorite Waterfalls and Cave Pools on Bohol with detailed directions and photos.

Maybe you are an adrenaline junkie like me and want to find out the Best Cliff Jumping spots on Bohol .

The popular tourist area where most people stay is Panglao Island. I’ve put together a blog post guide about the Best Things to do on Panglao Island

If you aren’t quite sure whether you want to stay on Panglao Island or venture north to Anda, I’ve written a blog post about the Best Places to Stay on Bohol , which helps you decide what region is best for you depending on your preferences.

One of the best activities on Bohol is the island-hopping to Balicasag and Virgin Island. I’ve put together a guide with everything you need to know about the adventure here:  Virgin Island and Balicasag Island Hopping Tour Review

Friday 14th of June 2019

Wow! these places are amazing..... I would also take the chance of jumping into the sea, I liked Panglao Island. Thanks a lot for sharing an interesting post... good job!!!!

Wander Era

Panglao Island Bohol (Complete [currentyear] Travel Guide)

Panglao Island is a beautiful place located in the Philippines. If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation, this is the perfect destination for you. There are plenty of things to see and do on Panglao, so read on to find out more about this amazing island!

Table of Contents

Panglao at a Glance

Panglao is an island located in the Visayas region of the Philippines. The island is situated near the city of Tagbilaran, which is located on the island of Bohol . Panglao is accessible from Tagbilaran by a bridge. You can drive from Tagbilaran to Panglao island in 20 minutes.

Panglao is a part of Bohol province and is well-known for its white sand beaches and clear blue waters. Panglao has a tropical climate. The temperature on the island is usually around 30 degrees Celsius.

How to Get There

Via Tagbilaran airport

You can fly directly to Tagbilaran airport from Manila or Cebu. From the airport, you can take a tricycle to the city center. From the city center, you can take a jeepney or bus to the bridge that leads to Panglao island.

Via Panglao airport

There is also an airport located on Panglao island. You can fly directly to Panglao airport from Manila.

You can take a ferry from Cebu to Tagbilaran . The journey takes about 2 hours. From Tagbilaran, you can take a jeepney or bus to the bridge that leads to Panglao island.

You can book a ticket on 12Go.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Panglao island is from January to May. The weather is dry and sunny during these months. It’s the best time to enjoy the beaches and other outdoor activities.

Panglao Tourist Spots to Visit

Alona Beach

Alona Beach

Alona Beach is the most popular beach on Panglao island. The beach is well-known for its white sand and clear blue waters. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops located near the beach. You can also find several resorts on Alona Beach.

Hinagdanan Cave

Hinagdanan Cave

Hinagdanan Cave is a must-visit tourist spot on Panglao island. The cave is located in Dauis, which is about 10 minutes away from Alona Beach. Hinagdanan Cave is home to a natural pool with crystal clear waters. You can take a dip in the pool or just enjoy the view.

Dumaluan Beach

Dumaluan Beach

Dumaluan Beach is another popular beach on Panglao island. The beach is known for its fine white sand and clear blue waters. Compared to Alona beach, Dumaluan beach is more secluded and quiet. There are several resorts (especially luxurious ones) located near the beach.

Panglao Watchtower 

Panglao Watchtower

Panglao Watchtower is located in the town of Panglao. The watchtower was built in the 1800s. It’s a good spot to learn about history and architecture.

Bohol Bee Farm

Love ice cream? Don’t miss Bohol Bee Farm! They sell various ice cream flavors. What I loved best were the cassava ice cream cones. I could eat one raw. Haha. But they’re all yummy! You can buy their ice cream in Alona Beach or their main branch in Dauis. Visit early, it can get crowded later in the day.

Bolod Beach

Aside from Alona beach, Panglao also has Bolod Beach. This beach boasts of white sand and shallow waters making it great for families with kids. It’s a good place to relax and enjoy the view.

Doljo Beach

If you plan on going beach hopping, you can also check out Doljo beach. Though not as popular as the other beaches, Doljo beach is good for talking a walk. It can be tricky to find the way to the beach since a lot of private resorts are built by the beach.

Nearby Tourist Spots to Visit

Balicasag island.

Balicasag Island

Balicasag Island is one of the most popular diving spots in the Philippines. The island is located about 30 minutes away from Alona Beach by boat. Balicasag Island is home to a marine sanctuary where you can find turtles, corals, and plenty of other marine life.

Virgin Island

virgin island bohol

This is one of my favorite islands in Bohol. The island is uninhabited and has a very relaxing vibe. You can find plenty of photo ops on the island. The best time to visit Virgin Island is during the low tide so you can walk around the sandbar.

Pamilacan Island

Pamilacan Island

Pamilacan Island is another good spot for Bohol diving and snorkeling. It’s known for its whale and dolphin-watching tours.  You can find plenty of corals and marine life around the island.

Things to Do in Panglao

Island hopping.

panglao travel guide

Island hopping is one of the most popular activities on Panglao island. You can go on a tour and visit several islands around Panglao. The most popular islands to visit are Balicasag Island, Virgin Island, and Pamilacan Island.

Go island hopping by tour

You can also book an island hopping tour earlier with Klook. For more information and availability, click the button below:

Diving and Snorkeling

Snorkeling in Balicasag

Panglao is a good spot for diving and snorkeling. There are plenty of dive sites around the island. You can also find several diving schools if you want to learn how to dive. The best one would be by the sardine run.

Whale and Dolphin Watching

Pamilacan Island is the best spot for whale and dolphin watching. But you can also find plenty of dolphins around Panglao island.

Beach Hopping

Panglao island has plenty of beaches to choose from. You can go on a beach hopping tour and visit several beaches in one day. The most popular beaches are Alona Beach, Dumaluan Beach, and Bolod Beach.

Panglao is a foodie’s paradise. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. You can find all kinds of food on the island.

Here are some we’d recommend you try.

  • Bohol Bee Farm – Homemade ice cream and cassava ice cream cones! Need I say more?
  • Footridge Food Park – Best to visit for dinner. You get live music and lots of food choices from several food stalls.
  • Giuseppe Pizzeria & Sicilian Roast – Pizza here is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Also, try their truffle pasta (I’m craving this one every now and then – super delicious!) and their lava cake (must-try)!
  • Myst – An insta-worthy restaurant but service can take a bit long. Avoid going during dinner. You’ll find yourself waiting in line for more than an hour.
  • Woody’s Bar and Grill – Yummy burgers especially when paired with their craft beers.

Where to Stay in Panglao

  • Natura Vista
  • Alona Pawikan Resort/ Ken’s Place
  • Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort
  • Bohol Shores
  • South Palms Resort Panglao
  • Mithi Resort and Spa
  • Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa

Where We Stayed

Bilisan Tower Residences Airbnb

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  • Travel Guide
  • Beaches & Islands

13 Best Things To Do In Panglao Island, Bohol: Ultimate Guide

Published: November 15, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Vyky Pacheco

  • Philippines
  • Plan Your Trip
  • Travel Destinations
  • Travel Tips

13-best-things-to-do-in-panglao-island-bohol-ultimate-guide

Panglao Island in Bohol, Philippines, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a haven for travelers seeking a blissful paradise. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking to unwind in a tranquil setting, there are plenty of activities to choose from on Panglao Island.

In this ultimate guide, we have curated a list of the 13 best things to do on Panglao Island, ensuring that you make the most of your visit. From swimming with turtles and exploring enchanting caves to indulging in delicious seafood and experiencing the local culture, there is something for everyone here. So, grab your sunscreen, put on your snorkeling gear, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on Panglao Island.

Explore the stunning Alona Beach

If you’re looking for a picture-perfect beach destination, Alona Beach on Panglao Island is a must-visit. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand, it offers a perfect tropical paradise setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Dive into the vibrant underwater world

Panglao Island is known for its incredible dive spots. Take a plunge into the vibrant underwater world and explore colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even some sea turtles. Whether you’re a certified diver or a beginner, there are dive centers on the island that cater to all levels of experience.

Visit the enchanting Hinagdanan Cave

Discover the mystical beauty of Hinagdanan Cave, an underground cave with a natural pool of clear water. Explore its intricate rock formations and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. It’s a unique and memorable experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Take a boat tour to Balicasag Island

Embark on a boat tour to Balicasag Island, a small but stunning island near Panglao. Enjoy snorkeling or diving in its marine sanctuary, where you can spot a wide variety of marine life, including clownfish, reef sharks, and even dolphins if you’re lucky.

Go on an island hopping adventure

Hop on a boat and explore the beautiful surrounding islands of Panglao. Visit Virgin Island, known for its sandbar that emerges during low tide. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the pristine beaches of these hidden gems.

Experience the beauty of the Mag-Aso Falls

Escape the heat and venture into the lush jungle to discover the mesmerizing Mag-Aso Falls. Take a refreshing dip in the clear turquoise waters or simply admire the cascading waterfall surrounded by tropical foliage. Don’t forget to capture some Instagram-worthy moments!

Visit the historic Baclayon Church

Step back in time and visit the oldest stone church in the Philippines, the Baclayon Church. Marvel at its impressive architectural design and explore its museum, which houses religious artifacts and relics dating back to the Spanish colonial era.

Explore the Chocolate Hills

Head inland to witness one of Bohol’s most famous landmarks, the Chocolate Hills. These unique geological formations, resembling giant chocolate mounds, are a sight to behold. Climb one of the viewing decks to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

Meet the adorable tarsiers

Panglao Island is home to the adorable and endangered Philippine Tarsiers. Visit the Tarsier Conservation Area and see these small primates up close. Remember to observe them quietly and refrain from using flash photography to ensure their well-being.

Try local delicacies at the Bohol Bee Farm

Indulge in a gastronomic adventure at the famous Bohol Bee Farm. Sample their organic farm-to-table dishes, including their signature honey-infused ice cream. Don’t forget to explore their organic garden and learn about sustainable farming practices.

Relax with a rejuvenating massage

Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage using traditional Filipino techniques. There are many spas and wellness centers on Panglao Island where you can unwind and rejuvenate your body and mind.

Enjoy a sunset cruise

Watch the glorious sunset while cruising along the coast of Panglao Island. Set sail on a traditional outrigger boat and witness the sky transform into a stunning palette of colors as the sun dips below the horizon.

Experience a river cruise along Loboc River

Take a leisurely river cruise along the enchanting Loboc River. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch aboard a floating restaurant while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding lush greenery and listen to the traditional music and dance performances.

In conclusion, Panglao Island in Bohol offers an incredibly diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, this tropical paradise has something for everyone. From exploring stunning white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs to immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the island, Panglao Island truly is a destination that will leave you in awe.Don’t miss the opportunity to go dolphin watching, island hopping, or snorkeling to discover the amazing underwater world teeming with vibrant marine life. Be sure to visit the famous Alona Beach, known for its pristine shoreline and vibrant nightlife. And if you’re a nature enthusiast, make sure to hike the Hinagdanan Cave or take a boat tour to the stunning Balicasag Island.With its breathtaking natural beauty, warm hospitality, and a variety of activities to suit all interests, Panglao Island in Bohol is undoubtedly an unforgettable destination. So pack your bags, embrace the tropical vibes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Panglao Island!

1. What is the best time to visit Panglao Island, Bohol?

The best time to visit Panglao Island is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is generally sunny and the sea conditions are calm, perfect for enjoying water activities like snorkeling and diving.

2. How do I get to Panglao Island?

You can reach Panglao Island by flying into Bohol’s Tagbilaran Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in the Philippines. From the airport, you can easily take a taxi or a tricycle to get to Panglao Island.

3. Are there any resorts or hotels on Panglao Island?

Yes, there are plenty of resorts and hotels to choose from on Panglao Island, ranging from budget-friendly accommodations to luxury beachfront resorts. Some popular options include Henann Resort Alona Beach, Bohol Beach Club, and Amorita Resort.

4. What are the must-visit attractions on Panglao Island?

Some of the must-visit attractions on Panglao Island include Alona Beach, Balicasag Island, Hinagdanan Cave, and the Bohol Bee Farm. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful beaches and indulge in delicious seafood at the local restaurants.

5. Can I go island hopping or snorkeling in Panglao Island?

Absolutely! Island hopping and snorkeling are popular activities in Panglao Island. You can rent a boat and visit nearby islands like Pamilacan Island or Balicasag Island, where you can witness stunning coral reefs and swim alongside colorful tropical fish.

6. Are there any cultural activities or events on Panglao Island?

Yes, Panglao Island is rich in culture and heritage. You can visit the historic Baclayon Church or take a tour of the Bohol Bee Farm to learn about organic farming. Additionally, there are occasional festivals and events that showcase the local traditions and customs.

7. Is it safe to swim in the waters around Panglao Island?

Yes, it is generally safe to swim in the waters around Panglao Island. However, it is always advisable to follow safety precautions and swim in designated areas to ensure your well-being. It’s also recommended to check the sea conditions and weather forecast before engaging in water activities.

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Discover The Philippines

Panglao Island Visitors Guide

panglao travel guide

This brief guide to Panglao Island will help you plan your trip. It contains information on what to do, eat, and drink as well as the must-see spots and the best hotels.

ABOUT SEE & DO EAT & DRINK STAY BUDGET ADVICE

Travel Insurance

The province of Bohol in Central Visayas is known all over the country for the intriguing Chocolate Hills , a collection of over 1,000 dome-shaped formations covering an area of more than 50 square kilometers.  But there is more to Bohol than just these hills, the Philippine tarsiers, or the centuries-old churches .  It boasts several other natural attractions and one of the most popular is Panglao Island.

Located less than one kilometer off the coastline of the southwest portion of Bohol mainland, Panglao Island has varying terrain, from plain to hilly and mountainous.  The island is mainly made of limestone hence the abundance of geographical formations, particularly caves which have become popular among adventure-seekers.

The island is also blessed with white sand beaches, pristine waters, and rich marine life.  It actually catapulted Bohol as one of the top summer destinations in the Philippines.

Panglao Island Location Guide

Best Time to Visit

It’s best to visit the Philippines during the dry season .  Dry season in the Philippines spans from November through April .  These are the summer months in this country.

Be aware that temperatures and humidity levels are particularly high in April and May .

The best time to be a beach bum and explore the islands is from March to May.

TIP:  This guide recommends that booking for Panglao Island summer trips should be done as early as possible, at least a month before your travel dates, since resorts get fully booked early.

The period from June to October is the rainy (wet) season and is best avoided due to the high possibility of typhoons. The typhoons can not only be destructive, but most tours and activities are cancelled under such circumstances.  Transportation via plane and boat is also seriously impacted as well.  This happens frequently so beware!

This guide recommends traveling to Panglao Island in April-May or in November-December , just before and just after the rainy season. This will likely bring fewer crowds, yet pleasant weather, and is also a great time to score a travel deal.

Getting Here

There are many ways to get here depending on your starting point. This guide recommends using the following online tools to identify all the available options and cost for each while Panglao Island:  Rome2Rio and PHBUS . The following are the major ports of entry for this destination.

Airport

Bohol-Panglao Airport

BUS TERMINAL

Bus Terminal

Getting Around

The following are the modes of transportation available on Panglao Island …

Bicycles

Car for Hire

Car Rental

Motorcycles

Shuttle

SEE & DO

The following is your guide to places to see and activities to enjoy while on Panglao Island.

1 |  Beach bum in Alona Beach

The most popular beach on the island, Alona is blessed with clear water, white sand, and rocky cliffs.  The one-kilometer stretch of the beach is lined with businesses such as resorts, hotels, restaurants, and shops to cater to all the tourists coming to the island.  It is the jump off point to nearby islands and other various adventures such as dolphin watching.

If not doing the activities, you can spend the day beach bumming and waiting for the sunset as it is also a great spot for sunset-watching.

READ MORE: Alona Beach

2 | Go on island-hopping tour

Island-hopping is a popular tourist activity in Panglao.  Three most popular destinations for island-hopping are Balicasag Island, Pontod Island (also called Virgin Island), and Pamilacan Island.  The waters surrounding these islands are blessed with rich marine life therefore attracting divers and non-divers alike.

3 | See the marine life

Panglao has an impressive marine biodiversity with more than 250 new species of marine crustaceans and 2500 new species of mollusks.  You can see the dolphins in their natural habitat when you avail the dolphin watching tour, you can swim with sea turtles, and explore marine sanctuaries inhabited by various species of fishes, corals, and aquatic plants.

4 | Get a diving certification

Having the best dive sites in the Philippines, you can learn how to dive and get a diving certification in Panglao.  There are several diving shops and centers that can offer you courses based on your dive level.

5 | Try water adventures

Aside from island-hopping, snorkelling, and diving, you can try other water adventures including banana boat ride, kayaking, stand-up paddle board, and kite surfing.

6 | Visit Hinagdanan Cave

Hinagdanan Cave is a naturally-lighted cavern with a natural pool with crystal clear water where you can take a refreshing dip.  Since the cave is lighted, birds are the only inhabitants of the cave as it is unsuitable for bats.

The cave is named after the local word “hagdan” meaning ladder which was used to access the cave when it was first discovered.  Presently, there are cement steps leading to the cave’s interior.

The cave was also used as a hiding place by the locals from the Japanese Imperial Army during the Second World War.

7 | See other beaches on the island

Alona may be the most famous but there are other equally stunning beaches to see on the island.  Danao Beach and Bagobo Beach, on either side of Alona, have the same white sand and cool azure waters.  Bolod Beach, which is more than two kilometers east of Alona Beach and Bagobo Beach, has also the same white sand but has the longest shoreline in this part of the island.  On the other side of the island are Doljo Beach and Momo Beach, they too are blessed with fine white sand and crystal clear water but are more rugged and undeveloped.

8 | Enjoy the nightlife

With all the resorts, restaurants, and bars in Panglao, its nightlife is definitely one of the most active in the province of Bohol .  Three of the best bars on the island are Pinarella Bay, Aluna Lounge Bar, and Coco Vida Bar of the Alona Vida Beach Resort.  The last two mentioned are located right on the beach.

NOTE: The Sinulog Sa Panglao occurs annually in Panglao Island every January…

Klook

EAT & DRINK

The following is your guide to the flavorful food to enjoy and restaurants to try while on Panglao Island.

1 | Bohol Bee Farm Restaurant

Indulge your palate without the guilt at Bohol Bee Farm Restaurant where healthy delights are being served everyday.  Feast on hand-picked edible flowers, fresh garden salads, honey-glazed chicken, or seafood lasagna.  They have the best ice cream too!  The main restaurant is located in Dauis but there are branches along Alona Beach, Tagbilaran City, Tubigon, and Cebu City .

Don’t miss their unique-flavored ice creams including malunggay, salted honey, durian, and spicy ginger among others.

