The province of Bohol is one of my favorite destinations in the Central Visayas Region. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Bohol offers a myriad of captivating tourist attractions that will leave you spellbound. In this blog post, we will explore the top 12 must-visit destinations in Bohol, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience. Let's dive in!
1. Chocolate Hills: Nature's Sweet Surprise
No visit to Bohol is complete without beholding the iconic Chocolate Hills. Yes, It's a must visit destination in Bohol. These 1,268 perfectly cone-shaped hills, covered in lush green grass, turn brown during the dry season, resembling a vast landscape of chocolate kisses. The viewpoint in Carmen offers breathtaking panoramas of this geological wonder.
2. Tarsier Sanctuary: Encounter the World's Smallest Primates
Step into the mystical world of the Philippine tarsiers at the Tarsier Sanctuary. These adorable primates, known for their enormous eyes and unique characteristics, will captivate your heart. Witness them in their natural habitat while learning about conservation efforts to protect these endangered creatures. Please dont touch these little tarsiers and avoid making loud noise.
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| Alona Beach |
3. Panglao Island: Tropical Paradise Extraordinaire
A short distance from Bohol, Panglao Island awaits with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches. Dive into the vibrant marine ecosystem, indulge in thrilling water sports, or simply unwind under swaying palm trees. Don't miss Alona Beach, famous for its picturesque sunsets and lively atmosphere. Some people are saying the vibe on this beach is similar to Boracay Island.
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| Loboc River Cruise |
4. Loboc River Cruise: A Journey through Serenity
Embark on a peaceful cruise along the enchanting Loboc River, surrounded by lush greenery. Indulge in a delectable buffet of local delicacies as you drift past scenic landscapes and traditional villages. Be serenaded by local musicians while immersing yourself in the tranquil ambiance of this unforgettable experience. Take note, the food on this tour is on a buffet style. Yes, it's unlimited! Eat all you can!
5. Hinagdanan Cave: An Underground Marvel
Discover the mystical wonders of Hinagdanan Cave, a hidden gem with a mesmerizing underground lake. Marvel at the awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cavernous chamber. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters or simply relish the serene ambiance surrounding this natural spectacle. Be careful on your steps as the trail going down to the cave is slippery.
6. Bohol Bee Farm: A Gastronomic Adventure
Immerse yourself in the flavors of Bohol at the renowned Bohol Bee Farm. Delight in a farm-to-table experience with organic, homegrown ingredients and innovative dishes. Explore the lush gardens, take part in a farm tour, and indulge in their delectable selection of honey-based products. I highly recommedn to try the ice cream. It's very refreshing and delicious.
7. Baclayon Church: A Testament of Faith
Step back in time at Baclayon Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines. Marvel at its Spanish colonial architecture and ornate interior, showcasing religious artifacts and relics dating back to the 16th century. Discover the rich history and cultural significance of this revered religious landmark.
8 . Danao Adventure Park: Thrills and Adrenaline
Calling all adventure seekers! Head to Danao Adventure Park for an adrenaline-pumping experience. Choose from a range of thrilling activities such as zip-lining, rappelling, river tubing, and kayaking. Nestled amidst verdant nature, this park promises an exhilarating adventure for the brave at heart. Dont forget to try the "The Pludge". It's scary but exciting. No worries, it's safe!
9. Man-made Forest: A Green Canopy
Prepare to be awe-struck as you pass through the captivating Man-made Forest in Bilar. Drive along a stretch of towering mahogany trees, forming a lush green canopy above the road. The sight of sunlight filtering through the dense foliage creates a mystical atmosphere that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Make sure to bring your phone and camera and take a pose on this Instagrammable spot in Bohol.
10. Virgin Island
If you will book an island hopping tour, part of it is Virgin Island. It features a unique and picturesque sandbar and crystal clear water. Here you can find Isola di Francisco and you'll be greeted by a statue of St. Pio of Pietrelcina. Here, you can swim into cystal clear waters and eat your lunch.
11. Balicasag Island
Apart from Virgin Island and Whale watching, you are able to visit the Balicasag Island. It's a haven for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. It's a prime Bohol diving and snorkeling spot because of its precious and beautiful marine life. The island features a long stretch of white sand beaches dotted with tropical trees. You will surely enjoy colorful reefs and fishes as well super adorable turtles that could swim along with you. It's recommended to bring an under water camera or go pro to have beautiful shot while swimming under the sea.
