Nestled in the central Philippines, Bohol is an island paradise teeming with attractions for every traveler.
Discover the unique formations of the Chocolate Hills, glide through the peaceful waters of the Loboc River, and get up close with the adorable tarsiers.
For those craving adventure, the diving spots around Panglao Island are a must, while the historic Baclayon Church offers a glimpse into the island’s past.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant markets, kayaking through mangroves, or simply soaking in the tropical vibes, Bohol’s diverse activities and experiences make it a top destination for an unforgettable holiday.
This is the 11 Best Things to do in Bohol, Philippines.
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Best Time to Visit Bohol
The best time to visit Bohol is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April.
During this period, you can expect sunny days, minimal rainfall, and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing, beachgoing, and water sports.
Peak tourist season is from late December to March, so if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in late November or April-May.
June to November are the rainiest months, so you may want to avoid this stretch of the year if your goal is to catch as many sunny days as you can.
How to Get From Siquijor to Bohol
Siquijor to Bohol is the one of the easiest transfers in the Philippines. To get to Bohol you will need to take a ferry from Siquijor Pier to Bohol.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Get to Siquijor Port: The main port is in Siquijor Town, but there are also ports in Larena and Lazi. You can take a tricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to the port.
- Book a Ferry Ticket: Several operators provide ferry services between Siquijor and Bohol, such as OceanJet, Lite Ferries, and Montenegro Lines. It’s advisable to arrive at the port at least an hour before departure.
- Board the Ferry: Most ferries depart from Siquijor or Larena Port and arrive at Tagbilaran Port in Bohol. The journey usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the type of ferry.
- Arrival in Bohol: Most ferries dock at Tagbilaran Port, which is the main gateway to Bohol. From Tagbilaran Port, you can take a tricycle, taxi, or van to your destination within Bohol, such as Panglao Island, which is a popular area for tourists.
Top 11 Things to do in Bohol
Bohol, Philippines, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to various interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Bohol, Philippines.
1. Chocolate Hills
Visit the iconic Chocolate Hills, a geological formation consisting of over 1,200 hills that turn brown during the dry season, resembling chocolate mounds.
Tip: Make sure to bring an umbrella because there is absolutely no shade at the viewing platform and it gets hot!
2. Tarsier Sanctuary
See one of the world’s smallest and cutest primates at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, where you can observe these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.
3. Loboc River Cruise
Enjoy a scenic river cruise along the Loboc River, complete with a buffet lunch and traditional Filipino music and dance performances. The food is actually really good but the desserts are AMAZING!
4. Alona Beach
Relax on the white sands of Alona Beach on Panglao Island, known for its vibrant nightlife, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving spots.
Tip: I feel like I shouldn’t be sharing this but I can’t gatekeep this, Head to Oceanika Resort for some non crowded beach time with beach loungers and umbrellas. Entrance is free but sometimes they ask for you to purchase a drink or appetizer but I promise you it’s totally worth it.
5. Hinagdanan Cave
Explore the Hinagdanan Cave, a stunning underground cave with limestone formations and a natural pool where you can swim.
6. Danao Adventure Park
Experience adrenaline-pumping activities at Danao Adventure Park, including zip-lining, rappelling, and river tubing.
7. Balicasag Island
Take a boat trip to Balicasag Island for snorkeling and diving in its rich marine sanctuary, home to colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
8. Pamilacan Island
Enjoy a day trip to Pamilacan Island, known for dolphin and whale watching, pristine beaches, and excellent snorkeling spots.
9. Panglao Island Diving
Dive in the world-renowned sites around Panglao Island, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
10. Kayak Asia
One of our favorite things to do in Bohol that not many know about is the eco-friendly kayaking tour offered by Kayak Asia. I recommend the Mangrove + Firefly Tour, it was so peaceful kayaking through the mangroves and in the evening watching the thousands of firefly’s light up the sky, truly a unique experience in Bohol.
11. Anda Beach
Visit Anda Beach, a less crowded alternative to Alona Beach, offering beautiful white sand, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere.