2 | Giuseppe Pizzeria Sicilian Roast

Giuseppe Pizzeria Sicilian Roast is an Italian restaurant located less than one kilometer away from Alona Beach.  They are known for their pizza cooked using a wood-fired brick oven.  Other must-try dishes are calamari, bruschetta, and pasta.

3 | L’Elephant Bleu Restaurant

The restaurant of L’Elephant Bleu Cottages serves affordable French favorites chicken cordon bleu, creme brulee and flambeed garlic prawns along with a great selection of wine and cheese.  It is located in the middle of Alona approximately 200 meters away from the beach.

4 | Tarsier Paprika

Located on the edge of Tarsier Botanika Resort, Tarsier Paprika offers two dining setup – air-conditioned sea view rooms and open air veranda.  The restaurant serves international cuisine and is known to have great sushi, ceviche, and cakes.  The price range is a bit expensive for local standards but given the amazing foods, location, ambience, and service, it is surely worth it.

5 | Pearl Restaurant

Located in Linaw Beach Resort, Pearl Restaurant takes pride in serving healthy dishes using fresh organically-grown vegetables and herbs from their own garden.  They have the best seafood platter in the area and a fantastic selection of wine and other drinks.  Aside from food and drinks, the location and ambience is great, too.  It’s one of the best places to watch the sunset and have a romantic date night.

6 | Saffron

Saffron Restaurant of Amorita Resort offers a wide range of Continental and Filipino favorites using the best and freshest ingredients available locally.  Their buffet offers a good selection of meat, salad, as well as desserts and cheese.  Don’t miss their sinigang, calamari, kare-kare, and binagoongan baboy.  Amorita may be a luxury resort but the foods are reasonably-priced given the generous servings.

7 | Vanilla Sky Restaurant

Vanilla Sky Restaurant serves Italian cuisine and is well-loved for their buffalo mozzarella, burrata, and pizza as well as truffle, panna cotta, and tiramisu.  It has a cozy, relaxing, and warm ambience with friendly and nice staff.  Prices are reasonable too and customers rave that it is one of the best places to eat on the island.

KNOWN FOR: Peanut Kisses, a snack made of peanut and white eggs.

WHERE TO STAY

There are many different types of accommodations available in this destination ranging from hostels to luxurious resorts. The following is your guide to our top choices for each range on Panglao Island.

1 | Alona42 Resort (Budget)

2 | dumaluan beach resort (mid-range), 3 | south palms resort (luxury | resort).

This guide recommends using the following sites to conduct research online of where to stay on Panglao Island or for a specific destination:

Book your room with these trusted online booking sites.  Booking online in the Philippines almost always guarantees the best price and a room when you arrive.  We use these sites frequently to get the best prices and enjoy convenient bookings. Click each of the buttons below to find the best place for you at the lowest rates:

TIP: Dumaluan Beach Resort is the best property to experience this destination.

Book Online & Save Money

Book Your Trip Flights Hotels Transportation Travel Insurance No-Fee Cards

Suggested Budget

Use the chart below to get an idea of how much to budget daily.  Actual amounts will depend on YOUR travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages … some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less. Prices are in USD.

Travel Costs

Accommodation.

A bed in a  hostel  dorm costs from 350 PHP ($7 USD), but smaller dorms can cost from 500 PHP ($10 USD).  For a private double, prices start around 700 PHP ($14 USD).

Most  budget hotels  begin at 700 PHP ($14 USD) per night for a double room and usually include free wifi and breakfast.  For  a three-star hotel , prices begin around 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) per night.    AirBnB  is also widespread throughout the country, with private rooms starting from as little as 500 PHP ($10 USD) per night.  For entire apartments, expect to pay at least 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) per night.

Resorts and luxury accommodations  vary greatly from 1,400 PHP ($28 USD) to 5,000+ PHP ($100+ USD).  However, there are some really nice resorts and luxury accommodations which are surprisingly affordable.

We use and recommend booking online to save money using  HostelWorld ,  Agoda ,  Booking.com , and  AirBnB . 

Local food is extremely cheap, with street food costing under 50 PHP ($1USD).  For an inexpensive meal at a local restaurant, prices start around 100 PHP ($2 USD).  For a meal at a mid-range restaurant with drinks and table service, expect to pay from 200 PHP ($4 USD).  Knowing that their target customers are primarily tourists, Western food venues can be pricey compared to Filipino food.  Also, some of the ingredients need to be imported, which contributes to the higher cost. Western food (burgers, pizza, pasta, etc.) is much more expensive but is still relatively affordable at around 200 PHP ($4 USD) for a meal and drink.

Fast food like McDonalds will cost around 200 PHP ($4 USD).  A beer at the bar will cost around 50-100 PHP ($1–2 USD).

A week’s worth of groceries will cost between 300-600 PHP ($6-12 USD) per person.  However, food in this country is so inexpensive, and kitchens & refrigerators are hard to come by, I don’t recommend cooking your meals here since there is plenty of delicious street food to eat at very cheap prices. You won’t make it as good as they do and the food is too delicious to miss!

Transportation

There are many modes of transportation available in the Philippines and each varies greatly. 

Public Transportation is cheap.  Bus services on the islands are inexpensive.  Local buses (called jeepneys) are the most common type of transportation in towns and cities. The fare is usually between 7-25 PHP ($.20–.50 USD).

On islands without a bus system, a taxi or tricycle is the only form of transport with fares starting at 50-500 PHP ($1-$10) USD for short trips. 

Taxis are everywhere, and they’re very cheap.  Most fares shouldn’t cost you more than 500 PHP ($10 USD) around town.  

To get between islands, you’ll need to take a boat or to fly.  There are ferries that connect the island together since they aren’t too far apart but, generally speaking, flights are the most realistic option. 

Flights between islands usually cost about 2,000-3500 PHP ($40-70 USD).  However, this isn’t the cheapest way to travel.  It’s only recommended if you have limited time. 

We recommend booking online to save money using:  Skysca n ner ,  momondo ,  Kayak ,  kiwi.com .

Attractions & Activities

Most attractions and activities in the Philippines are pretty cheap. Most attractions throughout the area are FREE to enter, though some of the more well known and popular ones cost 5-100 PHP ($.10-$2 USD) to enter. 

Depending on the activity, most day tours only cost around 1,000-1,500 PHP ($20-30 USD), oftentimes less.  You have more bargaining power if you go with a group. If you are expecting to do some climbing, remember to pack some warm layers. It gets cold at the top!  

Other activities such as Island Hopping, scuba diving, helmet diving, swimming with whale sharks, jungle trekking, canyoning, ATVs, jet skis, wakeboarding, cruises, parasailing, horseback riding, cultural experiences, and tours can cost as much as 1,250-5,000+ PHP ($25-100+ USD).

The Philippines is one of the least expensive places to learn how to scuba dive. Learning to scuba dive usually costs about 15,000-20,000 PHP ($300-400 USD), but often includes FREE accommodation for the duration of the course, which lasts three or four days.

Always book your tours and activities when you arrive.  Stick to travel agents who are selling on the ground. If a travel agent won’t negotiate with you, move on to the next until you find one that will.  Booking tours online is almost always more expensive. 

Typical Costs on Panglao Island in 2023 :

  • Hostel Dorm Bed: 250-350 PHP ($5–7 USD) night
  • Budget Hotel:  700 PHP ($14 USD) night
  • Mid-Range Hotel:   1500 PHP ($31 USD) night
  • Street Food: 50-150 PHP ($1–3 USD) meal
  • Restaurant Meals: 200-300 PHP ($4–6 USD) meal
  • Local Beer: 50-100 PHP ($1–2 USD) bottle
  • 1.5L Bottle of Water: 38 PHP ($.75 USD) bottle
  • Jeepney Ride: 7-25 PHP ($.20–.50 USD) ride
  • Tricycle Ride:   20-100 PHP ($.5-2 USD) ride
  • Taxi: 75-500 PHP ($1.50-10 USD) ride – use GrabTaxi app
  • Long-Distance Bus Ride: 400-500 PHP ($8–10 USD) ride
  • Public Ferry Ride: 200-300 PHP ($4–6 USD) ride
  • Domestic Flight: 2,000-3,500 PHP ($40–70 USD) flight
  • Island-Hopping: 1,000-1,500 PHP ($20-30 USD) trip

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The following is some of our best advice on traveling to Panglao Island.  Learn what you need to know BEFORE you go!

Tips & Hacks

he following are our Top 10 Tips when visiting this destination in the Philippines:

  • Be aware that a tourist VISA is only 30 days. You can extend it upon arrival, or within the first 30 days, for an additional 30 days for a fee of approximately 3,000 pesos.
  • Don’t buy into the fear factor. The Philippines has an unjustified reputation of being a dangerous place. It’s true there are security guards everywhere, but that is to deter theft.
  • Manila is NOT the Philippines. Get outside of the cities to see the real Philippines.
  • Don’t over plan. Boats, buses, and even airplane schedules are notoriously unreliable. Be flexible.
  • Check the weather. The weather varies greatly throughout the Philippines daily.
  • Typhoons can have a huge impact on your plans. Account for this when planning your trip.
  • It’s not cool to raise your voice or show outward frustration in public.
  • Be polite at all times. Realize that your country’s sense of humor may be different from Filipino humor and take this into account when interacting with Filipinos and while in public places.
  • Things move at a slower pace. Accept it … don’t get frustrated … but do account for it.
  • Don’t drink the tap water… but stay hydrated! Save money by buying large bottles (6-10 liters) of water and using it to fill your water bottle or hydration bladder in your backpack.

For a complete list of our travel tips & hacks, check out the following guide and be sure to download a FREE copy for yourself.

VIEW & DOWNLOAD : The Ultimate Travel Tips & Hacks Guide for the Philippines

Money Matters

The Philippines has its own currency called the Philippine Peso. Banks, ATMs, and money-changers can be found on the island. If you are exploring the neighboring islands or provinces, make sure to bring enough cash that will last until the next time you get to an ATM or bank since most tours, transportation, and budget accommodations only accept cash.

READ MORE: Money in the Philippines: Everything You Need to Know

Health & Safety

While overall the Philippines is a safe country to visit, as is Panglao Island, you need to use common sense just as you would in any country, especially when traveling, and in a city, town, or area you are unfamiliar with.

Consult your hotel or resort front desk as they are more likely to give you reliable information than a random stranger on the street. Be careful when approaching strangers and selective about who you approach. Always pay attention to your gut feeling and follow it.

READ MORE: How to Avoid Scams & Thieves in the Philippines

There are many things to consider when traveling in order to stay safe … things that we may not be accustomed to during our normal everyday lives. The following are articles about tips on how to stay safe while traveling in the Philippines:

  • 6 Common Accidents to Avoid   
  • How to Beat the Heat in the Philippines
  • Taxi Safety Tips: Dos and Don’ts
  • Motorbike Safety Tips
  • Beach & Ocean Safety Tips
  • Sun Safety Tips   

TIP: The best way to avoid problems and stay safe is to travel with a local resident.

Staying fit & healthy can be challenging when traveling in the Philippines. 

The tropical Philippines climate requires you to prepare for illnesses that you may not normally be accustomed to. 

The following are our Top 10 Tips for Staying Healthy while Traveling in the Philippines:

  • Maintain a Balanced Diet
  • Stay Hydrated but Only Drink Bottled Water
  • Get Plenty of Rest
  • Allow Your Body Time to Adjust 
  • Keep Active
  • Sanitize Often 
  • Be Aware of Food Safety Concerns
  • Take Your Vitamins
  • Practice Safe Sex
  • Be Prepared Should You Get Sick

READ MORE: Stay Healthy in the Philippines: How to Avoid Getting Sick

Staying Connected

You need to have a local-based SIM card in order to stay connected when in the Philippines. Network giants such as Globe and Smart have SIM cards you can use to make calls, send text messages, and also to connect to the Internet. A SIM card costs around 50 PHP ($1 USD) and usually comes with a FREE load worth 50 PHP ($1 USD). You can buy a card containing a code you can enter on your phone to replenish your load or buy an electronic load that is available almost anywhere in the city.

While you may not have problems with signal strength when in the city, it is not always the case when on islands or in remote areas of a province.  So when arranging for transportation pick up, say when renting a boat to take you to and pick you up from the island, it would be best that you make it clear what time you need to be picked up before the boatman leaves.

Recommended Travel Apps

Apps for smartphones and tablets can be useful both before you leave and while you’re traveling.  Most are available for iPhones and Android phones.

The following are our Top 10 most useful travel apps on our smartphones when traveling in the Philippines:

  • Grab (taxis/ride shares)
  • Angkas (motorbike ride-hailing)
  • WhatsApp (phone calls)
  • Skyscanner (flights)
  • Rome2Rio (transportation)
  • Agoda (accomodations)
  • Booking.com (accomodations)
  • AirBnB (accomodations)
  • Traveloka (flights, accomodations, activities)
  • Klook (attractions & activities )

Be certain to download and set up apps BEFORE leaving on your trip to make certain each is installed and working properly.

For our complete list of travel apps that we use and recommend while traveling in the Philippines, checkout our checklist below.  Download a FREE copy for yourself as a PDF.

READ MORE: The Ultimate List of Travel Apps for the Philippines

Trying to decide what to do when traveling to a destination for the first time can be a bit overwhelming given your lack of familiarity with the place along with all of the available options. 

We’ve created the following itinerary to help simplify the process and ensure that you get the most out of your trip.  Although we provide a 7 day itinerary for this destination, it can always be adjusted to fit the length of your trip.

VIEW : Panglao Island 7-Day Travel Itinerary

Packing Checklist

The secret to a successful and stress-free trip is to start by using a packing list.  This will reduce anxiety from the start and ensure that nothing important is forgotten when packing.   To make this process easy for you, we’ve created a detailed packing list.  Click the link below to download it for FREE now. 

Carrying your checklist with you during your travels can be useful when repacking, by helping to ensure that you do not leave anything behind.

VIEW & DOWNLOAD : Our Ultimate Packing Guide & Checklist

Things to Remember

This guide recommends to take note of the following while traveling on Panglao Island or in the Philippines in general.

There is a nationwide ban which prohibits smoking in public places including indoors, the streets, on sidewalks, in restaurants , and on public transportation, requiring smokers to use designated smoking areas.  Selling tobacco to and purchasing from or for minors is also prohibited. Violators are subject to fines (up to 5,000 PHP | $100 USD) and even 4 months in prison.

The minimum legal drinking age is 18.  Alcohol such as beer and hard drinks can easily be bought in grocery and convenience stores.  The most common alcoholic beverage is beer, generally served cold.  Local alcoholic drinks include tuba (coconut wine which is usually very strong) and potent moonshine-like clear liquors made from sugar or fruit.  Imported beer, wine, and name brand hard alcohol are available but expensive.

Drugs are illegal in the Philippines.  Don’t use, buy, or sell any non-prescription drugs while in the Philippines … not even marijuana.  It is considered an especially heinous crime to buy from, for, or sell drugs to children.  The penalties are severe … up to and including death.

Public nudity is illegal in the Philippines and is not tolerated.  Most locals consider it offensive.  There are laws which prohibit provocative and erotic clothing and swimwear, therefore carefully consider your clothings and swimwear choices to make certain they are not too revealing.

Foreigners & Expats

If you are not a Filipino citizen, remember that you are a guest when visiting this country … be certain to act accordingly.  Respect the people, their customs, and the environment and wlidlife. You can be deported and banned … so behave … but have fun and enjoy all that this wonderful destination has to offer.

READ MORE : Practical Information about the Philippines

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

I always carry a Camelbak Hydration Pack with me when traveling. Not only does it allow me to pack all my daily gear and snacks, but it also has a 3-liter water bladder which holds enough water to get me through the entire day.

Bluetooth Speaker

Compact yet mighty, a bluetooth speaker setup is a breeze, and the sound quality it delivers for its size is nothing short of impressive. Beyond its audio prowess, it boasts exceptional durability, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures.

UV Shirt is an essential when travelling in a tropical country. Providing reliable protection during long hours in the water, not only comfortable but also ensures a secure shield against the elements.

Snorkel Gear

For my island-hopping escapades, a snorkel gear set has become indispensable. Designed to enhance the joy of snorkeling and free diving, each piece ensures comfort and functionality. Together, they create an immersive and enjoyable underwater experience.

Adventure Camera

As a long-time enthusiast of GoPro cameras, I can attest to their user-friendly nature, excellent image stabilization, and impressive footage quality. Waterproof and rugged, the GoPro is my reliable companion for capturing adventures in any environment.

When it comes to beach footwear, aqua shoes offer exceptional support, breathability, and overall comfort. Well-crafted and sturdy, it provides effective protection against rocky terrain, quick drying for added convenience, and easy maintenance. A must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

CLICK FOR MORE TRAVEL GEAR

Don’t Forget …

Download our free travel guides.

We have dozens of guides to destinations throughout the Philippines. Download your FREE copy for your next trip today.

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About the Author

panglao travel guide

Patrick is an entrepreneur, digital nomad, explorer, and photographer. Patrick is always in search of fun and adventure. He is well travelled throughout the world, and although location independent, his home base is Phoenix, Arizona in the USA. Patrick loves island lifestyle which is no wonder why he is so interested in spending time in the Philippines with it’s over 7,000 islands. Patrick created this site to share his knowledge of and experiences in the Philippines with Filipinos as well as other foreigners.

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Philippines, Bohol island, View of Alona beach at Panglao

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Panglao Island

Low-lying sun-baked Panglao Island is generally associated with Alona Beach, a busy holiday resort on the southern side of the island. Alona is renowned for its nightlife, and there's a real buzz about the place on weekends when Filipinos cruise into town to join vacationing Koreans and Europeans.

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Danao Beach

Danao Beach

Far more mellow than its noisy neighbour Alona, Danao Beach consists of patches of fine white sand backed by coconut palms – it's an idyllic tropical…

Alona Beach

Alona Beach

This broad sandy beach, with its dreamy south-facing horizon, has boomed in popularity in recent years and is now lined with resort hotels, bars and…

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Boracay's White Beach viewed from a boat is wedged between an azure sky and clear, turquoise sea. Behind the sand there is an abundance of green palm trees, a handful of beach bars and some people enjoying the beach ©Andrey Danilovich/Getty Images

Oct 30, 2018 • 5 min read

The Philippines' famed island, Boracay, was closed to the public in April 2018 in an attempt to try and restore the incredible location to its former…

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Panglao Island

panglao travel guide

  • 1.1 Municipalities
  • 1.2 Beaches
  • 2.1 Nearby islands
  • 3.1 By ferry
  • 3.2 By plane
  • 4 Get around
  • 11 Stay safe

Panglao is an island in Bohol Province in the Philippines with world-class diving and many tourist resorts. The resorts and other tourist facilities are concentrated in the Alona Beach area, but there are some other tourist areas and beaches scattered around the rest of the island.

