Bohol
Bohol is a tropical paradise in the Philippines, renowned for its lush landscapes including the Chocolate Hills, a geological formation of over 1,000 symmetrical mounds. This vibrant island also hosts a rich biodiversity with attractions such as the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary and is steeped in history and culture, evident in its Spanish-era churches and ancestral homes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bohol, Philippines largely depends on your preferences for weather and your tolerance for crowds.
The dry season in Bohol runs from December to May, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as beach-hopping, exploring the Chocolate Hills, or visiting the Tarsier sanctuary. The temperatures are generally warm (averaging between 28-34°C or 82-93°F), and rainfall is minimal. The months of December to February are relatively cooler, providing comfortable weather for sightseeing.
January is a particularly festive time to visit, as Bohol celebrates the annual Fiesta Señor and Sinulog-Saulog Festival in the third week of January. The festivals are full of color and local culture, with parades, dancing, and street parties.
However, dry season also coincides with peak tourist season, particularly around Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week (which is usually in March or April). This means that popular attractions can be crowded, and prices for flights and accommodations may be higher.
The wet season extends from June to November, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring from July to September. While this is considered off-peak season due to the potential for rain and occasional typhoons, it can also be a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices. You may also find the landscape to be particularly lush and green during these months.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Bohol is usually during the dry season, especially from December to February when the weather is most comfortable. However, off-peak season can offer its own unique charms and advantages.
How to Get There
Bohol, an island province in the Philippines, can be reached by air or sea. Here are the common methods of getting to Bohol:
By Air: The most convenient way to reach Bohol is by flying to Tagbilaran City, the capital of the province. Tagbilaran Airport (also known as Bohol-Panglao International Airport) serves as the main gateway to the island.
International Flights: If you are coming from abroad, you can fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila or Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu, and then take a domestic flight to Tagbilaran Airport. Several airlines, including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia, offer domestic flights to Bohol.
Domestic Flights: If you are already in the Philippines, you can check for direct flights from major cities like Manila, Cebu, or Davao to Tagbilaran Airport. Flight duration varies depending on the point of origin, but it generally takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
By Sea: If you prefer a scenic and leisurely journey, you can opt to travel to Bohol by sea. There are ferry services connecting Bohol to various ports in the Philippines:
From Cebu: Cebu is a popular starting point for those traveling to Bohol by sea. Fastcraft and ferry services operate daily between Cebu City's ports (e.g., Cebu Pier 1 or 4) and Tagbilaran City's port in Bohol. Travel time typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the vessel.
From other ports: There are also ferry services from other nearby islands like Dumaguete, Siquijor, and Cagayan de Oro to Tagbilaran City. These routes may have varying schedules and travel times, so it's best to check with the local ferry operators for the most up-to-date information.
Once you arrive in Bohol, various transportation options, such as taxis, tricycles, and rented vehicles, are available to take you to your desired destinations within the island.
Best Beaches in Bohol
Bohol is an island province in the Philippines composed of one main island, also called Bohol, and numerous smaller islands and islets that surround it. While the exact number of islands and islets can vary depending on the definition and classification used, Bohol is estimated to have around 75 to 80 smaller islands and islets within its territorial waters. Some of the notable smaller islands near Bohol include Panglao Island, Balicasag Island, Pamilacan Island, and Cabilao Island. These smaller islands contribute to the diverse natural beauty and attractions of the province, offering additional opportunities for exploration and island hopping.
Bohol is home to several stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and beautiful coastal scenery. Here are some of the best beaches to visit in Bohol:
Alona Beach: Located in Panglao Island, Alona Beach is the most popular and well-known beach in Bohol. It boasts powdery white sand, vibrant coral reefs, and a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and water activities. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and enjoying beachfront nightlife.
Dumaluan Beach: Situated next to Alona Beach, Dumaluan Beach offers a more serene and peaceful atmosphere. The beach features fine white sand, calm turquoise waters, and shady palm trees, providing a perfect setting for relaxation and beach picnics.
Balicasag Island: While not technically a beach, Balicasag Island is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. It's famous for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and clear waters. The island is located off the coast of Panglao and can be reached by boat.
Anda Beach: Located in the municipality of Anda, on the eastern side of Bohol, Anda Beach offers a tranquil and less crowded beach experience. It boasts powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views. Anda Beach is known for its pristine beauty, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and beachcombing.
