If you’re looking for the best things to do in Panglao and Bohol, look no further! I visited Bohol for 12 days, spending time in both Panglao and Bohol. While I enjoyed my time in Panglao, I also ventured into Bohol (near Anda) and stayed a few nights there. I HIGHLY recommend a few nights in Bohol if you have the time.
This list covers the most popular tourist destinations, lesser-known beaches, and even hidden gems in Bohol (such as waterfalls, cave pools, and the BEST beach). Hint: The best beach isn’t in Panglao at all!
Oh yeah, and an awesome spot where you can try a vegetarian burger made from coconut!
First, I’ll get some general information about visiting Bohol below, then go by category of things to do. Be sure to browse it all, as you want to know about some of these lesser-known destinations!
General Information for Visiting Bohol Panglao
Here are some thing to now before you visit Bohol. IF you are exploring more of the Philippines, check out our recommended Philippines itinerary.
How to Get Here:
There are multiple ways to get to Bohol, including flying or taking the ferry.
By Plane to Panglao & Bohol:
There are multiple daily direct flights from Manila to Bohol. A few other domestic and international direct flights to Panglao from Busan, Seoul, Davao, and El Nido also exist.
The only airport in Panglao and Bohol is on Panglao Island, and is called Panglao International Airport (TAG). I paid about $30 for a direct one-way ticket from Manila, which is standard.
By Ferry to Panglao & Bohol:
If you fly into Cebu or visit another island, such as Siquijor, you can take the ferry to Bohol.
You can take OceanJet from Cebu and easily book your ferry ticket from Cebu to Bohol on Klook. The journey is about 2.5 hours and costs about $16.)
How to Get Around:
Panglao and Bohol are bigger than they look, so figure out how you’ll get around ahead of time.
Tricycle or Motorbike Taxi:
Expect to work those haggling skills if you decide to use tricycles or motorbike taxis during your time in Panglao. Although there are supposedly set prices, you’ll often get over-quoted. Many times, when I asked for a tricycle or motorbike taxi, I felt ripped off.
For example, when I arrived at the airport, my host told me it would cost 200 pesos ($4) for a 4-minute ride. I declined her offer as I had paid only 100 pesos for a 25-minute motorcycle ride earlier that day in Manila. Instead, I left the airport and found a group of men and motorcycles waiting for rides. He quoted me 200 pesos, and I asked for 100 pesos. Deal.
Tricycles are the best way to get around if you only need to use them a couple of times a day. Otherwise, you might end up spending more than if you just rented a scooter.
Scooter Rental:
In my opinion, a scooter rental is the best way to get around Panglao and Bohol if you are comfortable driving one. You can move freely, and they’re perfect for day trips, as vans or tricycles can be expensive and time-restrictive.
I rented my scooter from Bohol Bikes. They offer two options: the Honda Beat and the Honda Click. The Honda Beat was 50 pesos ($1) less per day, so I went with that. I rode it to Anda and up and down windy hills with no issues.
They also provided a full-coverage helmet and offered free delivery, as I was staying close to their business. For a daily scooter rental, expect to pay about $7-8.
Private Van or Car:
If you’re planning a day trip around Panglao and/or Bohol, a private van or car is one of the best ways to go, especially if you’re with multiple people, children, or those who can’t drive a scooter. We rented a private driver for a day (not a tour) to take us to Loboc River and the Chocolate Hills. The cost was 3,000 pesos, or about $60.
We also rented a car for a portion of the trip from Island Life Rentals and had a fantastic experience start to finish. They are one of the best-rated on the island and have solid prices too.
Accommodation Recommendations in Panglao Bohol
Budget Hostel: Peaceland Hostel (~$6/night)
Budget Single Rooms: Charlina’s Inn (~$12/night)
Low-Mid Range Hotel: Alona M (~$30/night)
Mid-Range Hotel: La Sirenita Beachfront Hotel (~$60/night)
Luxury Hotel: Bohol Beach Club (~$150/night)
Best Things to Do in Panglao + Bohol
I tried my best to organize things to do in Panglao and Bohol in the headers below.
You’ll find lists including the best beaches in Panglao, Bohol and Top Philippine Destinations, the best off-shore islands, the best hidden gems in Bohol, and more. Be sure to browse it all so you can build a well-rounded Panglao Bohol itinerary.