Cities [ edit ]

Map

Municipalities [ edit ]

For administration, the island is divided into two roughly equal-sized municipalities, each with a small town as its center. Wikivoyage has an article for each:

  • 9.6241 123.865351 1 Dauis , on the northeast, right across the bridge from Tagbilaran which is the provincial capital and the region's main ferry port
  • 9.579142 123.746621 2 Panglao Town , on the southwest

Beaches [ edit ]

There are also beach towns around the island, particularly in the south. While these are in the municipal regions listed above, many of them are separate enough from the municipal towns and have enough tourism to get their own Wikivoyage article.

  • 9.548845 123.772002 3 Alona Beach on the southeast coast is the island's most popular tourist destination . Many visitors to the island spend all their time in just this area. Administratively it is within Panglao Municipality, but Wikivoyage treats it in a separate article.
  • 9.555794 123.802217 4 Bolod and 9.562807 123.809656 5 Libaong are east of Alona Beach; they are covered in the Bolod and Libaong Wikivoyage article.
  • 9.547677 123.752281 6 Danao Beach is between Alona Beach and Panglao Town, and it is covered in a separate Wikivoyage article.
  • 9.600088 123.753427 7 Momo Beach is considerably less developed and less hectic than Alona. It is just east of Panglao Town and we cover it in the town article.

Other destinations [ edit ]

Nearby islands [ edit ].

All of these islands can be visited on a separate tour or as part of dolphin watching or island hopping ones.

  • 9.517359 123.684447 1 Balicasag Island . Island 8 km offshore from Alona beach. ( updated Sep 2016 )
  • 9.559361 123.72164 2 Virgin Island ( Pontod Island ) ( west of Panglao Town ). ( updated Sep 2016 )
  • 9.493 123.919869 3 Pamilacan island . Tour there is more expensive among other islands, prices start at ₱3000 per boat (2016), as they say, it's a more authentic experience, where dolphins and whale sharks can be seen wild and not in a artificial environments like in Oslob where animals got attracted to the place by being fed by locals. ( updated Sep 2016 )

Get in [ edit ]

Panglao is often reached via Tagbilaran , the capital of Bohol Province, where there is a ferry terminal. Tagbilaran on the larger Bohol Island and Dausis on Panglao Island are separated by a narrow strait, and there is a bridge between them. You can also fly directly to Panglao which has the province's main airport.

By ferry [ edit ]

Most visitors reach Bohol via the large modern ferry terminal in Tagbilaran. The most common embarkation point is Cebu City ; see the Tagbilaran article for details on that, and for boats from other places.

A taxi from the ferry terminal will cost ₱500-600 , whilst a local tricycle will set you back ₱350-450 to Alona Beach on the far end of the island.

Alternately, you can get a tricycle or taxi from the ferry terminal to the bus terminal then get the air conditioned bus to Alona beach. Southern Star transit Large air conditioned buses from Tagilaran bus terminal going to and from Alona Beach via Panglao international airport, every 45 mins from 6.45am till 6pm ₱50 , takes about 30 minutes, has room for Luggage.

By plane [ edit ]

When Panglao International Airport opened in November 2018, the older and much smaller Tagbilaran Airport was shut down the same day. The new airport inherited the old one's code, TAG  IATA .

Get around [ edit ]

The island has two main roads; the Circumferential Road circles the island near the coast while the Dauis-Panglao Road goes lengthwise through the center of the island to connect the two main towns.

Tricycles and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are abundant, with prices ₱20-50 for a ride. The trikes can take more people, have room for luggage, and are safer and considerably more comfortable. Frequent jeepneys cruise the island with rides as low as ₱15 .

See [ edit ]

In the highly developed Alona Beach area where many of the tourists stay, tours can be organised to various diving sites.

  • 9.625286 123.798733 1 Hinagdanan cave . There is a tiny lagoon inside a coral cave. Enjoy a dip in a fresh water. The cave is completely dark, the guides have a flashlight. The admission is around ₱20 . To get here, you can take a bus or mini van towards Panglao island from Tagbilaran. If you tell them you are going to Hinagdanan cave, they will know what intersection to drop you off at. ₱50 . ( updated Sep 2016 )

Do [ edit ]

Massages are available on the beach. ₱350 for an hour Swedish massage.

Scuba Diving : The most famous diving location is Balicasag Island, a marine sanctuary 10 km (6.2 mi) from Alona Beach. Other well-known spots are Doljo, Pamalican Island, and Napaling.

Yoga: Daily yoga classes run in many studios around Panglao Island.

Buy [ edit ]

  • 7-Eleven convenience store. Alona Beach.
  • BPI Bank ATM Alona Beach. It takes Mastercard & Visa cards with a ₱250 fee for overseas cards.

Eat [ edit ]

Both the towns have some restaurants, including some candelaria which are plain cheap Filipino places, with food that is always filling and often quite good. Almost every resort has a restaurant, the airport has several, and there are a few more here and there around the island.

The heaviest concentration is along Alona Beach which has a few dozen tourist places — mostly international cuisine at mid-to-high prices — plus some chains like McDonald's and Dunkin Donuts.

Drink [ edit ]

Most restaurants also serve alcohol, except for some of the candelaria. On Alona Beach, many are more bars with food than restaurants with drinks, and quite a few have live music in the evenings.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are hotels, mostly beach resorts, all over the island. Alona Beach in particular has a everything from luxury resorts to backpacker hostel dorm beds from ₱350.

At peak times, like Christmas and Easter, it is quite difficult to find accommodation unless you have booked well in advance. Many of the hotels are on the usual hotel booking sites.

Stay safe [ edit ]

This is a heavily touristed area and, while most locals in the tourist trade are honest, many of the common scams used against tourists anywhere will sometimes be found here. As almost anywhere in Asia, take precautions against pickpockets .

Go next [ edit ]

The entire island of Bohol is right next to Panglao, with Tagbilaran city lying just over the bridge connecting two islands. Bohol's main tourist attractions are tarsiers (rare small primates) near Corella , and the Chocolate Hills . Tours to either are readily available from Tagbilaran, and many of the hotels on Panglao can make arrangements for them.

Anda is another beach destination on Bohol, quieter and less crowded than Panglao.

Other places are easily reached by ferry from Bohol, mostly from Tagbilaran. Two nearby and much less touristy islands are Camiguin (ferry from Jagna ) and Siquijor . Cities that are popular tourist destinations are Metro Cebu and Dumaguete . There is also a ferry from Ubay , on the eastern side of Bohol, to Maasin on Leyte Island

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Explore Bohol and Panglao Islands (Travel Guide)

By: Author Jess Esa

Posted on Last updated: 17th January 2024

Panglao and Bohol in the Philippines are amazing travel destinations for those who want to relax, explore, and get adventurous while reconnecting with nature and its beauties. Today we want to share with you some interesting tips for creating a unique itinerary in search of authenticity, hidden gems, and fewer tourist traps.

Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Panglao and Bohol, Philippines

Beach Bohol

I traveled to Bohol as a solo female and felt very safe at all times and it was such a relaxing time away from my busy life in Seoul.

I was definitely getting put off by people telling me that Philippines wasn’t safe and that was so far from the case. People in the Philippines and especially Bohol and Panglao are incredibly friendly and willing to help.

In fact, I went back to the Philippines just two months later because I missed the vibe there so much and this time visited Coron which turned out to be another paradise-like trip. I left a piece of my heart in Bohol however, and I’ll definitely be returning one day.

Here are my top tips for visiting Bohol and Panglao Island.

Read More: Books by Filipino Women Writers

How to Get To Bohol

I took a direct flight from Seoul, but normally you’ll have to change in Manila or Cebu. The Tagbilaran airport is very close to the city and is only a short tricycle ride away from Panglao or the normal places to stay in Bohol.

There is an ATM at the airport if you need one. Also, if you leave from the same airport be sure to keep some cash for the exit charge. I had to go back out after the security check just to get more cash. It’s 500 pesos.

There’ll be tricycles at the airport but make sure you haggle them down a bit or even better, sort yourself something in advance if you can’t be dealing with all that when you get off your flight (which I often can’t).

It takes about 40 minutes from the airport all the way to Alona Beach and it’s wonderfully scenic on the way, A taxi will cost around 500 pesos and a tricycle 250-300. You can usually get your hostel to prebook you a taxi too.

From Cebu airport, you can take a short taxi ride (about 30 mins) to the pier and take a boat (2-4 hours and 350-800 pesos depending on whether you get the fast or slow boat).

Where is Panglao?

Panglao is a really small island (even by Philippines standards) attached to the much larger island of Bohol, yet it deserves a lot of attention by itself.

There is so much to do on Panglao, and it’s definitely not only the famous Alona beach, there are stunning beaches all over the island. It’s a great base for exploring the whole island especially if you want things to get up to in the evenings.

Even though things are changing fast in Panglao, it’s very easy to identify the few places where mass tourism is concentrated and avoid them, to discover secret beaches, small villages, and friendly and incredibly hospitable people.

Off the coast of Panglao stands the Balicasag island, a marine reserve offering incredible diving opportunities, as well as breathtaking views. This is the perfect spot for some unique pictures.

Beach Panglao

Read More : A Digital Nomad Guide to The Philippines

What to Do on Panglao Island

You’ll immediately hit recommendations for Panglao Alona beach, it’s advertised right and left as a beautiful beach, a place not to be missed etc.

The truth is that Alona is one of the least interesting of the many beautiful beaches you can find in the Philippines. Overcrowding has caused this beach to seem a little shallow, a little dirty, and just not what most people are after.

The thin beach is occupied by bar tables, low-cost weddings, and ropes to moor the boats on which you’ll stumble over time and again. It’s worth having a look and it’s a good place to get food, have a cocktail, and spend the evening while keeping your days free for exploring elsewhere.

However, Alona is the starting point for many excursions, including those for diving on the coral reef – the Panglao backdrops are very popular with divers.

Just head over to Alona beach to the east to find White Beach and Bikini Beach. And then just explore the coast of Panglao by scooter (going around the resorts) and Bohol to find beautiful and deserted beaches.

Other beaches include:

Kalipayan Beach, Dumaluan Beach, and Momo Beach.

They’re quieter, cleaner and have plenty of bars and restaurants nearby to enjoy., If you want to see unique unexplored and less touristic places don’t forget to ask the friendly locals, they’re so proud of their home and happy to help! You will be amazed by how many beautiful hidden gems you can find.

Visit Hinagdan

Something locals highly recommend is to visit Hinagdan –  a small cave with hundreds of stalactites hanging over a natural pool lit by a single ray of sunshine – first thing in the morning to enjoy the pure bliss and the lonely hours without the crowds.

Caves Bohol

You can enjoy the experience of diving into the cool waters of the pool inside the cave, while the cute bats flutter above you. The cave is located in the northeastern part of the island of Panglao, near the village of Bingag and the Mithi Resort.

Where to Stay on Panglao Island

Mithi Resort  and Spa is a seriously gorgeous place to stay. It’s a beautiful resort with a private beach and island. A real touch of luxury: you can stay in cottages with sea views, enjoy the bars, pools, and spa.

Although, if you’re on a budget,  Natura Vista is just around the corner and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay there. Kind staff and fresh-from-the-garden food, they’ve even got a hot tub.

They organise tours, pickups, everything you need and the bonus — they share the same beach as Mithi Resort above! You’ll find shared and private rooms but there aren’t many rooms so it all feels quiet and tranquil and it’s much easier to chat with people if you want to.

There is a rope line between the two but Natura Vista’s public beach is deserted aside from local fisherman. It’s absolutely stunning so you get the best of both worlds.

Natura Vista Bohol

For a touch of luxury on a budget:

You can walk for five minutes from Natura Vista to Mithi and enjoy one of their massages. I chose the Japanese Bamboo Massage since it was on sale.

90 minutes of pure heaven including a flower footbath before, use of the sauna and steam room, a beautiful massage with an ocean view, and some tea. You can also eat at their fantastic restaurant.

Lovely as they are, they even let me walk along the private beach back to Natura Vista shortening the walk back to almost nothing. Such kind people. It’s definitely somewhere I’d love to stay if I had a higher budget.

Staying at Natura Vista really made my trip to Bohol special, and I highly recommend them. It’s also a fifteen-minute walk from the caves mentioned above, it’s a delight to have so many options within walking distance. They also offer on-site bike rental and will organise tuc-tucs to take you to the busier beaches. They can book an on-site massage for you. (They’re cheaper than the Mithi ones).

Don’t Miss Bohol Bee Farm

When you’re on Panglao, you have to visit the Bohol Bee Farm . This was one of my favourite stops on my trip and I wished I’d gone more than once. You can actually stay here and I’d definitely recommend it just for the quality of the food and the convenience.

Bohol Bee Farm

The resort has a coffee shop, restaurant, an amazing shop filled with their homemade products, natural beauty products, tea, condiments and snacks (the mango spread is incredible and you can also get dried mangos which are better quality than the ones you buy on the island, at the same price).

Bohol Bee Farm

I was so annoyed because I was running out of cash and I forgot my bank card (assuming they didn’t have an ATM, which they did) and the shop was way better than I had anticipated.

It’s full of handmade bee products, homemade spreads, cakes, tea, and the best dried mangoes I ate on the island. They also make homemade ice-cream there in all kinds of great flavours (avocado, ginger, mango etc.) and you can have a gluten-free cone. Yay!

Bohol Bee Farm

How About Bohol?

Panglao is the perfect base to discover the island of Bohol from. Notably, in Bohol you can visit the Chocolate Hills and the tarsier, a rare and curious primate.

chocolate hills bohol

Make sure you go to the official tarsier sanctuary in Corella rather than the Loboc one as these creatures are highly sensitive and the Corella sanctuary is far more humane.

tarsiers bohol

This island of Bohol requires at least two or three days to be fully explored : the best way to explore is by staying in Panglao and travelling by scooter to Bohol during the day. Tours, buses, and tricycles are readily available if you don’t want to rent a scooter.

The two islands are connected by bridges at two different points: we highly recommend you avoid the bridge that connects Bohol to the city of Tagbilaran, or at least be careful as the traffic can get a bit mad around there.

If you’re going by scooter then you can easily ride along the coast and find a multitude of waterfalls, secret lagoons to dive in, caves, and more. This is the kind of place where, if you just wander at your leisure, you’re going to find so much more. The roads are very quiet outside the city so its well worth it.

In spite of its relatively small size, the Bohol island represents a very captivating place from a historical and naturalistic point of view. Fortunately, this earthly paradise has been kept away from the excesses of mass tourism so far.

River Cruises in Bohol

Another tourist attraction is the Loboc River Cruise; a standard part of any tour package. It’s very enjoyable (albeit expensive, an extra 500 pesos on top of your tour fee) and the view is great but the food isn’t the best considering the price.

You’re entertained by local singers and dancers along the way and overall it’s a just really unique experience.

loboc river bohol

What to see and do while in Bohol

Traveling along any stretch of the coastal road you will immediately realise the wealth of inlets, bays, and beaches on the island.

Most of them are found near Tagbilaran City, the capital, located on the south-west coast, but more-or-less everywhere you can admire breathtaking views, stretches of coastline covered with white sand, and coral lagoons.

Bohol is dotted with waterfalls, magnificent caves, and an intricate tropical forest inhabited by dozens of animal species.

Tagbilaran City

Tagbilaran City isn’t the greatest of cities but it does have its charm: there are plenty of fruit stalls, restaurants, and some quaint coffee shops.

Philippines Bohol

Seven kilometers away from Tagbilaran City stands the Church of Baclayon, also known as the “Church of the Immaculate”, the oldest stone basilica in the country, having been built in 1595.

Currently, the building houses an interesting museum set up with a rich collection of religious relics, sacred vestments, and ancient texts of sacred hymns engraved in Latin on animal skins.

church bohol

North of Tagbilaran City:

In Maribojoc stands the Punta Cruz Observation Tower, one of the best examples of colonial architecture on the island, while a few kilometres further on is the Church of Calape, known throughout the archipelago for the image of the Virgin whom many consider miraculous, as well as sacred.

Nearby, moving away from the coast, it is advisable to go from Antequera, a lovely village with a Sunday market where you can buy typical low-cost craft products made using a large number of rushes, blades of grass and reeds.

Panglao and Bohol have many things to offer and plenty of attractions besides the crystal-clear sea waters and the astonishing beaches.

It’s one of my favourite places I’ve visited in Asia and one of my top recommendations for a trip to the Philippines.

Spending some time here will definitely help you to connect with the most traditional and less common paths, cultural elements, and rich history of this wonderful place. I went to Bohol for an escape from my hectic city life and I came back happier, and far more relaxed.

Recommended Tours and Daytrips

panglao travel guide

Hey Rebecca, I’m so glad it was useful! Yeah, you’ll be fine. It’s usually done in a day trip with a load of extra things you don’t really need to see so you’re definitely doing it right on a scooter 🙂 I’m so excited for you!

panglao travel guide

Thanks for a great read! My boyfriend and I are hoping to go from Panglao to Bohol for a scoot around in a longish afternoon – do you think that would give us enough time to see the chocolate hills and the river area?

Thank you so much! It was honestly a perfect holiday 🙂 You’ll love it there. It’s so easy to get around, people are so friendly and helpful. Seriously wonderful island! <3

panglao travel guide

The Chocolate Hills have been on my bucket list for ages now, really should be heading that way! Loving the blogpost, and the adorable dog, thanks for sharing <3

Project Gora

Bohol Travel Guide with a Sample Itinerary (2024)

  • Post author By Project Gora
  • Post date January 12, 2024
  • 1 Comment on Bohol Travel Guide with a Sample Itinerary (2024)

panglao travel guide

So, you’re thinking about traveling to Bohol? Good choice! This island is one of my favorite destinations in the Philippines. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or have an adventure, Bohol has got you covered. And lucky for you, this Bohol Travel Guide has all the essential information you need, including the must-see tourist spots, things to do, and how to get there. So, let’s dive right in and get you ready for the time of your life in Bohol!

panglao travel guide

Table of Contents

Bohol Travel Guide: Top 5 Tourist Spots in Bohol

Bohol travel guide: things to know before you go, bohol travel guide: top 10 restaurants in panglao island, bohol travel guide: sample 4d/3n itinerary.

Bohol offers world class attractions both in-water and outside. The best way to get the most out of your stay is to combine countryside tour with island-hopping excursion, and then spend the last day relaxing on the beach. This will allow you to fully discover the many faces of this island which makes it so special. In this Bohol Travel Guide, I included the top 5 tourist spots in Bohol that I personally recommend to anyone visiting for the first time.