Doljo Beach: Situated in the northern part of Panglao Island, Doljo Beach is a quiet and secluded stretch of coastline. It offers a peaceful environment, swaying palm trees, and calm waters. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, long walks, and enjoying the serene ambiance.
Momo Beach: Located in Panglao Island, Momo Beach offers a quieter and more secluded atmosphere compared to the popular Alona Beach. It features fine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and sunbathing.
Bikini Beach: Tucked away in Anda, Bikini Beach is known for its pristine beauty and peaceful surroundings. The beach has powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and a picturesque backdrop of cliffs and rock formations. It's an excellent spot for swimming, snorkeling, and simply enjoying the tranquility.
Dumog Sandbar: Located off the coast of Anda, Dumog Sandbar is a hidden gem that emerges during low tide. It offers a unique beach experience, with a long stretch of sandbar appearing like a natural bridge in the middle of the sea. It's a picturesque spot for walking, taking photos, and enjoying the surrounding waters.
Napaling Beach: Situated in Guindulman, Napaling Beach is a remote and unspoiled beach destination. It offers a long stretch of white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and experiencing the beauty of nature without the crowds.
Island Hopping
Island hopping in Bohol is a popular and enjoyable activity that allows visitors to explore the surrounding islands, islets, and marine attractions in the area. Here's what you can expect when going on an island hopping adventure in Bohol:
Panglao Island Hopping: Panglao Island, located southwest of Bohol, is a hub for island hopping tours. Many tours start from Alona Beach, where you can hire a boat or join a guided tour to explore nearby islands and snorkeling spots. Some popular destinations include Balicasag Island, Pamilacan Island, and Virgin Island.
Balicasag Island: Known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, Balicasag Island is a top spot for snorkeling and diving. You can witness colorful coral formations, swim with sea turtles, and encounter various fish species. It's a marine sanctuary protected by the local government, ensuring its conservation.
Pamilacan Island: Pamilacan Island is famous for its dolphin and whale watching opportunities. During the boat ride to the island, you may encounter pods of dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Once on the island, you can relax on the white sand beach, snorkel, or explore the local community.
Virgin Island: Virgin Island is a small sandbar located near Panglao Island. It emerges during low tide and offers a unique experience of walking on a sandbar surrounded by turquoise waters. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing on this secluded and picturesque island.
Other Island Hopping Destinations: Apart from Panglao Island, there are other islands and islets near Bohol that can be visited during an island hopping tour:
Balicasag Marine Sanctuary: This protected marine sanctuary is known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore the colorful underwater world, encountering various fish species, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
Cabilao Island: Located on the western side of Bohol, Cabilao Island is known for its excellent diving opportunities. It offers vibrant coral gardens, underwater caves, and encounters with turtles, barracudas, and other marine species.
Danajon Bank: The Danajon Bank is a marine biodiversity hotspot located between Bohol and Cebu. It is known for its diverse coral reefs and fish species. Exploring this area during an island hopping tour can provide a unique insight into the rich marine ecosystem of the region.
During an island hopping tour, you can expect to travel by boat, enjoy scenic coastal views, and engage in various activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and beach exploration.
Top Diving and Snorkeling in Bohol
Bohol is renowned for its excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, offering vibrant underwater ecosystems and diverse marine life. Here are some of the top diving and snorkeling spots in Bohol:
Balicasag Island: Balicasag Island is a marine sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and stunning coral reefs. It offers exceptional diving and snorkeling experiences, with clear waters teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and various marine species. The marine sanctuary is protected, ensuring the preservation of the ecosystem.
Pamilacan Island: Pamilacan Island is not only famous for dolphin and whale watching but also for its thriving coral reefs. Snorkelers and divers can explore the vibrant underwater world and encounter a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, schools of tropical fish, and even occasional sightings of whale sharks.
Doljo Beach: Doljo Beach, located on Panglao Island, offers excellent snorkeling opportunities right from the shore. The shallow waters near the beach are home to beautiful coral formations and a variety of marine life. Snorkelers can explore the vibrant reef and observe colorful fish up close.