Visit the Beaches on Panglao:
Starting off with the obvious, one of the best things to do in Bohol is visit the Panglao beaches! I went around the island to check each of them out, seeking the best beaches in Panglao. I’ll admit, I didn’t enjoy the beaches as much as I’d hoped.
There are only three beaches you must go to if you want to wade around the waters (by my standards, at least). I’ll cover all the best beaches in Panglao below, but if you want to know the best beaches in Panglao, Bohol, read about Dumaluan Beach, White Beach, and Anda Long White Beach (under Bohol Day Trips below).
Alona Beach
As a beach, Alona is quite beautiful and blue (on a sunny day!). It mainly offers beachgoers a nice place to lay out and sunbathe. As for swimming, I was pretty disappointed. There was so much sea grass on the bottom. Some spots were nice and sandy, but I couldn’t move around much before stepping into a bumpy lump of seagrass again.
The main reason to visit Alona Beach is for the beachside businesses, as there are many dive shops, tour companies, and restaurants. You can even get a massage while lying back and enjoying the sunshine!
Momo Beach North Panglao
After seeing this recommended in a few blogs, I couldn’t resist visiting Momo Beach. The name is also cute. Sadly, the beach wasn’t all I hoped it would be.
Let’s get into the goods: at the time I went, there were only a few people. Plus, the contrasting views of the rocky shore on one end and Cebu Island in the distance were quite nice. There also aren’t tons of boats, meaning the water is more accessible, and some people were out enjoying the water. But the beach had quite a bit of vegetation washed up on shore, and the ocean floor was entirely seagrass.
There is a better beach if you want a nice dip. Plus, the road to get here is ROCKY. If you have time, it’s okay to check it out, but I personally wouldn’t go again.
Panglao Beach
I read about this beach from someone who visited it, and they seemed to love it! But I definitely did not.
While it was mostly locals hanging out here, they didn’t give off the best vibes. And locals or not, if people have a weird energy coming off them, you will know it.
At the top of the beach were a few men hanging out and drinking, eyeing me. The beach was full of boats, and the water was similar to Alona: beautiful but grassy.
As I was leaving the beach, I also got a few of the psst, pssts from some local teenagers. While most Filipinos are super easy to smile at and chat with, I was oddly uncomfortable here and left after a few minutes.
Dumaluan Beach (The BEST Beach on Panglao Island)
Now, Dumaluan Beach is the spot! And, unfortunately, it’s probably the only genuinely nice beach on Panglao that’s also commodified with resorts. While you can access the beaches, some parts are public and others private.
So, how did I get here? Well, a friend told me I could go through the Oceanica Resort and act like I belong there. Since the resorts have a security gate, you’ll have to go through them. The security just opened the gate and let me drive through, no questions asked. I even used the resort’s outdoor shower area to shower and change, haha.
The water is incredible; you can swim, and the bottom is sandy, unlike any other beach on Panglao.
Another route I read about from a Google review was to gi to White Beach and walk down to Dumaluan Beach. I haven’t tried this, but I decided to mention it.
White Beach
White Beach surprised me. It reminded me of Dumaluan Beach, but less maintained and with more homey lodgings and restaurants instead of fancy resorts. The waves were quite intense when I went, too. I didn’t swim, but a few people were in the water.
I only had a little time to spend here. Still, from what I experienced, it’s probably one of the best beaches to enjoy the water behind Dumaluan.
Venture to Offshore Islands in Panglao
An adventure to Panglao’s offshore islands and reefs is the best for snorkeling, swimming, and diving. If you’re an ocean lover like me, this is the section for you!
Go Scuba Diving to the Islands
If you’ve got your open-water certification to scuba dive, you can’t skip out on an island scuba dive trip. You’ll be able to see massive sea turtles, sea snakes, barracudas, jackfish, and more. I got to dive at both Pamilacan and Balicasag, and between the huge schools of fish, sea turtles, and glowing corals (yes, they looked like they were glowing!), I was so glad I jumped in on the day trips!
We dove with Bohol Divers Club, and the service was top-notch. I was actually confused when our guides switched out our tanks each dive—talk about convenience! Each day trip included three dives and a freshly cooked lunch, coffee, and tea. The boat is also massive and covered, so being there all day was quite cozy.
Day Trip Dive at Balicasag Island
Of the two island diving trips I did, Balicasag was my favorite. We saw at least 10 sea turtles, and some were huge! Of course, though, this probably depends on the day.
A friend of mine did the same dive and she saw very few turtles, but did see a shark!
