Bohol offers a perfect mix of relaxing and adventurous experiences. On one side of the island, you can lounge in the fine sand and enjoy the cool beach waters. But if you want to satisfy your inner sportsman, grab your bike and explore the countryside.
Regardless of your type of holiday, the island presents a tropical escape from the urban noise and life’s pressures. Planning a vacay here? Check out this Bohol travel guide.
🛡️ Enjoy Peace of Mind During Your Vacation with Travel Insurance
Vacations, whether here or abroad, are fun. But unexpected things can happen—from delayed luggage and travel cancellations to small injuries and major accidents. Protect yourself and your family financially with the right travel insurance.
Compare top options and apply via Moneymax:
Provider
|
Starting Premium
|
Medical/Accidental Death or Disablement Coverage
|
Trip Cancellation Coverage
|
Baggage Loss/Damage
|
OONA Travel Insurance
![]() |
₱299
|
Up to ₱5 million
|
Up to ₱128,000 | Up to ₱42,600 subject to ₱4,000 per item |
PGAI Travel Shield Insurance
![]() |
₱361
|
Up to ₱2.5 million
|
Up to ₱200,000 | Up to ₱50,000 subject to ₱10,000 per item |
PGA SOMPO TravelJOY Plus
![]() |
₱463
|
Up to ₱2.5 million
|
Up to ₱70,000 | Up to ₱5,000 per item |
Cocogen Travel Excel Plus
![]() |
₱263
|
Up to ₱4.2 million
|
Up to ₱214,000
|
Up to ₱102,000 subject to ₱12,700 per item
|
Bohol Travel Guide: Getting to Know the Island
Officially known as the Province of Bohol, Bohol is an island found in Central Visayas. It sits between the islands of Cebu and Leyte. Below it are the islands of Camiguin and Siquijor.
For its beautiful geological wonders, Bohol was hailed as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023, the first in the country.[1]
Bohol enjoys a tropical climate, just like the rest of the archipelago. The best time to visit the island is from late December to early May when it’s dry and not rainy. Visit from April to May if you want to maximize the sunshine and enjoy the beaches.
Related:
- Discover the Country’s Last Frontier: Palawan Travel Guide
- Siargao Travel Guide: Where to Go and What to Do
- Things to Do in Boracay in 2024: Top Activities on the Island
How to Go to Bohol
How to go to Bohol from Manila? Three major airlines in the Philippines operate flights bound for Bohol: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Philippines AirAsia. Time your booking during a promo to get the cheapest flight to Bohol.
The travel time from Manila to Bohol takes around 1.5 hours.
Planning to go to Bohol from Manila via ferry? Book with 2GO for a more affordable trip. However, the travel time takes around two days.
How to Get Around Bohol
Here are your options for exploring Bohol:
- Tricycle - Staying on Panglao Island? You’ll mainly use the tricycle. It can get you to other towns within Panglao like Dauis and even to places on the main island like Baclayon.
- Car or motorcycle rental - If you prefer exploring the province at your own pace, rent a car or a motorcycle.
- Van rental - A lot of tour operators in the province offer travel packages that can take you to various key tourist spots.
- Boat rental - Some travel agencies offer boat rentals that can take you to Virgin Island and Balicasag Island.
How Much to Budget for a Bohol Trip
Your budget for your Bohol trip will depend on your destinations and activities. But generally, it’s relatively affordable.
For a four-day, three-night vacation, prepare between ₱5,000 and ₱7,000 if you’re traveling with at least three persons. This budget already includes accommodation, transportation, and meals. Excluded are the flights and pasalubong.
💳 Enjoy a Hassle-Free Vacation with a Credit Card
Plan a more convenient vacation with a credit card. Use it to pre-book your flights, hotel, and activities. Depending on your card, you can get free travel insurance. You can also earn exciting rewards, such as airline miles, points, and rebates.