Danajon Bank: The Danajon Bank is a double-barrier reef system located between Bohol and Cebu. It is one of the most biodiverse marine areas in the Philippines and offers excellent diving and snorkeling experiences. Explore the diverse coral gardens and encounter an array of fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
Cabilao Island: Cabilao Island is known for its pristine coral reefs and excellent visibility, making it a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. The island is home to colorful soft and hard corals, sponges, and an abundance of marine life, including reef sharks, rays, and various fish species.
Loboc Marine Sanctuary: The Loboc Marine Sanctuary, located near the Loboc River, offers a unique combination of river and reef ecosystems. Snorkelers can explore the sanctuary's coral gardens and encounter diverse marine species. The sanctuary also offers night snorkeling tours, allowing visitors to witness the nocturnal activities of marine life.
Bohol Sea Wall: The Bohol Sea Wall, located off the coast of Panglao Island, offers an exciting dive site known for its underwater cliff formations. Divers can explore the dramatic wall covered in colorful corals and encounter schools of fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
These diving and snorkeling spots in Bohol showcase the beauty and biodiversity of the underwater world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, or prefer snorkeling closer to the surface, Bohol provides opportunities to explore stunning coral reefs, encounter fascinating marine life, and create unforgettable underwater experiences.
Top 14 Attractions in Bohol
Danasan Eco Adventure Park: Although not a traditional beach, Danasan Eco Adventure Park, situated in Danao, Bohol, offers a unique beach experience. The park has an artificial white sand beach with clear blue waters where visitors can swim, kayak, or try thrilling activities like ziplining and wakeboarding.
Chocolate Hills: The iconic Chocolate Hills are Bohol's most famous attraction. These unique geological formations consist of over 1,000 cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling chocolate kisses. The Chocolate Hills Complex offers viewpoints and hiking trails to appreciate this natural wonder.
Tarsier Conservation Area: Visit the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary in Corella to see the world's smallest primate, the Philippine tarsier. These adorable creatures are known for their big round eyes and unique features. The sanctuary provides a protected environment for observing tarsiers in their natural habitat.
Loboc River Cruise: Embark on a scenic river cruise along the Loboc River, where you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride while being serenaded by local musicians. Feast on a buffet of local cuisine and take in the lush riverside scenery. The cruise also stops at a floating restaurant where you can experience traditional cultural performances.
Baclayon Church: Visit the historic Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. Built in the 16th century, it is a significant cultural and religious landmark. The church features Spanish colonial architecture and a museum that displays religious artifacts and cultural relics.
Blood Compact Shrine: The Blood Compact Shrine in Tagbilaran City commemorates the historic event known as the Sandugo, where a blood compact or oath of friendship was made between the Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, a local chieftain. The shrine showcases a bronze sculpture depicting the event and offers a panoramic view of the Bohol Sea.
Hinagdanan Cave: Explore the fascinating Hinagdanan Cave in Dauis, known for its stunning limestone formations, underground lake, and natural skylight. Descend into the cave to witness its unique beauty and enjoy a swim in the cool waters of the underground lake.
Man-made Forest: As you travel through the island, don't miss the scenic Man-made Forest in Bilar. This stretch of densely planted mahogany trees forms a picturesque and refreshing canopy. It's a great spot for photo opportunities and a short break from your journey.
Panglao Watchtower: Visit the Panglao Watchtower, a historical structure built during the Spanish colonial era to serve as a lookout against pirates. The watchtower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the opportunity to learn about the island's rich history.
Bohol Bee Farm: Explore the Bohol Bee Farm in Panglao, which offers an opportunity to learn about organic farming practices and beekeeping. Enjoy a farm tour, sample delicious organic food, and indulge in their famous homemade ice cream made from local ingredients.
Pahangog Twin Falls: Located in Dimiao, Pahangog Twin Falls is a picturesque waterfall nestled in a lush forest. The falls feature two cascades that converge into a refreshing pool below. It's an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who enjoy trekking and swimming.
Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary: Another sanctuary dedicated to the protection and conservation of tarsiers is the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella. This sanctuary provides a natural habitat for tarsiers, and visitors can observe these small primates up close and learn about their behavior and conservation efforts.
Bohol Python and Wildlife Park: Situated in the town of Alburquerque, the Bohol Python and Wildlife Park is home to a variety of animals, including pythons, birds, monkeys, and other reptiles. Visitors can have the opportunity to interact with some of the animals, watch animal shows, and learn about wildlife conservation.
