Top 30 Things To Do In Bohol, The Philippines

things to do in bohol philippines
Alyssandra Raiza
Alyssandra Raiza 
Updated
| 14 min read

Bohol is a province in the Visayas region of the Philippines. While it is perhaps best known for being home to the lovable Tarsier - a small primate that is native to the province - Bohol offers so much more! This beautiful island province has everything that a nature lover could possibly want to explore! You can unwind at the pristine beaches of Panglao, go kayaking down the clear waters of the Loboc River, explore the mystic caves at Lamanoc Island, among many other fun things to do! Planning a trip to Bohol soon? Don’t miss out on this province’s best activities! Read on to learn more about the best things to do in Bohol, the Philippines.

Tip from tour guide

While in Bohol, make sure to catch a glimpse of the traditional Kuradang and Tinikling dances where men and women sing while playing ukuleles and dancing together. This lively dance can be witnessed in select restaurants, and you can even try to move between the bamboo stalks with the dancers.

Tip from tour guide

Leila

Leila
Bohol

Tarsiers Chocolate hills

Bohol is Philippines' 1st UNESCO Global Geopark. Sunsets are the same everywhere! There are beautiful rivers & waterfalls in several places, but not the jewel of the Philippines is “Chocolate Hills & Tarsiers”. Chocolate Hills is one of the most amazing places in the world.

1. Cruise along Loboc River

Loboc River
Source: Photo by Flickr user mabi2000 used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Though the beaches around the area – like Alona and White Beach - tend to draw in more visitors, the pristine waters of Loboc River are just as beautiful and worth visiting! The tranquil Loboc River is surrounded by verdant exotic flora and runs right down the hills. Many who visit the river enjoy fun outdoor activities like stand-up paddleboarding, Banca (or native boat) rides, or even zip-lining down the slopes. You may also be surprised by all the good eats you can find, as many of the local resorts along the river offer delicious and sustainable meals!

Loboc River

Address: Loboc River, Bohol

Tip from tour guide

Relish a delicious buffet lunch and admire the views of Loboc River as you ride along one of these cruises. You can also simply enjoy the live and pleasing music performed by talented musicians. During your ride, you'll be able to spot a lovely waterfall at the end of the river. Make sure to keep your camera handy, as you don't want to miss out on capturing all these lovely moments and surroundings.

Traveler's tips

Loboc River cruise

All the land tours lead to Loboc River during lunchtime, so I recommend visiting at a different time to avoid the long queues and prevent hunger-induced irritation. The time we were able to eat here was past 2 in the afternoon, and by that time, we had already lost hours that were supposedly spent in other locations.

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2. Visit the magnificent Cathedral of San Jose

things to do in bohol philippines | visit the magnificent cathedral of san jose
Source: instagram

Whether you are a practicing Catholic or not, the beautiful Cathedral of San Jose is sure to take your breath away! Dedicated to Saint Joseph the Worker, the cathedral is an integral part of the local community, as many of the residents are Catholics. However, in addition to being a great space for quiet prayer and/or introspection, it is also an architectural gem and a historical treasure! The cathedral features a beautiful Neo-Romanesque façade, side altars in the baroque style, and an elegant center altar with the image of Saint Joseph, all meticulously restored from centuries before!

Tagbilaran Cathedral of San Jose

Address: Carlos P. Garcia Avenue, Tagbilaran City, 6300, Bohol, 6300

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3. Walk across the stunning Bamboo Hanging Bridge


Want to feel close to nature but still take on an exciting challenge? Why not try to walk across the famous Bamboo Hanging Bridge in Sevilla, Bohol? The bamboo bridge hangs over the Sipatan River, and stretches 40 meters (131 feet) long! Although it can make you feel a bit uneasy when you first step onto the bridge, don’t let that scare you! The bridge is supported by steel cables underneath, which allow the bamboo to bend and sway, but not break. Simply enjoy the awe-inspiring view of the river below and think of all the shops and good eats that await you on the other side.

Bamboo Hanging Bridge

Address: Sevilla, Loboc, Bohol

Opening hours: Sunrise - sunset (daily)

Price: Free

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Hanging Bridge

I can say Bamboo Hanging Bridge is a fun experience especially if you happen to have some fear of heights like me! You get to overcome your fear (I think!) as you will be crossing it 2 times. There were 2 bridges. The reason, according to the people managing, is to avoid traffic, so you take the other bridge going back.  

