Table of Contents
1. Alona Beach
Located on Panglao Island, Alona Beach is one of Bohol’s most famous beaches, known for its powdery white sand, vibrant coral reefs, and clear waters. The beach stretches over a kilometer and is lined with resorts, cafes, and dive shops.
Alona Beach is an excellent spot to begin your Bohol adventure, offering activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, or unwinding by the shore with a fresh coconut or beer in hand. In the evening, the beach comes alive with beachside bars, live music, and fire shows making it the perfect place to soak in the island vibe.
Tips for Alona Beach:
- Arrive early to enjoy a quieter beach experience before the crowds.
- Rent snorkeling or diving gear from local shops to explore the stunning underwater world just off the shore.
- Head to the western end of the beach for a more secluded and tranquil spot.
2. Island Hopping Tour
Island hopping tours on traditional Filipino bangka boats are a must-do in Bohol, with most morning tours beginning around 6:30 am to include dolphin watching, snorkeling at Balicasag Island, and a visit to the Virgin Island sandbar. We opted for an afternoon tour, which skipped the early dolphin watching; living in Florida, we’ve seen plenty of dolphins, so we preferred more time for snorkeling and beach relaxation.
Our first stop was Virgin Island, also known as Pungtud Island—a crescent-shaped sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Depending on the tide, the sandbar may be fully exposed or slightly submerged. During our visit, a few inches of water covered the sand, making it beautifully serene. While there were many tour boats around, it’s possible to drift away from the groups and enjoy a quiet slice of paradise. My only regret was our short stop; we only had about 30 minutes but could’ve easily lingered for an hour or two with a beer, soaking in the beautiful views.
At Balicasag Island, we were directed to a restaurant where we could pre-order meals (at inflated prices) and pick up snorkeling gear. From there, a local guides each took four guests on a small bangka out to the reef just a few hundred feet from shore. The snorkeling was impressive, though a bit crowded. As we moved closer to shore, we spotted sea turtles for the first time on our trip and got to swim with them briefly. After snorkeling, those who ordered meals ate while the others in the grouped waited without much to do. If I could have continued snorkeling or relaxed on the beach while waiting, I would have enjoyed it more.
Tips for Booking an Island Hopping Tour:
- There will be plenty of shops and locals selling these tours along Alona Beach for ₱1200-1500. Prices are negotiable so don’t be afraid to haggle a bit.
- Make sure you understand the itinerary and how much time you will be at each location to know if the tour suits you.
- If you have a group or can splurge on hiring a private boat, I highly recommend it. It’s much nicer to move at your own pace while avoiding the crowds and customizing your itinerary.
Virgin Island
Balicasag Island
3. Tarsier Sanctuary
The Philippine tarsier, one of the world’s smallest primates, is an endangered species native to the country. To witness these adorable creatures, head to the Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella. This conservation area provides a safe and natural habitat for the tarsiers and ensures their protection from extinction. The tarsier is a highly sensitive animal, and sadly, it can be prone to stress-related behaviors that can lead to self-harm.
We visited for about 45 minutes on a tour around the island where we also stopped at Chocolate Hills, Man-Made Forest, and Loboc River. We hired a private driver to take us to these locations for about $50-60 USD for the day. If you want to join a tour, you can book one at your hotel or at a shop along the beach.
4. Chocolate Hills
One of the most iconic landmarks in the Philippines, the Chocolate Hills consist of more than a thousand limestone mounds spread over the towns of Carmen, Sagbayan, and Batuan. During the dry season, the hills turn brown, resembling chocolate mounds, which gives them their name. The Chocolate Hills offer a truly surreal landscape that can’t be missed.
Visitors can access viewing decks for panoramic views of this unique formation. Another great way to see the hills is by visiting the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park for activities like ATV rides and zip-lining for a thrilling experience.
5. Loboc River Cruise
For a unique and relaxing experience, embark on a Loboc River cruise. This boat ride takes you along the scenic Loboc River, surrounded by lush greenery and swaying palm trees. The cruise includes a buffet-style Filipino lunch. While you enjoy the meal, you’ll also be treated to live music and cultural performances that showcase Boholano songs and dances. The river cruise is an excellent way to unwind and immerse yourself in the local culture.
6. Bilar Man-Made Forest
The Man-Made Forest is a two-kilometer stretch of densely planted mahogany trees, creating a tunnel-like canopy over the road. Known for its cool, shaded atmosphere and visual symmetry, it’s a popular spot for photos.
We made a quick stop here for a photo between visiting the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Sanctuary. The forest is beautiful, but you have to be careful as there is traffic coming in both directions and many people are taking pictures in the middle of the road. While it’s worth a stop if you’re passing through, it may not be worth a special trip on its own.
There’s so much to see and do in Bohol that we couldn’t fit it all into our trip. Here are some additional activities we didn’t get a chance to experience:
Cadapdapan Rice Terraces – These tiered rice fields make for a beautiful walk or photo spot.
Napaling Reef – A popular snorkeling and diving spot known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Hindagdanan Cave – This limestone cave features stalactites, stalagmites, and a crystal-clear underground pool.
Punta Cruz – Known for its historic watchtower, Punta Cruz offers panoramic views of the sea and neighboring islands. It was originally built as a lookout to guard against pirates.
- Sipatan Hanging Bridge – This bamboo bridge spans the Loboc River, giving visitors a thrilling experience as they cross its swaying path. The bridge provides picturesque views of the river and surrounding jungle.
Bohol is a destination that combines natural beauty, adventure, and cultural heritage. From the beaches and islands of Panglao to the tranquil rivers and stunning geological formations inland, each stop reveals something special about this Philippine paradise. Bohol offers an experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
