Leaving Bantayan Island wasn’t easy, but the promise of another adventure kept me going. My next destination was Bohol, home to the famous Chocolate Hills, tiny tarsiers, and stunning white sand beaches. But getting there was another long journey – one that took me across land and sea once again.
I started my day early, catching the first ferry from Santa Fe back to Hagnaya Port. From there, I hopped on a six-hour bus ride back to Cebu City and watched as the familiar rural landscapes passed me by – lush green fields, roadside fruit stalls, and the occasional carabao lazily grazing in the distance. The ride was long, but after spending enough time in the Philippines, I had learned to embrace the slower pace of island travel.
Once back in Cebu, I made my way to the port, where I boarded a two-hour ferry to Tagbilaran, the main port city of Bohol. The ferry ride was smooth, and as we approached the island, I could already see the emerald-green coastline welcoming us. Stepping off the ferry, the warm, humid air and the scent of the sea instantly made me feel like I was in paradise once again.
From Tagbilaran, I took a tuk-tuk (a small motorised rickshaw) toward Panglao Island, crossing a short bridge that connects it to the main island of Bohol. The ride lasted about 30 minutes, taking me through quiet villages, with palm trees swaying in the breeze, and glimpses of the turquoise waters that surrounded the island. Finally, I arrived at Alona Beach, where my accommodation was located.
Panglao Island is one of Bohol’s gems. It’s a small, tropical escape, known for its pristine beaches, world-class diving spots, and relaxed island vibe. Alona Beach, the most popular stretch of sand on the island, is lined with beachfront restaurants, dive shops, and cosy resorts. Though it’s livelier than the more secluded beaches on Panglao, it still retains that laid-back island charm.
As soon as I arrived, I kicked off my shoes and walked along the shoreline. The fine white sand was soft under my feet, and the water was crystal-clear, revealing small fish darting around the shallows. I spent the evening at a beachside café, sipping on a fresh mango shake while watching the sunset paint the sky in fiery shades of orange and pink.
Over the next few days, I explored some of the other beaches on Panglao:
Each beach had its own unique charm, but they all had one thing in common – stunningly clear water and a serene, tropical ambience.
While Panglao was a paradise in itself, I knew that Bohol had even more to offer. So, I set off to explore some of the island’s most famous sights.
No visit to Bohol is complete without seeing more than 1,200 dome-shaped hills that turn brown in the dry season, resembling giant chocolate mounds. Climbing up the viewpoint, I was rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of this unique natural wonder.
Meeting the tiny, wide-eyed tarsiers, some of the world’s smallest primates, was an unforgettable experience. These shy nocturnal creatures clung to branches, barely moved and stared curiously at visitors with their enormous eyes.
I took a relaxing cruise down the Loboc River, drifting through lush jungle landscapes while enjoying a buffet of Filipino dishes. Along the way, we were treated to live music and a traditional dance performance by the locals.
Driving through this dense forest of mahogany trees, I was struck by how different it felt from the rest of Bohol. The towering trees formed a natural tunnel, providing a cool, shady escape from the tropical sun.
A hidden underground pool inside a limestone cave, where I took a quick dip in the cool, crystal-clear water surrounded by stalactites and eerie rock formations.
Bohol had everything – stunning beaches, unique landscapes, incredible wildlife, and warm, welcoming locals. Whether I was swimming in the clear waters of Panglao, standing in awe of the Chocolate Hills, or watching tarsiers in their natural habitat, every moment felt like a new discovery.
Copyright (©) 2010 - 2025 Youth Hostel | Our Privacy Policy | Cookies | | RPC