Traveler's tips

There's not much to do and see here aside from crossing the hanging bridge and having your photo taken. We were able to cross this bridge and have our photo taken. There's also a small fee for this, and they have their camera that they will use to take your photo, and there's also a price for that.

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4. See the bronze structures at Blood Compact Monument


The Blood Compact Monument commemorates the Sandugo (or blood compact) between the Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi and the chieftain of Bohol at the time, Datu Sikatuna. This is considered to be an important event in Philippine history, as it marks the first treaty of friendship between the Filipinos and the Spanish. You can learn more about the local history, and stop by for some great photos and souvenirs here.

Blood Compact Monument

Address: J.P, EK Inting St, Tagbilaran City, 6300 Bohol

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Faye

Faye
Philippines

Blood Compact Monument Blood Compact Monument

During our family trip to Bohol, we had the incredible opportunity to visit this historical landmark. Yet, what truly left me in awe was the boundless expanse of the ocean behind it. The juxtaposition of the monument against the vastness of the ocean created a scene of breathtaking beauty.

Traveler's tips

Blood compact

If you're a history enthusiast, you must visit the Blood Compact Monument. Here, I encountered statues that replicate the blood compact event, set against a backdrop of a beautiful ocean view. I also discovered numerous souvenir shops nearby, where you could purchase pasalubong (souvenirs) for your loved ones.

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Bohol Tour Guide

jonathan ungab

Jonathan Ungab

Mabuhay! My name is Jonathan I’m a Licensed/ Accredited Regional Tour Guide in Region 7 Centaral Visayas Philippines but I prefer to do all my tours in our Island Province Bohol where I live, with more than a decade of experience as a Tour Guide and seeing my Guests more than just satisfied, I would say this is the happiest and satisfying job I ever have in my life, so come and let’s explore t... Read more

Tours by Jonathan

5. Go river paddle boarding at Loboc River Resort


If you want a thrill on your next trip to Bohol, you should check out the Loboc River Resort! The resort provides its guests with plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. In particular, you should definitely try out stand-up paddleboarding, which is exactly how it sounds – paddling while standing upright on a board! You can even ask them about their promotions or deals, which are usually inclusive of the use of their boards, a guide or instructor, and complimentary drinks!

Loboc River Resort

Address: SUP Tours Philippines StandUp Paddleboard Center, Loboc River, Baranggay Valladolid, Loboc, 6316 Bohol

Website: Loboc River Resort

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)

Price: 16 - 50 USD

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6. Get adventurous at Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park


Step out of your comfort zone and get adventurous at the Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park! At this beautiful, well-maintained park, you can enjoy soaring over 100 meters (328 ft) above the Loboc River, with their zip lines and cable cars! You will feel the wind against your face and take in the majestic, unparalleled view of the river! The two zip lines even run parallel to each other! If you wish, you and a loved one can race each other down, or simply enjoy this unique experience together!

Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park

Address: Loboc, Bohol

Website: Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park

Opening hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm (daily)

Price: Starts at 4.78 USD

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Cable car

I have a fear of heights, so our cable car experience at Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park was a challenge for me. There was a time in the middle of the ride that wind blew, and it made the cable wobble, making the experience more exciting and fun. While riding the cable car, you can also see the people in the Loboc River cruise below. I recommend you check out this place and try some of the adventure rides and activities they offer. You can also just hang out and stay at their pavilion/receiving area, where you can take great overlooking photos as it is located on a cliff. 

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7. Admire the stupendous views from Chocolate Hills

Chocolate Hills in Carmen, Bohol
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Hannah Tessa Obed... used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Although the name “Chocolate Hills” sounds sweet, this geological formation actually gets its name from how the verdant grass that covers the hills turns brown during the dry season. The Chocolate Hills are Bohol’s most popular tourist destinations, mostly owing to the breathtaking views! There are over 1200 hills in all, which are spread over 50 kilometers (31 mi). The hills themselves are almost perfectly and uniformly shaped into cones, which makes for a view that’s straight out of a fantasy novel! The hills are best seen atop viewing decks at the hill in Carmen town, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the hills.

