Have fun and explore the natural beauty of Bohol tourist spots. Learn about the best places to visit so you can maximize spending your most awaited vacation in the islands of Bohol.
Bohol welcomes a significant number of local and foreign tourists every year. (Except when Covid freezes the tourism industry.) With many natural tourist destinations, Bohol is one of the best places to visit in the Philippines.
Home to the iconic Chocolate Hills and Tarsier sanctuaries, there are many Bohol tourist spots to explore, from stunning white-sand beaches, underwater adventures, river adventures, or historical sightseeing tours.
With the completion of Panglao-Bohol International Airport, tourism has dramatically accelerated through direct flights from neighboring Asian countries.
Read onto below list of Bohol tourist destinations so you can carefully plan and maximize your next adventure to the beautiful island of Bohol.
Learn about the best Bohol tourist spots so you can plan your next getaway in Bohol.
Table of Contents
1. Chocolate Hills
Every province in the Philippines has its own distinct natural tourist spots linked to its names. Here in Bohol, the Chocolate Hills claims the top among the famous Bohol tourist spots.
A trip to Bohol province isn’t complete without visiting the Chocolate Hills, they say. True to that, the Php.200 bill features the Chocolate Hills, including the Bohol province flag and seal.
The 1000 plus unique geological formations spread across Carmen town on a vast 50-square kilometer land.
The hills turn lushed green during the wet season when foliage dominates the surface. On the contrary, the dry season turns the mini-mountains into a browny shade, hence its name. The famous Hershey’s Kisses chocolate is often associated with the magnificent Bohol attraction as well.
There are many parks and recreational areas best to enjoy the view of the Chocolate Hills. The most popular one is the viewing deck, wherein you need to climb a stair first. Afterward, the rewarding magnificent view of the Chocolate hills awaits every tourist.
Tourists may visit the Chocolate hills in both seasons. Ideally, it is best to see during the early morning to avoid the crowd during the peak seasons.
While there are urban legends about its origin, the Chocolate Hills were formed many years ago from the uplift of coral deposits and the weathering of the surface, creating today’s Chocolate Hills.
2. Learn about the Tarsiers
Aside from the Chocolate Hills, Bohol is also known for the tiny and cute primates with large round eyes called the Tarsiers.
Tarsiers grow up to 15 centimeters when reaching adulthood. They may be one of the cutest but are extremely sensitive to sound. Tarsiers are also nocturnal and among the favorite prey of snakes and eagles in the wild.
Endemic to the Philippines, Bohol is known for its conservation efforts for the tiny primates from their decrease in population.
The Tarsier Conservation Area in Loboc is one reserve area to observe Tarsiers up close to their habitat. With a minimal entrance fee, guests can experience watching the little monkey clinging on the stems thru a short walk.
With their petite size, first-timers may overlook them, but worry not because the helpful guides can easily spot them for you. Remember to follow and adhere to the conservation area’s rules and guidelines, as these are very delicate.
You can still take some photos, though, without the flash. It’s like visiting them during their sleep, so give it a shot to photograph when you spot one with eyes open.
Corella town also has its Tarsier Sanctuary with the same efforts to conserve Tarsiers to their natural habitat. Make sure also to include this in your Bohol tourist spots itinerary for a complete experience in Bohol.
3. Panglao Island Beaches
One of the more exciting things to do in Bohol is lounging on the beach, if not the best. In Panglao, the island itself is a paradise enriched with beautiful beaches in almost every corner.
Panglao drives a significant cut to the tourism industry of Bohol province. The newly opened Bohol-Panglao International Airport here, which opened last 2018, plays a vital role.
Many of the best hotels and resorts are lining close to the coast of Panglao Island. At the same time, tourists enjoy the perks of staying near the beaches, other recreational and interesting Bohol tourist spots lined up down to the line.
We’ve narrowed down the best three beaches to check out on your Bohol trip.
Alona beach
Alona Beach is one of the crowd magnets in Panglao. Since most of the upscale hotels, resorts, bars, and restaurants populate Alona beach, it is no wonder it attracts most tourists.
Like Boracay, Alona beach features a long stretch of fine white sand coastline and crystal-clear water. The area is one of the ideal places to enjoy the comfort of hospitality, top-rated amenities, and the mix of the crowd.
Aside from lounging on the sands during happy hour, there are many fun and thrilling activities to try. You can go snorkel, ride a parasail, or scream over a banana boat ride.
Dumaluan Beach
Dumaluan Beach is your best alternative to Alona beach if you prefer a less crowded space. Apart from that, you can score a cheaper hotel accommodation as well.