Beach Hopping in Panglao Island

There’s no doubt that Bohol boasts some of the best beaches in the Philippines, if not the world. In Panglao Island alone, you can find Alona Beach , which is arguably the most famous beach in the island. Here you can find many beachfront resorts, restaurants and bars.

Another famous beach in the island is Dumaluan Beach , where you’ll find some of the most popular beach resorts like South Palms, Bohol Beach Club and Dumaluan Beach Resort. Unlike Alona Beach, Dumaluan Beach has fewer tourists and is quieter at night. While you’re in Dumaluan, you can continue walking towards Libaong Beach , which is not that touristy.

panglao travel guide

If you’re looking for less touristy beaches in Panglao Island, Doljo Beach located on the northeast coast of the island might be for you. It features the longest stretch of white sand in Panglao and offers one of the best sunset views in the island.

Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in Loboc River

If you love adventure, I highly recommend Stand-Up Paddle boarding in Loboc River. You can avail a 1-hour Loboc River SUP Tour with SUP Tours Philippines , which is the first SUP school in the country. SUP tour rate is 800 pesos per person and includes SUPs, paddles, guide and refreshments after the tour. Most resorts along the river also offer SUP tours so no need to make prior arrangements.

stand-up paddle boarding in Loboc River

See the Tarsiers at Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary

One of the best experiences I had in Bohol was an encounter with a sleeping tarsier in Corella, Bohol. Founded by the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in 1996, the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary provides a natural habitat for these endangered primates. Unlike the sep up in Loboc Tarsier Conservation Area, where they are held captive in small enclosures, the tarsiers here can roam around a big forested sanctuary. Thus, tourists are only allowed in the designated pathway (Tarsier Trail) where you can look for the tarsiers in their natural habitat.

Note: Most tours in Bohol offers a visit to the Loboc Tarsier Conservation Area. This is not the place you would want to visit if you care about wildlife. Make sure to request Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary instead. They will probably ask for additional fee because the location is far from Tagbilaran and Loboc.

panglao travel guide

See the Chocolate Hills

Chocolate Hills is one of the top tourist attractions in the Philippines. They are arguably one of the top reasons why travelers want to go to Bohol. When I first traveled to the island, it was one of the first destinations that I visited. It did not disappoint so I would recommend it to anyone traveling to Bohol for the first time.

Chocolate Hills in Bohol

To get a stunning panoramic view, you can visit the Chocolate Hills Complex Viewpoint in the town of Carmen, the main viewing destination in Bohol. You can also take a trip to Sagbayan Peak , a 5-hectare mountain resort located in the town of Sigbayan. It’s farther than the viewing point in Carmen but it’s less touristy so it may be worth the drive.

Snorkelling and Freediving in Panglao Island

Bohol Marine Triangle is one of the richest marine biodiversity hotspots in the world. It includes the threes islands, Panglao, Balicasag and Pamilacan, home to hundreds of coral species and marine animals such as whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays, and many more.

For freedivers and scuba divers, Napaling Dive Point should be included in your itinerary. For non-swimmers and snorkelers, Balicasag Island is one of the best places to see sea turtles.

panglao travel guide

Pamilacan Island day tour

Discover the hidden gem of Pamilacan Island, a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the pristine beauty and rich culture of Bohol firsthand. This exclusive Pamilacan Island day tour allows you to snorkel among coral reefs, spot sea turtles in their natural habitat, and enjoy dolphin watching, among other adventures.

Best Time to Visit Bohol

The best time to visit Bohol is from January to March for the ideal weather and fewer crowds. However, visitors can still enjoy the beauty of Bohol at other times of the year, depending on their preferences and tolerance for heat and rainfall.

panglao travel guide

How to get to Bohol

Bohol is an hour and a half away from Manila by plane. There are flights coming in from dozens of different places, including Manila, Cebu, Davao and many more. With so many available flights, it is very easy to find a cheap one, with regular prices ranging between 1,000 and 3,000 pesos.

Alternatively, you could catch a ferry from various islands in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Oceanjet Ferry , one of the most reputable ferry operators in the Philippines, caters to passengers from Cebu to Bohol (Tagbilaran) and vice versa. For as low as 890 pesos, you can book your Cebu to Bohol ferry ticket via Klook and get instant confirmation. Your seat is guaranteed upon booking!

panglao travel guide

How to get around Bohol

In order for you to make the most of your time in Bohol, I highly recommend renting out a motorcycle and start exploring as early as you can. Additionally, there are others ways to get around the island such as hiring a tricycle or a private car for a day. Also, if you are solo traveling, find other tourists to join the tour so you can split up the cost.

You may avail a private car charter via Klook for a hassle-free tour. For as low as 2,800 pesos (1-3 pax) for a 4-hour tour or 3,200 pesos (1-3 pax) for an 8-hour tour, you will have the freedom to see as many attractions as you want. For bigger groups (4-10 pax), the 4-hour tour costs 3,200 pesos while the 8-hour tour costs 4,100 pesos.

mangrove forest in Modala Beach Resort

Where to stay in Bohol

Being one of the most popular tourist spots in the country, Bohol has literally hundreds of different places to choose from. These range from budget-friendly to high-end luxury, and you can easily find your preferred mode of accommodation with a simple Google search.

panglao travel guide

Peak season is between March and May, so booking in advance is advised to get better deals. If you prefer to stay near the beach, I recommend beachfront resorts in Panglao such as Modala Beach Resort , Hennan Tawala Resort , Mithi Resort and Spa , and South Palms Resort . If you prefer to stay in mainland, I recommend Water to Forest Ecolodge in Loboc.

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, healthy eats, or traditional Filipino cuisine, these top 10 restaurants in Panglao, Bohol are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

  • Garlic ‘n lemon bistro – This restaurant is known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including its signature garlic shrimp and lemon chicken.
  • Luna Rossa Vegetarian Italian Restaurant – A great option for vegetarian and vegan travelers, Luna Rossa serves up authentic Italian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
  • Giuseppe Pizzeria and Sicilian Roast – A great option for pizza lovers, Giuseppe Pizzeria serves up authentic Italian-style pizza and other Italian dishes in a casual, laid-back setting.
  • Shaka Bohol – A popular spot for healthy eaters and surfers, Shaka serves up a range of smoothie bowls, salads, and wraps made with fresh, organic ingredients.
  • Mangaon Ta Restaurant at Modala Beach Resort – This beachfront restaurant is known for its delicious Filipino dishes, including grilled seafood, adobo, and lechon.
  • Vanilla Sky Restaurant – With stunning ocean views, Vanilla Sky is a romantic and upscale dining option serving up fresh seafood, grilled meats, and other international dishes.
  • Bohol Bee Farm Restaurant – A must-visit for foodies, the Bohol Bee Farm serves up farm-to-table dishes made with organic ingredients, including its famous homemade ice cream.
  • Saffron – This restaurant offers a fine dining experience with its fusion of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, paired with an extensive wine selection.
  • Bougainvillea Spanish Restaurant – For those craving Spanish cuisine, Bougainvillea serves up tapas, paella, and other traditional Spanish dishes in a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
  • Sisa Bistro – Located in a restored heritage house, Sisa Bistro offers a unique dining experience with its fusion of Filipino and European cuisine.

panglao travel guide

Day 1: Bohol Countryside Tour

If you are the explorer type who likes DIY trips, it is certainly possible to do this tour on your own. You can rent a motorbike pretty much anywhere in Panglao, or head to Tagbilaran and rent a car or a van for the whole day. You can also book a Bohol Countryside Tour via Klook.

  • Early flight to Bohol–Panglao International Airport (TAG)
  • Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary (Corella)
  • Chocolate Hills View deck**
  • Man-made forest
  • Loboc River stand-up paddle boarding (SUP)
  • Check in resort in Panglao at around 4 PM

In Carmen, where you will find the Chocolate Hills, it is possible to go down closer to the hills by ATV tour . It’ll just mean the rest of your itinerary will be a bit more cramped.

Day 2: Freediving in Napaling Dive Point

Freediving in Napaling Reef in Panglao, Bohol is an unforgettable experience that allows you to explore the underwater world and witness the beauty of the coral reefs and marine life in their natural habitat. Located just off the coast of Panglao Island, Napaling Reef is known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning coral formations, and diverse marine ecosystem.

Day 3: Bohol island hopping tour

  • Pickup from resort at 6 AM
  • Dolphin watching in Balicasag Island
  • Continue to Balicasag Marine Sanctuary
  • Snorkel with sea turtles at Balicasag Island
  • Move to the 2nd snorkeling spot in Balicasag Island, which has stunning coral reefs and fish
  • Virgin Island
  • Back to resort around 1 PM to freshen up
  • Spend the rest of the afternoon at Alona Beach or Dumaluan Beach

Day 4: Chill at the beach

Spend your last day in Bohol to relax and recharge your batteries. Bohol has some of the nicest beaches you’ll ever see, and you can also rent a motorbike and spend a full day going between different beaches. The main beach is of course Alona, but Dumaluan is just as nice.

panglao travel guide

How about you? Have you been to Bohol? What can you add in this itinerary? Let’s chat down below!

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By Project Gora

Hey there! My name is Milet Miranda, and I'm a full-time corporate employee during weekdays and a traveler during weekends (and holidays...you get the picture). I'm a foodie at heart and I love joining food tours. When I'm not traveling, you'll find me walking my dogs or biking around my neighborhood.

One reply on “Bohol Travel Guide with a Sample Itinerary (2024)”

[…] Beach Resort is located in the northwest tip of Panglao, Bohol. I learned that the resort just opened in 2020, making it the newest resort in the island. Aside […]

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  • Travel Guide to Bohol, Philippines – Budget & Itinerary

bohol philippines travel guide paddy rice fields

This Bohol travel guide has all you need to know to plan your trip to one of the most diverse and adventure-packed islands in the Philippines. Things to do, how to get around, food and even a sample itinerary. In other words, a must-have for first-timers in Bohol !

I see the island of Bohol as a showcase of what you can find in the entire Philippines . Paradisiac beaches, mangroves, river cruises, jungle adventures and top-notch diving spots all in one place.

This travel guide of Bohol and Panglao is packed with the most up-to-date and reliable information (up to 2024) to start planning your journey.

Find here tips about where to go, what to do, where to eat, budget and much more.

Sections of this Bohol travel guide

bohol travel guide budget itinerary palm trees beach philippines

Bohol Overview

There are exactly 7,641 islands (!) in the Philippines , but Bohol is surely one of the most diverse and interesting ones you can pick to visit.

If you visit Bohol alone you get a decent idea of what the entire country is all about. An eco-tourism paradise suited for adventurers. Tropical beaches (not the best ones in the country, but we’ll get to that), lush jungle, friendly people and top-notch diving spots all in the same place.

But Bohol checks all those boxes and raises the parade with some unique experiences that you can’t find anywhere else. Odd landscapes like the Chocolate Hills . Architectural heritage from Spanish colonization. Or the endangered tarsier, the smallest mammal in the world.

In other words: in case you’re still having FOMO about the itinerary for your Philippines trip, don’t. Bohol is absolutely a great choice.

How to get to Bohol island

Whether you come by air or by sea, the main point of entry to the island is Tagbilaran City . It’s less than an hour’s drive to the adjacent island of Panglao , where most visitors stay.

If your hotel doesn’t have the transfer included, you can easily arrange a van, taxi or tricycle to get to Panglao . We paired up with a group of tourists and were able to negotiate a van for five.

Here’s how you can get to Bohol from other places in the Philippines .

Manila to Bohol ✈️

The easiest way to get to Bohol from Manila is by plane (1h30). There are several airlines flying from Manila to Tagbilaran airport in Bohol :

  • Cebu Pacific
  • Philippines Airlines

Flights are generally inexpensive but book ahead to guarantee a good price.

Cebu to Bohol ⛴️

bohol travel guide itinerary tagbilaran to cebu ferry oceanjet

The best way to get from Cebu to Bohol is to use the fast ferry (a 2-hour trip).

There are mainly two main ferry companies that do the route Cebu City – Tagbilaran several times per day: SuperCat and Ocean Jet .

Ocean Jet is slightly more expensive (800-1000 pesos), but from what I’ve seen the boats seemed newer and more comfortable. Keep an eye on special promos they offer sometimes.

You can purchase tickets in advance directly from the company websites, or through third-party providers like 12Go Asia .

Alternatively, just head to the ferry terminal and get your tickets there, to be honest, it’s unlikely they’ll be sold out.

Ferry schedules between Cebu and Bohol (updated September 2018)

Bohol (Tagbilaran) – Cebu (Cebu City)

  • Ocean Jet : 6:00,7:05,8:20,9:20,10:40,11:40,13:00,14:00,15:20,16:20,17:00,17:40,18:30
  • Supercat : 5:50,8:15,11:00,13:15,15:35,17:45

Cebu (Cebu City) – Bohol (Tagbilaran)

  • Ocean Jet : 5:10,6:00,7:00,8:00,9.20,10:40,11:40,13:00,14:00,15:20,16:20,17:40,18:40
  • Supercat : 5:50,8:15,11:00,13:15,15:35,18:00

Dumaguete to Bohol ⛴️

A 2-hour ferry trip is the best way to travel from Dumaguete to Bohol (Tagbilaran) . Ocean Jet makes this trip twice a day (9:50 and 14:30).

Siquijor to Bohol ⛴️

If you’re in the beautiful island of Siquijor and want to get to Bohol, Ocean Jet makes this trip once a day (12:30). It connects Larena pier in Siquijor to Tagbilaran in Bohol .

Best time to visit Bohol

Like most of the Philippines , Bohol has a tropical climate, which means very rarely the temperatures drops below 20 degrees Celsius. This would make Bohol pleasant for a visit at any time of the year… if it wasn’t for the rainfall. This the key!

June to December is normally considered the rainy season – you can expect much less sunny days around this time. Heavy frequent showers are more common between August and October when the southwest monsoon prevails. You’ll want to avoid this time to visit. Late December is also a peak season for locals so there will likely find more crowds and inflated prices in Bohol .

Anywhere between January and June is a good time to visit Bohol . If you come right after the end of the rainy reason – January to March – the rice fields are still vivid green, everything looks more fresh , and photo ops multiply. If you decide to come between April and June, fields will be likely more brown, including the almighty Chocolate Hills .

My weather experience in Bohol

I visited Bohol in mid-December. The temperatures were warm without being unbearable. However it was still very unpredictable. The weather changed from a clear sunny day to heavy stormy showers in a short bike ride. We were struck by surprise twice when we were on the road.

The good thing is that the rain never lasted for long. 1 hour tops. And being soaked while driving just made us appreciate the warm sunny weather even more!

Weather in Bohol

To help you understand better how does weather work in Bohol , here is some more detailed info about temperature and rainfall.

average temperatures bohol philippines

What to pack

Don’t overthink your clothing options too much. As a tropical island with almost-constant temperatures all-year-round, with light summer clothes, you’ll be fine. Pick comfortable and breathable pieces.

A light rain jacket is recommended – we never know when the occasional storm will appear – and you’ll also want to have long sleeve piece to enter churches.

Landscapes are incredible and the adventure activities are a must, so make sure you bring a good camera and consider getting a GoPro if you haven’t got one.

Other than that, don’t forget sunscreen, a snorkeling mask, and a dry bag to keep your stuff. The latter is super useful if you’re doing sea activities or to simply go to the beach.

bohol travel guide budget itinerary paddy fields

Getting around Bohol

Bohol is one of those places I absolutely recommend getting your own wheels. Not only the public transportation is unreliable, but it gives you freedom of schedules and itineraries. It can also be cheaper, with rates ranging from 300 PHP to 600 PHP per day. All depends on the number of days you’re renting and your haggling skills.

In fact, one of my best memories and experiences of Bohol was riding a bike around the island. You get to drive next to vivid green paddy fields, forests or just stunning beaches with a view to the Pacific.

You can also get around by tricycle , a kind of moto-taxi that has a capacity for about 3 people, give or take. They usually don’t have meters and prices are haggled by destination. For a journey of about 10km, expect to pay around 400-450 PHP.

Other more local ways of transportation include jeepneys and buses .

Getting from Tagbilaran to Panglao

Most travelers arrive in Tagbilaran to then get to Alona or Dumaluan in Panglao , where most beach accommodation is located. To make this trip, you have some options:

  • Hire a taxi. Most convenient but also more expensive.
  • Hire a tricycle. It should be around 500 pesos.
  • Go on a van. Share it with other people – just ask around – and haggle the price down.

We ended up sharing a van with other travelers to Alona . We were 5 in total paying 400 pesos, which totals a very inexpensive 80 pesos per person!

Are tours in Bohol worth it?

As I mentioned, personally I feel the best way to explore Bohol is to get your own wheels. There’s no need for tours if you’re young, active and know how to ride a motorbike – it adds to the adventurous vibe of the island after all.

However, there are some pre-defined day tours to explore the island – these will cost around 500 PHP to 1500 PHP per person. These are usually rushed, covering all the main sights of Bohol in one day.

Jeepneys and tricycles in Bohol

bohol travel guide budget itinerary getting around jeepney

Jeepney is a local’s favorite and prices depend on the distance. Most jeepneys going along the south side of the island depart from Dao Terminal, including Baclayon , Carmen and Jagna . They’re mostly used by locals.

Don’t expect luxury. Jeepneys are often old and overcrowded. While the experience of a ride amongst dozens of Filipinos as well as animals like chickens (and other random creatures) might be appealing, note that distances in Bohol often mean more than 1-hour long trips.

You can also hire a tricycle driver to get you around Bohol for the day. This can cost you between 800-1000 pesos per day.

Fun fact: did you know tricycle drivers are obliged to place verses from the Bible on the back of their vehicle? Yes, it’s a mandatory law by the Government!

Vans and buses in Bohol

Air-conditioned vans with capacity for 10-11 people are also available. However, they tend to depart from the Dao terminal only when they are absolutely packed with more than 15 people.

Buses going North of the island – Loon , Calape and Tubigon for instance – start from Kogon Market in Tagbilaran .

What to do in Bohol

Bohol is a perfect for for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The island is packed with 7 outdoor experiences and unique activities .

If you’re looking for a more relaxed time, hop on a river cruise in Loboc or hit the white-sand beaches of the twin-island of Panglao await you.

To make things visual, I’ve prepared a map of all the main sights in Bohol . In purple the main towns; in orange the main sights; in blue the main beaches.

Tarsier Sanctuary (the real one!)