These activities highlight the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities that make Bohol a must-visit destination in the Philippines.
Where to Eat in Bohol
Bohol Bee Farm Restaurant
- Type: Organic, Filipino
- Highlights: Known for its fresh, organic food and unique dining experience. Don’t miss their homemade ice cream and organic salads.
Sisa Bistro
- Type: Modern Filipino
- Highlights: Gourmet Filipino Dishes with traditional Filipino flavors with a modern twist, using fresh, local ingredients.
Dos Locos
- Type: Mexican
- Highlights: Serving up flavorful tacos, burritos, and margaritas. As a Mexican it was surprisingly good. Definitely satisfied our taco craving.
Kebab Corner
- Type: Turkish
- Highlights: Affordable and delicious shawarma doner right on Alona Beach with really good mango smoothies.
Atypika
- Type: Coffee Stand
- Highlights: This street side coffee stand not only has the cutest set up but the coffee is honestly the best in Bohol. The Iced Salt Cream Latte is insane!
Overgrown Cafe
- Type: Healthy Cafe
- Highlights: Known for its organic and plant-based meals, offering a healthy and tasty smoothie bowls, yogurt, grilled cheese sandwiches, drinks and home baked goods. This was our go to breakfast spot.
Bougainvillea Spanish Restaurant and Wine Bar
- Type: Spanish
- Highlights: Traditional Spanish dishes, such as paella, tapas, and churros, crafted with high-quality ingredients and extensive imported wine selection.
Giuseppe Pizzeria & Sicilian Roast
- Type: Italian
- Highlights: Known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and traditional Sicilian roasts, Giuseppe offers a menu full of authentic Italian flavors, including handmade pastas and fresh seafood.
How to Get Around in Bohol
Getting around Bohol is relatively easy, with several transportation options available.
Tricycles:
Tricycles are a common mode of transportation in the Philippines, including Bohol. They can be hired for short trips or day tours around the island.
- Cost: Short trips usually cost around PHP 20 to PHP 50, while island tours can range from PHP 1000 to PHP 1500 for a day.
- Availability: Widely available in Tagbilaran City, Panglao Island, and other populated areas.
Motorbikes and Scooters:
Renting a motorbike is the most popular and convenient way to explore Bohol. It provides the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit various attractions.
- Cost: Typically ranges from PHP 300 to PHP 500 per day.
- Availability: Available for rent in many tourist areas, including Alona Beach, we rented our motorbike from a guy next to the Parking area for Alona Beach.
Vans and Taxis:
Hiring a private car or van with a driver is an option for those who prefer comfort and convenience, especially for group travel or families.
- Cost: Rates can vary widely, typically ranging from PHP 2000 to PHP 6000 per day.
- Availability: Can be booked through hotels, travel agencies, or directly at the airport.
Jeepneys:
Jeepneys are colorful, shared public transport vehicles that operate on fixed routes. They are an affordable way to travel between towns.
- Cost: Typically ranges from PHP 10 to PHP 50, depending on the distance.
- Availability: Operate on set routes, mainly around Tagbilaran City and connecting to other towns.
Buses:
Public buses run by local companies are best for longer distances, such as traveling from Tagbilaran to other parts of Bohol.
- Cost: Typically ranges from PHP 50 to PHP 200, depending on the distance.
- Availability: Available at main bus terminals like Dao Integrated Bus Terminal in Tagbilaran.
Boat Rentals:
Private boats can be hired for island hopping and exploring marine sites.
Cost Island Hopping Tours:
- Small Group Tour: PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,000 ($30 to $60 USD per person) for a half-day or full-day tour.
- Private Tour: PHP 6,000 to PHP 12,000 ($120 to $240 USD) per boat for a half-day or full-day tour.
Availability: Can be arranged through tour operators and hotels in coastal areas like Panglao.
Bohol Accommodation
All accommodations on this list are located on Panglao Island.
Budget Hotels in Bohol
Bohol Coco Farm Hostel:
Offers a laid-back atmosphere with a garden, a bar, and a restaurant.
