Panglao, Bohol: Your Haven of Sun, Sand, and Sea

Panglao, a small island in the province of Bohol in the central Visayas of the Philippines, is well-known for its gorgeous beaches and beautiful waters. boasts some of the best beaches in the Philippines, with powdery white sand and turquoise waters that offer visitors the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Aside from its beautiful beaches, Panglao is also a hub for adventure activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, and dolphin watching. Panglao is home to many dive sites recognized as some of the best in the world. In addition, visitors can explore the rich marine life that thrives in the surrounding waters. In addition, the island has small islets and coves that are perfect for island hopping tours, where visitors can discover hidden gems that are not accessible by land.

Panglao is also rich in culture and history, with landmarks such as the iconic Hinagdanan Cave and the old Spanish watchtower of Dauis. In addition, the island is home to some historic churches that reflect the island’s Spanish colonial heritage, including the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Dauis and the Church of St. Augustine in Panglao. Overall, Panglao is a charming island that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture to captivate the hearts of all who visit.

Memorable Activities in Panglao, Bohol

Panglao Island in Bohol, Philippines, is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience tropical paradise and island life. 

Here are some of the favorite activities you can experience:

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP):

is a popular and enjoyable activity that visitors to Panglao should consider. It entails standing on a sizable board and paddling through the calm coastal seas. There are various locations in Panglao where visitors can rent SUP equipment and receive lessons. Some popular spots include Alona Beach, Momo Beach, and Doljo Beach.

• Visitors can expect to pay around $10-$15 per hour for equipment rental and around $25-$50 per person for guided tours.

Parasailing:

is an exhilarating water sport that offers a unique and breathtaking perspective of Panglao’s beaches and crystal-clear waters. If you’re seeking a thrilling adventure and an unforgettable experience, parasailing should be at the top of your to-do list. The activity involves being lifted in the air by a parachute while towing a speedboat, providing a panoramic view of the island and the surrounding sea.

• Visitors can expect to pay around $30-$50 for a single parasailing experience, usually lasting 10-15 minutes.

Dolphin Watching

is one of the most popular activities in Bohol, where guests can see these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. The tours take place early in the morning, and visitors are taken out to sea on small boats to watch the dolphins as they jump and play in the water.

• The price of dolphin-watching tours can vary depending on the location and duration of the time.
• The size of the boat and the number of people in the group can also vary.
• Generally, the price ranges from around $20-$50 per person, and the tour typically lasts about 2-3 hours.

Beach-hopping

is an ideal way to explore the island’s natural beauty, with each beach offering something unique and special. Dumaluan Beach, for example, is known for its soft white sand and clear blue waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Finally, Doljo Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the sunset, with its picturesque views and calm waters.

• The prices for tours or rentals vary. But typically range from around $15 to $30 per person.

ATV adventure:

For a thrilling experience, you can go on an ATV tour and explore the countryside of Bohol. You’ll ride through dirt roads, forests, and rivers and get a glimpse of the local villages and their way of life. This activity is perfect for those who love the outdoors and want to experience the natural beauty of Bohol from a different perspective. You can book an ATV tour with a local guide or tour company, providing you with all the necessary equipment and safety gear.

• The prices for ATV adventures in Panglao, Bohol, may vary depending on the tour provider, the duration of the tour, and the specific trail or destination included in the package.
• Generally, the rates range from around PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,000 per person for a one to two-hour ATV adventure.

Spa Treatments:

Pampering yourself with spa and wellness therapies is popular in Panglao, Bohol. Most of the resorts and hotels in the area have spas and wellness centers where you can indulge in various treatments that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. In addition, you can choose from multiple services such as massages, facials, body scrubs, and other wellness treatments to soothe your body and soul.

• The average price for a one-hour massage ranges from PHP 800 to PHP 2,500 (USD 16 to USD 50)
• Facial typically costs around PHP 1,500 to PHP 2,500 (USD 30 to USD 50)
• Body scrubs and other wellness treatments are also available at an average price range of PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,500 (USD 30 to USD 70).

Your Homely Stay with the Best Resorts/Hotels in Panglao

Your comfortable vacation in Panglao, Bohol, can provide the ideal balance of rest, exploration, and culture. Whether you’re traveling with friends or family or on a solo adventure, Panglao has something for you.

Here are some resorts/hotels for you:

Amorita Resort

is a luxurious resort in Panglao, Bohol, that sits atop a cliff overlooking the beautiful Alona Beach. The resort offers a stunning panoramic view of the ocean, which guests can enjoy from their spacious rooms and villas. Amorita Resort is considered a high-end resort with room rates of around $300 per night. It is a luxurious resort in Panglao, Bohol, offering stunning ocean views, spacious rooms, and villas.

• air-conditioning rooms and flat-screen TVs with cable channels
• minibars, coffee, and tea-making facilities
• private balconies with ocean views
• an infinity swimming pool is one of the highlights of the resort

Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa

is a boutique resort in Panglao, Bohol, surrounded by a lush tropical garden that provides guests with a serene and peaceful environment. The villas are designed with an elegant and modern Filipino-inspired theme, creating a luxurious atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature. Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa are considered a high-end resort with room rates that start at around $500 per night.