Like Alona, Dumaluan beach also has its fair share of white sand beaches and refreshing clear waters.
Tourists who want to enjoy the solitude with a fantastic sea view can opt for Dumaluan beach. You can beach-bum on the side and work on your tan lines without many distractions.
4. Hinagdanan Cave
Besides the many beaches to soak up in Bohol, a unique experience awaits every adventurous soul in the Hinagdanan Cave.
The Hinagdanan Cave is a small cavern featuring a deep basin of clear waters with a fantastic view of rock formations. The inviting and refreshing waters of the cave may reach from 3 to 4 meters, depending on the tide.
The challenging part of visiting Hinagdanan Cave is the access itself. Only one person can descend on the steep stairs and trails, while railings act as a guide. Make sure to wear proper footwear, especially when those times that it gets slippery.
The cave is spacious enough but not as significant to accommodate many tourists at the same time. Light passes through the tiny entrance when the sun is up, illuminating the whole cave, giving off a magical experience underneath.
According to locals, a farmer accidentally discovered the cave and built a ladder to access the cave. Hinagdanan means laddered, hence its name.
They even utilize the place as a shelter also during the second world war. Hinagdanan Cave is one of the recommended Bohol tourist spots for thrill-seekers and adventurous ones.
5. Bohol Island Hopping Tours
One of the productive ways to explore the marine biodiversity of Bohol is by joining island hopping tours in Panglao Island.
With many establishments on-site and online, you’ll never run out of choices. It is not a question of where to book but to whom you’ll be booking with your island hopping tour.
The three main destinations of a typical Bohol island hopping tour are Pamilacan Island, Balicasag Island, and Virgin Island.
Pamilacan Island
Pamilacan Island is the usual first stop of island hopping tours. This island is known as the ideal place to go on a dolphin-watching or whale-watching activity.
Remember to get up early, though, because the ideal time to watch out for these lovely marine mammals is early in the morning.
Apart from dolphin-watching, Pamilacan Island is an excellent spot to do snorkeling and diving as well.
You can also lounge on the white sands here and visit the small local stores for some refreshments.
Pamilacan is the farthest among the three islands but closer to the vast Bohol sea. With this, chances are higher to spot these cute and intelligent animals.
Balicasag Island
Balicasag Island usually comes next to the three islands. Many consider the island as one of the prime Bohol tourist spots destinations for observing the marine ecosystem. The island is true for its marine sanctuary.
While white sand beaches embrace the whole island itself, a more extraordinary adventure awaits every tourist under the water.
Snorkeling keeps you busy most of the time when in Balicasag. The shallow coast surrounding most of the island offers the perfect opportunity to observe the marine animals, even if you’re no swimmer.
Apart from the colorful reefs and schools of fish, you can also have a greater chance to spot some green sea turtles.
Besides, the experienced divers have the opportunity to explore more on the depths around Balicasag marine sanctuary.
After a few hours of underwater activities, you can also lounge along the white sands or explore the local village.
Virgin Island
Virgin Island saves the last for one of the best Bohol tourist spots. Like the White Island in Camiguin and Bonbon Beach in Romblon, Virgin Island also features a sandbar.
Also called Pontod or Puntod Island, this is the closest to Panglao Island among the three.
The size of the sandbar is relatively tiny and comes unique with its crescent shape during the low tide. You can wander around the island for 10 minutes or so while playing or stroll at every edge.
Unwind with the calm and relaxing view of Virgin Island and capture amazing photos. Besides, vendors on the boats sell refreshments and fresh seafood, so you get to refuel from your busy day of island hopping in Panglao.
Make sure to check ahead of the tide forecast if you want to enjoy the best view of the sandbar.
6. Saint Augustine Church in Panglao
One of the most significant influences of Spanish colonialism in the Philippines is the introduction of Christianity.
In Panglao Island, the church before the establishment of Saint Augustine Church traces back to the mid-1760s by the Jesuits. Today, the present church still stands the test of time from its early construction in 1894, where completion took place in 1925.
The Sint Augustine Church is one of the oldest religious sites you can visit when touring the island of Panglao.
The church features a neo-classical facade and is noteworthy for its ceiling murals depicting the sacraments. The three altars are also beautifully adorned with intricate carvings. The ceiling above the main altar has a mural of the Holy Trinity, surrounded by divisions of eight angles.
Another treasure of the Saint Augustine Church is its antique twin confessionals made of wood with carved patterns of grapevines, flowers, and doves.
Roaming outside the church, you can spot an old watchtower. Not far from the church is also a small port where you can find a lovely space to view sunsets.