🇵🇭 PHILIPPINES | 🐒Sanctuary. This little guy is a tarsier and is the smallest primate in the world (size of a human fist! 😅). It’s also one of the most endangered animals: there only 130 left in the wild worldwide. He needs an hectare of forest to live and when kept in cages, he often attempts suicide. It’s a hard task to protect him but sanctuaries like this one in Bohol are key to make this alien-like creature thrive! #Philippines #itsmorefuninph #boholovers #primate #Bohol #animal #tarsier #ig_NeverStopExploring #WanderOut #Destination_Earth #NatGeoTravel #BeautifulMatters #TourThePlanet #TheGlobeWanderer #OurPlanetDaily #boholphilippines #WeLiveToExplore #wwf #PassionPassport #MyTinyAtlas #WildernessCulture #TravelPhotography #lonelyplanettraveller #Goph #the_ph #comeseeph #traversePhilippines #TravelStoriesPH #travel_philippines Uma publicação partilhada por BRUN🌎, The Travel Geek (@bruno_mb) a Dez 11, 2016 Ă s 6:14 PST

When in Bohol you’ll see that are quite a few tarsier “sanctuaries” in Bohol . Make sure you go to the Tarsier Sanctuary near Corella , the only “real” one.

They have less than a dozen animals, but it’s the only place where they live in the wild and have enough space to have an acceptable quality of life. See, when they tarsiers don’t have an hectare of forest to live and are enclosed in little cages, they often attempt suicide. 😥

Corella Tarsier Sanctuary

  • Ticket price: 60 pesos
  • How to get there: Follow the road to Corella and Sikatuna , turn left on the fitting Tarsier Sanctuary Road. There are buses from Tagbilaran to Sikatuna where you can drop off nearby too.
  • What to do: Your main task is to spot the tiny tarsiers in the middle of the trees!

Loboc River

bohol travel guide budget itinerary loboc river hanging bridge

I found Loboc to be one of the most interesting little towns in Bohol . People are friendly and the setting is beautiful, right next to the jungle-resembling Loboc River .

Next to it, the Baclayon and San Pedro churches, destroyed during the 2013 earthquake that stroke the Philippines are there to remind of the country’s Spanish colonial past.

Loboc is also popular for its cruises that take you up and down the river, and often include a fancy meal aboard.

  • Ticket price: N/A
  • How to get there: Loboc is nearly halfway between Tagbilaran and the Chocolate Hills.
  • What to do: From the popular floating restaurants to mountain biking & paddleboarding tours, there’s a lot to do here. Don’t miss the iconic bamboo bridge!

Chocolate Hills

travel guide of bohol philippines chocolate hills

Probably the most iconic postcard of Bohol , the Chocolate Hills are a geological formation consisting of 1,776 conical-shaped hills ranging from 30 to 120 meters high. The name comes from the fact that during the dry season they change their color to a light brown color. In the rest of the year, they’re actually a lovely vivid green!

The Chocolate Hills Complex is located in Carmen , in the very center of Bohol . The road there wanders across beautiful paddy field sceneries but nothing prepared me for the moment I got to the viewpoint. The hundreds of identical hills going as far as your eyes can see are dazzling. Don’t miss this.

  • Ticket price: 50 PHP
  • How to get there: Follow the road to Carmen . After you pass the Man-Made forest, it’s a fairly straight ride. If you’re on a a bus, take one at Tagbilaran bus station heading to Carmen . You can ask the driver to drop you off at the Chocolate Hills .
  • What to do: On a clear day, you can spend hours admiring the landscape.

Balicasag Island

bohol travel guide balicasag

The Marine Sanctuary of Balicasag is a world-class diving spot. Featuring rich wildlife of fish, dolphins, turtles, and corals it’s a must if you’re into the underwater world.

That said, there have been rising environmental concerns regarding snorkeling. The high number of boats with careless tourists touching starfishes and turtles (they’re sensitive to human bacteria) and swimming with sunscreen on (whose chemicals can literally destroy the corals). Please be aware of this when going there.

To get away from it all, you can also spend the night in Balicasag Island Dive Resort .

  • Ticket price: Don’t pay more than 300 PHP if you’re going on a organized tour
  • How to get there: Join an organized tour or haggle with a boatmen to take you there on a outrigger
  • What to do: Snorkeling and diving are the main highlights here.

Beaches of Bohol & Panglao

bohol philippines travel guide budget itinerary dumaluan beach

To be completely honest, I was expecting more from the beaches in Panglao . My biggest disappointment was the infamous Alona Beach . What once was a tropical paradise, now it’s a dirty overcrowded beach, full of restaurants, bars and dodgy stalls oriented for mass tourism.

I’ve toured across other beaches and whether was the trash, the algae or the total absence of sand to lay in, they all seemed they needed some kind of maintenance.

While Bohol has Anda Beach , a rising eco-tourism hotspot, most beaches are actually located in the twin island of Panglao . On the map it looks like an appendix , but this place boasts a different vibe from Bohol .

Panglao is packed with at least a dozen white-sand beaches to choose from. Some of them boast beautiful palm trees, clean sand, and crystal clear beaches, especially if they are maintained by resorts or hotels. In this category, Dumaluan Beach was my favorite.

If you’re a beach bum and mostly want beach time, there are better islands in the Philippines .

Beaches in Panglao and Bohol

  • Alona Beach : don’t matter what Google images tell you, skip it. What it used to be a picture-perfect beach in Panglao , today is a mega-touristy and rather depressing stretch of sand full of boats, trash and restaurants.
  • Anda Beach : unspoiled stretches of sand in the southeast tip of Bohol . A great choice if you’re looking for the off the beaten track.
  • White Beach : packed at first, but pretty secluded after a 10-minute walk. I still found some plastic and trash on the sand, but nothing dramatic.
  • Dumaluan Beach : awesome. You need to pay an entrance fee to the STUNNING Bohol Beach Club , but it’s worth it. This the kind of beach you see in travel magazines.
  • Doljo Beach : the scenery here is stunning. The sand is so white it creates a natural mirror during low-tide. Lots of starfish. I didn’t find it amazing for swimming though.
  • San Isidro Beach : super disappointed with the level of trash and low level of sand. The way I’d describe it: a dirty rocky bay.
  • Danao Beach : another one not inviting enough to lay around for long.

Sample Bohol Itinerary

Find below a suggested itinerary to explore Bohol and Panglao . Even though I’ve created a list of sights up until 5 full days available in Bohol , I’d say 2 full days is the absolute minimum to have a well-rounded experience of the island.

This itinerary is in order. If you only have 3 days available on the island, my suggestion is that you do the things on the first 3 rows.

Where to stay in Bohol

My first suggestion is to skip beach-front accommodation in Alona Beach . Firstly, all the prices are inflated. And then from what I’ve seen, I can hardly call it a “beach” anymore.

Basing yourself in Panglao is a good idea, specially if you’re looking for some beach-bum time. But instead, base yourself near Alona Beach . If your budget allows, don’t even think twice. Stay in Bohol Beach Club :

Bohol Beach Club

You might never want to leave this place. The setting is fantastic and right next to the best beach I’ve seen in the entire Philippines . Book now >>

I understand if you can’t spend that much. Here’s another suggestion of good value:

Bohol South Beach

Comfy hotel, cose to a private beach. The breakfast is rated as excellent.

Find your accommodation in Bohol

If you want to find your own hotel, start with this shortlist of the top-rated hotels and resorts in Bohol, with WiFi and breakfast included .

Or make your own research:

Food in Bohol

bohol travel guide food chicken adobo

Compared to other places in Southeast Asia like in Vietnam , the food in Philippines can be somewhat disappointing.

Or maybe I was biased because I came to the Philippines coming from Ninh Binh in Vietnam which has some of the most delicious food I’ve tasted.

In any case, I had some pretty nice meals in Bohol .

What to eat in Bohol 🍳

  • Chicken Adobo : chicken marineted in a delicious rich sauce of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, peppercorns and bay leaves
  • Kare-Kare : traditional Filipino stew complimented with a thick savory peanut sauce. Beef, pork, ox or chicken meats can be used.
  • LechĂłn : roasted suckling pig. I don’t eat babies so I didn’t try this, but I got to say it looked good!
  • Halo-halo : the most famous dessert in the Philippines . It’s a rather odd and indulging mix of shaved ice, jelly, sweet beans, coconut and fruits.

Places to eat in Bohol 🍽️

Bohol bee farm restaurant (panglao).

This restaurant in Panglao is part of a hotel with the same name and serves healthy, organic food.

The ingredients come from the owner’s farm and the view of the sea brings up the experience by a notch. They also have a smaller cafĂ© right in Alona Beach – The Buzz CafĂ© – where I went religiously every evening for their organic ice creams.

Gerarda’s Place (Tagbilaran)

Located in Tagbilaran , this family-owned restaurant serves unpretentious, delicious and inexpensive food. Good for trying local flavors. Try the buttered chicken, actually served on butter!

The Wine Cellar (Panglao)

It’s on the higher end of the price spectrum but when you’re on vacations, sometimes you need a treat. Boasting a wide choice of Asian and European dishes and wines from Germany and Austria, you can rest assured to have a neat meal here.

Sunset Grill Authentic Mexican Food (Panglao)

Well, the name says it all! When you’re traveling through Asia , mixing things up with different flavors is a breath of fresh air. This authentic Mexican place with great food and big servings is the place to go.

Coco Loco (Anda)

One of those beach bars serving delicious food all-day-long. Come for the breakfast menus, stay for craft beers. Perfect spot to unwind, with the beach just a few steps away.

🇵🇭 PHILIPPINES | 🌱 Paddy fields. When you stop the bike on the middle of the road to take a picture you know it’s going to be a good one. Paddy fields are such an eye-candy here! #Philippines #itsmorefuninph #PaddyFields #green #nature #ricefields #landscape #ig_NeverStopExploring #WanderOut #Destination_Earth #Wonderful_Places #BeautifulMatters #Fantastic_Earth #TourThePlanet #TheGlobeWanderer #OurPlanetDaily #EarthPix #Sourceadventures #EarthOfficial #WildernessCulture #RoamThePlanet #ThePhotoSociety #TravelPhotography #Goph #the_ph #comeseeph #traversePhilippines #TravelStoriesPH #travel_philippines Uma publicação partilhada por BRUN🌎 (@bruno_mb) a Dez 22, 2016 Ă s 8:37 PST

Cost of things in Bohol

To give you a good idea of the budget you can expect, I’ll give you some examples of what things can cost. The prices are up-to-date at the date of writing of this article.

Bohol budget and daily costs

  • Transportation : The ferry from Cebu on Ocean Jet was 500 pesos (plus extra 100 for the luggage). We haggled down the price of a van from Tagbilaran to Alona for 400 pesos.
  • Vehicle rentals : motorbikes can be rented from 350 pesos per day next to Alona Beach . I’m sure you can find for less in other more remote areas.
  • Gasoline : if you go to the petrol station, filling your tank can be as low as 100 pesos
  • Food : Local restaurants serve main dishes starting at 60 pesos, but on average a lunch would cost around 150-200 pesos. Some restaurants in Alona can be slightly more expensive during dinner: a full meal for 2 people starts at around 300 pesos. A beer starts at 40 pesos.
  • Water : don’t forget to hydrate! A big water bottle (1,5L) was around 15-25 pesos.
  • Accommodation : I’d say you can expect to pay somewhere between 1000 and 1600 pesos per day for a medium-quality double room in most places in Bohol . Even in Alona Beach . Of course there are backpacker dorms cheaper and resort rooms more expensive than this.
  • Entrance fees : everywhere you go in the Philippines you need to pay a small entrance fee (even in airport terminals!). See below the entrance fees for the main sights in Bohol .

I found the prices in Bohol to be in line as compared to other places in the Philippines and a bit lower than in touristy hotspots like El Nido .

If you’re traveling with more people, you can easily get around with less than 1000PHP or 50EUR/USD per day.

bohol philippines travel guide budget itinerary doljo beach

Bohol Travel Tips

  • Bring sunscreen. You can get burned easily if you’re not careful. Read other stuff to pack while traveling in Southeast Asia .
  • Always have some change and small money with you. In the Philippines (too) many places ask for a minimal entrance fee (even churches and airport terminals). They might just change their name to FEE-lipphines.
  • Don’t stay right in Alona Beach. Biased by Google Images results and promises of a tropical paradise, I almost made this mistake.

Bohol Review

Bohol stroke me as the most diverse place in the Philippines . While other islands excel in beaches or jungle landscapes, this one seems to have a bit of everything. Sort of a mini-showcase of the Philippines .

While the Chocolate Hills and Dumaluan Beach were definitely an highlight, my fondest memories were actually small things on the day-to-day. Like driving through the island. The winding roads through paddy fields and lush forests are beautiful to look at. The school kids waving at you and older people smiling every time you enter a restaurant or a shop.

The level of infrastructure is just right and it is suited for all kinds of people, from the budget backpacker to the most luxurious traveler. However, some places are starting to lose its charm and yes I’m speaking again of Alona Beach . What a disappointment!

In any case, Bohol is safe, friendly and the definition of adventure. If it’s your first time in the Philippines I highly recommend you stay for a few days.

bohol travel guide philippines reasons why go

27 Reasons To Visit The Philippines

Continue reading more about this stunning country with 27 reasons why it should be on your immediate travel plans.

Bohol Travel Guide – Other Useful Links

  • Ocean Jet : reliable ferry company in the Philippines
  • Weather in Bohol : detailed data about weather in Bohol
  • Siquijor Guide – Itinerary, Tourist Spots and Budget
  • 7 Awesome Experiences In Bohol And Panglao, Philippines
  • My Top 10 Places To Visit in Siquijor Island
  • 27 Reasons To Visit The Philippines ASAP
How was Bohol for you? Which island is your favorite in Philippines? Let me know your experience in Bohol and other places in the Philippines!

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Travel Guide to Bohol, Philippines

An Overview of the Mysterious Home of the Tarsier and the Chocolate Hills

panglao travel guide

Per-Andre Hoffman/Getty Images

To travel to Bohol in the Philippines is to encounter a curious place, steeped in devout folk Catholicism, bustling with energy, and intimately connected to nature.

Only a few generations out of small-town mode, the island of Bohol retains a laid-back feel that sometimes seems at odds with the noise of the capital, Tagbilaran , and the fun-seeking party atmosphere of nearby Panglao Island .

Much of the charm of the island draws from its unique geography: Bohol's islands, caves, rivers, and odd geological formations take their shape due to Bohol's karst topography: due to an abundance of limestone in the bedrock, Bohol boasts of a series of odd natural formations, including (but not limited to) the Chocolate Hills. 

This quirky limestone-based geology serves as the Bohol tourist's ideal backdrop for adventure: whether you're into diving around Panglao, or viewing the Chocolate Hills (or even better, ATVing around them), or visiting a "mystical island" on the other side of Bohol.

  • Important Information: For data on visas and other important traveler info, read about Philippines Travel Information .

Getting Your Bearings on Bohol

Bohol is the tenth-largest island in the Philippine archipelago, covering about 1,590 square miles (only slightly larger than Long Island in New York ). The egg-shaped island lies about 550 miles south of the Philippines' capital Manila; regular flights from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (IATA: NAIA) fly to Bohol-Panglao Airport (IATA: TAG) on adjacent Panglao Island, and ferry services serve sea routes between Manila or Cebu and Bohol.

  • Making it Plane: For details on how to get to Bohol from abroad or from selected Philippine gateways, read this article: Transportation to Bohol, Philippines .

From Bohol's capital Tagbilaran, three major highways split up to cover Bohol's coast and interior, three traffic arteries linking to the island's major attractions. The well-developed road network in Bohol allows travelers to reach deep into the island; riding from end to end can take about two and a half hours' straight drive.

How fast you get to where you want to go depends on how much you plan to spend - if you have a middling to big budget, you can rent a private car with driver; if you have less money, the rest of Bohol is perfectly accessible via the island's public transport system, if you don't mind tacking an extra hour or three on your travel schedule.

Tagbilaran, Panglao, and Bohol's Other Attractions

The main city on Bohol Island is Tagbilaran , the island provincial capital, on the southwestern coast. As the only city and the main gateway to the rest of the Philippines, Tagbilaran is the island's main nerve center for commerce and transport.

Buses, jeepneys and v-hires departing from the Integrated Bus Terminal connect travelers to the rest of the island. From the IBT, Baclayon (home of Baclayon Church) lies just 4.3 miles east of the city; the Chocolate Hills, about 34 miles northeast; and Panglao Island, about 11 miles west, accessible via two bridges spanning the Panglao Strait.

Panglao Island is one of Bohol's main travel stops, as it possesses some of the province's best-known white-sand beaches and finest dive spots. A few islets off Panglao are ideal for island-hopping and sunbathing: Gak-ang and Pontod can be reached by boat hire through any of the resorts on the island.

  • Busy in Bohol: For a more detailed list of activities for travelers in this part of the Philippines, read our list of Things to Do in Bohol - which includes details on the Chocolate Hills, the tarsiers, and river tours that tourists come to Bohol to find.

Where to Stay in Bohol

Bohol has taken a while to wake up from its sleepy stupor, but the tourist market has quickly picked up on the area's natural attractions, hot diving spots, and charming churches.

Panglao beach bums have plenty of options: these resorts in Panglao Island , provide great value on island accommodations. Access to the beach costs more, though - but the off-the-beaten-path resorts offer some relief from the noise of areas close to the beach.

When to Go to Bohol

Bohol is good for travelers all year round, but the dry, cool season between December and March is the perfect time to go. Summer really heats up between March and July, until the heat breaks with the coming of the rainy season.

Carefully consider any travel in Bohol between August and November, as heavy rains fall on the island between these low tourist months.

  • Rain rain go away: For more information on the island's climate, read our article on weather in the Philippines .

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The Ultimate Travel Guide To Panglao Island

  • by Dave Foster
  • 6 minute read

panglao travel guide

What you need to know before going to Panglao Island in the Philippines Everything you need to know if you’re visiting Panglao Island in the Philippines

In December, 2015, we went on a ten-day excursion to paradise, which is also known as Panglao Island. I’ll be honest: Panglao Island wasn’t on our list of beach getaways, but we wanted to go to the Philippines and were convinced by the inexpensive and direct flight from Korea.

After a quick search, I was surprised to discover that Panglao Island has a lot of negative reviews; it’s too commercialized, expensive, doesn’t offer any entertainment, and is better off going to Boracay…

This wasn’t the case for us, though – we had a fantastic holiday and the island far exceeded our expectations. I highly recommend a visit to Panglao if you want sunshine, sea, sand, and snorkeling.

Find out everything you need to know about the island in this post, but first, see some of our favorite parts from our holiday in this video we produced (music by Major Lazer and DJ Snake).

HOW TO GET TO PANGLAO ISLAND

We arrived in Cebu City (Mactan Cebu International Airport) and took a taxi to the port for 15 minutes. You can purchase ferry tickets once you’ve reached the pier, but because we were travelling at Christmas time, we opted to reserve our seats in advance through Luzviminda Travel and Tours.