Balicasag is also limited to only 150 divers daily, meaning it can be hard to reserve, so book in advance.
Day Trip Dive at Pamilacan
Another popular scuba diving island day trip option is Pamalican Island. Like Balicasag, you’ll probably see some sea turtles and other amazing underwater life. The island is about an hour’s boat ride from Alona, and on the way (or coming back), you might even spot some dolphins.
Learn to Free Dive
I didn’t have time to free dive in Panglao, but my freediver friends tell me Panglao is one of the best places to train for freediving… which means I had to include it.
In addition to amazing freedive conditions, the learning costs are some of the best I’ve seen. So, if you’ve been thinking of getting certified through AIDA or Mochanovs, doing it here is a great deal. You can also take a one-day introduction course if you’re not ready to commit to a full course.
My friend Ray of Freedive Nomad, who came to train here, recommends Sophie for freediving courses for anyone coming to Panglao!
Panglao Island Hopping Tours (with or without Snorkeling)
If you want to enjoy the surrounding islands, you can opt for an island-hopping tour. You can usually organize these through your accommodation or the many people selling tours along Alona Beach.
Custom Island Trip with Private Guide
For example, a friend of mine went only to Pamalican for the day and opted to snorkel as well. They contacted their boat directly and had a private tour and guide. If you want a private boat and guide, call Mark Anthony at +63 9999688384 (only by calling a local number).
He even brought earplugs for my friends as the boat was quite loud! Plus, if you do a private tour, you can even ask about spending the night on one of the islands!
Snorkeling Island Trip with Dive Company
If you want to spend the day on a boat and only snorkel at Pamalican or Balicasag, you can go with a dive company like Bohol Divers Club, who will take you along with the scuba divers. You can spend the day on the boat and have lunch included.
Organized Island Hopping Tours
Tour options will take you to a couple islands, usually Pamalican and Virgin Island or Balicasag and Virgin Island. This trip lets you experience more islands, like this Panglao island hopping tour here.
Other Top Things to Do in Panglao Bohol
Try Bohol Bee Farm Ice Cream
I tried at least four flavors of ice cream from Bohol Bee Farm. The good news is you don’t have to go to Bohol Bee Farm to get it. As it’s pretty popular, there are two stores in Alona where you can get it—perfect for enjoying at the beach!
Its texture is unlike any ice cream I’ve had before, as it’s made with coconut milk and served in a cassava cone! Their flavors embrace local favorites such as ube and mango. But my favorite has to be Spicy Ginger! It’s also cheaper than other ice creams served in Alona.
Feast at Lamoy Restaurant
Unfortunately, Most travelers I meet say that Filipino food isn’t their favorite. And while I agree, after all (I mean, how can Vietnamese or Thai food be beat?), this restaurant serves some quality Filipino dishes. They also serve Chinese food.
My friends here introduced me to this place, and we returned again, as it never disappointed me. When you order, I highly recommend the garlic rice, sizzling squid, and any of the fried chicken flavors!
Explore Alona Town
Alona is the most popular area in Panglao for shopping, hotels, bars, restaurants, and more. So, of course, you must check it out at least once. It’s also where Alona Beach is, so it’s easy to hang out at the beach and browse dive shops and other tour operators.
If your goal is to enjoy the nightlife in Panglao, then Alona is the best place to stay, as there’s nightly live music, beachfront restaurants, and bars perfect for hopping. If you plan to get around by tricycle, Alona is one of the most accessible places to catch one as they wait outside on the main road from the Alona strip.
Swim at Hinagdanan Cave
The Hinagdanan Cave has a unique history. It was discovered by a farmer and served as a place to hide from the Japanese Imperialist Army during World War II.
The entrance is 25 pesos (~.50 cents), but if you want to swim, you have to pay an additional 100 pesos (~$ $2). While the cave is pretty cool, I’m not sure if it was worth going just to look. I’ve been in some pretty epic caves, which is why this wasn’t that amazing to me.
I would recommend it, though, if you want to swim. The cool water is worth it.
A side note: If you enjoy smoothies, the stands outside the cave area sell them for MUCH cheaper than in Alona. So I 1000% recommend stopping here for a smoothie.
Go Snorkeling from the Beach
Snorkeling is not just off the beach in Panglao as good as snorkeling on the islands or offshore by boat, but it gets the job done! Although I didn’t do this personally, you can see some starfish and other life snorkeling near the shorelines.
It’s also a good way to experience snorkeling if you aren’t comfortable in deeper water yet, so you can practice a bit before going on an island snorkeling tour.