12. The Mirror of the World
You can experience the world without having to hop on a plane. Yes, you read it right! In The Mirror of the World, you can find scaled-down versions of some of the most famous landmarks in the world such as the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Eiffel tower in Paris, Christ the Redeemer in Rio De Janeiro, Merlion in Singapore, he Golden Gate Bridge of California and many more. The best time to enter the park is at 5PM when you can pay the daytime entrance fee and also see the amazing nighttime view of the Park.
Solea Coast Resort Panglao
When it comes to finding the perfect tropical getaway, look no further than Solea Coast Resort. Nestled on the idyllic shores of Panglao Island, this luxurious resort offers a slice of paradise where tranquility meets unparalleled hospitality. From its stunning location to its world-class amenities, there are several compelling reasons why staying at Solea Coast Resort Panglao. It has breathtaking location, luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining experiences, impeccable service, proximity to Bohol's popular attractions and many more. Check Room Rates and Availability HERE.
Where to eat in Bohol
When it comes to dining in Panglao, Bohol, you'll find a variety of options that cater to different tastes and budgets. From local Filipino cuisine to international flavors, here are some popular dining establishments in Panglao:
Mist Cafe and Restaurant: It's an Intagrammable plant-filled restaurant located in the heart of Panglao Island. Situated in a bustling tourist spot, MIST is the ideal place to chill and relax after a day tour adventure. They are serving several meals, refreshing juices, cafes, alcoholic beverages and many more!
Bohol Bee Farm Restaurant: Located within the Bohol Bee Farm Resort, this farm-to-table restaurant offers organic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a wide array of healthy and flavorful dishes, including their famous organic salads, homemade ice cream, and delectable seafood specialties.
Alona Beach Restaurants: Alona Beach, a popular tourist spot in Panglao, is lined with numerous restaurants and eateries serving a variety of cuisines. You can find everything from fresh seafood and Filipino dishes to Italian, Asian, and international flavors. Some recommended restaurants include Giuseppe Pizzeria and Sicilian Roast, The Buzzz Café, and Luna Rossa Vegetarian Italian Restaurant.
Getting to Bohol by Plane and Boat
By Plane:
The most convenient way to reach Bohol is by air. The island has its own international airport, Panglao International Airport (TAG), which is served by several domestic and international airlines.
Domestic Flights: From major cities in the Philippines, such as Manila, Cebu, or Davao, you can find direct flights to Panglao International Airport. Airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia operate regular flights to Bohol.
International Flights: If you are traveling from abroad, you can find international flights that connect to Panglao International Airport through connecting flights from major hubs in the Philippines, such as Manila or Cebu.
By Boat:
If you prefer a scenic journey and have more time to spare, you can also reach Bohol by boat from various ports in the Philippines.
From Cebu: Cebu City has a well-established ferry service to Bohol. You can take a fast ferry from Cebu City's Pier 1 or Pier 4 to Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol. Several ferry operators, such as OceanJet, SuperCat, and Weesam Express, offer daily trips that take around 2 hours to reach Tagbilaran.
From Dumaguete: If you are coming from the neighboring island of Negros Oriental, you can take a ferry from Dumaguete to Tagbilaran. The ferry ride takes approximately 2 hours, and several operators, including OceanJet and Montenegro Shipping Lines, provide regular services.
From other ports: Depending on your location in the Philippines, you may find ferry services to Bohol from other ports such as Ormoc, Cagayan de Oro, or Manila. However, these routes are less frequent and may require longer travel times.
Once you arrive at Tagbilaran City, the main gateway to Bohol, you can easily access various attractions on the island by land transportation, including taxis, tricycles, and rental cars. Additionally, many resorts and hotels offer airport or seaport transfers for their guests, which can be arranged in advance
Bohol is a destination that seamlessly blends natural wonders, cultural heritage, and thrilling experiences. From the iconic Chocolate Hills to the enchanting Tarsier Sanctuary, and the pristine beaches of Panglao Island, this paradise has something for every traveler. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Bohol, savor its local flavors, and create unforgettable memories as you explore these top 12 tourist attractions. Plan your journey to Bohol and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
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