Flying into the new airport
The old Tagbilaran airport is closed; all flights now go to Bohol-Panglao International (still coded TAG). The airport sits on Panglao itself, so you don't need to cross to Bohol proper unless you want to. Transfers to Alona Beach are 15 minutes and cost ₱350–₱500 by van.
Where to sleep: Alona vs Dumaluan
Alona Beach is where the bars, dive shops, and Korean BBQ restaurants are. Dumaluan Beach (a 15-minute tricycle away) is longer, quieter, with fewer vendors. If you want nightlife, stay at Alona. If you want to read a book in peace, stay at Dumaluan or Danao.
Day 2 — The countryside tour, sensibly
A standard private van tour is ₱3,500–₱4,500 for the whole vehicle (up to 6 people) for the full day. Here's the realistic order:
- Blood Compact Shrine (10 minutes) — the historical checkpoint
- Baclayon Church (20 minutes) — the 1727 Jesuit church, rebuilt after the 2013 quake
- Loboc River lunch (1.5 hours) — see note below
- Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella (45 minutes) — the ethical one, NOT the roadside photo-ops
- Chocolate Hills viewpoint (45 minutes) — morning is clearer; afternoon is warmer but less crowded
- Bilar man-made forest (drive-through, 10 minutes)
Day 3 — Balicasag + dolphin watch
The Panglao dolphin-watching + Balicasag Island + Virgin Island tour is ₱3,000–₱4,000 for a private banca (up to 5 people). The dolphin-watching is weather-dependent; Balicasag's coral wall is the real reason to go — drift along the drop-off with a snorkel and you'll see turtles within 20 minutes.
Food spots that earn the detour
- Sakana (Alona) — the sashimi boat is ₱1,100 and worth it
- Shaka (Alona) — açaí bowls, mediterranean lunch sets
- Linaw Beach Resort's Sawa Resto (Dumaluan) — sunset grilled fish
- The Buzzz Café (Bilar, on the way to Chocolate Hills) — ube fries and honey from the Bohol Bee Farm
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Bohol?
3 full days is the sweet spot: one for Panglao beaches, one for the countryside, one for Balicasag + dolphin-watching. A fourth day is great for a Cabilao Island dive trip or Anda Beach.
Can I touch the tarsiers?
No. They're nocturnal and easily stressed; handling shortens their lifespan. Stick to the Philippine Tarsier Foundation sanctuary in Corella — proceeds fund their protection.
Is Alona Beach swimmable?
At high tide, yes. At low tide the water recedes ~80 meters and the beach turns into exposed seaweed — not pretty. Check the tide chart on arrival; plan your swim time.
Best month to visit Bohol?
March to May for sun, October for shoulder pricing with mostly-dry weather. Avoid late June through August's peak rain window.
How do I get from Cebu to Bohol?
Fastcraft from Pier 1 Cebu to Tagbilaran (2 hours, ₱800–₱1,200) or Jagna/Tubigon alternatives. Book OceanJet or 2GO in advance on weekends.
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