Bohol Hammock Hostel:
Known for its vibrant and social atmosphere, it offers comfortable dorms and private rooms, along with a communal lounge and garden area.
Lhoyjean Garden Hostel:
Provides a cozy and peaceful stay with lush garden surroundings. It offers dormitory-style and private rooms with modern amenities.
Midrange Hotels in Bohol
Christelle Inn:
Offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Known for its friendly service and convenient location near Alona Beach.
Imagine Bohol:
Boasts modern and stylish rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
Luxury Hotels in Bohol
The Bellevue Resort:
Luxurious beachfront accommodations with stunning ocean views, an infinity pool, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options. Known for its exceptional service, modern amenities, and eco-friendly initiatives.
Amorita Resort:
An upscale experience with stylish rooms and villas, two infinity pools, a spa, and an award-winning restaurant. The resort is renowned for its breathtaking clifftop views, lush gardens, and personalized service.
Henann Resort Alona Beach:
Elegant rooms and suites, several swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and multiple dining options. The resort is praised for its prime beachfront location, spacious facilities, and exceptional hospitality.
Bohol to Siargao
To travel from Bohol to Siargao, you will typically need to take a combination of ferry and flights, as there are no direct connections. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Option 1: Via Cebu
Travel from Bohol to Cebu:
- Ferry: Take a fast ferry from Tagbilaran Port (Bohol) to Cebu City. Operators like OceanJet and SuperCat offer this service. Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.
- Fly from Cebu to Siargao:
- Flight: From Mactan-Cebu International Airport, take a direct flight to Siargao’s Sayak Airport.
- Airlines: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and SkyJet offer direct flights. Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour.
Option 2: Via Surigao City
Travel from Bohol to Surigao City:
- Ferry: Take a ferry from Tagbilaran Port (Bohol) to Surigao City. Operators: Shipping Lines, Lite Ferries. Travel Time: Approximately 8 to 10 hours (overnight ferry).
- Ferry from Surigao City to Siargao:
- Ferry: Take a ferry from Surigao City to Dapa Port in Siargao. Operators: Montenegro Lines, Evaristo & Sons Sea Transport. Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.
Option 3: Via Manila
Travel from Bohol to Manila:
- Flight: From Bohol-Panglao International Airport, take a flight to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours.
- Fly from Manila to Siargao:
- Flight: From Manila, take a direct flight to Siargao’s Sayak Airport. Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.
Tips
- Booking: Book your flight tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. We met many travelers who had to pay double what we paid for our flights or found sold out flights.
- Connections: Ensure you have enough time between connections to avoid missed transfers. We picked the earliest ferry leaving Bohol and had 3 hours between our ferry arriving and our flight out.
By following these steps, you can smoothly travel from Bohol to Siargao and enjoy your island-hopping adventure in the Philippines.
That wraps up this post, the 11 Best Things to do in Bohol, Philippines.
BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE:
- Best Places to Visit in Philippines: Your Ultimate Guide to Paradise
- 15 Best Things to do in Moalboal, Philippines
- 12 Best Things to do in Siquijor, Philippines
Travel Resources
Here you can find all the travel site links that we personally use and recommend.
CAMPSITES/CAMPGROUNDS We like to use a couple apps for last minute campsite bookings. Our favorites are HipCamp, The Dyrt and Campendium.
ACCOMMODATION: We find the best deals with BOOKING.COM. The more you book the better the perks like free breakfast with your stay, room upgrades and even higher discounted room rates.
CAR RENTALS: We have always used RentalCars.com and find them to have the best deals, customer service and selection of locations.
FLIGHTS: Our go to for looking up flights is SKYSCANNER, but we try to always book directly with the airline.
TOURS/EXCURSIONS: GET YOUR GUIDE and VIATOR are two very reputable sites with easy and hassle free bookings.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: It’s so important to travel with insurance and for this we use SafetyWing. We are currently using them for our 1 year trip.
TRANSPORTATION: For all our bus, ferry and train transfer needs in Asia we use 12go.asia.
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