Try Scuba Diving
I could have included this in the list above for island trips. Still, you need a certification to go on any islands for diving. So if you’re interested in experiencing and trying diving offshore in Panglao, you can opt for Discover Diving.
Watch the Sun Set at Panglao Hermit Beach
This part of the island has a view straight towards the sunsett over Cebu Island. I got here a bit late and was disappointed I didn’t make a late afternoon of it! Not only is the viewpoint spectacular, but it appears to be a pretty cool, chill spot.
While there’s only a tiny strip of beach, there’s still plenty of open spaces to sit among the tree-lined shore. I suggest coming an hour before sunset with a blanket, snacks, and drinks.
Get a Massage
I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical about getting a massage here. After searching Google a bit, I read many reviews that mentioned staff talking loudly and basically ruining customer experiences. Eventually, though, I found one that was both a great price and had primarily positive reviews, so I gave it a shot.
Hilariously, a staff member was playing a video game somewhat loudly when I arrived. Still, they had no issue to turn it down. I got an hour-long Thai massage for 600 pesos (about $12), which was INCREDIBLE. I went to Getaway Spa, and the name of my masseuse was Rose. I 100% recommend her.
You can also enjoy massages on the beach if that’s more your style.
Admire the Dauis Church
If you’re a fan of visiting religious sites, then you’ve got to go to the Dauis Church. The architecture is magnificent, and the interior will wow you. I didn’t spend a lot of time here, but it was worth the stop to admire and learn some history surrounding the Spanish missionaries who came over 300 years ago.
Located near Tagbilaran City on the other side of Panglao, it’s most accessible by scooter or tricycle. If you hire a private driver for Chocolate Hills or Locob River, you can also request a stop here along the way.
Molave Cliff Jumping (Supposedly No Longer Available)
I was so excited when I heard about this, ! Let’s jump off some cliffs! But after checking out recent Google reviews, I found that cliff jumping is no longer available. Instead, you can pay to go snorkeling at the reef here.
I didn’t go by to get the full scoop, but I wanted to mention it here as a heads-up.
Things to Do in Bohol from Panglao:
Stand-Up Paddle Board or Kayak on Loboc River
Stand-up paddle boarding has to be one of my favorite things to do in Panglao Bohol. If you asked me to go again, I wouldn’t hesitate. Located about an hour from Alona, the Loboc River is an absolute (emerald) gem. Known as one of the cleanest rivers in the Philippines, the water gets its green hue from the lush greenery around it.
We booked with SUP Tours Philippines, and the hour-long tour was super fun, and the views were stunning! They also offer a night tour to view the fireflies. Be sure to ask your guide for a life jacket if you don’t know how or can’t swim well, as the water is quite deep.
Cruise and Dine on the Loboc River
If paddle boarding on the Loboc River doesn’t interest you, here’s another option to enjoy this gorgeous river: a river cruise! I didn’t do this one, but you get to enjoy the scenery on the river cruise. It’s also shaded, which is perfect for a super sunny day!
And, of course, a local meal is served on the cruise.
Visit the Famous Chocolate Hills
The Chocolate Hills are a MUST VISIT in Bohol. Plan a day trip here, especially if you love geography.
Formed ancient corals, erosion, and time, there are over 1,200 of these round hills dotted around Bohol. They’re spectacular to see from the high viewing platform, and, of course, snap a photo! I especially recommend coming around sunset.
You can get here by riding a scooter or going on an organized Chocolate Hills tour (which also includes the Loboc River Cruise)!
Visit the Tarsiers
If you’ve ever wondered what those little primates with big eyes and long fingers are, they are tarsiers! And you can visit them in Bohol. There are two sanctuaries you can visit, although the one in Corella was more recommended to me due to ethics.
I ended up not going to either, but if you decide to go, read up on your options to make the most informed decision!
Drive Through the Bilar Man-Made Forest
While simple, the Man-Made Forest is one of those unique things to do in Panglao Bohol for those who love a scenic drive. Most of the drives around the area will be scenic already, but the Man-Made Forest is a hidden gem in Bohol. The winding roads are lined with massive white and red mahogany trees and other vegetation.
It stands out from the tropical palms around the island and provides great shade coverage.
Admire the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces
Unlike the Chocolate Hills and Loboc River, which are an hour and a half drive from Alona, the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces are about 2.5 to 3 hours away. Located practically on the other side of Bohol, the rice terraces are somewhat trippy and provide an awesome photo opp.