Chocolate Hills

Address: Carmen, Bohol

Website: Chocolate Hills

Opening hours: Daytime (daily)

Price: Free

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Chocolate hills Chocolate hills ATV ride

If you want to see the hills below, you can do the ATV and buggy ride activity in Carmen, Bohol. If you are more of an adventurous person, I definitely recommend this activity. The route adds fun and excitement to your Chocolate Hills experience. Also, the guide knows where to take a great shot for your IG-worthy photos.

Tip from tour guide

ATV ride around Chocolate hills

No matter the weather, you can enjoy ATV rides around Chocolate Hills. Visit during the low season from June to September to avoid crowds. Unless you are a large group of more than 20 people, you don't need to pre-book this activity.

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8. Explore the Hinagdanan Cave

Hinagdanan cave, Bohol
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Qaalvin used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Hinagdanan Cave is another natural wonder that you shouldn’t miss in Bohol! Roughly translating to “laddered”, the cave is said to have been discovered accidentally by a local farmer. Upon discovering the cave’s opening, he dropped a ladder to get into the cave and discover its natural beauty – giving the cave its name! Here, you can explore its fascinating limestone formations and take a refreshing dip in the lagoon, which runs about 10 to 12 meters (32 to 39 feet) deep. As the cave has grown to be one of the most popular attractions in the area, there are also lots of places nearby where you can get some snacks and refreshments, or buy some souvenirs to remember your visit by!

Hinagdanan Cave

Address: Dauis, Bohol

Opening hours: 7:30am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 1 USD

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Faye

Faye
Philippines

Hinagdanan Cave Hinagdanan Cave

My photos don't do justice to how beautiful this cave is! The interplay of light and shadow, the delicate interplay of textures, and the subtle hues that dance across the walls defy any attempt to fully convey the cave's true magnificence through a mere photograph.

Entering through its narrow entrance, which allows passage for only one person at a time, reveals a cavern that spans less than a hundred meters. Be extra careful while walking inside the cave, as the floor is slippery due to the droplets.

Traveler's tips

Hinagdanan Cave

If you're claustrophobic, visiting the cave may be uncomfortable due to its small entrance. I recommend wearing a swimsuit when you visit, as you can swim inside. Despite the darkness, we we're able to go inside and swim. The water is refreshing, and the rock formations are truly captivating.

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9. Shop at Bohol Quality Mall


Shop ‘til you drop at the Bohol Quality Mall! The Bohol Quality Mall is also the second-largest mall in the city of Tagbilaran - which means that it boasts plenty of options for shopping and dining! The mall is divided into several parts. At the bottom, you can find the department store, where you can discover good finds at very reasonable prices. There is also an atrium at the center, which sometimes hosts events. There are lots for you to enjoy here!

BQ Mall

Address: North 6300, Carlos P. Garcia East Avenue, Tagbilaran, Bohol

Website: BQ Mall

Opening hours: 9am - 8:30pm (daily)

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10. Enjoy night kayaking with Kayakasia Philippines


Kayaking is indeed a popular and enjoyable outdoor activity. However, if you haven’t tried night kayaking – especially in the pristine waters of Bohol – you’re definitely missing out! Worry not, because Kayakasia Philippines can provide you with an unforgettable experience! With Kayakasia, you can book an instructor, who will help you get the hang of kayaking and guide you through the river and past the mangrove tunnels. It can be quite a challenge, but when you get to the shores and see the breathtaking fireflies against the night sky, and enjoy the quiet evening with your complimentary beer, the challenge will be all worth it!

Kayakasia Philippines

Address: Abatan - Bato Causeway, Barangay Lincod, Maribojoc, 6336 Bohol

Website: Kayakasia Philippines

Opening hours: 7:30am - 7:30pm (daily)

Price: Starts at 45 USD

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11. Admire the beautiful Dimiao Twin Waterfalls


The Dimiao Twin Waterfalls are among the province’s most popular natural attractions. Surrounded by lush forests and boasting pristine waters, the twin waterfalls look like they have come straight from a fairytale! You can explore the forests surrounding the falls, take a refreshing swim at the lagoon, and just watch its distinctive two streams of water cascade from 70 feet (21.33 m) above! If you are fond of cliff diving, you can do so at the falls! However, you must remember to exercise caution, as parts of the lagoon can be shallower than they seem.

