Bohol Island Travel Guide For The Philippines
The island of Bohol Philippines is a unique one, with exotic landscapes like the ‘Chocolate Hills,’ and wild tarsiers, the world’s smallest primate. Bohol may not be quite as popular as islands like Coron or El Nido Palawan , but it’s still worth a visit.
There are lots of good things to see and do in Bohol island. You can go island hopping to enjoy some white sand beaches, snorkeling, and scuba diving, or you can do a driving tour of the countryside to see waterfalls, rice terraces, churches, and of course the Philippine tarsiers.
It’s relatively easy to get to Bohol Island from Cebu or Manila, and you can even visit Bohol on a day trip from Cebu and go back in the same day, although there are enough activities on the island to keep you busy for at least a few days if you have time to stay longer.
This travel guide for Bohol Philippines will explain how to get there, where to stay, what to do on the island, and everything else you need to know before you go!
Table of Contents show 1) Where Is Bohol Island Located? 2) How To Get To Bohol Philippines 3) How To Get To Get Around Bohol Island 4) Best Things To Do In Bohol Philippines 5) Map Of Things To Do In Bohol Philippines 6) Best Beaches In Bohol 7) How Long To Stay In Bohol Philippines 8) Bohol Travel Itinerary 9) Best Time To Visit Bohol Philippines 10) Best Bohol Tour Packages 11) Other Tips For Bohol Island 12) More Philippines Travel Guides
Where Is Bohol Island Located?
Bohol island is located in the Central Visayas of the Philippines, just south of Cebu. It’s about 30 kilometers from Cebu city as the crow flies.
You can get there by flying from a big city, or taking a ferry from one of the nearby islands.
Drone pic of Balicasag Island — one of the most popular places in Bohol Philippines!
How To Get To Bohol Philippines
• from manila to bohol.
From Manila, you can fly to Bohol with AirAsia, Cebu Pacific, or Philippine Airlines. The flight is non-stop and only takes about 1.5 hours.
The Bohol international airport is located in Panglao (TAG), which also happens to be the best area for tourists to stay. There are a bunch of flights on this route every day, and the prices are very reasonable — sometimes as low as 1,700 pesos ($30 USD) for a one way ticket!
If you have a choice, I would go with Philippine Airlines because they have the best service, but the other airlines are fine too.
Shop Now: Flights To Bohol
• From Cebu To Bohol
From Cebu, you can get to Bohol by fast ferry with Oceanjet or Supercat . The boats are safe and relatively comfortable, and the journey takes about 2 hours. Keep in mind, the ferries may be canceled if there’s stormy weather.
The Cebu ferry terminal is a short distance from the Cebu city center, and it’s easy to get there with a taxi. There are lots of ferry departures every day, so you can choose the date and time that fits your schedule best.
Prices are a very affordable 900 pesos ($16 USD) for a one way ticket, and there’s a small terminal fee to pay as well. It’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance though, so you can save time at the ferry terminal and guarantee your spot on the boat.
There are even day tours to Bohol from Cebu that include hotel transfers, ferry tickets, and a visit to many of the top sights on Bohol island. This can be a good option if you’re short on time and want an easy way to see some of the main highlights of Bohol.
Book Now: Bohol Ferry / Tour From Cebu
• From Other Places
You can also get to Bohol by ferry from other nearby islands in the Philippines like Siquijor , Dumaguete , or Camiguin .
Last, but not least, there are direct flights to Bohol from Davao (DVO) or El Nido (ENI) in the Philippines, or from Seoul–Incheon (ICN) in South Korea.
You can shop for flights to the Philippines at Skyscanner.
The famous Chocolate Hills of Bohol Philippines!
Blue and turquoise waters at Balicasag Island
How To Get To Get Around Bohol Island
The best way to get around Bohol island is by car, motorbike, or tuk-tuk (motorized tricycle).
Motorbike is the cheapest transport, and you can easily rent a bike from your hotel in Bohol or from one of the motorbike rental shops on the island.
Tricycles are an intermediate option. They’re a bit safer and more comfortable than motorbikes, but still pretty cheap. You can flag down a trike taxi on the road, or ask your hotel to call one for you.
Car is the most expensive way to get around Bohol, but it can still be very economical if you share it with a group of friends. It’s also the safest and most comfortable way to explore the island. For long distance trips, this is the way to go.
Klook has a private car charter for Bohol so you can hire a local driver with a car or van for up to 8 hours of touring all over the island. They also have airport transfers by car for Panglao and other areas of Bohol.
Tropical scenery on the Loboc river cruise
Philippine Tarsier
Last, but not least, another way to get around in Bohol is by joining a group tour. Klook has Bohol countryside tours and island hopping tours that are very reasonably priced, especially if you’re a solo traveler. I did the countryside tour for only $10 USD!
One thing to keep in mind is that even though the tours are nice, you don’t really see the true countryside of Bohol, just the most popular tourist sights.
I still think the tours are worth doing, but if you really want to see the beauty of Bohol you should rent a motorbike or hire a private driver and go to something more remote like the Cadapdapan rice terraces and Can-umantad Falls. Even the drive out there is incredibly scenic and worthwhile!
Best Things To Do In Bohol Philippines
• chocolate hills.
The Chocolate Hills are one of the most iconic sights in Bohol Philippines! There are more than 1,000 of these cone-shaped hills spread out in the interior of the island, and it has to be one of Southeast Asia’s most unusual landscapes.
You can see the brown color of the hills in the dry season (January to May), but I actually prefer the green color during the rainy season months (June to December). Either way, this is one of the best things to do in Bohol island.
There’s a platform you can climb for panoramic views of the hills, and they also have some tourist activities like 4-wheeling (ATVs) and zip lines. The Chocolate Hills are located in central Bohol, about a 1.5 hour drive from Panglao.
Book Now: Bohol Countryside Tour
Panoramic view of the Chocolate Hills
Chocolate Hills
• Philippine Tarsiers
Bohol is famous for being home to the Philippine tarsiers. These little bug-eyed animals are the world’s smallest primates.
There are two main places to see tarsiers in Bohol: the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary or the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area . The sanctuary gets better reviews, but you have to visit it independently since the tours usually go to the other one.
At the conservation area, it was disappointing to see crowds of noisy tourists being disrespectful and ignoring the signs to keep quiet. Tarsiers are nocturnal animals, so please try not to disturb them too much, and remember to disable the flash on your camera.
• Loboc River
The Loboc River is another popular spot to visit on the Bohol countryside tour . For this one, you’ll hop on a scenic boat cruise along the river, enjoying a buffet meal and a Filipino cultural dance.
When I saw the crowds and the long line to get into the boats, I was worried this might turn out to be a pointless tourist trap, but the boat cruise was actually pretty enjoyable. The meal was a bit pricey, at 850 pesos, but all of the food was fresh and good, and I came back for seconds and thirds.
The tropical scenery along the river gets better as you go, with steep mountains and palm trees lining the riverside. Overall, it was a nice experience and a fun memory from my trip to Bohol Philippines!
Loboc river cruise
• Alona Beach
Alona Beach is Bohol’s main tourist beach, with lots of hotels , bars, restaurants, massage places, and souvenir shops.
You can relax on the beach or do watersports, and it’s also a nice beach for seeing the sunrise or sunset. The hawkers can be a bit annoying, but if you ignore them they’ll go away.
I wouldn’t say Alona is a very special beach compared to some of the other great beaches in the Philippines, but it’s certainly worth a visit!
Funny sand castle at Alona Beach
• Dumaluan Beach
Dumaluan Beach is the nicer, more quiet alternative to Alona. It’s cleaner and less developed, and not as many people know about it. There’s also an entrance fee to go to the beach, so that keeps some of the crowds away.
For nice places to stay at Dumaluan, check out the South Palms Resort or Bohol Beach Club . These are really beautiful hotels, although they’re on the pricey side.