Mag-Aso Falls: Mag-Aso Falls in Antequera offers a refreshing escape into nature. These cascading waterfalls are surrounded by lush vegetation and feature a natural pool where visitors can swim and relax. The falls can be accessed by climbing down a staircase, providing a tranquil and scenic retreat.
Top 18 Activities
Bohol offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the top activities to do in Bohol:
Explore the Chocolate Hills: Visit the iconic Chocolate Hills, a series of cone-shaped limestone hills that turn brown during the dry season. Explore the viewpoints, hike up to the observation decks, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique geological formation.
Encounter Tarsiers: Visit the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary to observe the world's smallest primate, the Philippine tarsier. Learn about their behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Take a Loboc River Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Loboc River, where you can dine on a floating restaurant, listen to live music, and experience the peaceful ambiance of the river. Take in the lush scenery and cultural performances along the way.
Visit Historic Churches: Explore the rich cultural heritage of Bohol by visiting historic churches such as Baclayon Church and Loboc Church. Marvel at the Spanish colonial architecture, learn about their historical significance, and appreciate the artistic beauty of these religious landmarks.
Dive or Snorkel in Balicasag Island: Discover the vibrant underwater world of Balicasag Island, known for its colorful coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters. Dive or snorkel alongside turtles, tropical fish, and other fascinating marine species.
Go Dolphin and Whale Watching: Embark on a thrilling adventure of dolphin and whale watching in Pamilacan Island. Witness these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation efforts.
Experience the Loboc Zipline: For adrenaline junkies, take a thrilling zipline ride across the Loboc River. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes as you soar through the air.
Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Experience the tranquility of Bohol's waters by trying stand-up paddleboarding. Glide across calm rivers or paddle along the coastlines, enjoying the serene beauty of the island from a different perspective.
Visit Bohol Bee Farm: Explore the Bohol Bee Farm and learn about organic farming practices, beekeeping, and sustainable agriculture. Enjoy a farm tour, indulge in organic and healthy food, and savor the flavors of their famous homemade ice cream.
Witness the Blood Compact Shrine: Visit the Blood Compact Shrine, a monument that commemorates the historical event where a blood compact was made between the Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna, a local chieftain. Take in the panoramic view of the Bohol Sea and learn about the significance of this event in Philippine history.
Go on a Countryside Tour: Take a guided countryside tour of Bohol to explore its scenic landscapes, rural villages, and cultural sites. Visit attractions such as the Man-made Forest, Butterfly Conservation Center, Hanging Bridge, and the Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape.
Try River Tubing: Experience the thrill of river tubing in Loboc or Anda. Float along the river currents while enjoying the lush surroundings and cool waters. It's a fun and adventurous way to appreciate Bohol's natural beauty.
Learn Traditional Crafts: Engage in hands-on activities and learn traditional crafts in Bohol. Join workshops on pottery-making, basket weaving, or coconut leaf craft. Immerse yourself in the local culture and gain new skills.
Go on an ATV Adventure: Take an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) tour and explore the off-road trails of Bohol. Ride through scenic countryside paths, rice fields, and forested areas, while enjoying an exhilarating adventure.
Experience Firefly Watching: Join a firefly watching tour along the Abatan River in Bohol. Witness the magical display of fireflies illuminating the trees and riverbanks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle in the night sky.
Go on a Culinary Adventure: Delight your taste buds with a culinary adventure in Bohol. Try local delicacies such as calamay, binagol, and other sweet treats. Explore local markets, visit food stalls, or join cooking classes to learn traditional Boholano recipes.
Attend Festivals: If your visit coincides with festivals, make sure to immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations. The Sandugo Festival, showcasing Bohol's history and culture, and the Ubi Festival, celebrating the versatile purple yam, are two popular festivals in the province.
Explore Hidden Waterfalls: Discover the beauty of Bohol's hidden waterfalls. Trek through lush jungles to reach enchanting cascades like Mag-Aso Falls, Dimiao Twin Falls, or Ingkumhan Falls. Take a refreshing dip and soak in the natural surroundings.