Dimiao Twin Waterfalls

Address: Dimiao, Bohol

Website: Dimiao Twin Waterfalls

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

Tip from tour guide

This waterfall, also known as Pahangog Twin Waterfall, is located in Guinguyoran. You can sit in the small seating area on the side of the waterfall and enjoy the gorgeous and secluded environment. There's also a small, wooden bridge that connects the two sides of the stream, adding to the charm of the place.

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12. Check out exotic animals at Tarsier Conservatory

things to do in bohol philippines | check out exotic animals at tarsier conservatory
Source: instagram

The adorable Tarsier is a pint-sized primate – one of the smallest in the world, in fact - that is native to Bohol. Known for their huge, charming eyes and timid demeanor, Tarsiers are also a popular attraction, drawing in lots of visitors who want to check out this fascinating animal. Their numbers, however, have started to dwindle, due to years of illegal logging and deforestation. Fortunately, organizations like the Tarsier Conservatory does a great job of caring for the Tarsiers of Bohol. You can learn more about the Tarsier, and maybe even see one up close, when you give the conservatory a visit!

Tarsier Conservatory

Address: Loay Interior Road, Loboc, Bohol

Website: Tarsier Conservatory

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 1 USD

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Faye

Faye
Philippines

Tarsier

 It's a unique experience to witness these tiny, elusive primates up close and a reminder of the rich biodiversity that the Philippines has to offer. I find them looking like Master Yoda of Star Wars, who is so cute!

If you're taking pictures of these tiny creatures, flash photography is a big no. Their eyes are highly sensitive to light, as they are primarily nocturnal animals. This precaution ensures their well-being and allows for a more respectful and enjoyable experience for both observers and the tarsiers themselves.

Tip from tour guide

Bohol Philippines Tarsier Conservation Area at Municipality

There are 3 places where you can go to see the Tarsiers in Bohol. The first is at Corella Town, just around 14 kilometers away from the City of Tagbilaran, in the original sanctuary called Philippine Tarsier Foundation Incorporated. The second place is The Philippines Tarsier Conservation in the municipality of Bilar. It's along the national highway going to the Chocolate Hills, making it quite convenient and accessible. That is why most tourists prefer to do the Tarsier viewing over there. The third one is also in the municipality of Bilar, but it's a little bit inland, around 1 kilometer inwards from the national highway. This spot is called Bohol Enchanted.

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13. See the beautiful butterflies at Bohol Habitat Conservation Conservatory

things to do in bohol philippines | see the beautiful butterflies at bohol habitat conservation conservatory
Source: instagram

The Bohol Habitat Conservation Conservatory is another institution that helps protect the natural wonders that can be found in the province. The conservatory also features a small butterfly park, where guests can observe these beautiful creatures up close! The garden within the park is beautifully maintained and houses an extensive variety of butterflies. When the weather is nice and sunny, guests are free to interact and take some pictures with the colorful butterflies here.

Bohol Habitat Conservation Conservatory

Address: Bilar, Bohol

Website: Bohol Habitat Conservation Conservatory

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 1 USD

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14. Head to the historic Baclayon Church

things to do in bohol philippines | head to the historic baclayon church
Source: instagram

The La Purisima Concepcion de la Virgen Maria Parish Church – or simply, Baclayon Church - is another important historical site in Bohol. Founded in 1596, the church has been recognized as a National Cultural Treasure. It is largely considered to be the birthplace of the oldest Christian settlement in the province and, as such, remains an important part of the local culture’s soul and spiritual practice. However, in addition to being a place of worship, the church is also noted for being an architectural gem. Made of beautifully preserved coral stones, the church is a fascinating testament to the innovativeness of the Boholanos that constructed it.

Baclayon Church

Address: Baclayon, Bohol

Opening hours: Sunrise - sunset (daily)

Price: Free

Traveler's tips

Jah

Jah

Good Tip

📍Baclayon Church, Bohol:

As Filipinos, we always are mesmerized by our religious heritage. We respect the Church. This church is one of the most beautiful churches I have visited. It's enormous, and the expansive field where it stood was a place of strolling. Just outside the church were vendors of Filipino food you could try from stalls and karinderya. Since this place is Bohol, I recommend trying their exceptional food: chorizo, calamay, and ube pulvoron!