South Palms Resort
Dumaluan Beach ( South Palms Resort )
• Balicasag Island
Balicasag Island is the main destination for the Bohol island hopping tours . It’s a circle shaped island that’s located not too far southwest of Bohol.
We stayed 2.5 hours wandering the island, soaking up sun on the beach, and snorkeling at the reef, where you can swim with sea turtles. This is a fun island to visit on a day trip from Bohol Philippines!
Balicasag is a busy island with lots of boats on the beach, but you can find quiet areas if you look around. There are also restaurants, bathrooms, and other basic accommodation. It’s a 1 hour boat ride to Balicasag from Alona beach.
Book Now: Bohol Island Hopping Tour
Drone pic of Balicasag Island
The beach at Balicasag Island
• Virgin Island
Virgin Island is a natural sandbar and it’s usually the second place you stop on Bohol island hopping tours . It’s only a 30 minute boat ride from Alona beach or Balicasag island, so it’s easy to reach, although you have to go at low tide to see the sandbar.
I have to say the name is a bit misleading. This is not really a ‘virgin’ island since there are boats all over it every day, and I’ve seen much nicer sandbars in the Philippines. This one also has lots of seaweed which tends to spoil the beach view a little bit.
In spite of these things, Virgin Island is still worth a visit in my opinion, but don’t expect anything too amazing. We stayed there for about 30 minutes, which was enough. If you’re lucky, you might see some starfishes lurking in the shallow water here.
Virgin Island
Sandbar at Virgin Island
• Pahangog Falls
Pahangog Falls is a nice turquoise waterfall in the southern part of Bohol island, about a 1.5 hour drive from the Panglao tourist area.
Also known as the Dimiao Twin Falls, this spot probably wins the award for the most beautiful waterfall in Bohol, in my opinion. The water is bright turquoise and it’s good for swimming if you want to cool off.
A guide isn’t needed for Pahangog, but can be helpful. From the parking area, it takes about 15-30 minutes to hike to the falls depending on your pace, although it’s a bit slower going back because it’s uphill.
If you get exhausted, there are friendly drink sellers above and below the hill. We saw a little bit of trash, but not too much. All in all, this waterfall is a nice hidden gem that the main Bohol tours don’t visit!
Pahangog Falls — turquoise pool and waterfall!
• Cadapdapan Rice Terraces
There are rice terraces all over Bohol island, but the most spectacular ones to see would probably be the terraces at Cadapdapan. These are almost as nice as some of the rice terraces in Bali !
The only drawback is the distance. From Panglao, it’s at least a 2.5 hour drive to the Cadapdapan rice terraces, and there aren’t group tours that go here yet, so you have to drive yourself or hire a private driver (and surcharges will apply because of the distance).
However, this is one of the best spots in Bohol Philippines, and it would be a shame to miss it. It’s especially nice if you come at sunrise or take pictures with a drone.
The Cadapdapan rice terraces are far from town, but it’s such a wonderful natural landscape!
• Can-umantad Falls
Can-umantad is the tallest waterfall in Bohol, and it’s only a short distance away from the Cadapdapan rice terraces.
In fact, you can access it by a path that leads down from the terraces. The best place to park your car or bike is at Eleuterio’s Restaurant . From here, you can see the rice terraces and then hike down to the waterfall in about 15 minutes.
Can-umantad Falls is a nice 2-step cascade with a turquoise pool where you can swim below the waterfall, and there are little drink stands where you can buy fresh coconut juice and other refreshments. It’s one of Bohol’s best waterfalls!
Can-umantad Falls is the biggest waterfall in Bohol Philippines
• Pamilacan Island
Pamilacan is another nice little island south of Bohol. This one has a white sand beach and a circular shape like Balicasag island, but Pamilacan is quieter and less crowded.
Compared to Balicasag, not as many tours go to Pamilacan island, so it may be a bit harder to find a boat to share. However, GetYourGuide has a high-rated Pamilacan tour that includes dolphin watching, lunch, and snorkeling with sea turtles.
I used this tour myself and had a good experience. The boat ride to Pamilacan only takes about 1 hour from Panglao or mainland Bohol.
Book Now: Pamilacan Island Tour
Map Of Things To Do In Bohol Philippines
Here’s a map of some of the best things to do in Bohol Philippines, which you can use to plan your own trip on the island.
You can click on the icons for more information about each place, but keep in mind some of the locations may be approximate.
Best Beaches In Bohol
There are a bunch of nice white sand beaches in Bohol. The most popular is Alona Beach, and it’s a good one, but it’s also pretty busy and commercialized, with lots of tourist hotels and restaurants.
For a slightly less busy alternative with beautiful scenery, check out Dumaluan Beach, which is just a 15 minute drive from Alona. There’s an entrance fee for the beach, but it’s clean and nice.
Another good one is Anda White Beach, which is on the far eastern side of Bohol, about 3 hours from Panglao and Tagbilaran. It’s a less touristy area, but you can get there by van or bus from the Dao terminal in Tagbilaran.
A secluded corner of Alona Beach
How Long To Stay In Bohol Philippines
You can see the highlights of Bohol in just 2 or 3 days, although you could easily stay longer. For most people, 3 days is probably enough.
My first impression of Bohol was that there might not be a whole lot to do, but after branching out and seeing more of the countryside, I realized this island really is beautiful.
If you enjoy the Philippines, then you could spend weeks just exploring Bohol. There are a lot of things to see and do when you get off the beaten path.
Bohol Travel Itinerary
If you spend 3 days in Bohol, here’s what your travel itinerary could look like:
- Day 1. Countryside tour. Spend the whole day seeing the most iconic places in Bohol Philippines, such as the Chocolate Hills and the tarsiers, then do a boat cruise and buffet dinner on the Loboc river.
- Day 2. Island hopping. Visit Balicasag island, see the beach and do some snorkeling, and then check out the sandbar at Virgin island.
- Day 3. Spend the day relaxing on Alona beach or Dumaluan beach, or go see some of the more distant sights on Bohol island, like the Cadapdapan rice terraces and Can-umantad falls.
Jungle views on the Loboc river cruise
Best Time To Visit Bohol Philippines
In terms of weather, the best time to visit Bohol is during the dry season (January to May), when it’s less rainy and more sunny. However, these months are also busier with tourists, so there’s a bit of a trade-off.
During the wet season (June to December), Bohol has more rain and clouds, but the bulk of the rain is often in the evenings or at night. I traveled to Bohol in the rainy season and it didn’t really affect my trip at all.
Of course, there are no guarantees you’ll have nice weather in either season, but Bohol seems to be blessed with good weather more often than not! In conclusion, there’s really no bad time to visit Bohol in my opinion.
Best Bohol Tour Packages
For day tours in Bohol, I used Klook. They have high-rated Bohol countryside tours and island hopping tours with very reasonable prices, and they also offer private car charters , ferries , and airport transfers in Bohol.
We’ve used Klook for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they’re great. Highly recommended!
Virgin Island sandbar
Other Tips For Bohol Island
- Where To Stay. For a high-end beachfront hotel, check out South Palms Resort . For midrange, there’s the Amihan Resort at Alona Beach. For something budget friendly, check out Greenspace .
- Where To Eat. There are lots of good restaurants in Bohol catering to different tastes. A few recommendations would be Lamoy Restaurant (Asian), Paprika (beachfront), Mahalo Restaurant , and A Tavola .
- Mosquitoes. I saw a few mosquitoes in Panglao and Bohol, but generally they weren’t much of an issue. According to the Philippine Department of Health , Bohol is a malaria-free province, and prophylaxis is not advised here. However, there’s some risk of dengue fever, so it’s still a good idea to wear mosquito repellant when you’re out and about.
- Cell Service. I had good reception and data speeds with Globe on much of the island.
- WiFi. The internet situation in Bohol is improving rapidly, and nowadays you can find fast WiFi even at many of the cheapest budget hotels and hostels.
More Philippines Travel Guides
Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for Bohol island in the Philippines.
