BOHOL PROVINCE
Bohol is the jewel of the Central Visayas, a stunning island province famous for its geological wonders, pristine white-sand beaches, and rich Spanish colonial heritage. It offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
This province is a land of unique contrasts, from the iconic Chocolate Hills to the tiny, endemic Philippine Tarsier. It is also a celebrated dive destination, surrounded by marine sanctuaries and vibrant coral reefs.
Most Popular Attractions
Mainland Wonders & Culture:
Chocolate Hills (choh-koh-lah-teh hills): Over 1,260 uniform, cone-shaped hills that turn brown in the dry season, a geological monument.
Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary (tar-see-yer): A conservation area in Corella where visitors can observe the tiny, endemic primate in its natural habitat.
Loboc River Cruise (loh-bok): A relaxing cruise on a floating restaurant through lush, emerald-green tropical scenery with cultural performances.
Bilar Man-Made Forest (bee-lar): A two-kilometer stretch of dense, towering mahogany trees forming a dark, beautiful tunnel over the road.
Baclayon Church (bahk-lah-yon): Officially the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary Parish Church, one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines (partially damaged in 2013).
Blood Compact Monument (Sandugo – sahn-doo-goh): A bronze sculpture in Tagbilaran commemorating the 1565 ritual of friendship between Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and local chieftain Datu Sikatuna.
Loboc Church and Museum: Another historical Spanish-era stone church, the Church of San Pedro, with a rich museum collection.
Clarin Ancestral House (klah-rin): A well-preserved Spanish-Filipino colonial house in Loay, offering a glimpse into Boholano aristocracy.
Sipatan Twin Hanging Bridge (see-pah-tan): A pair of bamboo footbridges suspended over the Loboc River, offering a thrilling crossing experience.
Dagohoy Historical Marker: Located in Danao, marking the area where Francisco Dagohoy launched the longest revolt in Philippine history against the Spanish (1744–1829).
Cadapdapan Rice Terraces (kah-dahp-dah-pahn): Stunning tiered rice paddies in the mountain town of Candijay.
Can-umantad Falls (kahn-ooh-mahn-tad): The tallest waterfall in the province, located near the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces.
Panglao Island & Coastline:
Alona Beach (ah-loh-nah): The most popular beach on Panglao Island, famous for its white sand, resorts, and vibrant nightlife.
Hinagdanan Cave (hee-nahg-dah-nahn): A naturally lit limestone cave on Panglao Island with a cool, deep underground lagoon for swimming.
Bohol Bee Farm: An organic farm, restaurant, and resort known for its healthy, homegrown food and unique ice cream flavors.
Dumaluan Beach (doo-mah-loo-ahn): A long stretch of white sand on Panglao, generally quieter than Alona, with clear, shallow waters.
Panglao Watchtower: A historic stone watchtower built in 1851 next to the Dauis Church, serving as a lookout against pirates.
Napaling Reef: A popular snorkeling and diving spot off Panglao known for its impressive sardine run, rivaling other famous sites.
Islands & Marine Life:
Balicasag Island (bah-lee-kah-sahg): A marine sanctuary famous worldwide for exceptional diving, snorkeling, and sea turtle encounters.
Virgin Island (also called Pungtud Island): A pristine, uninhabited white-sandbar that appears and disappears with the tide, a popular stop on island-hopping tours.
Pamilacan Island (pah-mee-lah-kahn): Known for dolphin watching tours and its relaxed, local fishing village atmosphere.
Activities & Experiences
Marvel at the Chocolate Hills: View the more than 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills, a unique geological formation, from a viewing deck. For an adrenaline rush, try an ATV ride through the foothills.
Go Island Hopping to Balicasag Island: Take a boat tour from Panglao to this island paradise for world-class snorkeling and diving. Swim with giant sea turtles and explore a vibrant marine sanctuary.
Meet the Philippine Tarsier: Visit a designated sanctuary (like the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella) to observe one of the world’s smallest primates, the nocturnal, big-eyed Tarsier (Pronunciation: TAR-shyer), in its natural habitat.
- Note: Tarsiers are sensitive to stress and light. Maintain silence and avoid flash photography.
Take a Loboc River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic and relaxing cruise along the emerald Loboc River (Pronunciation: LOH-bohk), often including a buffet lunch and local music entertainment on a floating restaurant.
Experience the Napaling Sardine Run: Snorkel or freedive at Napaling Reef (Panglao Island) to witness a massive, mesmerizing ball of sardines, an incredible, easily accessible underwater spectacle.
