Panglao Hotels
Panglao – A Tropical Paradise, Above and Beneath the Waves
An idyllic island fringed with powder-soft sands and crystal clear seas, Panglao is a pure paradise for travelers. Nestled off the coast of Bohol and connected to its larger neighbor by a pair of bridges, this desirable destination manages to feel blissfully remote while also being well connected. It even has its own airport, which offers direct connections to major hubs in the Philippines and has also welcomed international flights. While Panglao has many stunning stretches of coastline, the most popular spot for tourists is Alona Beach, which is famed for its white sand, laid-back bars and local restaurants. A short distance along the coast, Dumaluan Beach promises warm, shallow seas that are ideal for relaxation. Panglao is a spectacular setting for underwater exploration, with vibrant coral reefs that house an amazing array of colorful marine life. Visitors can take organized excursions to some of the area’s best dive sites and enjoy encounters with oceanic giants like whale sharks and manta rays. For non-divers, there are plenty of superb snorkeling spots closer to shore. For guests seeking an exotic beachfront break, Panglao is haven of tropical tranquillity.
Virgin Island
Visitors to Panglao can take a day trip into the Panglao Reef Flat – a tropical wonderland of warm, shallow seas, idyllic islets and colorful marine life. One of this area’s main attractions is Virgin Island, a sublime strip of pure white sand. Soak up the exotic ambiance, paddle in the sea and discover the mangroves. Snorkeling equipment is not necessary as the waters that surround the island are so crystal clear that guests can simply look down and see shoals of small fish. A small number of stalls have been set up on the island, selling locally-made handicrafts or jewelry. Virgin Island really is a small slice of paradise!
Alona Beach
Nestled on the southwest coast of Panglao, Alona Beach is the island’s most popular tourist destination. This stunning 1.5-kilometer stretch of coastline, which is famed for its fine, white sand and calm, clear sea, is a sensational spot for sun-seekers, snorkelers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The water is wonderfully shallow, which makes it ideal for families who want to enjoy a relaxing splash. Guests who like to explore can discover tropical fish and other colorful undersea creatures offshore, especially around the rocky areas at either end of the beach. There are also plenty of beachside bars, restaurants and vendors, so visitors can stay refreshed throughout the day.
Hinagdanan Cave
Hinagdanan Cave is a spectacular natural attraction located on the north coast of Panglao, not far from Panglao Beach. Guests seeking a break from the daily diet of sun, sea and sand can discover a stunning subterranean world of stalactites, stalagmites and a bright blue underground lake, which is perfect for swimming. The rocks can be slippery, but rope railings help visitors navigate their way around the 100-meter-long space, and natural holes in the roof let in natural light, illuminating the cave. Bird watchers will also be delighted to discover that Hinagdanan Cave is a nestling place for swallows, which flitter in and out.
Balicasag Island
For scuba divers and snorkelers, Balicasag Island is a must-visit spot. Studded in the aquamarine sea, approximately six kilometers off the southwest coast of Panglao – past the Panglao Reef Flat – this almost perfectly circular islet may be small, but it is blessed with a wealth of natural attractions. Guests can swim or snorkel around the coral reefs and cliffs and find a variety of colorful marine life. Oceanic giants such as whale sharks and hammerheads can be spotted by divers at certain times of the year, and a trip to Turtle Point offers encounters with these charming reptiles. Alternatively, Balicasag Island Public Beach provides a soothing spot to unwind.
Neighborhoods to Explore
- Loboc River Cruise
- Tarsier Sanctuary
- Dumaluan Beach
- Napaling Dive Site
- Chocolate Hills, Bohol
- Bilar Manmade Forest
- Pamilacan Island
Top Things to Do
- Go island hopping to Balicasag Island, Virgin Island and Pamilacan Island
- Enjoy scuba diving or snorkeling at Balicasag Island and around Panglao
- Book a relaxing yoga class with Yoga Vibe Panglao
- Take an island hopping adventure
- Visit the bee farm
- Experience a soothing beach massage
- Take a dolphin watching trip