Don’t forget to check out my other blog posts about the Philippines before you go!
- El Nido Palawan Island Hopping Guide
- Coron Palawan Island Travel Guide
- Philippines Travel Guide: Tips, Info & Pictures
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Great stuff. Do you have any articles on Cebu, Moalboal, Boracay? thanks
Thanks, not yet but we’re planning to do Balabec, Boracay, and Siargao next year.
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Bohol Philippines Travel Guide: What to Do + Hotels
Best Time to Go to Bohol
Dry and summer season | december to may.
- Holy Week | March to April
Sandugo Festival | July
Climate and weather.
- What to Wear
How to Get to Bohol
Getting around bohol, main public transportation terminals, common types of transportation.
- Where to Stay in Bohol
Types of Accommodations
Neighborhoods and areas, accommodation highlights in bohol, what to see and do in bohol, see the iconic chocolate hills of bohol, discover panglao island and hinagdanan cave.
- See Tarsiers Up Close
Go on a River Cruise in Loboc
Drive through a man-made forest, visit baclayon church, unwind at the beaches of anda.
- Go Island-Hopping on Pamilacan Island and Balicasag Island
Try Fun Bohol Activities
- What to Eat and Drink in Bohol
Local Cuisine
Recommended best restaurants and bars, practical information and tips.
- Sample Itineraries in Bohol
- Day 1: Arrival + Countryside Tour
Day 2: Island-Hopping Tour + Firefly watching
Day 3: panglao island + bohol bee farm + anda beach.
- Day 4: Danao Adventure Park
Day 5: Alona Beach water activities + Departure
Explore the natural wonders of Bohol, home to the iconic tourist spots called the Chocolate Hills. Find out the best time to visit, how to go, where to stay, and what other tourist spots and activities you shouldn't miss.
Bohol is one of the most popular and top tourist destinations in the Philippines . This island province in the Central Visayas region attracts visitors from all over the world because of its stunning and diverse attractions , with the Chocolate Hills as one of the top Visayas tourist spots .
- Book Bohol Chocolate Hills tours
- Experience a Bohol Lila whale shark tour
- Check out this Bohol Beach Club package
The Chocolate Hills in Bohol is a one-of-a-kind geological formation of grass-covered hills that turn brown during the dry season. Bohol is also known as the home of the world’s second smallest primates, the tarsiers.
The province has a rich history and is home to churches dating back to the early years of Spanish colonization. For adventure lovers, Bohol offers a host of adrenaline-packed activities . But the white sand beaches , world-class dive sites, and generally laid-back provincial atmosphere of Panglao Island are what give Bohol its unique charm.
See our popular Bohol Vacation Packages
Refreshing 4-day island of bohol beach club resort vacation package, ultimate 2-week beach & adventure holiday package to the best islands from manila city, amazing 15-day adventure & whale shark watching package to the best islands in the philippines.
Bohol is composed of one main island and 75 minor surrounding smaller islands, so it can be quite overwhelming to decide where to start. This travel guide will help you navigate the province and choose the best tourist spots in Bohol to visit.
If you are going to Bohol for sightseeing and water activities , it's essential to take note of the climate, weather, and temperature before booking your plane tickets.
Like most regions in the Philippines, the temperature in Bohol varies so little throughout the year. Bohol is hot all year-round. However, the chances of rainfall fluctuate throughout the year.
You will want to take note and avoid the months with high chances of precipitation, especially if you’re going to make the most out of the beaches and the water activities in Bohol . Additionally, knowing when peak season is will help you gauge the sizet of crowds you can expect.
See our popular Bohol Tours and Activities
Bohol countryside private tour & shared loboc river lunch cruise with transfers, bohol countryside private tour with loboc river cruise lunch & transfers from cebu city.
Summer is also the best time to see the Chocolate Hills in their iconic chocolate brown color. Naturally, most travelers prefer visiting Bohol during these months. This means you can expect to see crowds at Bohol beaches and attractions.
Holy Week | March to April
The Holy Week falls within the best time range to visit Bohol in terms of weather. Thus, many local visitors flock to Bohol's beaches during the months of March to April.
The Holy Week is considered a holiday in the Philippines. You can expect large crowds during this time, a great opportunity to meet and mingle with locals.
If you prefer fewer crowds while still making the best out of the dry season, you can plan your trip in January, February, and May.
Every year, Bohol celebrates the Sandugo Festival in Tagbilaran City. The festival commemorates the historic blood compact (Sandugo) between Datu Sikatuna of Bohol and Spanish Conquistador, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. It is a month-long festival that involves beauty pageants and street dancing competitions.
If you plan to visit during this time, you will be treated to an immersive cultural experience. As with other Philippine festivals , you can expect the celebration to be vibrant and extravagant. Expect crowded streets and heavy traffic around Tagbilaran City during this festival.
The temperature in Bohol varies very little throughout the year. However, Bohol experiences significant variations in monthly rainfall. The wet season starts from June to November, with June and October receiving the most rain. Whereas, the dry season in Bohol begins in January and ends in May, with April having the least chance of rainfall.
To witness the Chocolate Hills in their iconic chocolate brown color, you’ll want to come during the dry months of January through May. These months are the peak season, so be ready to compete with the Holy Week crowd.
Here's an overview of the average monthly Bohol temperature and rainfall:
Source: NOAA
Source: Weather Spark
What to Wear
When visiting Bohol, expect a tropical climate. So dress in casual breathable clothes, especially during the dry months. If you're in the malls or outdoors at night, especially during the holiday or rainy season, it's best to bring a light jacket with you to keep you warm.
Bohol is the prime tourist destination for local and foreign travelers. It is accessible from the major cities of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, which are the primary island groups of the Philippine archipelago.
Major jump-offs in Luzon include the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila and Clark International Airport in Angeles City, Pampanga. On the other hand, Davao International Airport in Davao City is the primary jump-off in Mindanao.
Aside from air travel, you also have the option to travel by sea. You can reach Bohol via fast craft from Cebu, Dumaguete, Siquijor, and Camiguin.
See our popular Bohol Transfers
Bohol-panglao international airport to/from tagbilaran hotel | bohol transfers (tag), transfer between bohol airport and any hotel in panglao island, private van transfer between bohol seaport and any hotel on panglao island.
The Bohol-Panglao International Airport services the whole Bohol Province. Bohol-Panglao Airport is dubbed the “Green Gateway to the World” and the first “Eco-airport in the Philippines” because of its environment-friendly equipment and facilities.
Hence, you might want to book your accommodations in Panglao Island itself or start your Bohol adventure in the tourist spots in Panglao for your convenience. If you booked a hotel in Tagbilaran, there is a regular air-conditioned bus from the airport to Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City.
At the moment, Bohol is only connected to domestic destinations. If you are coming from outside of the Philippines, you will have to fly to Luzon or Mindanao to catch a plane to Bohol.
From Luzon or Mindanao in the Philippines to Bohol
Traveling by air is the most convenient and hassle-free way to reach Bohol. If you’re coming from Luzon, you can fly directly from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila to the Bohol-Panglao International Airport.
It will take you approximately an hour and a half. Philippine Airlines , Cebu Pacific , and Air Asia have daily flights from Manila to Bohol.
Another Luzon jump-off option you have is Clark International Airport in Angeles City. The trip will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have daily flights from Pampanga to Bohol.
If you're in Mindanao, you can fly to Bohol directly from the Davao International Airport. It will take just about an hour. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Air Asia have daily flights from Davao to Bohol.
Aside from going to Bohol from Luzon and Mindanao, you can also opt to fly to Cebu first and explore the Queen City of the South's tourist spots . From there, you can hop on a fast craft to Bohol at the Cebu Port.
From Outside of the Philippines to Bohol
Bohol is an international airport, but it currently has limited international flights, which includes flights from and to Seoul. For other destinations, you will have to fly to Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Airport.