Walk through the Man-Made Forest: Drive or cycle through the Bilar Man-Made Forest, a dense, two-kilometer stretch of Mahogany trees planted in the 1960s, creating a surreal, shaded tunnel.
Explore Anda’s Beaches and Caves: Head to the quieter side of Bohol to relax on the long, white-sand Quinale Beach and explore the numerous caves with freshwater pools like Cabagnow Cave Pool.
Zipline or Kayak at Danao Adventure Park: Seek thrills at this eco-adventure park, which offers activities like ziplining high above the Wahig River, kayaking, or rappelling.
Visit the Bohol Bee Farm: Tour this organic farm on Panglao Island, learn about sustainable farming, and sample their delicious organic meals and unique homemade ice cream flavors.
Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) or Kayak on the Loboc River at Sunset: Opt for a more tranquil experience by renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the quiet stretches of the Loboc River, often culminating in firefly watching at night.
Discover Hinagdanan Cave: Explore this illuminated limestone cave on Panglao Island with a cool, deep lagoon where you can take a refreshing swim.
Local Tips & Transport
Motorbike/Scooter Rental is King: For ultimate flexibility and independent exploration of Bohol’s countryside (like the Chocolate Hills and Loboc), renting a scooter or motorbike is the most popular and budget-friendly option (approx. $6-$10/day). Remember to wear a helmet and have an International Driving Permit.
Tricycles for Short Distances: The ubiquitous Tricycle (a motorcycle with a sidecar) is the go-to for short hops within Panglao Island or Tagbilaran City. Always agree on the fare (locally called pakyaw or fixed price) before getting in, as prices are often negotiated.
Hiring a Car or Van with a Driver: For groups or those who prefer comfort, hiring a private car or van for a full-day tour (like the Countryside Tour) is easy to arrange through resorts or local agencies. This is the most efficient way to cover long distances.
Public Buses and Jeepneys: For the most budget-conscious travel over long distances, public buses (like the Ceres Liner) and Jeepneys (shared, colorful minivans) operate from the Dao Integrated Bus Terminal in Tagbilaran. They are cheap but can be slow and run on less strict schedules.
From the Airport (TAG): The Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG) is on Panglao Island, close to the main resorts. Taxis, airport shuttles, and tricycle drivers are available for transfer, but pre-arranging a transfer with your accommodation is often the easiest option.
The Filipino Mealtime: Locals generally eat breakfast early, have lunch around noon, and dinner around 7 PM-8 PM. Dining is a communal activity, and eating with rice is the norm.
The “Panglao-Centric” Itinerary: Most tourists base themselves on Panglao Island, home to Alona Beach. Panglao serves as the hub for dining, nightlife, and island-hopping tours. Plan at least one full day for a “Countryside Tour” to see the inner island attractions (Hills, Tarsiers, Loboc).
Cash is Essential: While major hotels and large restaurants in Panglao accept credit cards, many small local eateries, shops, market vendors, and entrance fees for attractions require cash (Philippine Pesos – PHP). There are ATMs in Tagbilaran and Alona Beach, but always carry enough small bills.
Respect the Tarsiers: When visiting the sanctuaries, maintain absolute silence and distance. Tarsiers are highly sensitive and prone to self-harm when stressed. Avoid flash photography. The guides are strict about this for a good reason.
Hidden Gems
- Cadapdapan Rice Terraces: Located near Candijay, these terraces offer a stunning, less-visited panoramic view of the cascading rice paddies, often combined with a trip to nearby waterfalls.
- Blood Compact Shrine (Sandugo): Located in Tagbilaran City, this monument commemorates the first treaty of friendship between the Spanish and Filipinos in 1565.
- Bohol Museum: Located in Tagbilaran, this is a great place to understand the island’s history, culture, and natural heritage, often overlooked by beach-bound tourists.
- Baclayon Church: One of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, though currently undergoing reconstruction after a major earthquake, it is still a significant heritage site.
Language: While English is widely spoken in the tourism industry and is an official language, locals primarily speak Cebuano (locally called Boholano) or Tagalog (Filipino). Learning simple phrases like Salamat (Thank you) and Maayong adlaw (Good day) will be appreciated.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from December to May, offers the best weather for beach and water activities. The Chocolate Hills turn “chocolatey” brown towards the end of the dry season (March to May).