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15. Enjoy biking through Mahogany Forest

Cleared now
Source: Photo by Flickr user shankar s. used under CC BY 2.0

Mahogany Forest is a man-made rainforest, which stretches for two kilometers (1.24 mi). In addition to being a major thoroughfare from Loboc to Bilar, this beautiful forest is especially popular among beginners and experienced bikers alike! You can breathe in the fresh air and feel cool under the verdant canopy as you bike through the forest’s winding trail. Just be sure to watch out for other larger vehicles and to wear the appropriate protective gear!

Mahogany Forest

Address: Loay Interior Road, Bilar, Bohol

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16. Visit the Cambuyo Rice Terraces

visit the cambuyo rice terraces
Source: instagram

Although you might have heard about the Banawe Rice Terraces further north of the Philippines, Bohol also boasts its own rice terraces! The Cambuyo Rice Terraces is a wonderful place to visit if you’d like to know more about the history, industry, and natural treasures of Bohol. These terraces were formed by early Boholanos, who largely depended on rice for food and income. Today, these beautiful, verdant and golden yellow terraces are not just major farmland, they are also a must-see attraction in Bohol!

Cambuyo Rice Terraces

Address: Cambuyo, Bohol

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17. Enjoy mountain biking with Anda Adventures


If you’re looking for outdoor activities, or simply want to enjoy the great outdoors on your next trip to Bohol, you should definitely check out Anda Adventures, the top Eco-Tourism service providers in Bohol. They are based in Anda, in Eastern Bohol. One of their most popular services is their mountain biking tours, where you will be led by a knowledgeable guide through Anda’s most beautiful natural treasures. In addition to mountain biking, Anda Adventures can also help if you wish to go kayaking, or explore caves and waterfalls. They’ll even let you rent a GoPro so that you can record all your adventures!

Anda Adventures

Address: Coco Loco Cafe, Poblacion, Anda, Bohol, Philippines

Website: Anda Adventures

Price: 85 USD

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18. Eat delicious cakes at Mosia Cupcakes and Cookie Shop


Indulge your sweet tooth at Mosia Cupcakes and Cookie Shop! This small, yet charming pastry shop is known to be the best in Bohol, and it has long remained a favorite among both locals and foreign visitors. The shop prioritizes using the freshest natural ingredients, which gives their cakes and cookies that top-notch quality and taste! The shop itself is also quite cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place for an indulgent snack. The icing on top, however, would be their excellent staff, who are noted for their warm and happy demeanor.

Mosia Cupcakes and Cookie Shop

Address: Venancio P. Inting Avenue, Tagbilaran, Bohol

Website: Mosia Cupcakes and Cookie Shop

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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19. Explore Bohol's archaeological history at the National Museum Tagbilaran

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by National Museum Bohol on Saturday, March 13, 2021

Bohol is an endlessly interesting destination that not only boasts natural treasures but also has a rich history and culture! And the best way to learn more about this on your next trip there would be at the National Museum in Tagbilaran. Housed within what used to be the city library, the museum is an architectural gem, a scientific museum, and a center for arts and culture, all rolled into one! Its main collection features the findings from extensive archaeological studies on several sites in Anda Peninsula. However, it also features artworks by noted Boholano artists like Napoleon Abueva

National Museum Tagbilaran

Address: Tagbilaran North Road, Tagbilaran City, Bohol

Website: National Museum Tagbilaran

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Free

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20. Enjoy the view from Sagbayan Peak


No trip to Bohol would be complete without catching the amazing view from Sagbayan Peak! This is a sprawling, 5-hectare (12.3-acre) resort, which offers plenty of options for relaxation and recreation. Located at the mountain-top town of Sagbayan, the resort is also another excellent place to enjoy breathtaking views! At Sagbayan Park, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of the Chocolate Hills and even the sea at the summit. There are also plenty of other fun activities to enjoy at the Peak, including a small water park, a playground, and even a tarsier sanctuary.

Sagbayan Peak

Address: Carmen - Sagbayan - Bacani Rd, Sagbayan, Bohol

Website: Sagbayan Peak

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

Price: 1 USD

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21. Visit Danao Adventure Park

visit danao adventure park
Source: instagram

Looking for an adrenaline rush on your next trip to Bohol? Then be sure to check out Danao Adventure Park! Here, you can enjoy plenty of exciting outdoor activities, like paragliding, kayaking, rappelling, off-road buggy tours, and even intense tree climbing! For your convenience, you can also book a cozy room at the onsite hotel, so you and your family can get some much-needed rest after a day of adventure. The park also emphasizes eco-tourism and works in tandem with the local government units – so you can be sure that the park’s natural environment remains protected, even as you enjoy all these fun activities!