The transfer from Cebu to Tagbilaran City in Bohol took about two hours and was smooth. Once on the island, it’s only about 20 minutes in a taxi or tricycle to the main stretch of Alona Beach, where most of the resorts and hotels are located (for information on where to stay on the island.

Dumaluan Beach

From the lush greenery along the coast to the turquoise waters lapping against pristine white sand, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of this small paradise. Beautiful waves crash gently on finely-sanded shores where clear like your gin and tonic, invitingly in your hand. It isn’t a dream.

panglao travel guide

A ten-minute taxi ride from Alona will take you to a beautiful beach with crystal-clear water, white sand and palm trees. This beach is about an eight-minute drive from Alona but is well worth the trip. We liked Dumaluan Beach much better than Alona Beach – it was cleaner, less crowded.

If you want to take a picnic or get some shade, there are several inexpensive beach huts to rent for the day. Throughout the day, there’s also a BBQ shack that sells inexpensive meals and beverages.

panglao travel guide

If you’re not into hanging out with the locals and want something a little livelier, check out Alona Beach.

Although the beach is still lovely, swimming is restricted by boats transporting people back and forth throughout the day for diving and snorkeling excursions.

panglao travel guide

There are so many places to eat and drink on Alona that you’ll be spoilt for choice, especially since there are several beach bars to choose from. Watch the sun set with a cocktail in hand while listening to reggae music and the murmur of the ocean.

We’ve been to a few countries in Asia, but the Philippines is unquestionably one of the most cost-effective and enjoyable.

Panglao is a popular tourist spot, so prices on the island are higher than those in Cebu or Bohol City, but they’re still nothing compared to what you’ll pay in other countries. If you prefer drinking local rum instead of imported beverages, you can get yourself a short for less than 12 pesos.

panglao travel guide

SNORKELLING & DIVING

The Philippines is well-known for its fantastic diving, and Panglao Island isn’t an exception. If scuba diving isn’t your thing, you’ll be able to enjoy a peaceful beach at night when others are out snorkeling and diving.

Unfortunately, we aren’t certified divers (yet!), but we did go on a boat trip to snorkel in the islands. There are a lot of dive centers along Alona Beach that provide low-cost diving and snorkelling excursions—check out the equipment first before making your decision.

The daily cost of a snorkelling trip is around 350-500 pesos, and two dives per day will set you back about 2500-3000 pesos.

ISLAND EXCURSIONS

If you’re not a beach person, don’t worry! There is plenty to keep you occupied in and around Panglao and Bohol’s neighboring islands. There are many tour companies along the beach that provide a variety of day excursions, group trips, and private tours. Choose one that is appropriate for you whether it’s with friends.

We discovered that the costs of transportation were non-negotiable, so we opted to hire a local taxi driver instead. This allowed us to negotiate the price and customize the itinerary to our requirements rather than participating in an eight hour group excursion around the island.

Other Excursions Include:

  • Island hopping boat trip to Balicasag Island, Virgin Island and Pamilacan Island.
  • Diving with whale sharks in Oslob
  • Visit the Chocolate Hills in Bohol
  • See the fireflies on a night kayaking tour
  • Zip lining at Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park
  • Take a dip in Hinagdanan Lake
  • Visit the tarsier sanctuary
  • Relax on a Loboc River Cruise

panglao travel guide

The atmosphere on Panglao was very similar to that on the Caribbean – chilly and calm.

Service was incredibly slow throughout the day on Gili Air, with things barely getting started by midday. If you love being waited on hand and foot, Panglao isn’t the holiday spot for you.

Don’t expect someone to come rushing over when you sit down in a restaurant; it frequently fell to us to catch the attention of staff so that an order could be placed, and even then our drinks didn’t arrive for another ten minutes. Yes, it’s slightly aggravating – but not the end of the world if you’re sitting on a beach.

Panglao isn’t the best location to get down and boogie if you’re looking for somewhere to party hard. We’d read on line that nightlife on the island was practically non-existent, so we were concerned about being bored as a young couple.

This wasn’t the case – Panglao is certainly quieter than Boracay’s party island, but there were still plenty of restaurants and lively bars open until the early hours of the morning.

panglao travel guide

We spent our first New Year’s Eve on Alona Beach drinking cocktails and watching an incredible fireworks display.

It was a great atmosphere at that time with many of the hotels on the beachfront having huge buffets, live music, and DJs spinning throughout the night to keep the party going.

WHERE TO STAY?

There are numerous resorts on the island, and you’ll most likely get a better deal if you show up rather than booking in advance (unless you’re visiting during peak season in December or January.)

The high-end resorts are located directly along Alona Beach, but I don’t believe it’s worth paying a premium to stay in a luxury resort for very long.

The entire beach is open to the public, so you’re not getting much more than a gorgeous pool and a nice bedroom.

We stayed at a mid-range hotel rather than a hostel because my mother would be accompanying us on our trip to the Philippines. We spent the entire duration of our stay at Panglao Regents Park Resort, which cost around 1800 Philippine pesos per night (I booked the reservation through Agoda.)

The hotel was located in a commercial area with numerous shops and restaurants, which took approximately seven minutes to walk to Alona beach (but there were plenty of taxis and tricycles available if you don’t want to walk.) We appreciated being close to the bustle of Alona Beach without being part of it.

We liked the hotel a lot; it was clean, comfortable, and had a nice shower and air conditioner. There were also two clean swimming pools and a wonderful happy hour (s)! You could get food here, but we never ate there.

The personnel were pleasant and helpful, and they can help you plan activities on the island. While I was away from the resort, Dave and I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary, so the hotel staff went above and beyond to assist him decorate our room – a lovely surprise when I returned from my beach excursion.

Last updated: 21/10/2021

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Dave Foster

I like fishing since I was 6 years old, and the passion comes with me throughout my life. Boats my passion too as I like the calmness and natural beauty on sunrise while boating.

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6 Awesome Things to Do in Panglao Island, Bohol

The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7500 islands, there are so many beautiful locations to travel to  Boracay ,  Palawan ,  Siargao , honestly, there are just too many to name! One of the most popular islands to visit in the Philippines is Bohol. Bohol has a lot of tourists sights especially countryside activities. However, everyone choose to come back to Panglao Island to rest and relax.

Table of Contents

So if you find yourself having a few days to spend in Bohol, here is a list of some awesome things to do in Panglao Island. In this article, we’re going to detail some exciting activities that you can do whilst on holiday at Panglao or if you want more, you can check out the  best things you can do in Bohol too !

panglao travel guide

Related Read: 7 Cheap Hotels and Hostels in Panglao Island, Bohol

Awesome Things to Do in Panglao Island

So you’ve booked your flight to  Bohol , packed your sunnies, swimwear and have readied your reservation on  Panglao Island , what’s next? Of course, you’re up for some adventure, sun worshipping and you want to indulge in everything the island has to offer! So here are our suggestions for things to do on Panglao Island, Bohol.

To make the most of your visit to Panglao Island, stay at one of the  best Bohol luxury resorts  for a more awesome time!

Bike and Beach Hop

Get a good tan and beach bum your way in the white fine sand with cool juice fresh from a coconut husk. Panglao Island will make you enjoy or relax on its fine sand and pristine beaches. Take pleasure with some of your fellow beach bums or laze around by yourself with a book from sun up till the glorious sunset. Walk along the 1 km stretch of Alona Beach, the most famous on the island. When Alona becomes too crowded for your taste, you can hire or rent a motorbike and relax on the other stunning beaches like Doljo beach, Bolod, Dumaluan, Danao and Bagobo Beach. These are some of the best beaches in Bohol, so if you’re in the area be sure to check them out!

Interested in travelling to the Philippines? Check out our ultimate travel guide to planning your trip to the Philippines.

Scuba/Free Diving or Snorkeling

Try to become a child of Poseidon and immerse yourself in the underworld beauty through scuba diving and snorkeling. Panglao is rich in marine biodiversity and there are some diving sites on the island. Most divers prefer Alona Beach as their starting point. The highlight of most diving excursions in Panglao is the Balicasag Island – a distant island rich with marine life. You can also join a free diving class with a non-profit organization on the island.

panglao travel guide

Island Hopping to Balicasag or Pamilacan

Race against the sunrise to start off your island hopping tour and dolphin watching. The islands of Balicasag and Isola de Francisco (Virgin Island) will be your destinations. But before that, ready yourself to wake up at 4:30 AM so you could watch and wait for the dolphins in the middle of the sea. If you’re lucky, a whale might show up too. You can arrange this tour with your hotel or arrange it yourself in Alona Beach.

Prices usually start at 1,500 pesos to 2,500 pesos depending on how many people in the group and how good you are at haggling. Make sure to ask about all the inclusions in the tour so you would know how much will you spend overall. You can also  book online for the Bohol island hopping tour  to avoid haggling and be more comfortable.

panglao travel guide

Options are available in Balicasag Island to dive or snorkel. Snorkeling is around 250 pesos. You can pack your own lunch or have a seafood lunch served on the island. Next stop from Balicasag is the Virgin Island, now named Isola de Francisco.  The island was opened by the owner for the devotees of Padre Pio as evidenced by the religious statues built on the island. Food and drinks can be brought to the island and one can enjoy the stretch of white sand bar and frolic in the crystal clear water.

Go on a Food Trip

Indulge on a mouth-watering food trip and beer spree. No matter what your mood is, food is the ultimate cure and by all means, dig in. Alona Beach comes alive at night as you walk along the shore and find the freshest catch of the day for dinner. Go gaga over the fresh seafood and tell the waiter how you want your food cooked. Enjoy the fire dance and music jams while you’re at it or have a relaxing massage by the beach beforehand.

panglao travel guide

The area is packed with great restaurants offering different cuisines. And well of course, who would forget the beer? It’s a staple of parties and chill out jams. Foreign tourists are often quite surprised at how cheap beer is in the Philippines. So how about some  San Miguel  to whet your whistle?

Go Vegan or Organic

If you’re a sucker for anything healthy and organic, the  Bohol Bee Farm  is a must try. I am a huge fan of their delightfully organic and tasty ice cream, particularly the Malunggay flavour. If you need something new for your taste buds, try out the seaweed and ginger flavors. Their restaurant or the Buzz Café offers a smorgasbord of interesting delights from bread to pasta and pizza and variety of menu. There are also many different restaurants in Panglao Island which cater to different palettes.

panglao travel guide

If you want to combine a tour of Panglao Island and the Bee Farm, it is easier to just book a combination tour in the morning so you’ll have the rest of the afternoon free to frolick at the beach.

Water Sports Adventure

Kite surf your way into adventure. Water sports are readily available in the island, but if you think they’re not enough and you have the money for it, this may be the activity for you. Check out a popular kite surfing shop along Alona Beach too. There are jet skis and banana boats available at some resorts on the island too.

Go Spelunking

Get away from the sun and spelunk a little at Hinagdanan Cave. The cave is located in Dauis, farther from Alona Beach. The cave is naturally lit by sunlight that permeates through the holes in the ceiling of the cavern. It has a deep lagoon and large stalagmites and stalactites. The entrance to the cave is a hole about 1 meter in diameter and cemented steps lead into the interior. The path is quite slippery but there is a railing made of rope that you can hold on to. The underground lake is a popular swimming spot but it has been known to test for high levels of various pollutants,since it is fed by ground runoff. The entrance fee for Hinagdanan cave is 50 pesos. It takes about 1 hour to visit and the opening hours are from 730am – 6pm.

panglao travel guide

If you’ve enjoyed Panglao Island to the fullest and you think you’ve enjoyed Bohol and all it has to offer, you’re in for another treat. Bohol is like a country packed into a small island. Take a tour in the countryside and visit century old churches, cruise along the Loboc River, be one with the Man Made Forest, get along with the Tarsiers and admire the breathtaking view of the 1,268 Chocolate Hills. Then how about visiting about 10 waterfalls and springs sporadically spread around the province or jumping at cave pools in Anda? Oh, and what about  free falling at a 75-meter drop, 200 meters above trees and rocks at E.A.T. Danao or exploring its caves?

Visit Moadto Strip Mall

The newest addition to Panglao Island’s attractions is the modern Moadto Strip Mall. It has a long stretch of beach, a green area to lounge and a number of restaurants and shops that cater to anyone. The best time to visit there is during the evening or sunset as you can see some really nice views all while sipping a sun-downer. Moadto Strip mall is located in Doljo beach area and is free for everyone to visit. The new Modala Beach Resort is located beside it too.

Tips When You Travel to Panglao Island Bohol

  • If you have more time to spend in Bohol, you can rent a motorbike to explore the areas in Panglao and further into the middle part of the island. All roads are paved if you want to drive to the Chocolate Hills on a motorbike.
  • If you don’t have enough time, you can combine a Bohol Countryside tour to the Chocolate Hills and Panglao Island tour in a day.

How to Get to Panglao Island

Panglao is part of the island of Bohol and is accessible from Tagbilaran City. From Manila, you can fly to Tagbilaran City every day with flights from different airlines. From Tagbilaran City, you can take a taxi or car to your hotel or arrange a pick up from them. There are also many  affordable places to stay in Panglao or Tagbilaran City  to make your trip a success.

If you don’t have enough time to stay on the island. You can stay for one night and combine a Bohol Countryside tour and Panglao Island. This means you get to see the Chocolate Hills, dine at Loboc River and cruise, see the tarsier and also get to see the beaches of Panglao. This is the perfect tour to get the most out of your visit to Bohol. After Bohol, you can also get to Cebu and do a  Cebu Daytrip there too!

Have you ever been to Panglao Island? What did you do? Let us know in the comments!

Don’t just leave the Philippines without checking out Cebu! Here’s our Cebu Travel Guide with itinerary and things to do. 

Have you got any questions about traveling to the Philippines? Join our  Philippines Travel Planning FB Page  to get your answers.

Don’t know how to start planning your Philippines trip? You can  start here .

Read all our travel planning articles about Bohol  here.

panglao travel guide

Angie is a travel consultant and blogger who has started by writing her travel memoirs on her blog and then got published  on international travel sites. She’s now focused on creating in-depth travel itinerary and articles about planning trips to the Philippines.

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Quick Travel Guide to Panglao Island

panglao travel guide

Imagine a small island with white sandy beaches , warm turquoise water, fringed by lazy coconut palms swaying in the light tropical breeze. That pretty much sums up Panglao Island, an idyllic beach resort islands in the Philippines. Before you visit Panglao Bohol check out this Quick Travel Guide to Panglao Island.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy for more information.

What to Do in Panglao Island

This is the place to go if you just want to chill out by a beautiful white sandy beach . Beaches in Panglao are world class… the best of the best.

Maybe you want to do some world class SCUBA diving in an amazingly accessible location. For SCUBA diving Panglao Island is amongst the best in the world.

Maybe you just want to chill out in your infinite pool at a classy Panglao Beach Resort. No Problem! Panglao Island ticks all the boxes. And here are some of our best things to do at Panglao Island.

Alona Beach : This is the most popular of all beaches in Panglao Island, and where most tourists end up at some stage. Alona Beach is a long white sandy beach, lined with cafes, resorts and SCUBA dive shops. And it’s a great place to take the kids for a safe swim.

SCUBA Diving : Balicasag Island is just a few minutes boat ride from Alona Beach . Balicasag is the best SCUBA diving Panglao Island has to offer. It is a marine sanctuary and full of huge turtles and diverse marine life. It is also quite shallow, with most dives around the 18m mark.

There are many other great dive sites all around Panglao Island, making it a SCUBA diving hotspot. There is also a great house reef, where you can do wall diving directly off Alona Beach .

Snorkelling Trip : You don’t need to be a SCUBA dive to enjoy the marine life at Panglao Island, the are countless opportunities to go snorkelling as well. Just ask you Panglao Island Resort to find you a boat, it’s very easy.

Alternatively just head to Alona beach , and ask any of the dozens of dive resorts what’s available. You will be able to book a boat, or get one virtually straight away if you want.

Hinagdanan Cave : Bohol and Panglao Island is full of caves, and Hinagdanan Cave on Panglao is open to the public. There is a large pool of water inside these caves where you are invited to have a swim. Amongst all the creepy crawlies also having a swim. It’s an easy spot to get to on your Panglao Island tour, just 20 minutes drive from Alona Beach .

Day Trips from Panglao Island

Panglao Island is connected to the much larger island of Bohol by 2 bridges, so a Bohol tour is quite easy to do. It’s quite easy to find a quality Bohol tour package at any of the tour outlets dotted along Alona Beach .

Bohol is full of some world class tourist attractions. It is also building a reputation for thrilling adventure parks for the thrill seekers. These days, Bohol is one of the premier tourist destinations in the Philippines, especially since the International Airport opened in November 2018.

Chocolate Hills :  The number 1 tourist attraction in the province of Bohol is the Chocolate Hills. When you ask a Filipino if they know about Bohol they will always say “ah yes, the Chocolate Hills”. Virtually every Bohol tour package will bring you here.

Think of hundreds of peculiar symmetrical mountains which turn brown in the dry season, resembling a giant box of chocolate. And a memorable day tour from Panglao Island.

Tarsier Conservatory : The smallest primate on the planet are native to Bohol. And you can see these curious creatures at the Tarsier Conservatory. Most day tours in Bohol will include some Tarsier visit on the itinerary.

Loboc River : About 1 hour drive from Alona Beach on Panglao Island is the Loboc River . This is the biggest river on the island of Bohol, and has lots of different river tour options available. One of the most interesting is firefly spotting at night.

Where to Stay in Panglao Island

Alona Beach is the number one attraction on Panglao Island, and the place where most people choose to stay. For first timers we recommend you stay as closer to Alona Beach as you can.

Cheap Accommodation

panglao travel guide

Lost Horizon Dive Resort is right in the heart of Alona Beach . For absolute beachfront hotels in Panglao Bohol, this is the best you will find.

You will be treated to a relaxing live music in the beach front restaurant, and SCUBA diving available right there at the resort.

panglao travel guide

Alona Vida Beach Resort is located at the epicentre of Alona Beach awesomeness, the best beach in Panglao. It is surrounded by laid back beach bars and restaurants, and is on the best section of Alona Beach for swimming. The highest concentrations of SCUBA dive providers is also found along this section of the beach.

Affordable Luxury

If you’re after the number 1 (affordable) Panglao beachfront resort, this is it. It is the Henann Resort Alona Beach , with its incredible white sand beach and unbeatable swimming pools. Henann occasionally offer some heavily discounted promotional offers. This hotel is Paradise with a capital P.

panglao travel guide

Find a Great Deal

We recommend you shop around for a great deal on the best resort in Panglao Island to suit your budget. This Booking.com deals finder is a great place to start.

Quick Travel Guide to Panglao Island

Plan Your Trip to Panglao Island

Read more about panglao island.