Top Restaurants
Gerarda’s Place [$15-$30] – Located in an ancestral home in Tagbilaran (and with Panglao branches), this is a beloved local institution famous for homestyle Filipino and Boholano cuisine, including their Dinakdakan and seafood Kare-Kare. (Pronunciation: He-rar-dah’s)
Lamoy Restaurant [$10-$20] – A popular, unpretentious local joint in Panglao known for excellent Filipino and Chinese cuisine, offering generous portions at great value.
Garden Café [$10-$20] – A long-standing favorite in Tagbilaran City with a casual, diner-like atmosphere, serving classic Filipino comfort food and international dishes.
The Prawn Farm [$20-$40] – Located in Tagbilaran, this restaurant is highly-regarded for its fresh seafood, particularly its namesake prawns, offering a casual and pleasant dining environment.
Chicken Ati-Atihan [$5-$15] – A local chain, especially popular in Tagbilaran, famous for its budget-friendly and flavorful Inasal (grilled chicken) and sizzling Sisig.
JOSÉ Tagbilaran [$15-$25] – Savor authentic Filipino cuisine in Tagbilaran City, praised for its celebration of local flavors in a welcoming setting.
Kajun Bohol [$10-$20] – A casual and affordable spot in Panglao known for its satisfying burgers and fried chicken, popular with locals and budget-conscious travelers.
Aftertaste [$5-$15] – A great budget-friendly option for solid Filipino cuisine, offering quick, filling, and easy meals in the Panglao area.
La Familia [$15-$25] – A Panglao restaurant offering an authentic Filipino dining experience where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Persona Mesa [$15-$25] – Located in Tagbilaran City, this restaurant is known for authentic Filipino flavors, with many saying every meal tells a story.
Ryus Lechon Corner [$10-$20] – Not a full-service restaurant but highly recommended for its delicious and budget-friendly Lechon (roasted pig) and Sisig in Panglao.
Al Fresco Bay Cafe’ & Restobar [$15-$25] – While also offering Italian, locals love this Tagbilaran spot for its brick-oven-baked pizza and international dishes with a hint of Filipino taste.
Molly [$20-$40] – A Panglao spot praised for its Filipino dishes with a twist, including Pork belly in Alavar sauce and Tuna Tatare.
Bohol Bee Farm [$15-$30] – A highly popular, eco-friendly establishment in Dauis known for its farm-to-table meals using organic ingredients, edible flower salads, and unique homemade ice cream flavors like Malunggay (moringa) and spicy ginger.
The Buzzz Café [$15-$30] – Run by the Bohol Bee Farm, this cafe has branches in Tagbilaran and Panglao, offering a refreshing take on organic, healthy Filipino food and their famous spreads and cassava chips.
SHAKA – Panglao Bohol [$10-$20] – A very popular, health-conscious vegetarian spot famous for its vibrant, colorful smoothie bowls, vegan burgers, and a laid-back, organic vibe.
Vedge Bohol – Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurant [$10-$20] – Your go-to spot in Panglao for a completely plant-based meal, focusing on fresh flavors and sustainable dining.
Luna Rossa Vegan Resto [$10-$25] – A cozy, completely plant-based dining spot in Panglao with a creative menu that includes vegan Kare-Kare and mushroom Adobo.
Food & Fables [$15-$25] – Located near the Loboc River, this quieter, less touristy gem is known for its healthy dining options and delicious, nutritious meals amidst nature’s beauty.
Giuseppe Pizzeria & Sicilian Roast [$20-$40] – Considered by many to be the best Italian restaurant in Bohol, owned and operated by an Italian chef. Famous for its wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta. (Pronunciation: Joo-sep-peh)
Toto E Peppino [$20-$35] – Highly-regarded Italian restaurant in Panglao, known for its excellent Neapolitan pizza, baked in an oven imported from Napoli, and solid Italian fare.
Bougainvillea Spanish Restaurant and Wine Bar [$25-$45] – Offers authentic Spanish flavors, including tapas and paella, in Panglao, perfect for a European craving. (Pronunciation: Boo-gan-vil-ya)
Barwoo [$25-$45] – A popular spot in Panglao that offers a unique fusion of Asian and Western cuisines, known for its top-tier flavor and generous portions, including their Rosè pasta.
Vanilla Sky Restaurant [$20-$40] – Another excellent Italian restaurant in Panglao, known for its more quiet and romantic atmosphere and home-made burrata.