7. Loboc River Cruise
A river cruise at Loboc is one of the best ways to take a break from your beach escapades in Bohol.
Book a river cruise in Loboc and witness the natural beauty of the Loboc river under the comfort of a large floating restaurant.
Your tour runs down the stretch of the Loboc river while enjoying a Filipino buffet lunch, right in the middle of the forest. In addition, the cheerful performers will serenade and dance to the beat of traditional dances, which is also a highlight of the tour.
Look around and pause in awe of its emerald waters, where towering trees line along both sides. It’s genuinely one of the perfect sights to share and cherish on your Bohol tour.
When wanting to do it the DIY way, you can experience it at your own pace as well. You can look and ask for locals offering boat rentals and tour the river with less crowd.
The river’s end is a small waterfall where you can take a quick dip or play around, get wet, and have fun under the sun.
Loboc river has its magical charm thanks to the local government’s efforts to preserve the natural state of such a tourist spot in Bohol.
8. Baclayon Church
Tourists who love visiting historic churches should not miss stopping by at Baclayon Church in Bohol. The oldest Christian settlement in Bohol, the original church, finished its completion in 1737 and traces back to its founding in 1596.
Baclayon church is officially known as The Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary Parish Church and a National Cultural Treasure recipient.
Baclayon church follows a crucifix form and faces the sea. In addition, there is a massive watchtower next to the church, acting as a bell tower as well.
Going inside, you’ll be amazed by its intricate high ceiling adorned with paintings. Large arcs welcome visitors and churchgoers. The three altars are also an inevitable look.
In 2013, a destructive earthquake jolted Bohol province, and the church was no exemption from damages. However, restoration initially started in the same year, and completion ended in 2017.
Visit Baclayon Church during your Bohol tourist spots adventure and spend some meditation and reflection. After that, you can also visit their museum, where you can gaze at religious relics and historical artifacts.
9. Blood Compact Shrine Monument
Learn a brief history when you stop by at Blood Compact Shrine in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.
The Shrine depicts a life-sized statue of five men around a table proposing a toast sign of a treaty. The symbolic agreement dates back to 1565 and signifies the alliance of Rajah Sikatuna of Bohol and the group of Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi.
Blood compact or Sandugo is an early Filipino ritual where a sample of blood from both parties cut from their wrist mixes with a liquid base like wine. Parties will then both drink the solution, symbolizing their seal of agreement.
The bronze statue is a work of art by National Artist Napoleon Abueva, a native of Bohol.
Visiting the Blood Compact Shrine not only shares a piece of history but also graces a beautiful sea view in the background.
This tourist spot in Bohol keeps its proximity to downtown Tagbilaran from a short 5-8 minutes ride.
10. Sipatan Twin Hanging Bridge
You might think twice when you’re asked to cross a hanging bridge made from bamboo. Well, the Sipatan Twin Hanging Bridge in Loboc invites you to conquer your fear of heights, even though the bridge is made of bamboo.
Weaved bamboo straps cover its deck and braces, while the stability of the hanging bridge is supported with high-strength cable wires to ensure longevity and structural integrity.
Sipatan Twin Hanging bridge is one of the highlights of almost all Bohol tourist spots tours.
Since the hanging bridges span across the Loboc River, tourists can have a different perspective on the famous inland water body in Bohol. For the locals, the bridges serve as a quick route connecting two barangays in Loboc.
After crossing the bridges, you can find small stalls selling souvenir items for keep.
11. Bilar Man-made Forest
The successful reforestation of parts of Bohol has led to the rise of one of the famous Bohol tourist spots, the Bilar Man-made Forest.
You won’t miss the Bilar man-made forest when you’re visiting the Chocolate Hills in Carmen, since you have to pass by this forest. Bilar artificial forest covers a two-kilometer stretch of the provincial road between Loboc and Bilar.
Feel like you’re on a different dimension when you enter the tunnel of trees. The smooth pavement along the winding road makes an excellent trail to ride a motorcycle or bicycle.
The Bilar man-made forest offers an in-depth experience to enjoy nature’s gift of fresh and calm space, even for just a couple of minutes. Thanks to the towering trees, sunlight penetration is almost to none.
You can also stop by in the middle of the forest if you want to walk a little, take some souvenir photographs, or enjoy the chill vibe of being in the middle of a densely forested area.
The forest is also close to other frequented Bohol tourist spots like the Tarsier Conservation Area, Loboc River, and bamboo hanging bridges.