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Your Southeast Asia Itinerary

If you’d like some more help planning your Southeast Asia holiday itinerary then check out this blog post , with several different itineraries to choose from.

Would you like a free copy of our Ultimate Bucket List?

Not sure where to travel to next? We have created the Ultimate Bucket List to help you plan your next trip. 1170 awesome travel destinations in 167 countries. And we want you to have it for FREE.

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14 Awesome Panglao Tourist Spots And Things to do in Panglao

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Categories Asia , Philippines , Travel Advice

Table of Contents

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Where to stay in the philippines, book your travel insurance, panglao travel guide, getting to panglao from tagbilaran port, getting panglao from the airport, daily budget in panglao, how many days you should stay in panglao, panglao tourist spots and things to do in panglao, 1. balicasag island, 2. alona beach, 3. sunrise in panglao, 4. sunset in panglao, 5. hinagdanan cave.

Image from Flickr

6. Virgin Island

Image from Wikimedia

7. Visit Bee Farm

More panglao tourist spots and things to do in panglao, 8. dumaluan beach, 9. doljo beach, 10. pamilacan, 11. luxury resort in panglao, 12. getting a masage in panglao island, 13. nightlife in panglao, 14. filipino traditional dance, food to try in panglao, where to stay in panglao, bluewater panglao.

Ruben Arribas

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

Saturday 4th of March 2023

That's an amazingly detailed post. I love it and wish that my newly opened panglao yoga studio could make it on the list as number 15 - Jing Yoga

Ruben Arribas

Thanks Jing :)

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Bohol Travel Guide

Discovering bohol: a comprehensive travel guide.

Bohol is a beautiful island province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. If you're planning a trip to Bohol, this travel guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make the most of your experience on the island.

Island Hopping, Philippines

Cebu, Bohol and Palawan Escapade | 8 Days

Boat floating on the crystal clear water in Virgin Island

Panglao Island Hopping and Dolphin Watching (w/ Tour Guide)

A tropical white beach in Cebu

Cebu and Bohol | 6 Days

Come to palawan.

Bohol Chocolate Hills natural landmark in Philippines

Bohol is a must-visit destination in the Philippines, offering a variety of breathtaking natural wonders and unique experiences.

Known for its iconic Chocolate Hills , the province also boasts pristine beaches, world-class diving spots, and fascinating historical landmarks.  Be sure to visit the Tarsier Sanctuary to see the adorable and endangered primates that can fit in the palm of your hand. For a unique dining experience, hop on one of the floating restaurants that gently glide down the Loboc River.

With its warm and welcoming locals, Bohol is a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture.

What to See in Bohol:

Boat floating on the crystal clear water in Virgin Island

If you’re planning to visit Bohol and Panglao Island for your next vacation, make sure to add these must-see places to your itinerary:

Chocolate Hills

With over 1,000 hills covered in grass that turns brown (like chocolate) during the dry season, this is one of the most iconic and breathtaking sights in the Philippines.

Tarsier Conservation Area

Created to ensure the safety of the tarsier, one of the smallest living primates, this sanctuary allows visitors to observe these adorable creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Alona Beach

Located in Panglao Island, this is a popular spot for scuba-diving and snorkeling, with crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life to discover.

Loboc River

Famous for its scenic river cruise on floating restaurants, this attraction allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the river while indulging in delicious local cuisine.

Anda Beach in Bohol is a hidden gem known for its white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in a peaceful and secluded setting away from the crowds.

Balicasag Marine Sanctuary

Balicasag Marine Sanctuary is a 400-meter area of healthy corals off the coast of Panglao, attracting pelagic marine species. Balicasag Island is known for snorkeling and diving . Visitors can see sea life, vibrant coral, and swim with sea turtles.

When to go to Bohol:

Bohol and Panglao Island are year-round destinations, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.

The weather in Bohol is generally warm and tropical all year round, with temperatures ranging from 25-32°C (77-90°F). The island experiences two main seasons: the dry season, which runs from November to May, and the rainy season, which runs from June to October.

During the dry season, the weather is generally hot and dry with occasional cool breezes. This is the perfect time to visit if you want to explore the beaches and other outdoor attractions. 

The summer season from March to May offers the driest and hottest weather, making it the perfect time to see the iconic Chocolate Hills in their best chocolate-brown color.

Typhoons can occur in the Philippines from June to November.

Getting to Panglao Island, Bohol

There are several ways to get to Panglao Island, one of the popular destinations in Bohol:

The easiest way to get to Panglao is by flying to Bohol-Panglao International Airport. There are daily flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities in the Philippines. 

Bohol is easily accessible by sea, with Tagbilaran serving as the main tourist seaport. Daily ferries operate from nearby islands such as Cebu and Siquijor, making it a convenient option for those who prefer sea travel.

Getting around

Upon arrival in Panglao, options for transportation include renting a motorbike, taking a tricycle, or hiring a car to explore the island and its attractions.

Recommended Tours

There are several day trip activities to do in Bohol from the hotels in Panglao Island, in addition to snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. The most popular day trip activities are as follows:

Experience the Bohol Countryside , where you can witness the natural wonder of Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, cruise along the Loboc River, and visit the Tarsier Conservation Area dedicated to preserving the small primates native to Bohol.

Embark on a Dolphin Watching Tour and witness several species of dolphins up close. You can also explore nearby islands such as Balicasag Island, Pamilacan Island, or Virgin Island.

Explore the stunning Hinagdanan Cave located in Dauis, Bohol. Marvel at the limestone cave’s beautiful rock formations, underground pools, and unique ecosystem while swimming in the cool waters.

For the adrenaline junkies, head to the Danao Adventure Park in Bohol. Here, you can enjoy a range of thrilling activities such as zip-lining, rappelling, river tubing, and root climbing, all set in a picturesque natural setting.

If you are seeking a comprehensive tour of the best destinations in the Visayas region, the Classic Tour Cebu & Bohol is highly recommended. This tour includes the opportunity to swim with the whale sharks in Oslob, and visit the stunning Moalboal. Once you’ve explored Cebu, the tour will take you to Bohol to witness the famous Chocolate Hills, Panglao Island, and the Tarsier Sanctuary.

If you are looking for a more personalized experience and would like to see attractions that are not included in our ready-made tours, we offer Tailor-Made Tour to cater to your specific interests and preferences.

Click the following link to view all of our available Bohol Tours .

Bohol Chocolate Hills natural landmark in Philippines

Bohol Countryside and Chocolate Hills (w/ Tour Guide)

Where to stay:.

Aerial view of Bohol Beach Club Resort

If you’re planning to explore Bohol, Panglao Island is an ideal location to stay. Connected to the main island by a bridge, Panglao boasts stunning beaches and diverse accommodations.

For those seeking a vibrant atmosphere, Alona Beach is the perfect destination, with numerous hotels and restaurants nearby.

On the other hand, if you prefer a serene and peaceful environment, we highly recommend visiting Dumaluan Beach. Its tranquil ambiance and picturesque surroundings make it a must-visit location during your stay in Bohol.

Bohol Beach Club is a beachfront resort that offers a relaxing tropical getaway. It features a private white sand beach, outdoor pool, and lush gardens. The resort has various types of accommodations, including deluxe rooms and beach cottages that are designed with traditional Filipino-inspired interiors.

Guests can enjoy a range of activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and diving. The resort also has a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine, as well as a beach bar where guests can enjoy refreshing drinks while lounging on the beach.

With its serene ambiance and natural beauty, Bohol Beach Club is an ideal destination for those who want to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Dumaluan Beach.

Amorita Resort Bohol is a luxurious resort located in the beautiful Alona Beach. The resort offers breathtaking views of the Bohol Sea and the surrounding lush greenery. Amorita features elegantly designed rooms and suites that are well-appointed with modern amenities, and some even come with their own plunge pools.

The resort boasts an infinity pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delectable cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy various activities such as island hopping, diving, and snorkeling, or simply relax on the pristine beaches. Amorita Resort is a perfect getaway for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil retreat.

Located on a lush 6.5 hectare property on the pristine shores of Alona Beach in Panglao Island, Bohol, the Henann Resort Alona Beach welcomes guests with beautifully designed structures and warm, open spaces. The coastal-inspired interiors emit a relaxing vibe, offering guests an instantly tranquil stay.

With a commitment to providing exceptional experiences, Henann Resort Alona Beach offers a plethora of features that ensure guests get the best of everything, whether visiting for a vacation or business. From luxurious accommodations to modern facilities and amenities, everything has been carefully curated to provide ultimate comfort and convenience.

Guests can immerse themselves in the resort’s stunning swimming pools, indulge in delicious cuisines at the on-site restaurants, and be attended to by warm and friendly staff

Read More...

Top 10 things to do in Bohol

Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Bohol

Exotic cruise boat with tourists on a jungle river Loboc, Bohol

How to plan a Bohol Trip

Bohol & Panglao 2023 – Travel Budget & Sample Itinerary

Planning a trip to Panglao & Bohol? Here’s a sample travel itinerary & budget to help you plan your own adventure. I’m posting some quick tips here from my recent trip, so make sure to check my travel guides on Bohol & Panglao as well.

Bohol Sample Itinerary

Manila to Bohol Flight

  • Manila to Bohol flight
  • Arrival at Bohol-Panglao Airport
  • Bohol Airport to Panglao hotel transfer

OR Cebu to Bohol Ferry

  • Departure from Cebu City Pier 1
  • Cebu City to Tagbilaran Ferry
  • Arrival at Tagbilaran Port
  • Tagbilaran Port to Panglao hotel transfer

Panglao Hotel Check-in

Book here Compare rates

Panglao Land Tour

  • Hinagdangan Cave.
  • Bohol Bee Farm.
  • Dumaluan Beach & South Palms Resort.
  • Alona Beach.
  • Panglao Church.

Other interesting spots in Panglao Island

  • MIST (restaurant).
  • Moadto Mall & Doljo Beach (sunset view).
  • Zara’s Cafe (sunset view).

Panglao Freediving

  • Napaling Reef.
  • #Freediving near Bohol Sea View Cabin Resort.
  • Plane Wreck near South Palms Resort.

Bohol Countryside Tour

  • Blood Compact Site.
  • Baclayon Church.
  • Lo-ay / Loboc River Cruise / Floating Restaurant & Lunch Buffet.
  • Chocolate Hills Viewdeck.
  • Bilar Man-Made Forest.

Other interesting spots in the Bohol Countryside Tour area

  • Corella Tarsier Sanctuary.

Panglao Island Hopping (half-day)

  • Dolphin Watching.
  • Balicasag Island — Snorkeling & Turtle Watching.
  • Virgin Island

Continue Panglao Land Tour or Freediving

Bohol Departure

  • Panglao hotel check-out.
  • Hotel to Bohol Airport transfer.

Bohol Travel Expenses

Breakdown of travel costs in Bohol. Updated as of June 2023.

  • Bohol Airport – Hotel Transfers — P500 one-way. Book here

Attractions

  • Bohol Countryside Tour — P620 per person (joiners rate, excluding entrance fees). Book here
  • Chocolate Hills Viewdeck — P100 entrance fee per person.
  • Floating Restaurant Lunch Buffet — P850 per person.
  • Panglao Island Hopping — P1,512 per person for group of 4. P2,310 per person for group of 2. With snorkeling & environmental fees for Balicasag & Virgin Island. Book here
  • Panglao Land Tour — P2,350 per group of 2-4. Book here
  • Hinagdangan Cave — P125 per person. P50 entrance fee. Additional P75 swimming fee.

Bohol Budget Travel

Your travel expenses will largely depend on your traveling style and how much you plan to spend on activities, accommodations & food. To help you set your own budget, here are budget estimates for a 3 days and 2 nights (3D2N) trip in Bohol. Rates below are per person assuming you’ll be traveling in a group of 2.

  • Activities — P5,180 . Includes Bohol Countryside Tour, Panglao Island Hopping, Panglao Land Tour and fees on selected attractions above.
  • Transport — P500 for airport-hotel transfers. Excludes tricab / habal rides within Panglao & flight or ferry to Bohol.
  • Accommodations — P2,500 . Two nights in a budget hotel.
  • Food — P600 . Six meals in a local eatery.
  • TOTAL — P8,780 .

I’ve included a sample budget travel estimate for food & accommodations to give you an idea of the total expenses. If you have money to splurge on hotels, food, and other activities, simply use the expenses posted to calculate your own budget.

Other Activities & Expenses

  • Cebu – Bohol Ferry — P900 one-way or P1,800 round trip. Book here: Oceanjet Supercat
  • South Palms Resort Panglao — P588 per person for day use with South Farm access. Book here
  • Freediving Fun Dive — P499 per person per site with Islahanon Freediving. Includes safety guide & video assistance. Gears rental available for a fee. Excludes entrance & environmental fees.
  • Napaling Reef — P200 per person. P100 entrance fee at Almira Diving Resort. Additional P100 environmental fee.
  • Private Car Charter — P3,200 per car for group of 1-3 / 8 hours. Book here

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

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  • Attractions
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Bohol Tours

  • What to Do in Bohol
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Bohol Panglao Island Travel Guide

Secure your Cebu Bohol  ferry tickets today to start your unforgettable journey!

One of two municipalities that make up Panglao Island, Bohol . Panglao is a famous tourist destination for its white sand beaches and world-class diving sites. Panglao is very accessible to other natural wonders of Bohol such as the Chocolate Hills, the countless springs, rivers, falls and caves and the ever cute tarsier, the smallest primate in the world.

Bohol Panglao municipality covers an area of 5,537 hectares and with a population of 25,558 people as per 2007 census. It is politically subdivided into 10 barangays: Bil-isan, Bolod, Danao, Doljo, Libaong, Looc, Lourdes, Poblacion, Tangnan and Tawala.

panglao travel guide

Recommended Bohol Philippines Tours 

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[  Bohol Sight Seeing Day Trips  - Check Out Availability  ]

[  Full Day Cruise and Sailing Tours - Check out Availability ]

[  Full Day Adventure Tours - Check out Availability  ]

Discover more of Bohol's natural wonders through our recommended tours. Click on the links below to embark on unforgettable adventures:

Ready to explore the beautiful islands of Cebu and Bohol? Secure your ferry tickets today through 12go and start your unforgettable journey!

Panglao White Sand beaches attract both local filipino and foreign visitors alike. Many resorts and hotels have sprung up right along the beaches and some a bit inland. The top Panglao beaches are

  • Alona Beach ,
  • Bagobo Beach ,
  • Bolod Beach ,
  • Danao Beach ,
  • Doljo Beach , and
  • Momo Beach.

panglao travel guide

Panglao Resorts are a-plenty! Most of them converge at Alona Beach which is one and a half kilometer long and of fine white coral sand. The waters are crystal clear; you can see the small colored fishes as they dart in and out of the sea grasses.

See Bohol Hotels and Beach Resorts/Panglao Town for more details on the resorts. Other hotels may be found below

  • Dauis Panglao Hotels
  • Panglao Hotels
  • Panglao Beach Front Resorts

Just a few minutes banca ride from Bohol Panglao beaches are the reefs and the now world renowned dive sites. Among the more popular Panglao Dive Sites are: Arco Point Dive, BBC Dive, Cervera Shoal or Snake Island Dive, Crystal Sanctuary, Doljo House Reef, Doljo Point Dive, Garden Eels Dive, Habagat Wreck Dive, House Reef Dive, Kalipayan Dive, Momo Beach Dive, Napaling Dive, and Pungtud Island Wall Dive. Tours to these sites can be arranged by the resorts of your choice. Dive shops are also available at Alona Beach where you can avail of training, diving gears and dive tours.

Click here to get the best hotel deals in Bohol

panglao travel guide

Panglao is the southernmost town of Bohol. It is 18 kilometers from Tagbilaran City, the capital and the only city of the Province of Bohol. The island is accessible by two bridges and can be reached in a minimum of 20 minutes.

Travel time to resorts may take longer depending on the barangays where they are located. Rides to the island are available at the Dao Integrated Terminal. Vans-for-hire usually hang around at the Tagbilaran airport and the pier. For a more unique yet bumpy ride, try the local tricycle which will take more or less an hour.

Most of the roads leading to the barangays and to the beaches are still dirt roads but passable. The municipality of Panglao is still in the process of improving the roads for the ease and convenience of its visitors. Geared towards further improvement for tourism pursuits, the Panglao International Airport is now in the process of evolving.

Sans the airport, the town is still accessible from Manila and Cebu through designated routes. From Manila, one can take a one-hour flight to Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol. From the Tagbilaran Airport, and on board a hired van, the trip will take 20 to 30 minutes to Panglao Island.

From Cebu to Tagbilaran, you have two choices, either to take the fast ferry boat for an hour and a half or the regular ferry boat whose trip will last for four hours. Vans are available at the pier. To economize though, you can take a multi-cab at the pier bound for the Dao Integrated Terminal and board a bus bound for Panglao. At Panglao market, take a “habal-habal” or hire a motorbike to bring you to the resort of your choice.

Economic Profile

In spite of their stony and sandy island, the industrious people of Panglao town were able to develop little farms and raise corn, coconuts, oranges, bananas, mangoes and root crops. They raise chickens and sell them in Cebu, Manila and neighboring Tagbilaran.

The sea bordering the town has rich fishing grounds and from it, the town supplies Tagbilaran with fresh fish and fresh sea shells, among them amahong, daily. White sandy beaches of Panglao town are now being deluged by local and foreign tourists. Resorts, restaurants and bars sprouted and other business establishments, bringing much prosperity to the inhabitants and to the island as a whole.

Panglao International Airport

panglao travel guide

Ongoing Project of Panglao International Airport

Because of its tourism potential, the local government of Bohol headed by Gov. Erico Aumentado, has envisioned an airport in the town. In fact, the Panglao Bohol International Airport (PBIA) is already in the making.

Gov. Aumentado has announced the release of P73M, such fund to be used for the purchase of lots for the airport. The lot acquisition process is set to be finished by December 2008. It will traverse through barangays Lourdes, Bolod, and Danao.

The airport would lead to more developments in the island since the government will undertake road improvements and the development of causeways, drainage and sewerage system, water and power development.

The airport will be able to accommodate international flights aside from regular domestic and regional flights and so bringing in more tourists. With such scenario, investments will definitely pour in; jobs will be generated giving more livelihood and wider economic opportunities for the Boholanos.

Language Spoken

panglao travel guide

Singing children in Alona, Panglao , using self-made instruments  

The Boholanos are fast learners. With the local Boholano dialect (Visayan), the people of Panglao town speaks English and Filipino. Others, especially those based near the beaches are fast learning how to speak German, Swiss, Japanese and other foreign languages brought about by the many foreigners who continually visit the island, some even settling down and marrying local maidens.

panglao travel guide

Panglao Church

Majority of the inhabitants of Panglao town are Roman Catholics. A few joined other sects such as the Protestant Church, the Baptists, and others now claim they are Born Again Christians. Because of Spanish influence, the people are deeply religious and actively join established church activities such as processions, Masses, and the celebration of feast days. The Panglao Catholic Church celebrates the feast of Saint Augustine, their patron saint, every 28th of August; and of a secondary patron, the Santo Niño, every last Sunday of January.