Wonderland Thai [$15-$30] – A highly-rated restaurant in Panglao that serves authentic Thai cuisine, offering something different from the usual Filipino or Western food.
Narcos Cantina [$15-$30] – Experience vibrant, authentic Mexican cuisine in a lively setting in Panglao, a great break from local fare.
Bollywood Tadka [$15-$30] – Regarded as Bohol’s best Indian restaurant, offering authentic Indian flavors in a tropical atmosphere in Panglao.
Kun’s Stick and Bowl [$10-$20] – A popular Asian spot in Panglao, often recommended for its unlimited Samgyupsal (Korean BBQ) and pan-Asian flavors.
ROJO Alona [$15-$30] – A Panglao restaurant that blends local flavors with international cuisine in an inviting atmosphere near Alona Beach.
Mahalo Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located in Panglao, offering a mix of American, Filipino, and Hawaiian cuisine, celebrating a variety of flavors.
Sushihan [$15-$30] – A solid spot for Japanese cuisine in Panglao, offering sushi rolls and tempura bowls.
Overgrown Cafe & Bar [$10-$25] – A favorite café in Panglao with a chilled-out, minimalist, and very photogenic vibe, serving great coffee, cocktails, and light meals.
Kamaya [$15-$30] – Owned by the same people as Overgrown, this Panglao spot is a bit more upscale, ideal for brunch or cocktails, featuring a breezy, natural aesthetic.
Sisa Bistro [$20-$40] – Located in Panglao, this bistro is praised for its familiar Filipino cuisine but with a modern, creative twist. A must-try for foodies.
Mosa [$20-$40] – A pleasantly surprising Panglao restaurant offering good, flavorful food across various cuisines with a creative twist, known for generous portions.
Black Stone [$30-$50] – A great spot for a nice dinner in Panglao, known for serving perhaps the best steak in the area within a resort setting.
The Old Plantation [$20-$40] – If traveling north of Bohol to Anda, this restaurant is highly recommended for its solid, flavorful meals in a charming setting.
Mist Cafe [$15-$30] – Popular for its beauty and mesmerizing bird-cage-like structure, it’s a very nice spot for an afternoon coffee or drinks, with food being secondary.
I Love BBQ [$15-$30] – A casual and lively spot popular in Panglao for its grilled meats and seafood, offering a fun, tropical barbecue experience.
The Boathouse at BE Grand Resort [$50-$80] – Located in Panglao, this cliffside fine-dining restaurant is known for its exquisite international cuisine, gold-standard steaks, and fresh seafood, all set against stunning sunset views.
Saffron Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located within Amorita Resort on Alona Beach, this is a pricier but highly-regarded option for exquisite dining, blending local flavors with a beautiful ocean view.
Pearl Restaurant (Linaw Beach Resort) [$30-$60] – A great spot for high-quality dining, located right near the water in Panglao, known for its excellent Filipino specialties like Adobo and fresh Kinilaw (raw fish ceviche). (Pronunciation: Kee-nee-law)
The Personal Che’f [$50-$90] – Run by a Russian couple, this unique restaurant in Panglao serves incredibly high-quality, creatively plated, super fancy food with a simple, elegant setup.
JJ’s SEAFOOD VILLAGE [$30-$60] – A gastronomic paradise in Tagbilaran where fresh flavors meet Bohol’s rich culinary traditions, focusing heavily on seafood.
Bouquet Restaurant [$30-$50] – Experience exquisite Filipino and international cuisine at this Panglao restaurant, where dishes are known for their creative and artful preparation.
Oasis Restaurant & Beach Club [$30-$50] – Situated on Alona Beach, this restaurant is highly rated for its beautiful setting, great vibes, and varied menu featuring Southeast Asian, fish, and vegetarian options.
Lekker Garden [$20-$40] – Offers an eclectic mix of South African and other international cuisines in a pleasant garden setting in Panglao, recommended for its unique menu.
ubeco [$15-$30] – A popular cafe/brunch spot in Panglao, highly recommended for dishes like its chicken with curry sauce and egg on top, offering a fresh, modern vibe.
Gavroche [$15-$30] – A great French bistro in Panglao for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, offering bistro classics like pastries, sandwiches, and salads, along with a selection of French wine.
Coco Loco [$15-$35] – Located in Anda, this beachside cafe-resto-bar offers good food, especially for breakfast, lunch, and snacks, but is famous for carrying a range of craft beers from The Cebruery.