12. Pahangog Falls
Bohol is such a paradise when it comes to the abundance of tourist destinations. Aside from the pristine beaches, there are also mesmerizing waterfalls you can explore while touring the beautiful island of Bohol.
The Pahangog waterfall is one of the water cascades in Bohol that is both a local and tourist favorite.
Reaching the drop-off point takes one hour from Tagbilaran City, 45 minutes from downtown Loboc, and 25 minutes if you’re coming from Bilar town.
From the drop-off point, you’ll need to take a moderate hike down a hill for less than 15 minutes until reaching the bottom.
Pahangog falls have two cascades; that is why it is also called twin falls. Its drop reaches up to 25 meters, and the water directly flows into a sizeable hole basin.
Tourists can plunge into the turquoise waters, take a water massage directly under the waterfalls, or perform rock jumping.
The rich foliage surrounding the area keeps it cool as well, so it’s one of the ideal Bohol tourist spots to chill and enjoy nature at its best.
Small cottages are also available near the swimming area just when you need to take a break.
13. Anda Beach
Aside from the busy coastlines of Panglao Island, another beach destination one must not miss when visiting Bohol is the Anda beach.
Anda town lies on the Eastern side of Bohol and is more than a two-hour drive from Tagbilaran City along the circumferential road.
While Alona beach gathers all things fancy in Panglao, Anda beach is the right opposite.
Anda beach is more of a laidback, peaceful, and tranquil beach you could find in Bohol. While there are also private resorts and businesses along the Anda beach, the overall experience is simple.
The real deal in Anda beach is its 1.5 kilometers of powdery white sand coastline comparable to Boracay. The inviting crystal-clear water from the shallow coasts allows tourists and locals to play and swim to heart’s desire.
After swimming, you can find a good spot under the lined towering coconut trees to rest and observe the view in awe.
If you want to take a break from the busy crowd in Panglao, try visiting the Anda beach after your Chocolate Hills or Tarsier sanctuary tours.
14. Danao Adventure Park
Adding some spice to your Bohol adventures is a trip to the Danao Adventure Park in the town of Danao.
Danao Adventure Park is an eco-tourism destination by the local government, highlighting and maximizing the town’s tourism potential.
The eco-park aims to give every guest and tourist a unique experience other than the neighboring Chocolate Hills and pristine beaches.
Tourists who dare to seek thrills in Bohol can try riding some heart-pumping rides like bungee-jumping, zipline, wall-climbing, and rappelling.
Meanwhile, ATV rides will keep you on the move along the trails and hills in Danao Adventure Park. You can likewise see Danao from up high by riding the skybike.
The most exhilarating one to try in Danao is The Plunge. Prepare to scream out the fear and excitement as you drastically drop from the platform.
Danao town has one of the highest altitudes in Bohol province, and occasionally, a sea of clouds is visible before the sun rises.
You can read Miguel’s blog about other must-try activities in Danao Adventure Park.
15. Bohol Museum
Tagbilaran City is the center of commerce and government in Bohol province. When exploring the busy streets of the city, you may come across the Bohol Museum.
Formerly the Provincial Capitol Building, refurbishment of the building after the destructive 2013 earthquake in Bohol has given birth to the Bohol Museum.
Now, the Bohol Museum has fully transformed into massive spaces for different exhibitions.
One of the exciting subjects to see is the dedicated section about the province’s rehabilitation efforts of the damaged historic churches.
Another exhibit is the Pagpauli, a dedicated space for the works of the National Artist Napoleon Abueva.
On the other hand, a separate space commemorates the late President Carlos Garcia, where you can see his living room during his time. Portraits and relics are also on display, including some dresses worn by his wife.
Of all the improvements of the old building, the central courtyard offers an impressive ambiance with its high ceiling and skylight.
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Plan your next Bohol tourist spots adventure now!
Bohol is among the top tourist destinations in the Philippines for both local and international tourists. From the famed Chocolate Hills to pristine beaches to outdoor adventures, there is a lot to discover and explore in the province of Bohol.
When planning for your next adventure in Bohol, know that peak season happens from April to June. The summer heat from these months is the ideal time to conquer the beaches, rivers, waterfalls, and the outdoors of Bohol.
Book your Bohol accommodations to save from deals ahead of time when planning to visit on the above months. However, the next best months to visit are from February to March, with slight precipitation chances.
Have you ever visited yet any of the above Bohol tourist spots? Could you share with us in the comment section?
Safe Travels!
Remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic. For your guidance about the changes in health protocols and travel requirements, you may visit Bohol Tourism or the official page of the Department of Tourism. Stay safe.