San Agustin Church of Panglao

panglao travel guide

Front facade of Panglao Church

In the annals of the Catholic Church, in the year 1782, La Iglesia de San Agustin de Panglawod, a Jesuit Mission Post, was created into a parish. It can be deduced from this fact that the old name of Panglao was “Panglawod” considering also the characteristics of the place as described by early chroniclers of the Spanish expedition who came across this area. The term Panglawod literally means "to the open sea".

The church of St. Augustine is 18 kilometers from Tagbilaran City, lying on the southwestern side of Panglao Island. The massive stone church is nestled on a plain, its back to the seashore and its right side facing a big, wide plaza which is the venue of the town’s many religious and social activities.

It is beside the ruins of an older church which may have been of Baroque architectural design. The older church was said to have been destroyed in 1886. There are twin antique confessionals in the church that are carved artistically with grape and dove patterns and the ceiling’s frescoes depict the Seven Sacraments.

Panglao Watchtower

panglao travel guide

The Panglao 5-storey bell/watch tower, which was built in 1851, is located beside the San Agustin Parish Church in Panglao town. Octagonal in shape and covered by a pitched roof, it is said to be the tallest of its kind in the country. The tower though is in dire need of repair and should be given due attention by the local government unit for further preservation.

Town History

Records of the Recollects, however, say that they took charge of the town in 1803 and that the town was formally established as a municipality on this date.

In addition to the massive stone church which is clearly of Spanish-time vintage, one can see across the spacious plaza other landmarks of Spain’s occupation: the watch tower, said to be the tallest of its kind in the Philippines, and the old municipal building and school houses made of huge stone blocks.

Top of Panglao Town

  • Panglao Island

Panglao Property

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Top 25 Sights and Attractions in Bohol

  • Chocolate Hills  
  • Tarsier Conservation Sanctuary
  • Loboc River Cruise
  • Hinagdanan Cave
  • Balicasag Island
  • Alona Beach
  • Bilar Man-made Forest
  • Blood Compact Shrine
  • Baclayon Church
  • Bohol Bee Farm
  • Sipatan Twin Hanging Bridge Loboc
  • Danao Adventure Park
  • Sagbayan Peak
  • Butterfly Conservation Center
  • Clarin Ancestral House  
  • Dimiao Twin Falls
  • Mag-Aso Falls
  • Anda White Beach
  •  Lamanok Island
  • Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape
  • Dauis Church
  • Can-umantad Falls
  • Punta Cruz Watchtower

Top 20 Destinations of Bohol  

  • Tagbilaran City  
  • Talibon Town
  • Loboc Town  
  • Tubigon Town
  • Alicia Town
  • Carmen Town
  • Alburquerque
  • Sierra Bullones
  • Sagbayan Town
  • Baclayon Town  

B ack to Bohol Travel Guide

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Full-Day Bohol Countryside Tour from Bohol

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Enjoy a spectacular full day tour to the scenic countryside of Bohol

BOHOL MUST SEE #2

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Embark on a thrilling island hopping adventure; Explore the vibrant marine life and colorful reefs of Balicasag and Virgin Island. 

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Uncover the hidden treasures of Panglao on a private tour. 

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First Timers Travel Guide to Bohol, Philippines

Posted by Carolyn Boston | Sep 19, 2020 | Asia

First Timers Travel Guide to Bohol, Philippines

Bohol is a tiny island in the Philippines , yet it's one of the most famous tourist destinations in the country. From the diverse wildlife, breathtaking nature views, stunning beaches, and world-class diving resorts, Bohol has everything you can ever think of for a perfect island getaway.

I've been to Bohol many times, usually with a group of friends and once, as a solo traveller, so I'm quite familiar with the place. If you're heading to Bohol for the first time, here's my guide on how to get there, how to navigate the island, places to see, and pretty much everything you need to know to prepare for your trip.

Travel Guide to Bohol – How To Get There

The fastest and the most convenient way to get to Bohol is by flying from the capital city of the Philippines , Manila . You'll be landing at Bohol 's only airport, the Tagbilaran Airport. There are plenty of domestic flights coming from Manila to Bohol every day.

Aside from Manila , there are also flights to Bohol coming from the nearby island of Cebu, which is a major city in the Philippines and a tourist destination as well. Most travellers would first head to Cebu before coming to Bohol .

If you're coming from Cebu, you can take several ferries going to Bohol . There are fast ferries that will only take more than an hour to get to Bohol and there are also regular ferries that could take up to four hours. Take note that there are plenty of ports in Bohol , but the major port is in Tagbilaran , the capital city and an ideal starting point for your Bohol holiday. If you have booked your hotel in advance, be sure to ask where the nearest port is.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Tagbilaran Philippines

Tagbilaran Philippines

Travel Guide to Bohol – Getting Around the Island

I booked a tour on my solo travel to Bohol simply because it's more convenient than taking public transportation. Also, public transportation on the island is not that reliable and will only leave once it gets full and would often make frequent stops, so it's a total waste of time.

A driver on a motorbike came to pick me up from the pier and took me around the island the whole day for only $25. If you don't mind driving by yourself, you can rent a motorbike or scooter that costs as low as $10 per day. Just make sure you have a license and always wear a helmet. You can ask for a map from the tourist centre in Tagbilaran or use the GPS on your phone. I'm not comfortable driving around by myself and I'm not good with directions either, so hiring a motorbike with a driver is the best option for me.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Philippines Transport

If you want a more comfortable way of navigating the island, you can rent an air-conditioned car with a driver who will also serve as your guide. This should cost around $50 to $60. If travelling in a group, I would highly recommend renting a van. It only cost us $60 and we divided the cost amongst ourselves, so we ended up paying only $10 each, which is way cheaper than hiring a motorbike with a driver.

Travel Guide to Bohol – What To See

There are plenty of attractions in Bohol but since it's a tiny island, you can visit everything in only a day or two. Here are some of my favourite places in Bohol.

Tarsier Sanctuary

Bohol is famous for the tarsier, a tiny little creature considered as the smallest primate in the world. Unfortunately, they are also among the most endangered primates due to their vulnerability. In fact, they are said to commit suicide if they feel stressed. It is for this reason why visitors are advised not to use cameras with flash and are refrained from making too much noise when visiting.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Tarsier Sanctuary Bohol Philippines

Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are the most famous attractions in Bohol. These are tiny hills scattered across the island that turns into a chocolate brown colour during summer, thus, the name. There are more than a thousand Chocolate Hills all over Bohol, but you can best view them at a viewing deck in the Chocolate Hills Complex or in Sagbayan Peak.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Chocolate Hills Bohol Philippines

Chocolate Hills Bohol Philippines

Loboc River

Cruising along the Loboc River is another favourite of mine. This is where we had lunch, while onboard a floating restaurant that traverses along the beautiful river. What makes the experience even more special is that a group of local singers is serenading us while we enjoy the sumptuous lunch buffet and the scenic river views.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Loboc River Bohol Philippines

Man-made Cave

This forest is made up of densely planted Mahogany trees that line a 2-km stretch of road. The kaleidoscope of green foliage is truly a sight to behold and something that you shouldn't miss when visiting Bohol.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Man made Cave Bohol

Baclayon Church

Built-in 1727, the Baclayon Church is the oldest church in Bohol and houses an amazing collection of religious treasures and artefacts dating back to the Spanish era.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Baclayon Church Bohol Philippines

Hinagdanan Cave

Another attraction that I find really interesting is the Hinagdanan cave. There's a deep lagoon right in the middle of the cave where you can take a dip, although I'm not that brave enough to do it. The cave is in a place called Panglao, where most of the Bohol beaches can be found, so we dropped by at this place on our way to the beach where I'll be staying.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Hinagdanan Cave

Finally, my absolute favourite is frolicking at the powdery white sand beaches of Panglao. Panglao is located at the southwestern tip of Bohol and is connected to the main island by a bridge. I have chosen to stay at a resort in Panglao, near Alona Beach. My last two days in Bohol were spent lazing around the beach, taking a dip, and simply enjoying the marvellous beachside views.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Panglao Bohol Philippines

Panglao Beaches

Travel Guide to Bohol – Where To Stay

There are plenty of accommodations all over the island, but I would recommend staying at any of the resorts in Panglao if you want to be able to fully relax during your holiday in Bohol. If you're diving, then Panglao is also a perfect base because this is where the diving sites are located. Aside from diving, you can also take part in a whale and dolphin watching tour, as well as island hopping tours. Your hotel should be able to help you in booking any of these tours, although you'll find plenty of locals offering these tours once you get to Panglao.

I stayed at Henann Resort, a 5-star hotel that's right in front of the pristine shores of Alona Beach. There are several other resorts and hotels nearby that are cheaper, such as the Alona Vida Beach Resort and Panglao Regents Park.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Alona Vida Beach Resort Philippines

I find that the accommodations in Panglao are more expensive compared to the other areas in Bohol, so if you're on a budget, you can stay at one of the hotels in Tagbilaran , which is just 30 min. away from Panglao. Food is also much cheaper in Tagbilaran than in Panglao.

Travel Guide to Bohol – More Tips to Keep In Mind

Here are more tips I would like to share for a hassle-free holiday to Bohol.

  • Always negotiate – negotiating is the way of life in most of the tourist destinations in the Philippines . This is especially applicable if you're booking a tour. Take note of the average cost of tour packages so you'll know if you're being quoted a higher price. If possible, book a tour online ahead of your trip. Negotiating is also necessary when hailing a trike, whenever you need to travel from one place to another.
  • Join a pre-arranged island hopping tour – if you're a solo traveller and would like to take part in an island hopping tour in Panglao, you can save money by joining a pre-arranged group tour instead of renting the entire boat. You can inquire from your hotel in Panglao if they can get you in touch with a tour operator that arranges island hopping group tours.
  • You don't need to visit everything – while there are lots of interesting attractions in Bohol, not everything is really worth your time. So to save time, do your research well and decide which places you're only interested in visiting, and inform your driver/tour guide about it.

Travel Guide to Bohol - Bohol Beach Philippines

Bohol is one of my favourite destinations in the Philippines . It's a truly magical place with lots of interesting sights to see. So if you are heading to the Philippines , I would suggest including Bohol in your itinerary. It's an excellent holiday destination, whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends! I hope you liked my Travel Guide To Bohol.

About The Author

Carolyn Boston

Carolyn Boston

"I’m an avid traveller who has been travelling the world on a budget for several years now. Recently, I quit my 9 to 5 job so I can discover more of the world without having to worry about limited vacation leaves!

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  1. 20 BEST Things To Do In Panglao Island, Bohol (2024)

    Dimiao Twin Falls is located in Dimiao on Bohol. From Panglao, it's a 60km drive that takes around 1.5 hours to reach Twin Falls and the entrance fee is 20 pesos. Once you arrive at the jump-off point, follow the rocky trail which then leads onto a steep set of concrete stairs with handrails to get down to the falls.

  2. Travel Guide to Panglao Island

    3. Bohol is an island that is definitely in the list of must-visit places in the Philippines. It's a small island yet packed with natural beauty and adventurous things to do. Panglao Island is located in Bohol and it is where most of the world-class resorts are located. Bohol's international airport is also located here.

  3. 13 Best Things To Do On Panglao Island, Bohol: Ultimate Guide

    Alexis Cliff Dive Resort/Molave Cove. The first spot on the list is going to be the easiest to get to and probably the safest jump. Overall it is probably the best and most popular cliff jump in Bohol. It's in Panglao which is a great star as 99% of tourists are staying in Panglao. There is a diving board set up at Alexis Cliff Dive Resort.

  4. Panglao Island Bohol (Complete 2024 Travel Guide)

    Panglao is an island located in the Visayas region of the Philippines. The island is situated near the city of Tagbilaran, which is located on the island of Bohol. Panglao is accessible from Tagbilaran by a bridge. You can drive from Tagbilaran to Panglao island in 20 minutes. Panglao is a part of Bohol province and is well-known for its white ...

  5. 13 Best Things To Do In Panglao Island, Bohol: Ultimate Guide

    What are the must-visit attractions on Panglao Island? Some of the must-visit attractions on Panglao Island include Alona Beach, Balicasag Island, Hinagdanan Cave, and the Bohol Bee Farm. Don't forget to explore the beautiful beaches and indulge in delicious seafood at the local restaurants. 5.

  6. Panglao Island Visitors Guide

    TIP: This guide recommends that booking for Panglao Island summer trips should be done as early as possible, at least a month before your travel dates, since resorts get fully booked early. The period from June to October is the rainy (wet) season and is best avoided due to the high possibility of typhoons. The typhoons can not only be ...

  7. Bohol Travel Guide: 21 Things to Do in Panglao, Philippines

    If you are staying in the area, the Fox and Firefly offer firefly tours at 6pm for P400, SUP tours along the Loboc River from P800, or mountain biking tours from P800. Mist restaurant: another insta-worthy place to eat in Panglao, Bohol. 14. Dine at the Instagram-Worthy Mist Restaurant.

  8. Panglao Island travel

    Panglao Island. Philippines, Asia. Low-lying sun-baked Panglao Island is generally associated with Alona Beach, a busy holiday resort on the southern side of the island. Alona is renowned for its nightlife, and there's a real buzz about the place on weekends when Filipinos cruise into town to join vacationing Koreans and Europeans.

  9. Panglao Island

    Panglao is an island in Bohol Province in the Philippines with world-class diving and many tourist resorts. The resorts and other tourist facilities are concentrated in the Alona Beach area, but there are some other tourist areas and beaches scattered around the rest of the island. 1. Cities. 1.1.

  10. Explore Bohol and Panglao Islands (Travel Guide)

    Panglao is a really small island (even by Philippines standards) attached to the much larger island of Bohol, yet it deserves a lot of attention by itself. There is so much to do on Panglao, and it's definitely not only the famous Alona beach, there are stunning beaches all over the island. It's a great base for exploring the whole island ...

  11. Bohol Philippines Travel Guide: What to Do + Hotels

    This travel guide will help you navigate the province and choose the best tourist spots in Bohol to visit. Best Time to Go to Bohol. If you are going to Bohol for sightseeing and water activities, ... Panglao Island. Panglao Island is the top beach destination in Bohol. It is located southwest of mainland Bohol and east and south of Cebu.

  12. Bohol Travel Guide with a Sample Itinerary (2024)

    For as low as 2,800 pesos (1-3 pax) for a 4-hour tour or 3,200 pesos (1-3 pax) for an 8-hour tour, you will have the freedom to see as many attractions as you want. For bigger groups (4-10 pax), the 4-hour tour costs 3,200 pesos while the 8-hour tour costs 4,100 pesos. Mangrove forest in Doljo, Panglao.

  13. BOHOL Travel Guide for 2022 (With Budget & Itinerary)

    Travel Guide to Bohol, Philippines - Budget & Itinerary. đź“… February 2023. đź•‘ 32 min read time. This Bohol travel guide has all you need to know to plan your trip to one of the most diverse and adventure-packed islands in the Philippines. Things to do, how to get around, food and even a sample itinerary.

  14. Philippines' Bohol Travel Guide

    A travel guide to Bohol in the Philippines - home to the creepy tarsier, the strange Chocolate Hills, and the diving and beaches around Panglao. ... Panglao Island is one of Bohol's main travel stops, as it possesses some of the province's best-known white-sand beaches and finest dive spots. A few islets off Panglao are ideal for island-hopping ...

  15. The Ultimate Travel Guide To Panglao Island

    What you need to know before going to Panglao Island in the Philippines Everything you need to know if you're visiting Panglao Island in the Philippines In December, 2015, we went on a ten-day excursion to paradise, which is also known as Panglao Island. ... The Ultimate Travel Guide To Panglao Island. by Dave Foster; 15.10.2021;

  16. 6 Awesome Things to Do in Panglao Island, Bohol

    Check out our ultimate travel guide to planning your trip to the Philippines. Scuba/Free Diving or Snorkeling. Try to become a child of Poseidon and immerse yourself in the underworld beauty through scuba diving and snorkeling. Panglao is rich in marine biodiversity and there are some diving sites on the island.

  17. Quick Travel Guide to Panglao Island

    Alona Beach: This is the most popular of all beaches in Panglao Island, and where most tourists end up at some stage. Alona Beach is a long white sandy beach, lined with cafes, resorts and SCUBA dive shops. And it's a great place to take the kids for a safe swim. SCUBA Diving: Balicasag Island is just a few minutes boat ride from Alona Beach.

  18. 14 Awesome Panglao Tourist Spots And Things to do in Panglao

    Panglao Travel Guide Getting to Panglao from Tagbilaran Port Panglao Island is around 45 45-minute jeepney ride from Tagbilaran Port. From the port, you can walk for about 15 minutes to the downtown area where jeepneys leave for Panglao. The ride cost 25 PHP. It's a great experience to travel by jeepney.

  19. Bohol and Panglao Island

    When to go to Bohol: Bohol and Panglao Island are year-round destinations, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The weather in Bohol is generally warm and tropical all year round, with temperatures ranging from 25-32°C (77-90°F). The island experiences two main seasons: the dry season, which runs from November to May, and ...

  20. Bohol & Panglao 2023

    Excludes tricab / habal rides within Panglao & flight or ferry to Bohol. Accommodations — P2,500. Two nights in a budget hotel. Food — P600. Six meals in a local eatery. TOTAL — P8,780. I've included a sample budget travel estimate for food & accommodations to give you an idea of the total expenses. If you have money to splurge on ...

  21. Beautiful Panglao Island

    Panglao is a famous tourist destination for its white sand beaches and world-class diving sites. Panglao is very accessible to other natural wonders of Bohol such as the Chocolate Hills, the countless springs, rivers, falls and caves and the ever cute tarsier, the smallest primate in the world. Bohol Panglao municipality covers an area of 5,537 ...

  22. Travel Guide: ALONA BEACH in Panglao Island, Bohol

    Alona Beach is located on Panglao Island, a small island in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. Panglao Island is about 18 kilometers southwest of Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol province. The island is roughly rectangular in shape, measuring about 13 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide.

  23. First Timers Travel Guide to Bohol, Philippines

    Travel Guide to Bohol - Where To Stay. There are plenty of accommodations all over the island, but I would recommend staying at any of the resorts in Panglao if you want to be able to fully relax during your holiday in Bohol. If you're diving, then Panglao is also a perfect base because this is where the diving sites are located.