Compare your credit card options and apply via Moneymax:
Credit Card | Travel Benefits |
UnionBank Rewards Card
|
|
Metrobank Platinum Mastercard®
|
|
Metrobank World Mastercard®
|
|
BPI Platinum Rewards Card
|
|
BPI Signature Card
|
|
Where to Stay in Bohol
Photo: Loboc River Resort (Facebook)
Bohol offers a wide range of stays, from humble hostels to high-end resorts. Here are your options:
🏝️ Bohol Accommodation Options for Budget Travelers
Traveling on a shoestring budget? Check out the following affordable accommodations:
- Boholala Hostel
- Riu del Mar Hostel
- Bohol Hammock Hostel
- Natura Vista
- Panglao Grande Resort
- Hayahay Resort
- On Board Panglao Beach Hostel & Resort
- Alona Bohol Backpackers Hostel
- Dayview Tourist Home
- Spinning Cat Hostel
🏝️ Bohol Accommodation Options for Luxury Travelers
Explore Bohol’s brand of luxury hospitality at these accommodations:
- Loboc River Resort
- Bluewater Panglao
- Donatela Resort Panglao
- The Bellevue Resort
- Henann Resort Alona Beach
- Amorita Resort
- Modala Beach Resort
- Oceanica Resort Panglao
- Bohol Beach Club
- Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa
🎁 Free Gift from Moneymax: Apple AirPods 2, Dolce Gusto Mini Me, Marshall Willen, JBL Tune 720BT, or Giftaway Cash Credits
Eligible card: UnionBank credit cards
Promo period: Until August 31, 2024
Get Apple AirPods 2 worth ₱8,490; Nescafe Dolce Gusto Mini Me worth ₱6,699; Marshall Willen Speaker worth ₱6,590; JBL Tune 720BT Wireless Headphones worth ₱4,699; or Giftaway cash credits worth ₱4,000! Just apply for any eligible UnionBank credit card via Moneymax, get approved within the promo period, and then meet the ₱10,000 spend requirement within 60 days from your card approval date.
This Moneymax UnionBank welcome gift promo runs until August 31, 2024 only.
Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-199168 Series of 2024. Terms and conditions apply.
Note: The promo is exclusive to carded applicants who do not have an existing principal credit card issued by UnionBank and/or Citi.
Where to Go in Bohol: Top Places to Visit
The island boasts both relaxing and exotic destinations. Here’s what to include in your Bohol tourist spots itinerary:
📍 Chocolate Hills
This Bohol travel guide won’t be complete without the legendary Chocolate Hills—it’s usually part of every Bohol countryside tour itinerary. Scattered within an area of a little over 50 square kilometers, these geological formations are conical karst topography or leftover limestone deposits from an era when rivers and streams were higher than the sea level.[2]
During the dry season, the hills turn brown, giving them a chocolate-like appearance. To admire the endless chocolate panorama, tourists have to climb a viewing deck.
📍 Panglao Island
The island of Panglao is one of Bohol’s most popular destinations for many reasons—white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and beautiful diving sites.
If your Panglao tour itinerary is beach-centric, there are lots of spots for you on the island. Visit Alona Beach for a quick beach stop just five minutes from the airport; Bagobo Beach if you want a smaller crowd; and Doljo Beach if you prefer shallow waters.
Read more: 8 Best White Sand Beaches in the Philippines for Your Getaway
🎁 Free Gift from Moneymax: Cash Credits, Dolce Gusto Genio S Basic, Sony WH-CH520, JBL Go 4, or Xiaomi Redmi Bluetooth Soundbar
Eligible cards: Metrobank Titanium Mastercard®, Platinum Mastercard®, and World Mastercard®
Promo period: Until August 31, 2024
How do you get a Metrobank credit card welcome gift? Simple! Just apply and get approved for any eligible card through the Moneymax website.
Choose between a Nescafe Dolce Gusto Genio S Basic worth ₱7,199; Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones worth ₱3,299; JBL Go 4 Ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker worth ₱2,599; or Xiaomi Redmi Bluetooth Soundbar; or Giftaway cash credits worth ₱2,500.
This Moneymax Metrobank eGift/Dolce Gusto/Sony/JBL/Xiaomi promo runs until August 31, 2024 only. Hurry and apply now!
Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-199163 Series of 2024. Terms and conditions apply.
Note: Applicant must be an existing credit cardholder in good standing for at least nine months.
📍 Balicasag and Virgin Islands
It is mandatory to include these two in your Bohol island-hopping itinerary. Not too far from Panglao Island, these destinations offer both relaxation and adventure.
If you prefer sunbathing and leisurely dips, Virgin Island is a must-visit. This pristine sandbar fades into the water, so make sure to time your visit well. Divers, on the other hand, will love Balicasag Island since it’s surrounded by diving spots home to colorful fish, reefs, and turtles.
📍 Hinagdanan Cave
Located in the quaint town of Dauis on Panglao Island, Hinagdanan Cave is one of the best places to go to in Bohol. During World War II, locals used the cave as a hideout from the Japanese army.