• 24 private villas, each with its outdoor pool and jacuzzi
• In-house Handuraw Spa –one of the highlights of the resort
• Lantawan Restaurant – offers a range of local and international cuisine
• Sunset over the ocean
• A bar – serves cocktails, wine, and other beverages
• Swimming pool, fitness center, and game room.

Henann Resort Alona Beach

The resort is just along the famous Alona Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the area. The resort offers spacious rooms and villas catering to different types of travelers, including couples, families, and friends. Regarding pricing, Henann Resort Alona Beach is considered a mid to high-end resort, with room rates that start at around $150 per night for a standard room and can go up to approximately $1,500 per night for a large villa with a private pool.

• three large swimming pools, including one that has a swim-up bar
• a fitness center, a spa
• a game room that entertains all ages
• buffet restaurant that serves international cuisine and local dishes
• Chinese restaurant that offers Cantonese and Szechuan dishes

South Palms Resort

is a beachfront resort in Panglao, Bohol, known for its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. You can see the resort in a secluded area that provides guests privacy and a tranquil environment. The resort offers a range of comfortable rooms catering to travelers, including couples, families, and friends. It is a mid-range resort, with room rates that start at around $100 per night for a standard room and can go up to about $250 per night for a suite with a private pool.

• 24-hour front desk
• airport transportation
• Room and laundry service
• concierge service
• swimming pool
• Beach bar

Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort

is a luxurious beachfront resort in Panglao, Bohol, that offers spacious rooms and villas, exceptional service, and a range of amenities that cater to guests’ needs. The resort’s swimming pool, spa, and restaurant provide guests a comfortable and indulgent experience. In contrast, the resort’s high-end pricing makes it suitable for guests who are looking for a luxurious and memorable vacation. In addition, the resort has a sprawling tropical garden with stunning beach and sea views. 

• spacious rooms and villas
• beautiful swimming pool
• the spa offers a range of treatments and massages
• 24-hour front desk
• A private pool in each villa

Discover Panglao at Its Best: Ideal Time to Go

Bohol has two main seasons, the dry season and the wet season. The wet season begins in May and lasts until October, whereas the dry season lasts from November to April.

The wet season

• It brings heavy rains and occasional typhoons, which make outdoor activities difficult or impossible.
• However, the upside is that the scenery is lush and green
• The crowds are thinner, making it an excellent time to visit for those who prefer a more laid-back and quiet vacation.
• The wet season also offers lower prices for accommodations and activities.

The dry season

• The weather is mostly sunny, and there is very little chance of rain (the best time to visit Bohol).
• The temperature is warm but not too hot, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as island hopping, beach-hopping, and water sports.
• Expect crowds and higher prices during this time because it is the busiest travel period.

Bohol Bound: Your Guide to Getting There

From Manila

By Air: Air is the easiest way to get to Panglao, Bohol, from Manila. Bohol’s main airport is the Bohol-Panglao International Airport. You can check the flight schedules and fares on airline websites or booking platforms like Traveloka or Expedia.

From the airport to Panglao: 

Take a taxi or a shuttle van to get to Panglao Island. Shuttle vans are a more affordable option, and they usually charge around PHP 250-300 per person. You can book a shuttle van in advance through your hotel or a travel agency.

By land and sea: A ferry travels from Manila to Tagbilaran City in the Bohol province. Travel time ranges from 25 to 36 hours, depending on the route and the type of vessel. The distance from Tagbilaran to Panglao Island is around 18 kilometers, and you may travel there by taxi or tricycle.

There are various options to get to Panglao, Bohol, from Visayas and Mindanao:

• From Visayas, you can fly from Cebu to Tagbilaran or a ferry from Dumaguete to Tagbilaran.
• From Mindanao, you can fly from Cagayan de Oro, Davao, or Manila to Tagbilaran or a ferry from Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, or Davao to Tagbilaran.
• Once you arrive in Tagbilaran, you can take a tricycle, taxi, or van to Panglao Island, about 18 kilometers away.

Top Destinations in Adjacent Areas Around Panglao

If you plan a trip to Panglao, check out the nearby attractions that add to your overall regional experience. 

Here are some top destinations in adjacent and nearby areas around Panglao that are worth visiting. From natural wonders to historical sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• Pamilacan Island: Another small island near Panglao, Pamilacan is a popular spot for dolphin-watching and snorkeling.
• Chocolate Hills: Around 1,000 cone-shaped hills that turn brown during the dry season to resemble chocolate mounds make up the distinctive geological phenomenon known as the Chocolate Hills. Chocolate Hills is in the town of Carmen.
• Loboc River: The Loboc River, a well-liked river cruise destination that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lush vegetation and waterfalls, is situated in Loboc.
• Tarsier Sanctuary: Tarsier Sanctuary is home to the world’s smallest primate, the Philippine tarsier, which you can only see in the Philippines. Location: town of Corella.
• Hinagdanan Cave: Hinagdanan Cave is a popular tourist spot with a natural pool inside the cave where visitors can swim. You can see the cave in the town of Dauis.
• Blood Compact Shrine: You can see the shrine in the town of Tagbilaran, the Blood Compact Shrine commemorates the first international treaty of friendship between the Spaniards and Filipinos in 1565.
• Anda Beach: The beach is in the town of Anda. This pristine beach boasts powdery white sand, clear waters, and a serene, relaxing ambiance.