NAIA is connected to several international destinations in Northeast and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Oceania, North America, and Europe. From the Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you can fly directly to the Bohol-Panglao Airport.
Another way to reach Bohol is by traveling by sea. While this route may take longer, you will get to experience a different kind of adventure. Several ferries can take you to Bohol from Cebu, Dumaguete, Siquijor, Cagayan de Oro, and Camiguin.
- Book your Cebu to Bohol ferry ticket
OceanJet, Trans-Asia Shipping Lines, and Super Shuttle Ferry are the leading ferry companies that travel to Bohol from various locations in Visayas and Mindanao.
See our popular Sea Transfers & Ferries in the Philippines
Cebu to or from surigao ferry ride one-way | starlite ferries, romblon port to or from culasi port (roxas capiz) ferry ride one-way | starlite ferries, batangas to or from calapan (oriental mindoro) ferry ride one-way | starlite ferries.
- See our Cebu-Bohol tour packages
OceanJet has daily trips to Bohol from Cebu, Dumaguete, and Siquijor. Trans-Asia Shipping Lines, Cokaliong Shipping Lines, and Lite Ferries have weekly trips to Bohol from Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao. Super Shuttle Ferry also has daily trips from Camiguin to Bohol.
From Cebu by Ferry
If you’ll be coming from Cebu, the fastest way to reach Bohol is via fast craft. You will reach Tagbilaran Port after two hours. OceanJet has several trips from Bohol to Cebu every day.
You can also take the slow ferry to get to Tagbilaran. Lite Ferries have daily trips to Tagbilaran. While a slow ferry is cheaper than a fast craft, it will take you four hours to reach Bohol.
There are five major passenger ports in Cebu; Pier 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Take note that OceanJet and Lite Ferries operate at Pier 1. You can purchase your tickets at the ferry terminal, but it is more advisable to buy them in advance.
If you're coming from Dumaguete City , you can travel to Bohol by fast ferry. The trip to Bohol from Dumaguete will only take two hours. There are limited options when you're going to Bohol from Dumaguete.
OceanJet has two visits to Tagbilaran every day. If you're traveling during peak season, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they usually sell out quickly.
From Siquijor by Ferry
If you're in Siquijor, you can travel to Bohol by fast ferry. The trip will only take approximately one hour and a half. Similar to Dumaguete, you'll have limited options when traveling from Siquijor to Bohol.
OceanJet has one fast ferry trip from Larena, Siquijor to Tagbilaran, Bohol every day. If you're going to Bohol during peak season, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they usually sell out quickly.
From Camiguin by Ferry
If you’re in Camiguin , you can travel to Bohol via the Roll On, Roll Off (RoRo) vessel. A RoRo is a vessel commonly used to transport wheeled vehicles such as buses across the sea to various island provinces in the Philippines.
Super Shuttle only offers one daily RoRo trip from Balbagon Pier in Mambajao, Camiguin to Jagna Pier in Bohol. The trip will take approximately four hours. Jagna is at two hours away from Tagbilaran City, and one hour and a half from Panglao Island.
From Davao via Cagayan de Oro or Butuan by Ferry
No ferries are plying from Davao to Bohol. However, you can head to Nasipit Port in Butuan or to Cagayan de Oro Port where you can take a ferry to Bohol. The trip from Butuan to Bohol can take five to seven hours, depending on the shipping line. While the journey from Cagayan to Bohol takes five hours.’
Lite Ferry offers two trips from Cagayan de Oro to Jagna every day. Trans-Asia Shipping Lines has three trips to Jagna every week. On the other hand, Cokaliong Shipping Lines only has one trip to Jagna every week.
Lite Ferry offers four trips from Nasipit to Jagna every week. The trip typically takes 7 hours. On the other hand, Cokaliong Shipping Lines has one trip from Nasipit to Jagna every week. The journey takes 5 hours.
Take note that the drive from Davao City to Nasipit is six hours, whereas the drive from Davao to Cagayan de Oro is five hours. These routes are a long way to get to Bohol. You can always fly directly from Davao to Bohol. But if you fancy a road trip through Mindanao, then this route can be quite an experience.
Take note that once you arrive at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport, taxis will be your only transportation option. Jeepneys and tricycles are not allowed in the airport complex. So unless you have pre-arranged transportation to fetch you and take you to your accommodations, you’ll have to take a taxi.
However, if you’re coming to Bohol by sea, you’re in luck. You can find plenty of tricycles and some taxis around the Tagbilaran Port. Tricycles can bring you to most locations within Tagbilaran City and neighboring towns.
You will need to hop on a jeepney, a bus, a van for hire (popularly called V-Hire), or motorbikes for hire (known as habal-habal) to get to distant towns.
Another essential thing first-time travelers to Bohol need to know are the main transportation terminals around the island. Take note of these areas where you can board the transportation options when getting around Bohol.
City Square Mall
If you're traveling within Tagbilaran or to nearby towns, head to the City Square Mall. It is where you will find public transport for short distances destinations such as Lila, Baclayon, Cortes, Corella, and Loboc. If you’re heading to the historic Baclayon Church or Loboc River, you can catch a ride at City Square Mall in Tagbilaran City.
Island City Mall- Dao Integrated Bus and Jeepney Terminal
Most public transportation departs from Dao Integrated Bus and Jeepney Terminal, which is located near the Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City. It is where you'll find buses bound for towns such as Anda, Jagna, Ubay, Carmen, and Danao, among others. You can also find jeepneys or multicabs that go to Panglao Island here.
If you traveled to Bohol by ferry and don't want to spend a lot on a taxi to your hotel in Panglao, you can catch a tricycle to Island City Mall. You can buy supplies at the mall and hop on a jeepney to Panglao at the nearby terminal. This way you can cut your taxi costs.
If you’re planning to explore the beautiful beaches of Anda or check out the iconic Chocolate Hills in Carmen, you can also catch a bus at the Integrated Bus Terminal. You can also find a bus here to take you to Danao, where the Danao Adventure Park is.
Depending on where you're staying and your budget for commuting, it's essential to take note of the following types of transportation for a more convenient getaway.
Van or Car Rental
If you prefer to get around Bohol in a private vehicle, you can rent a car in Bohol. There are several car and van rental companies in Bohol. You can hire a private car or van with a driver for your trip.
It is more convenient, especially when you're traveling with a group and doing countryside tours of Bohol . There are also car rentals in Bohol that allow you to drive the vehicle yourself.
If your destination is outside of Tagbilaran City, you will have to get on a bus at the Tagbilaran Bus Terminal near Island City Mall. On the other hand, if you’re coming from outside Tagbilaran City, take note that buses do not pass through the city center. They will only take you as far as the Integrated Jeep and Bus Terminal. From there, you can take a tricycle or jeepney to your destination.
Buses can take you to towns such as Anda, Jagna, Ubay, Carmen, Danao, and Panglao island. Unlike jeepneys, buses have conductors whom you will be giving your fare to. Tell the conductor your destination when you hand in your payment.
Several small independent bus companies are servicing Bohol. Buses traveling to significant towns follow regular schedules, whereas buses going to smaller towns only have a few trips per day.
Jeepneys routes in Bohol are not numbered. Instead, their signages will indicate specific points and roads within Tagbilaran City. Provincial jeepneys, on the other hand, will indicate the town name. Most routes converge at Island City Mall and Integrated Bus, as well as Jeepney Terminal. Some routes are also covered at the Tagbilaran City Square Mall.
You can hail a jeepney from any major road. However, jeepneys do not have a fixed schedule, and waiting for a jeepney may take up to 30 minutes. Additionally, jeepneys frequently stop to drop off or pick up passengers, which can extend your travel time.
When riding a jeepney, take note that payments are handed to the driver during the ride. If you’re seated at the far end of the jeepney, politely ask other passengers to pass it to the driver for you.
Be sure to say “Palihug” (Please) as you hand them your fare. Likewise, if you happen to be the one sitting close to the driver, offer the same courtesy to passengers at the far end by passing along their fare to the driver.