Mosa 10000/10 [$20-$40] – A Panglao favorite praised intensely for its creative and flavorful food across various cuisines, with patrons missing it long after they leave.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Rizal Estates Rum and Cigar Bar: This sophisticated lounge in Tawala, Panglao, offers a premium ambiance perfect for unwinding. It specializes in an exotic selection of rums, cocktails, and high-quality cigars.
Aluna Beach Lounge: Located right on the bustling Alona Beach strip, this bar has a warm, friendly vibe. It’s a favorite spot for travelers to socialize and enjoy refreshing cocktails right by the ocean.
The Monkey Bar by Chef Jenzel Fontilla: Found near Alona Beach, Panglao, this spot offers a lively atmosphere that pairs innovative cocktail creations with stunning views, reflecting the culinary creativity of its namesake chef.
Paddy’s Irish Pub and Restaurant: A popular and lively pub in Panglao that blends Irish warmth with Filipino hospitality. While known for beer, they also offer a variety of drinks in a setting perfect for a cheerful night out.
Bamboo Place: This tropical restaurant and cocktail bar in Panglao offers a relaxing atmosphere, great for enjoying island-inspired drinks amidst a vibrant setting.
Udo’s Bar: A nice bar conveniently located within walking distance of the main Alona Beach area, offering a slightly more relaxed atmosphere compared to the crowded beachfront.
Salt & Sky Rooftop Lounge: Discover a rooftop paradise in Panglao where you can enjoy breathtaking island views and vibrant cocktails, perfect for a sunset or evening rendezvous.
Jeff’s Bar..k: Found in Panglao, this spot is known for its lively ambiance and a selection of delightful Asian cuisine alongside its bar offerings, great for a fun social evening.
Rumor Draft Bar and Restaurant: This beachfront bar in Panglao serves delicious grilled dishes and refreshing drinks in a lively setting right by the sand and sea.
Destino: Experience the vibrant bar scene in Panglao where lively entertainment and tropical drinks await in a stunning island setting.
The Gun Bar: Situated in the heart of Panglao and surrounded by a serene garden, this charming bar offers an array of exotic cocktails and quality spirits, providing a tranquil escape.
Spindrift Restobar Lite Port: A lively ambiance awaits at this restobar in Tagbilaran City, where you can find refreshing drinks and tasty dishes, catering more to a local city crowd.
L&D Golden Hour Chill Bar: Found in Panglao, this bar is perfectly situated for catching the sunset while enjoying creative cocktails in a chill atmosphere.
Voho Bar: Located in Panglao, this bar offers a vibrant nightlife experience where you can sip cocktails with stunning seaside views and enjoy lively entertainment.
Bugsay Bar: This bar in Panglao offers a vibrant atmosphere where tropical drinks meet stunning island views.
MUNI BEACH COCKTAIL BAR: Located a bit further from Alona in Baclayon, Bohol, this spot offers a relaxed setting for enjoying creative cocktails and the tranquil beach atmosphere.
Club Holic: A well-known spot mentioned for Bohol’s nightlife, likely in the bustling Panglao area (specifically Alona Beach), offering a classic club experience to dance the night away.
Chillout Bar: Another popular late-night spot in the Panglao area, offering a fun, tropical atmosphere with music and drinks that keep the party going into the early hours.
Atmospheres (Atmos): (Pronunciation: At-mos-feerz, often called At-mos) A long-standing institution in Tagbilaran City, popular with locals for its energetic club scene, a great place to put on your dancing shoes.
Panglao Funpark (Formerly Bohol Fun Park): Located in Panglao, this venue often hosts themed parties and has an electric atmosphere with live DJs spinning tracks that draw crowds to the dance floor as the night progresses.
Rocky’s Bistro and Lounge: A popular venue in Panglao that transforms into a lively lounge at night, often attracting a crowd of food lovers and late-night revelers.
Pastrami Club: A vibrant, often packed, late-night favorite near Alona Beach, Panglao, known for its good music (including 70s to current hits) and lively crowd, with DJs playing until the early morning.
The Crew Bar: A spot in Panglao that is a perfect choice for unwinding and socializing, known for its selection of refreshing drinks and vibrant nightlife scene.
Ubar: Experience the vibrant beachside atmosphere at this bar in Panglao, ideal for refreshing cocktails and stunning sunset views, often buzzing late into the evening.
Vapers: A local bar/vape shop/nightclub located in Tagbilaran City, offering an alternative nightlife venue slightly away from the Panglao tourist hub.