Made of limestones, Hinagdanan Cave features stalactites, stalagmites, and a lagoon. Take a dip in the cave’s cold waters for a fee. While in Dauis, visit other popular tourist spots like Bikini Beach and Dauis Church.[3]
💇 Beauty Lovers, Get a Chance to Win a Dyson Airwrap via Moneymax!
Eligible cards: Metrobank Titanium Mastercard®, Platinum Mastercard®, and World Mastercard®
Promo period: Until July 10, 2024
Raffle draw date: July 24, 2024
Yes, you read that right—the much-coveted Dyson Airwrap, worth ₱35,900, is now within your reach! Just apply for any eligible Metrobank credit card via Moneymax to earn a raffle entry.
Will you be one of the three lucky winners? Click the banner to apply now.
This Moneymax Metrobank Dyson Raffle promo runs until July 10, 2024. The raffle draw date is on July 24, 2024. Winners will be announced by July 31, 2024 via Moneymax's official Facebook page.
Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-196276 Series of 2024. Terms and conditions apply.
📍 Loboc River
With its emerald-green waters and surrounding lush foliage, the Loboc River has always been one of the most popular places in Bohol for nature lovers. Book a river cruise tour to enjoy the majestic views as you indulge in Filipino dishes.
As the currents take you away, you’ll witness the local life, from kids swimming in the river to boatmen fishing for a catch. Don’t miss the Loboc Church, which stands on one of the riverbanks.
📍 Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
This Bohol travel guide also features one of the island’s most recognizable icons—the tarsier! If you want to see the second smallest primate in the world, visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, Bohol.
Run by the Philippine Tarsier Foundation, the sanctuary is located in a portion of a natural forest where tarsiers live. Learn more about these little critters through the sanctuary’s guides.
📍 Anda
The coastal town of Anda boasts a stretch of pristine white-sand beach. Overshadowed by the beaches of Panglao, it’s one of the attractions in Bohol that aren’t filled with tourists and commercial areas. This makes it a great place for relaxation and contemplation.
The most popular beach areas in town are Quinale Beach and Talisay Beach. If you’re looking for a different kind of water adventure, visit the town’s cave pools, which are limestones filled with water. Perhaps the most famous are the Cabagnow and Combento pools.
Related: The Waves Beckon: 12 Best Surf Spots in the Philippines
📍 Bilar Man-Made Forest
As you make your way to Chocolate Hills, you’ll pass through a road lined with towering mahogany trees. That’s when you know you’re inside the Bilar Man-Made Forest. The area is reminiscent of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, Japan, albeit in a tropical setting.
This forest is part of a reforestation project initiated over 50 years ago.
🎁 Free Gift from Moneymax: Giftaway Cash Credits, JBL Flip 6, or JBL Tune 115TWS
Eligible cards: HSBC Red Mastercard, Live+ Credit Card
Promo period: Until August 31, 2024
Not an HSBC credit cardholder yet? Apply for an eligible HSBC card through Moneymax during the promo period (and get approved subsequently) to receive an exciting welcome gift! Choose from free Giftaway cash credits worth ₱3,000, a JBL Flip 6 worth ₱7,499, or a JBL Tune 115TWS worth ₱4,699.
This Moneymax HSBC Giftaway/JBL promo runs until August 31, 2024 only. Hurry and apply now!
Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-199186 Series of 2024. Terms and conditions apply.
📍 Bohol Bee Farm
Nestled within Panglao, Bohol Bee Farm is one of the best places to go to in Bohol for farming aficionados and food lovers. The estate is dedicated not only to organic farming but also to healthy eating.
Inside the property, you’ll find herb and vegetable gardens. There’s also a restaurant where you can sample fresh-tasting dishes.
Bohol Bee Farm has a hotel where you can commune with nature, enjoy the views of the Bohol Sea, and take part in exciting water activities like diving.
📍 Alicia Panoramic Park
Photo: Bohol Island Geopark website
Bohol isn’t just about relaxing beaches and beautiful marine life. Its topography offers stunning landscape views too. The Alicia Panoramic Park is proof of that.
When you reach Binabaje Hills, the park’s peak, you’ll be rewarded with an endless panorama of green terrains, curvatures, and hills. The scenery will remind you of Batanes or New Zealand.
Bohol Sample Itinerary
How long to stay in Bohol? Many vacationers understandably have a limited number of vacation leaves. Fortunately, four full days should give you enough time to rest and explore the island.