When you're about 5 to 10 meters away from your stop, say, "Para po!" (Please stop), to notify the driver to slow down and stop at the nearest unloading station.
Motorized tricycles, or simply tricycles, are the local form of the auto-rickshaw similar to Thailand’s tuk-tuk. These public utility vehicles ply a set route in inner roads. Built-in a variety of styles that differ from city to city, these are usually made locally by building a sidecar affixed to a motorcycle. These can accommodate 2 to 4 passengers only.
You can hail a tricycle from any part of the city. But you can also find tricycles lined up in front of Island City Mall. You can hire a tricycle like a taxi or charter it for day tours around Bohol. This type of arrangement is tagged as a "special trip," and so will cost you considerably more.
V-Hire is short for "van for hire." V-Hires are air-conditioned mini-vans that can carry 12-15 people to routes across the major towns in Bohol. They are a more comfortable and faster option than buses. They also typically cost twice the price of a bus ticket.
V-Hires have designated stops, where they can drop off or pick up passengers. V-Hires have terminals in Carmen, Tubigon, Guindulman, Ubay, Talibon, and Trinidad. In Tagbilaran City, you can find V-Hires at the Integrated Jeep and Bus Terminal.
If you're a solo backpacker or in a hurry, you can hire local motorcycle drivers to give you a lift. These motorcycles for hire are locally known as habal-habal. It is often the only way to reach interior towns if you have missed the bus.
Habal-Habal is also a good option if you don't want to spend too much on a taxi or you don't want to wait for a jeepney. Fair warning, habal-habal drivers tend to drive fast over rough roads. If the speed of the driver is starting to alarm you, politely ask the driver to slow down a little.
Only a few taxi companies operate in Bohol. You can usually find taxis outside the seaport and near malls. Taxi drivers will generally turn on the meter when traveling within Tagbilaran City. However, if you’re going outside the city limit, the driver may ask for more since he will have to drive back to the city to pick up his next passenger.
Where to Stay in Bohol
Accommodations in Bohol range from 5-star resorts (some of which offer Philippine luxury vacation packages ), glamping resorts , mid-range, and budget-friendly hotels. Some of the best beach resorts in the Philippines can be found in Bohol. Depending on your preference, here are some of the best accommodations for all budget types.
Depending on your budget and preference, it's essential to research Bohol hotels and other types of accommodations before your visit. Here are some of the usual accommodations in Bohol. Be sure to check if this accommodates the number of people you are traveling with. If you're looking for cheap hotels in Bohol, vacation rentals, Philippines honeymoon resorts , or luxury accommodations, you won’t be disappointed.
Beach Resorts and Hotels
Whether you're staying for work or leisure, there are various hotels and resorts in Bohol , ranging from budget to luxury. Luxury accommodations in Bohol offer amenities such as a swimming pool and a spa, making them ideal for a honeymoon in the Philippines .
The best resorts in Bohol are usually found on the beachfront of Panglao Island or Anda.
Budget Hotels and Inns
If you prefer to allocate more of your budget to exploring Bohol’s tourist attractions, then book a budget hotel. You can find a handful of budget accommodations in Bohol that offer dorm-type rooms and private rooms with basic amenities.
When deciding on which budget accommodation, assess if it is located near the attractions on your Bohol itinerary to avoid overspending on transportation.
Vacation Rentals
If you're looking for privacy, renting a private house in Bohol will work best. There are several vacation rentals throughout Panglao Island, Tagbilaran City, and Anda. It's better if you're in a group so you can share the expenses.
- Check out our list of the best farm stay resorts in the Philippines
Location is a significant factor when booking your hotel in Bohol. Bohol has a range of accommodations catering to different types of travelers. There are luxury resorts as well as budget accommodations concentrated mostly in Panglao Island, Anda, and the capital Tagbilaran City.
Panglao Island
Panglao Island is the top beach destination in Bohol. It is located southwest of mainland Bohol and east and south of Cebu. Panglao Island is connected to Bohol's main island by the Suarez Bridge and Gov. Borja Bridge.
The Bohol-Panglao Airport is on Panglao Island, so staying at hotels in Panglao would be very convenient. There are several attractions on Panglao Island itself.
Panglao has a land area of 91.12 square kilometers (35.18 sq mi). It comprises two municipalities: Dauis and Panglao. The famous Alona Beach and Dumaluan Beach are located in the municipality of Panglao.
Another fascinating attraction on the island is the Hinagdanan Cave in Dauis. Additionally, Balicasag Island and Pamalican, both popular destinations to try island hopping in the Philippines and explore Bohol diving spots , are close to Panglao Island.
See our popular Panglao Island Tours and Activities
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Alona Beach
Aside from swimming, there are lots of water activities you can do at Alona Beach. You can go snorkeling, scuba-diving, island-hopping, dolphin-watching, and kitesurfing.
- Find Alona Beach trips and experiences to try
The Alona House Reef is a popular diving site thanks to the variety of colorful sea creatures, including lionfish, clownfish, and frogfish, that call it home.
Balicasag and Virgin Island are also near Alona Beach. You can go on a Balicasag island tour to get a chance to see sea turtles. Virgin Island is an unspoiled sandbar that’s perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.
You can also catch a glimpse of dolphins when island-hopping from Alona Beach.
Dumaluan Beach
Dumaluan Beach is an excellent alternative to Alona Beach. It has the same powdery white sand and crystal clear water but has fewer visitors. The sunset in Dumaluan is stunning as well.
Dumaluan also has its fair share of beach resorts and hotels. The best part is the accommodations in Dumaluan cost less than those in Alona Beach.
Anda is two hours away from Tagbilaran City and Panglao Island. This town is an excellent option if you want to go off the beaten path. There are several budget accommodations here. Although it is a bit farther from the city center, you may want to check in at a hotel here instead. You can also go on a side trip from Panglao when you book a 2-day Anda sightseeing package .
Anda is blessed with beautiful beaches, cerulean waters, diving spots, and cave pools. Anda's Quinale Beach boasts coconut-fringed shores with hardly any travelers.
Anda is also an excellent jump-off point for diving. Anda has pristine reefs, caves, caverns, and coral gardens that are teeming with vibrant marine life.
Tagbilaran City
Tagbilaran City is the capital of Bohol Province. If you’re traveling to Bohol via ferry, you will arrive at the Tagbilaran City Seaport. There is no shortage of hotels in Tagbilaran. Booking your accommodation in Tagbilaran is a good option if you plan to dedicate more time exploring the inland Bohol tourist spots.
Tagbilaran is the jump-off point to Chocolate Hills, Loboc River, the Philippine Tarsier Conservation Area, and the historical and heritage sites in Bohol. Tagbilaran is also not that far from Panglao Island if you want to go swimming or island-hopping.
Depending on your budget and preference, it's essential to take note of the following: location, price, and service. While it's okay to stay in a cheaper place, one should consider the number of people that will be staying.
- Book a Mithi Resort promo
If you're in a group, it might be better to rent a private house or stay at hotels in Bohol that offer family rooms. Here are some of the popular accommodations in Bohol:
See our popular Bohol Beach Club Resort Packages
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Luxury Accommodations
Bohol is home to several 4-star and 5-star beach resorts and hotels that offer world-class facilities and services. The majority of these are located near Alona Beach. Here are some top-rated Bohol resorts and hotels :
Henann Resort Alona Beach, Bohol
Henann Resort Alona Beach is Bohol’s premier beachfront accommodation. The resort occupies 7 hectares of tropical grounds along Alona Beach. Henann offers rooms equipped with free WiFi, flatscreen TVs, and mini fridges.
Henann Suites include Nespresso machines, and separate living room and dining rooms. Some suites even have sea views.
The resort offers free breakfast for its guests. They also have a fine-dining restaurant and several bars by the pools. Other amenities include a private beach area, a gym, and a spa.