Danao Adventure Park

Address: Buenavista-Carmen-Danao-Jetafe Road, 6344 Danao, Bohol, Philippines

Website: Danao Adventure Park

Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)

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22. Drink flavorful coffee at Bo’s Coffee Club


Whether you enjoy your coffee warm and flavorful, or iced and topped with a generous helping of whipped cream, you can be sure to satisfy that coffee craving at Bo’s Coffee Club! Bo’s Coffee Club is a popular chain of cafés, noted for their excellent drinks, made only from the finest locally sourced beans. They also offer a wide selection of pastries to complement their coffee. Their cafés are also artfully decorated and provide a cozy space for patrons to enjoy their coffee - ideal for quiet dates or catching up with loves ones over your favorite cup of joe!

Bo’s Coffee Club

Address: 0639 J.S. Torralba St, Tagbilaran City, 6300 Bohol

Website: Bo’s Coffee Club

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 7am - 12am; Mon: 7am - 5am

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23. Visit the Bohol Python and Wildlife Park


The Bohol Python and Wildlife Park is an excellent place to learn more about Bohol’s abundant flora and fauna. The Wildlife Park was also once home to one of the largest pythons in captivity. Nicknamed Prony, the python weighed over 300 kg (or 660 lbs) and was about 23 feet (7 m) long! Today, the park remains a popular animal sanctuary, where guests can get close to various animals endemic to Bohol, from birds to monkeys - but mostly pythons! Of course, there is no reason to be afraid of these reptiles, as all of them are very friendly and handled with care.

Bohol Python and Wildlife Park

Address: Python Sanctuary and Wildlife Park Loay, Bohol

Website: Bohol Python and Wildlife Park

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Traveler's tips

I have a fascination with snakes, which is why a visit to this sanctuary in Bohol was a must. During my time there, I had the opportunity to touch a real, massive snake and also admire the beauty of the butterflies in the area.

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24. Try traditional Filipino food at Gerarda’s

Gerarda's Main

Posted by Gerarda's Family Restaurant Bohol on Friday, 12 February 2016

Filipino food is said to be among the most flavorful, delicious cuisine in the world! When in Bohol, one of the best places to try some fine Filipino cuisine would be at Gerarda’s! This is a family restaurant, run in a perfectly preserved ancestral home. Some of their most-loved dishes include their Beef Kare-kare (beef in peanut sauce), Dinakdakan (roast pork belly marinated in spices), and Crispy Tadyang (or Crispy Beef Ribs). Gerarda’s also makes sure that their patrons enjoy a five-star dining experience. Their perfectly polished wooden floors, luxurious antique furniture and decor, and top-notch service are sure to make you feel like royalty!

Gerarda's Family Restaurant

Address: J. A. Torralba, Tagbilaran City, Bohol

Website: Gerarda’s Family Restaurant

Opening hours: 8am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm (daily)

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25. Visit Nova Shell Museum

The shell collection of Mr. and Mrs. Quirino Hora, recently featured in the TV program Rated K over ABS-CBN.

Posted by Nova Shells Museum on Sunday, 14 August 2011

Bohol is surrounded by waters, rich with all sorts of wildlife. Besides just going for a dive, why not stop by the Nova Shell Museum to learn more about the province’s precious marine life? The Nova Shell Museum is run by Mr. Quirino Hora, a local figure who simply loved to collect shells. Today, the museum boasts one of the world’s largest collections of seashells! Here, you can find hundreds of varieties, from common mollusks to some rare and even unclassified species! Truly, Mr. Hora’s rich shell collection is not only fascinating but also a testament to Bohol’s natural wealth.