Since I stayed a few nights near Anda, it was about an hour-long ride to get here. To see them, you can pull into Eleuterio’s Restaurant, and they’ll direct you to the viewing point.
A trip here is also usually paired with a visit to the Can-umantad Falls, which is on the same property and covered soon.
Go Waterfall Hopping
One thing I didn’t realize about Bohol was how many waterfalls there are! I visited a few further out (listed below), but many waterfalls are less than 1.5 hours from Alona Beach. Some include Pangas Falls, Kawasan Falls, and Ingkumhan Falls.
I’ll share the falls I visited below, but they are much further out. If you plan to stay in Panglao and only go on day trips, I recommend the waterfalls listed above. You can easily get to them by motorbike or booking a waterfall hopping tour.
Can-umantad Falls
The Can-umantad Falls is a waterfall below the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, about 2.5 hours from Alona Beach. I walked from Eleuterio’s Restaurant down the stairs (around 400 steps!) to reach them. I only learned you could also drive and park at the falls after! Oh well, I got my exercise in.
When I arrived, I paid 30 pesos (less than $1), and just wow! The waterfall is GORGEOUS. It was tall, the surrounding jungle lush, and the rock formations amazing. There are a few natural swimming pools, and the water is beautiful and only a little cold. After a few minutes of swimming, I adapted.
Can-umantad Falls closes around 5:30 pm, and they’ll ask you to stop swimming around 5:00 pm, so go earlier if you want to spend some time! There were also a few places to sit, making this a great spot to bring some snacks and spend an afternoon.
Kinahugan Falls
The Kinahugan Falls is the perfect spot to hang out with friends for a day. The area is well-shaded and has a beautiful natural pool—you can even jump into the water! There’s no entry fee, although there is a donation box at the top of the trail. There are also a few seating areas you can enjoy.
Be careful, though, as the rocks can be VERY slippery. I almost fell a couple of times.
Anda White Sand & Quinale Beach (The BEST BEACH in Panglao and Bohol)
Forget what I said about Dumaluan and White Beaches in Panglao – THIS is the best beach to visit here. But it will take you at least three hours to get from Alona. That’s why one of the things I recommend doing in Panglao/Bohol is to stay a night closer to Anda.
I list both beaches together because they’re on the same stretch of beach under two different names on Google Maps. When I went, I was in love! The photos don’t even do it justice.
The water was super warm (I went in April), and the white sand was fine and powdery. You can also swim here! The water wasn’t too deep, but I could still paddle around and enjoy it. There are a few rocky patches, but the majority was clean and smooth sandy.
After that, all the beaches in Panglao mean nothing to me. So, if you have the time and want to visit the best beach in Bohol with fewer people, this is the spot!
Try the Vegetarian Coconut Burger at Coco Loco
If you make it to Anda, one place you’ve got to eat is Coco Loco. Just a few blocks from Anda Long White Beach, they serve plenty of vegetarian dishes. Of all the vegetarian dishes like hummus and salads, the must try is the coconut burger. Yep, it’s a vegetarian burger made from coconut! I was shocked by how good it was. Whether or not you’re vegetarian, you’ve got to give this unique burger a try.
Cabagnow Pool Cave
When I found this place on Google, I knew I had to go! Unfortunately, when I went, the whole road was blocked by a cement truck. The workers told me to just wait, but after about 15 minutes of sitting on my scooter, I decided to leave.
Since the cave pool is near the Anda Long White Beach, I recommend you pair stopping by here with a visit to the beach!
Stay the Night around Anda
For a different set of adventurous things to do in Bohol, stay a night or three to really check out all the waterfalls, beaches, and dive opportunities here. I stayed five nights near Guindulman, and it gave me plenty of time to visit multiple waterfalls, beaches, and rice paddies without rushing on a day trip.
Catch the Sunset at Cabantian Hills
If you’ve decided to stay a night near Anda, then this is a sunset you’ve got to see! I mean, you could do this on a day trip, but the ride back in the dark to Panglao won’t be fun.
The sunset here is better than any you can see in Panglao. The sun sets over rolling hills, and you’ll also have a view of the ocean. Even the drive here is super fun through the winding hilly road and gorgeous Chocolate Hills-Esque landscape.
Well, there you have it – a complete guide to Bohol and Panglao that covers just about everything! If you have any questions, pop them in the comment box below.