Best Shopping
Shopping in Bohol offers a mix of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional products. Here's an overview of the shopping scene in Bohol:
Pasalubong Centers: Pasalubong refers to Filipino souvenirs or gifts brought back for family and friends. Bohol has several pasalubong centers where you can find a wide range of local products, including food items, delicacies, crafts, and novelty items. These centers are typically located near popular tourist spots and major towns.
Bohol Bee Farm: The Bohol Bee Farm, in addition to being a farm and resort, has a well-known organic restaurant and a gift shop. Here, you can find organic food products, homemade spreads and sauces, herbal teas, handmade soaps, and other bee-related products.
Dao Diamond Mall: Located in Tagbilaran City, Dao Diamond Mall is a shopping complex that houses various stores, boutiques, and souvenir shops. You can find a wide range of items here, from clothing and accessories to local crafts, handmade products, and novelty items.
Night Markets: Tagbilaran City and other towns occasionally host night markets where you can explore stalls selling clothes, accessories, local snacks, street food, and other affordable items. These markets offer a lively and bustling atmosphere, making them a fun place to shop and try local street food.
Bohol Quality Mall: Bohol Quality Mall, located in Tagbilaran City, is a modern shopping complex with a mix of retail stores, supermarkets, and restaurants. It's a convenient place to find everyday essentials, clothing, electronics, and other household items.
Local Handicrafts: Bohol is known for its traditional handicrafts, including woven products, wood carvings, and seashell crafts. Look for shops and stalls that showcase these handmade items, often found near major attractions or in designated craft villages.
Markets and Local Vendors: Explore local markets in towns like Tagbilaran City, Tubigon, or Talibon, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and inexpensive clothing and accessories. Interacting with local vendors and experiencing the vibrant market atmosphere can be an authentic and immersive shopping experience.
When shopping in Bohol, it's always a good idea to practice your bargaining skills, particularly in local markets and smaller stores. This can often lead to getting the best prices for souvenirs and handicrafts.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Bohol offers a variety of options for nightlife and entertainment, although it is generally more laid-back compared to bustling urban centers. Here's an overview of the nightlife scene in Bohol:
Alona Beach Nightlife: Alona Beach in Panglao Island is the liveliest area for nightlife in Bohol. Here, you'll find a range of beachfront bars, restaurants, and pubs offering live music, DJs, and entertainment. Enjoy a cocktail or beer, listen to local bands, and soak up the beachside atmosphere. Some establishments also offer fire dancing performances and beach parties.
Tagbilaran City: Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol, has a few bars, clubs, and karaoke lounges where you can enjoy drinks, music, and socializing. You'll find a mix of local bars and international-themed establishments offering a casual nightlife experience.
Resort Entertainment: Many resorts in Bohol provide evening entertainment for their guests, including live music, cultural performances, and themed events. Check with your resort to see if they offer any scheduled activities or performances during your stay.
Cultural Shows: Some resorts and tour operators organize cultural shows showcasing traditional music, dances, and performances. These shows give you the opportunity to experience Bohol's cultural heritage and enjoy the lively performances by local artists.
Night Markets and Street Food: In some towns, night markets offer a vibrant atmosphere with street food vendors, stalls selling local products, and live performances. These markets can be a fun place to explore, sample local delicacies, and experience the local culture.
Casinos: If you're interested in trying your luck, there are a few small-scale casinos in Bohol where you can enjoy table games and slot machines.
It's important to note that the nightlife in Bohol is generally more relaxed and focused on enjoying the beachside ambiance, live music, and cultural performances.
Local Cuisine
The local cuisine of Bohol reflects a blend of indigenous flavors, Spanish influences from the colonial era, and the abundance of fresh seafood and tropical ingredients. Here are some highlights of the local cuisine in Bohol:
Peanut Kisses: One of the most famous food items from Bohol is the Peanut Kisses. These bite-sized cookies are made from ground peanuts, sugar, and egg whites, creating a sweet and nutty treat that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. They are widely available in pasalubong centers and souvenir shops.
Calamay: Calamay is a sticky rice dessert made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar. It has a smooth and gooey texture with a sweet and slightly nutty flavor. Calamay is often wrapped in banana leaves and sold in small portions. It's a popular sweet delicacy in Bohol and is commonly enjoyed during special occasions and festivals.