The Bellevue Resort
Photo from The Bellevue Resort
The Bellevue Resort is a five-star resort in Bohol. It is also an ASEAN Green Hotel awardee. Bellevue Hotel is located on Doljo Beach, overlooking the Cebu Strait. They offer elegant private rooms with WiFi and flatscreen TVs, iPod docks, and minibars.
You can go for an upgraded room if you want a balcony and a beach view. The Bellevue hotel also has suites with an outdoor whirlpool tub.
The resort has an international restaurant that offers open-air dining, as well as a seafood restaurant with beach views. Other amenities include a bar, an infinity pool, a spa, a gym, water sports facilities, a game room, and a playroom.
- Book a 3D2N Bellevue Bohol package with airfare from Manila
Amorita Resort
Amorita Resort is a secluded luxury resort located on a limestone cliff on the southern edge of Bohol’s Panglao Island. This tranquil seaside retreat combines world-class service with signature Filipino hospitality and is a favorite of those who want quiet luxury.
See our popular Amorita Resort Packages
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Mid-range Accommodations
Not willing to splurge for high-end amenities but still want a comfortable hotel to stay in Bohol? You can find several accommodations that offer excellent service and facilities without burning a hole in your wallet.
Dumaluan Beach Resort
Dumaluan Beach Resort is a three-star hotel on Panglao Island. This resort offers excellent value for money. If you want to get accommodations by the beachfront, Dumaluan Beach Resort is a great option.
Dumuluan beach is just as scenic as Alona Beach, but the accommodations in Dumaluan Beach Resort costs way less than Alona's Henann Resort.
Dumaluan Beach Resort offers suites, private rooms, and family rooms with air-conditioning and cable TV. Their private bathrooms also have a hot and cold shower.
The best features of the Dumaluan Resort are its private beach, outdoor pool, restaurant, and coffee shop. Their restaurant serves sumptuous international and Filipino cuisine.
Bohol South Beach Hotel
Bohol South Beach Hotel is an excellent choice if you’re looking for mid-range accommodations. This hotel is also conveniently located near Alona Beach and the Philippine Tarsier Foundation.
Bohol South Beach Hotel offers private rooms with WiFi, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and a coffee maker. You get a sitting room, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a beautiful beach view if you upgrade your room. You can opt for room service, or go to their restaurant, which has direct beach access.
Photo from Bohol South Beach Hotel
This 3.5-star hotel boasts a roof-top bar and an infinity pool. They also have other recreational facilities such as a private beach, and a spa. You also have the option of express check-in and checkout.
Budget Accommodations
If you’re backpacking or traveling on a tight budget, then budget-friendly accommodations are perfect for you. You can find top-rated low-cost accommodations in Bohol that have all the basic amenities.
TR3ATS Guest House
TR3ATS Guest House is a great budget accommodation in Bohol. It is in Tagbilaran City, only 2 km away from the Tagbilaran Seaport, and a 10-minute walk to the National Museum of Tagbilaran.
This white low-rise guesthouse offers rooms with basic accommodations and free WiFi. Their private rooms have bathrooms and flat-screen TVs.
They also offer mixed and female-only dorms with bunk beds and shared bathrooms that can accommodate up to 6 people. Other amenities include a cafe and a garden with a lagoon-style pool.
Panglao Island Inn
Panglao Island Inn is within walking distance from the famous Alona Beach. This homey inn is another excellent budget-friendly option considering its proximity to the beach and other Panglao tourist spots like the Hinagdanan Cave.
Panglao Island Inn is a great choice, especially if you’re traveling with your family or your group of friends, since they offer dorm-type rooms and family rooms. Their rooms are air-conditioned, and they also have free WiFi in their communal areas.
Panglao Island Inn’s other amenities include a 24-hour front desk, free parking, a garden area, and a smoking area.
Bohol offers various fascinating attractions and experiences. You can see most of the main landmarks and tourist spots by availing of packaged Bohol countryside tours , usually inclusive of transportation costs and entrance fees.
The countryside tours usually include visits to historical sites and churches such as the Compact Blood Site and the Baclayon Church. This Bohol itinerary also usually includes stops at the Tarsier Sanctuary, Loboc River, The Bilar Man-made Forest, the Hanging Bridge, the Chocolate Hills, and the Butterfly Garden.
Bohol is mainly associated with the Chocolate Hills , a unique geological formation of grass-covered hills that turn brown during the dry season. It is one of the country's most iconic landmarks and is featured in local currency.
- Browse Chocolate Hills tours
Two hills have been developed into resorts with viewing decks for tourism. The Chocolate Hills Complex, located in Carmen, is roughly 55 kilometers from Tagbilaran.
There’s also a viewing deck located at Sagbayan Peak, about 18 kilometers away from Carmen. Both tourist spots in Bohol offer stunning views of the surrounding hills.
See our popular Chocolate Hills Tours
Panglao Island, located southwest of the main island of Bohol, contains most of the high-end resorts and excellent restaurants. The most famous spot here is Alona Beach, notable for its white sand and clear water.
See our popular Hinagdanan Cave Tours
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This island is connected by bridges to the rest of Bohol and includes several other smaller islands, including Gak-ang, Pontod, and Balicasag, which are famous for island-hopping tours.
Another exciting geological feature on Panglao Island is Hinagdanan Cave, a naturally lit cavern with a deep lagoon and an underground water source.
- Find tours to Hinagdanan Cave
See Tarsiers Up Close
For first-timers in Bohol, one of the main attractions worth seeing are the Philippine tarsiers, cute animals with big, round eyes that feed primarily on insects. Tarsiers are nocturnal, so during the day, they’re mostly hiding or sleeping.
- Join tours to the Tarsier Sanctuaries
The Philippine tarsier is a species of tarsier endemic to the Philippines. It is found in the southeastern part of the Philippines, particularly on the islands of Bohol, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao.
You can see tarsiers up close at the Tarsier Sanctuary, situated in a forest in Corella. Note that tarsiers are very sensitive to loud noises and lights, so travelers should not use flash when taking photos. Visitors are not allowed to touch the animals.
See our popular Tarsier Conservation Tours
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Loboc River is another major tourist attraction in Bohol. Located in the town of Carmen, the river takes a westerly course for a distance of about 1.5 km, then flows due south into the Mindanao or the Bohol Sea.
The Loboc River Cruise is a must-try when you’re in Bohol. It involves an hour-long cruise on floating huts with buffet meals and entertainment from local folk singers. The clean and green river flanked by coconut trees provides a very scenic and peaceful backdrop for river cruises.
If you want to explore the Loboc River differently, stand-up paddleboarding or SUP is a different attraction being offered in the area. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding at night and enjoy firefly watching.
The Bilar Man-Made Forest, stretching in a two-kilometer stretch of densely planted Mahogany trees located on the border of Loboc and Bilar towns, is another popular spot.
It is often a side trip for travelers going to the Chocolate Hills from Loboc. The forest creates a scenic tunnel of trees bordering the road, which makes it a good spot for photos.
The town of Anda boasts several beautiful white beaches and other natural attractions. Located on the far eastern side of the province of Bohol, about 100 kilometers from the capital along the coast, Anda offers a more tranquil and isolated getaway with fewer commercial accommodations.
You can expect the same beautiful white sand beaches. The main beach area is about 1.5 km long, but there are other beaches along the coast.
Go Island-Hopping on Pamilacan Island and Balicasag Island
Pamilacan Island is a small island that has become a favorite among divers and snorkelers. It’s a great place to go snorkeling, dolphin-watching , and whale-watching. Balicasag Island, on the other hand, is where travelers head to watch sea turtles. Balicasag is also known for its underwater attractions, which you can see for yourself when you book Bohol diving packages .
See our popular Balicasag Island Tours
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For adventurous travelers, the Danao Adventure Park offers extreme activities, including caving, ziplining, rappelling, kayaking, root climbing, and bungee swinging.