Nova Shell Museum

Address: J Teofilo St, Poblacion, Panglao, 6340 Bohol, Philippines

Website: Nova Shell Museum

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 1 USD per adult

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26. Wander in the hidden Lamanoc Island


Just a few minutes past Anda village is the mysterious, yet endlessly fascinating Lamanoc Island. Lamanoc Island is known not just for its thriving flora and fauna, but also for its colorful history and the mystic folklore that surrounds it. Besides exploring the island’s large mangrove forest, you can also take a boat ride to Lamanoc Point, where you might spot some lively monkeys. This destination is also known to be a “holy area”, where local Baylan (or medicine men) make offerings to the elementals believed to reside there. You can also explore the caves there and see not just the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, but also ancient human remains – as the caves have also served as burial grounds in the past!

Lamanoc Island

Address: Badlang, Anda, Bohol

Website: Lamanoc Island

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27. Swim at Mag-Aso Falls


If you’d like to visit a similarly quiet and secluded nature spot, you should also check out the Mag-Aso Falls! These falls are twin waterfalls, tucked away within a lush tropical forest. Since it is located a distance from most of Bohol’s most popular attractions and it is not often part of official tours, the falls are not frequented as often by visitors – making this hidden gem the perfect place to spend some quiet time in nature! Anyone is welcome to go for a swim, or even go diving from the 8-meter (26 ft) high falls. However, because there often aren’t a lot of people – save for a few volunteer rescuers – it would be best to exercise caution when swimming here.

Mag-Aso Falls

Address: Panglao, Bohol

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28. Relax on Panglao Island


Ready to unwind at a tropical paradise? Then you’re sure to enjoy a trip to Panglao Island! Located at Southwest of the province’s capital Tagbilaran, Panglao Island is easily accessible to visitors. The island is made up of several beaches and it is best known for its fine and almost perfectly white sand and crystal clear waters. With so many resorts in the area, accommodation should not be a problem. You can simply hit the beach, lay on the soft sand, get a tan, and unwind! You can also explore the island’s numerous dive sites and see the bright and colorful marine life!

Panglao Island

Address: Panglao, Bohol

Website: Panglao Island

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Tip from Content Creator

Panglao Island

Photo of Panglao Island dive site shared by content creator from the Philippines, Eunice Nabong.

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Pangalo Island Pangalo Island

This is from our Pangalo Island trip last 2017 and 2018. This particular phot is from the Virgin Island during it's high tide, we were not able to witness the sandbar since we were from a snorkel trip from a different island. You can see how crystal clear the water is that you can't help but take a dip ☺️

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Balicasag Island in Pangalo

Here's a photo taken during our snorkelling activity at Balicasag Island in Pangalo! 

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29. Snorkel at Alona Beach


One of the most popular white sand beaches in Panglao Island is the gorgeous Alona Beach. Alona Beach is not only the largest and most developed beach on the island – it also boasts some of the best snorkeling and dive spots! In fact, if you get into the sea and go about 100 meters (328 feet) from the shore, you may already be able to see all the vibrant fish and corals even without any gear on! If you will need some, however, you can easily get your snorkeling or diving gear from the numerous resorts and dive shops that have popped up around the area.

Alona Beach

Address: Panglao, Bohol

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30. Visit the Virgin Island


If you love the beach but hate being in a crowd, you should definitely check out Virgin Island in Bohol! Located just 15 to 20 minutes from Panglao Island, the Virgin Island is relatively further from the busiest beaches and does not have any residents. It is also known among the locals as a “hidden oasis”, as the parts of the island submerge underwater during the high tide. However, the low tide reveals over a hectare of pristine white sand! With relatively fewer visitors on the island, you can easily relax on the shore, take a refreshing dip in the water, and even try some of the seafood sold by locals there!

Virgin Island

Address: Panglao, Bohol

Website: Virgin Island

Traveler's tips

Sand bar

A visit to Virgin Island is a must. Here, you can snorkel and observe colorful fish, as well as swim with the turtles. It was an incredible experience for me and definitely the highlight of my trip.

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Experience the beauty of nature in Bohol

Loboc River 03
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Renz Rueda used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Whether you enjoy hiking through lush forests or jungles, diving from cliffs into turquoise waters, or catching some sun by the beach, there’s something for you to enjoy in Bohol! We hope this list of things to do will help you fully enjoy the natural wonders that you’ll be surrounded by at this beautiful island province!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Aly is an ever-curious wanderer who enjoys constantly learning and exploring the world. With more than five years of experience as a travel writer based in Manila, she enjoys writing about her...Read more

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