Ubi: Ubi, or purple yam, is a versatile ingredient used in various dishes and desserts in Bohol. You can find ubi-flavored treats like cakes, pastries, ice cream, and halaya (a sweet jam-like dessert) in local bakeries and specialty shops. Ubi has a vibrant purple color and adds a unique flavor to many traditional Boholano desserts.
Seafood: With its coastal location, Bohol is a paradise for seafood lovers. Fresh fish, shrimp, crabs, and shellfish are readily available and are often prepared in simple yet flavorful ways. Grilled fish (inihaw na isda) and seafood sinigang (a sour soup) are common dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the sea.
Binagol: Binagol is a traditional delicacy made from grated root crops, particularly taro (gabi) or sweet potato (kamote). The grated root crops are mixed with coconut milk, sugar, and other ingredients, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The result is a sticky and sweet dessert with a rich, earthy flavor.
Sikwate: Sikwate is a traditional hot chocolate drink in Bohol. It is made by whisking tablea (local cacao tablets) with hot water or milk until it forms a frothy and rich beverage. Sikwate is often enjoyed with puto (steamed rice cakes) or local bread for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
Kinilaw: Kinilaw is a Filipino-style ceviche made from fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in vinegar or citrus juice. In Bohol, kinilaw is commonly prepared with fish or shrimp, mixed with onions, chili peppers, ginger, and other seasonings. The dish is tangy, refreshing, and a great appetizer or pulutan (finger food) to enjoy with drinks.
Accommodations
When deciding where to stay in Bohol, it depends on your preferences and the experiences you're seeking. Here are some areas that are popular for accommodation in Bohol:
Alona Beach, Panglao Island: Alona Beach is a vibrant and bustling area, known for its beautiful beach, wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife. It's a popular choice for tourists due to its convenient location and abundance of amenities.
Dumaluan Beach, Panglao Island: If you prefer a more serene and peaceful atmosphere, Dumaluan Beach is an excellent option. It offers a quieter setting compared to Alona Beach while still providing access to beautiful beaches and a few resorts.
Tagbilaran City: As the capital city of Bohol, Tagbilaran City is a convenient choice for accommodations, as it offers a range of hotels, restaurants, and shops. It provides easy access to transportation hubs, tourist attractions, and amenities.
Panglao Town: Located near Alona Beach, Panglao Town offers a more relaxed ambiance and a less crowded atmosphere. It provides a quieter alternative while still being in close proximity to the attractions and facilities of Alona Beach.
Anda: If you prefer a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Anda, located on the eastern side of Bohol, offers beautiful beaches, tranquility, and a slower pace of life. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a secluded and less touristy environment.
Itinerary
3 Day Bohol Adventure: Exploring Natural Wonders and Island Paradise
Day 1:
Morning: Start your day by visiting the Chocolate Hills, one of Bohol's iconic attractions. Explore the Chocolate Hills Complex, climb up to the observation deck for panoramic views, and learn about the geological formation of these unique hills.
Afternoon: Head to the Tarsier Conservation Area to observe the adorable Philippine tarsiers, known for their large round eyes. Take a guided tour to learn about these fascinating primates and their conservation efforts.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing Loboc River Cruise. Hop on a floating restaurant and savor a buffet lunch or dinner as you cruise along the Loboc River. Take in the beautiful scenery, listen to live music, and enjoy cultural performances onboard.
Day 2:
Morning: Embark on an island hopping tour. Visit Balicasag Island, known for its vibrant coral reefs and marine biodiversity. Go snorkeling or diving to explore the underwater world and encounter marine creatures like sea turtles and colorful fish.
Afternoon: Continue the island hopping tour by visiting Pamilacan Island. Enjoy dolphin and whale watching as you cruise along the island's coast. Observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior from knowledgeable guides.
Evening: Return to your accommodation and relax on the beach. Enjoy the sunset and unwind with a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Day 3:
Morning: Explore the countryside of Bohol. Visit the historic Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, and the nearby Blood Compact Shrine, a monument commemorating a significant event in Philippine history.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive to the Man-made Forest, a stretch of mahogany trees that create a picturesque canopy. Continue to the Loboc Eco-Tourism Adventure Park and try river tubing or take an exhilarating zipline ride across the Loboc River.
Evening: Visit Tagbilaran City for some shopping and a taste of local cuisine. Explore the Dao Diamond Mall or local markets for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local delicacies. Enjoy a satisfying dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Boholano dishes.