For those who prefer to explore land-based attractions on their own, motorcycle rentals are available in Bohol. For avid cyclists, you can opt to explore the Bohol countryside by bicycle.
Some shops offer mountain bike rentals so you can explore on your own. Other tour operators offer guided mountain bike tours with prices that vary depending on the length of the tour.
What to Eat and Drink in Bohol
Bohol is a great place for foodies to discover tasty, homegrown dishes. If you’re craving seafood, you won’t be disappointed!
Being an island, you can expect the freshest seafood in Bohol, which you can try when you book an oyster and seafood buffet tour . You can also try a Panglao pub crawl .
Bohol Cuisine is similar to that of Cebu and other neighboring Visayan provinces. However, Bohol is famous for its local delicacies such as Peanut Kisses and Kalamay.
Peanut Kisses is a peanut delicacy inspired by Hershey's Kisses. This sweet and crunchy snack is made of high-quality peanuts and egg white. Peanut Kisses are also shaped like Bohol’s Chocolate Hills. This treat is a must-try if you’re in Bohol. It is also an excellent snack to take home.
On the other hand, Kalamay is a sticky sweet delicacy made of coconut milk, brown sugar, and glutinous rice. Kalamay is exceptionally sticky and runny when it is warm. It is typically packaged inside an empty polished coconut shell. It works great as a filling for bread, although it is also excellent on its own.
There are a lot of restaurants in Bohol that serve distinctly Visayan cuisine. Aside from sweet delicacies, Bohol is home to restaurants that serve not only great food but also a great experience.
Bohol Bee Farm
One of the best places to try is the Bohol Bee Farm, an organic farm that offers a great spot for healthy lunches and light meals in a rustic setting. Be sure to try their farm-fresh salads and soups, stir-fried organic veggies, or seafood.
Shaka Bohol
If you’re looking for a vegetarian restaurant in Panglao, head to Shaka Bohol. This eatery is a vegetarian paradise. They serve delectable and filling vegan burgers, fries, pancakes, tacos, and many more. They are also famous for their selection of smoothie bowls that are made from fresh fruits.
Shaka also serves cocktails and craft beer from Cebruery, a Visayan brewery famous for its artisanal ales and lagers. If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, you might want to try their Chocolate Hills Porter!
Tarsier Paprika
For those who want a fine-dining experience with a view, Tarsier Paprika at Donatela Resort and Sanctuary (one of the Bali-inspired resorts in the Philippines ) in Panglao is the right choice. The resto-bar sits on top of a cliff and blends international flavors with fresh local ingredients and garden herbs.
Gerarda’s Family Restaurant
Are you craving authentic home-cooked Filipino cuisine? Gerarda’s in Bohol is sure to satisfy your craving. This well-loved family-owned restaurant in Tagbilaran City is a converted ancestral house that boasts antiques and elegant classic Filipino furnishings.
More than its elegant interior and homey ambiance, Gerarda’s prides itself on its sumptuous Filipino meals in generous servings and reasonable prices.
Their best-selling dishes include dinakdakan, beef kare-kare, and crispy tadyang (ribs). Aside from Filipino food, they also have vegetarian and vegan options.
Buzz Cafe is a popular Alona Beach restaurant. It is managed by the Bohol Bee farm and conveniently located along Alona Beach. This beachfront establishment serves the same fare as the Bohol Bee Farm, but with a different view.
Be sure to try Buzz Cafe’s famous homemade ice cream served in cassava cones. They usually come in unique flavors like malunggay, honey, spicy ginger, pandan, and dragon fruit.
Before you start planning your Bohol trip, take note of these essential practical travel and safety tips for a hassle-free and convenient trip to this beautiful island province. These tips are especially useful if it's your first time in Bohol.
Major establishments in Bohol accept credit cards. There are also ATMs and money changers in the city center of Tagbilaran City. You will find the best rates at the money changers in Island City Mall, and on the street between Rose Pharmacy and the Jollibee Restaurant.
However, it is still better to bring enough Philippine Peso (PHP) with you, and smaller bills in 20, 50, and 100 denominations for faster transactions.
Additionally, always carry loose change and bills in small denominations. They will come in handy when you ride public transportation, or when you have to buy food and small items from vendors.
The majority of Bohol locals can speak Cebuano and Tagalog. Most locals also understand English well, so don't be afraid to ask questions or directions. Say "Hello," first when approaching them to establish a friendly tone.
Sample Itineraries in Bo hol
Day 1: Arrival + Countryside Tour
08:00 am - Arrival at Tagbilaran Airport
08:30 am - Check-in at the hotel
09:00 am - Countryside Tour : Tagbilaran, Baclayon, Albur
11:30 am - Loboc River Cruise with lunch
01:30 pm - Try fun activities at Chocolate Hills Adventure Park
06:00 pm - Dinner at Tarsier Paprika
05:30 am - Depart for the islands
06:00 am - Island-hopping: Virgin Island and Balicasag Island
04:00 pm - Back at the resort or lounge by Alona Beach
05:30 pm - Abatan River firefly watching tour or Loay firefly watching tour
08:30 pm - Dinner and drinks at Shaka Bohol
See our popular Firefly Watching Tours
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06:00 am - Inland tour of Panglao Island
10:00 am - Early lunch at Bohol Bee Farm
11:00 am - Explore Anda Beach
06 : 00 pm - Back at the resort
08:00 pm - Dinner at Alona Beach
Day 4: Danao Adventure Park
05:00 am - Early breakfast
06:00 am - Danao Adventure Park tour
04:00 pm - Back to the hotel
06:00 pm - Dinner at Gerarda’s in Tagbilaran
07:00 am - Breakfast at Buzz Cafe
09:00 am - Try water activities at Alona Beach: parasailing , banana boat , fly fish , UFO
12:00 pm - Check out of the hotel
02:00 pm - Flight
Start Planning Your Bohol Trip!
- Check out this El Nido-Cebu-Bohol tour package
Check out Bohol tours and activities that you can book and add to your itinerary.
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Bohol itinerary: 20 best bohol tourist spots and things to do (travel guide blog 2024 for first-timers).
Looking for top things to do in Bohol and best tourist spots to visit this 2024? Let this Bohol Travel Guide Blog with sample itinerary, places to visit, recommended hotels and resorts, tours, and travel tips help you plan an unforgettable Bohol adventure!
2024 bohol travel guide blog for first-timers (updated) - things to do in bohol, tourist spots & places to visit, quick facts about bohol.
- Bohol is the tenth largest island of the Philippines in terms of land area. It is consisted of Bohol island itself and 75 surrounding smaller islands including Panglao Island.
- Tagbilaran City is capital city of Bohol Province. Panglao Island near Tagbilaran City, where most resorts are located is a popular destination among tourists.
- Access: Bohol has a new international airport, the Bohol-Panglao International Airport also known as New Bohol International Airport. It services all flights coming to the province. You can also reach Bohol via ferry from Cebu, Dumaguete or Siquijor.
- Language: Boholano or Cebuano, but English and Tagalog are also widely spoken.
- Currency: Philippine peso (PHP).
- Mode of Payment: Most hotels and resorts, especially the big ones accept credit and debit cards. But cash is preferred in most establishments. Some big resorts have ATMs if you need to withdraw cash. Or you may go to Tagbilaran City where many banks and ATMs can be found. Money remittance centers such as Western Union can also be found in the city.
- Public Transportation: Main mode of transportation within the city is the jeepney. Buses, shuttle vans and tricycles (3-wheeled vehicles) are also available.
- Both Globe and Smart mobile signals work very well in Bohol, especially in the city. Mobile data internet are also available in many areas in the city and in Panglao Island.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BOHOL?
How to get to bohol, cebu to bohol, siquijor to bohol, dumaguete to bohol, bohol private car / van rental.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN BOHOL (TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTIONS)
1. Visit the Blood Compact Shrine in Tagbilaran City
2. River Cruise at Loboc River
Other must-try activity in loboc river.