Take a look at this sample Bohol 4-day itinerary, which assumes you arrive the night before:
👉 Day 1 - Bohol Countryside
- Baclayon Church
- Loboc River Cruise
- Bilar Man-Made Forest
- Tarsier Sanctuary
- Chocolate Hills
- Alona Beach
👉 Day 2 - Anda
- Combento Cave Pool
- Anda Beach
👉 Day 3 - Panglao Island
- Panglao Church
- Dauis Church
- Hinagdanan Cave
- Bohol Bee Farm
👉 Day 4 - Island Hopping
- Balicasag Island (including dolphin-watching)
- Virgin Island
- Alona Beach
✈️ Book Your Trip Now, Pay Later with #UNOnow Loan!
Fulfill your travel goals without worrying about your budget. UNO Digital Bank has got your back! You can easily apply online for an #UNOnow Loan—no collateral needed—and get extra cash for booking your trips.
Enjoy quick approval and disbursement, as well as flexible payment terms, so you can travel now and pay later. Apply via Moneymax now!
Bohol Travel Guide: Top Things to Do on the Island
Make your Bohol trip one for the books with these exciting activities:
- Enjoy water activities - Expect your Bohol island-hopping itinerary to be jampacked. Swim, snorkel, and dive in the province’s crystal-clear waters, from Panglao Island to Anda.
- Go hiking and camping - Head to the Alicia Panoramic Park for an exciting hike and unforgettable nature views. You can even set up camp and witness the sunrise.
- Bike the countryside - Bohol is bike-friendly. Cycle through the countryside and visit popular destinations like Chocolate Hills, Bilar Man-Made Forest, and Loboc River.
- Go on a road trip - Bohol is quite a large island, so there are plenty of places to discover when you go on a road trip. If you rent a car, you can head to popular tourist destinations and explore more along the way.
- Organize a food trip - Eating with friends and exploring new cuisines are some of the best things to do in Bohol. Try these top restaurants in the province:
- The Prawn Farm - Located at Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City, this restaurant specializes in Pinoy buffet.
- Bohol Bee Farm - If organic and healthy eating is what you’re after, visit this restaurant in Dauis.
- Quinale Beach Bar - Those visiting Anda can chill in this casual bar that serves fresh seafood and various silogs.
- Barwoo - Love fusion cuisine? Head to this restaurant in Panglao and try Korean dishes with a creative twist.
- Shaka Bohol - Vegans and those who want to try plant-based meals will love this restaurant’s burgers.
- Bougainvillea - Craving Spanish dishes? This restaurant in Panglao serves paella, sangria, and tapas.
- Gerarda’s Place - This family restaurant is popular for its Pinoy dishes like dinakdakan, kare-kare, bulalo, hinalang, tinola, and more.
Read more: Beaches, Parks, and More: Outdoor Activities for ₱3,000 or Less
Bohol Travel Guide: Tips for a More Convenient Tropical Holiday
Make your Bohol island tour more comfortable with the following pointers:
- Don’t forget your sunscreen. You’ll need it not only for beach trips but also for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
- Listen to your tour guide. If you join a guided tour, listen to your guide to avoid getting into an accident or committing social blunders.
- Bring a waterproof bag. Keep your electronics, extra shirt, and money dry during a boat tour.
- Visit Chocolate Hills early in the morning. The viewing deck can get crowded really fast.
- Wear light clothes. Sleeveless shirts, linen pieces, and shorts will ensure comfort, especially when you visit during the summer season.
- Book your tours in advance. Visit websites like Klook to see bundled tours. This will save you some money and spare you from the stress of last-minute booking.
- Use your credit card. Major hotels, restaurants, and hospitality establishments accept credit card payments. Use your card to earn points and rewards.
- But don’t forget to bring some cash. Planning to book a tour on the island or eat at a small restaurant? Such establishments usually accept cash only.
Final Thoughts
Bohol is one of the must-explore islands in the Philippines. You’ll fall in love not only with stunning natural resources but also with its warm and friendly people. Make your trip to the island the best one yet with this comprehensive Bohol travel guide.
Sources:
- [1] What Makes Bohol Island the Philippines’ First UNESCO Global Geopark? (Rappler, 2023)
- [2] All You Need to Know About the Chocolate Hills in the Philippines (Travel + Leisure, 2023)
- [3] Hinagdanan Cave Profile