- Loboc River Stand Up Paddle Adventure - Cruise through the famed Loboc River with your own paddle board!
3. Visit Baclayon Church
4. Take a closer look at the Chocolate Hills in Carmen
5. Cross the Bamboo Hanging Bridge in Tigbao
6. Explore the Man-made Forest in Bilar
7. Meet and greet the cute little Bohol Tarsier
8. beach bumming in alona beach, panglao island.
9. Experience Extreme Adventure at Danao Adventure Park
10. Dauis Church
11. Doljo Beach
12. Bohol Dolphin Watching
13. Balicasag Island
14. Bohol Bee Farm
15. Hinagdanan Cave
16. Anda Beach, Cabagnow Cave and Candijay
- See the most beautiful sights of the eastern tip of Bohol on a hassle-free tour
- Relax by Anda Beach, known as one of the best beaches in Bohol
- Be mesmerized with the hole in the ground cavepool known as the Cabagnow Cave and jump in, if you dare!
- See the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and get a glimpse of how local farmers live
- Take a dip in Can-umantad Falls, the tallest waterfalls in the entire province of Bohol
View this post on Instagram A post shared by ᴀɴɢᴇʟᴏ ᴠíʟʟᴀɴᴜᴇᴠᴀ (@geeloobee) on Jul 3, 2016 at 12:30am PDT
17. Panglao Church
18. Discover Scuba Diving in Bohol
- Discover the sport of scuba diving with the constant guidance of PADI certified instructors.
- Learn about the equipment and the proper method of breathing underwater with your gear.
- Explore the depths of the sea and witness Bohol’s vibrant corals and thriving marine life.
- This activity doesn’t require any previous experience - you don't even need to be able to swim!
19. Napaling Sardine Run Experience in Bohol
- Make your way to Bohol and join this exhilarating sardine run experience with your family and friends!
- Swim amid the thousands to millions of sardines at Napaling and be astonished by this natural phenomenon.
- See schools of sardines encircle around you as you snorkel close to the shores of Napaling.
- Enjoy a convenient experience that is complete with air-conditioned transfers, entrance fees, and snorkeling masks!
20. Buy some Souvenirs
RECOMMENDED HOTELS AND RESORTS IN BOHOL
- Amorita Resort Bohol - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Please read my review on Amorita Resort
- Henann Resort Alona Beach - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Please read my review Henann Resort Alona Beach
- Momo Beach House - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Please read my review on Momo Beach House
- The Bellevue Resort - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Please read my review on The Bellevue Resort
- Bohol Beach Club - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
- Cherry's Home (Cherry's Inland Resort) - √ SEE DISCOUNTED ROOM RATES + PHOTOS!
RECOMMENDED BOHOL TOUR PACKAGES
If you're coming from cebu city and just want to visit bohol on a day tour, you may avail a bohol sightseeing day tour. for hassle-free, affordable, and organized bohol tour, i recommend that you book a sight-see bohol day tour from trusted and reputable travel agency based in bohol., sight-see bohol day tour from cebu.
- Catch a glimpse of the world's smallest primate - the tarsier!
- Take a cruise along the Loboc River while eating delicious local food
- Stand in awe as you visit Bohol's famous Chocolate Hills
- Visit a colorful butterfly sanctuary and stroll through a lush forest
- Hotel transfers, guide services, ferry tickets and lunch are all included in the tour
If you're flying-in via Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG), or you're arriving by ferry from Dumaguete, Cebu, or Siquijor, you may consider these Bohol Tour Packages. Private group tours and Join-in tours are available.
Bohol countryside tour, sample itinerary.
- Time: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
- Pick-ups at hotel/resort at 9:00 AM
- Baclayon Church
- Corella Tarsier Sanctuary
- Loboc River Cruise (Lunch)
- Bilar Man-Made Forest
- Chocolate Hills
- Aproniana Souvenir Shops
- Travel Back to Hotel at 4:00 PM
Bohol Island Hopping and Dophin Watching Tour
- Discover Bohol's most beautiful islands - Balicasag and Virgin Island - as you embark on this memorable island hopping tour.
- Snorkel in the pristine waters of Balicasag Island Marine Sanctuary, and swim with numerous fishes and corals.
- Get up close with the marine species of Bohol while fish feeding at Balicasag Reef.
- Cruise to the tropical paradise, Virgin Island, a beautiful sand bar exposed during low tide.
Anda Bohol Tour Package : Explore Bohol's Best
- The iconic Chocolate Hills
- The lush Bilar Man-Made Forest
- Encounter the world's smallest primates at the Tarsier Sanctuary
- Relax with activities on the Loboc River and visit the historic Baclayon Church
- The Cabagnow Cave Pool
- Lamanok Island
- The breathtaking Cadapdapan Rice Terraces
- The Can-Umantad Falls
SAMPLE BOHOL ITINERARY
If you're flying directly to bohol via bohol-panglao international airport (tag), you may choose any of these affordable bohol tour packages:, bohol countryside tour itinerary.
- 09:00 am - hotel pick up
- Blood Compact Site
- Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
- 12:00 pm - Loboc River Cruise Buffet Lunch
- Bilar Manmade Forest
- Souvenir Shopping
- 04:00 pm - hotel drop off
Bohol Countryside with Panglao Highlights Tour Itinerary
- 08:00 am - hotel pick up
- Baclayon Church and Museum
- Butterfly Sanctuary
- Hinagdanan Cave
- Dauis Church
- Panglao Watchtower
- Shell Museum
- Bohol Bee Farm tour
- 06:00 pm - hotel drop off
Coming from Cebu, here's a sample Bohol Day Tour itinerary:
Sightsee bohol day tour itinerary from cebu.
- 07:00 am - approximately, hotel pick up time
- 09:20 am - ferry transfer to Tagbilaran
- 11:20 am - arrive at Tagbilaran Port
- 11:45 am - view famous Tarsiers
- 12:30 pm - lunch at the Loboc river cruise
- 01:30 pm - see the famous Chocolate Hills
- 02:30 pm - sightsee at Bilar man-made forest, Butterfly Sanctuary
- 03:30 pm - visit Baclayon Church & Museum and Blood Compact Monument
- 05:00 pm - end of tour
- 05:30 pm - return ferry back to Cebu
- 07:30 pm - arrive back in Cebu, hotel drop off
TRAVEL TIP: If you have more time to explore Bohol, please check out my post: Sample Bohol Itineraries for 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour or More!
Bohol travel essentials.
- Private Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) or Tagbilaran Seaport Transfer for Panglao - Travel comfortably between Tagbilaran Airport or Seaport and your hotel in Panglao and vice versa.
- Private Car Rental - For ease and convenience in exploring Bohol, private car rental is available for a hassle-free trip. You can book it online and reserve in advance.
- Local SIM Card or WiFi Device - To stay connected to the internet while in the Philippines, you may purchase a SIM Card or rent a travel WIFI device. This will also save you a lot on data roaming charges if you're coming from abroad.
Bohol Travel Requirements? What do you need to travel to Bohol?
There you have it my top things to do in bohol, tourist spots and places to visit for your bohol itinerary i hope this bohol travel guide blog helps indeed, there are just so many things that you can do and enjoy in bohol that will surely make your trip memorable. go pack your bag and experience beautiful bohol.
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3 comments :.
i think the chocolate hills in carmen are 1,260 all in all since the 8 hills vanished because of the earthquake.
Hi! Thank you for this wonderful information. We've got some ideas about the Bohol's tourists spots and attraction such as the Chocolate Hills and their white sand beaches. It's a big help for us because me and my family are planning to have a vacation leave this July 2022 in Bohol and I hope that we're able to see you and guide us in our travelling. I'm expecting that the following requirements is finalized and there are no other adjustments because as of now, we're preparing some of the needed requirements as travellers. And again, thank you very much and I'm looking forward to you Sir!
Since your trip is in July which is 3 months from now, there might be changes in the requirements. Please check back again soon!
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