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Experience Bohol
Overview
The tropical island of Bohol, located in the heart of the Central Visayas in the Philippines, is composed of an oval-shaped mainland and numerous tiny surrounding islands. Bohol is known for its luxurious beach resorts, stunning white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.
Things to see and do
Visit the island's most famous landmark, the Chocolate Hills in Carmen town, which look like giant mole hills. The hills are a natural wonder that consists of 1,200 grass-covered hills, which turn cocoa brown during the dry season and resemble mounds of chocolate. These hills range from 98-164 feet high, and legend has it that they came into existence when two giants threw stones and sand at each other in a fight that lasted for days; the hills are the remnants of the mess they left behind. The Chocolate Hills Complex in Carmen town or the Sagbayan Peak are the best places to view the hills, and they can be visited on tours.
See the Philippine Tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world. These nocturnal animals can be found in Bohol Island’s Sanctuary in Corella town. The sanctuary covers around 17 acres where visitors can take tours and observe the nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat while learning about conservation efforts. The tarsiers roam freely within an open area circumference by a high fence to protect them from predators. Remember to keep quiet when visiting and don’t use flash photography as the tarsiers are highly sensitive to light and noise.
Go Scuba Diving! Bohol Island is a divers' paradise. It is the gateway to some of the best dive sites in the country, such as Balicasag Island Marine Sanctuary, which is filled with colorful coral gardens where divers can encounter sea turtles, reef sharks, and a variety of fish. There are many diving centers and diving tours available across the island, with equipment, guides, and boats provided as well as training courses for various levels of diving.
Check out Hinagdanan Cave on Panglao Island for an unforgettable experience. This mesmerizing cave is a natural attraction and geological wonder. The naturally lit cavern features a crystal clear underground lagoon surrounded by dramatic limestone formations. Explore the cave and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters which marveling at the cave’s inner beauty.
See the Bohol Mahogany Forest, often referred to as the Bilar Man-Made Forest. A 1.24-mile stretch of mahogany trees that offer a breathtaking scenic drive through the forest's canopy that creating a tunnel-like effect. It's a great photo opportunity, there are also viewing platforms and trails in the forest.
Head to Danao Adventure Park for some thrill-seeking adventures and adrenaline-pumping activities. This extreme, eco, educational adventure park offers various activities such as zip lining, rappelling, river tubing, caving, trekking, and bungee jumping for all ages.
Go Island Hopping! There are several uninhabited islands dotted around the shores of Bohol. Several idyllic, attractive inhabited islands such as Panglao, Pamilacan, and Balicasag Islands are among the top choices to stay on or spend a day at when visiting Bohol. Pamilacan, for instance, is renowned for its dolphin and whale watching tours, and Balicasag boasts incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities with abundant marine life. The uninhabited islands offer unspoiled beaches and peace and quiet for the day. Virgin Island is a sandbar, a crescent moon-shaped islet submerged under 6 inches of water at low tide. The water divides the two islets and gives the illusion, by photographing, that looks like you are walking over the water.
Shopping
Shopping across the island is a fun pastime. Bohol offers a great selection of shopping experiences, including vibrant markets and shopping malls where visitors can pick up unique souvenirs and local handmade handicrafts. Bohol is known for its bee farm and the honey produced here, which is used for medicinal purposes. There are some honey-based delicacies available in markets and stores. Peanut Kisses are a confectionery made of peanuts and egg whites. They are another one of the island's more popular exports and are available in stores across the island.
The Filipino people in Bohol hold some exceedingly good basketry skills; their craftsmanship is amazing. There are unique gift shops where token pieces can be acquired, and visiting the heart of the weaving industry is worthwhile. A good selection of shopping malls can be found on the island, they are a good place to cool off in some AC during a hot day. Popular malls include Island City Mall, which is one of the largest malls on the island, with a good selection of food in the food hall. Plaza Marcela is another good mall, it's a posh mall that quite often hosts special events, including live performances and competitions. There are lots of specialty stores here and great restaurants too.
Dining
Bohol’s culinary scene is a gastronomic adventure for the tastebuds, known for its fresh seafood and sweet desserts like peanut kisses. Visitors can sample dishes like Kinilaw (Filipino-style ceviche), Grilled Squid stuffed with vegetables, and Butter Garlic Shrimp, as well as Kalamay, a local delicacy. The mangoes in Bohol are some of the most delicious in the province, especially the Carabao and Pico varieties. The island has a wide variety of dining opportunities to choose from, with many beachfront restaurants and bars boasting magnificent views along with delicious food and tropical drinks.
Bohol is a hidden treasure for foodies and a top destination for culinary explorers. It offers a wide variety of culinary experiences with traditional Filipino dishes, International Fare, and delicious fresh seafood. The food during your stay will be unforgettable. The food across the island boasts an array of flavors that define the soul of Boholano cuisine. When tasting Boholano dishes, you are experiencing the essence of the Boholano spirit, which embodies the rich culture and vibrant lifestyle of this beautiful island. Many restaurants in Bohol serve distinctly Visayan cuisine, which is the island’s neighbor. There are some great restaurants around Bohol Island, from farm to table, with locally inspired and international flavors, they all provide an unforgettable dining experience, and the food leaves and lasting impression.
Nightlife
Bohol has some exciting nightlife opportunities to take advantage of across the island. Watching a magnificent Bohol sunset is where it all begins. Find a spot along one of the many beautiful beaches or at a beachfront bar or restaurant to soak up the sight of the setting sun. Witnessing the sun setting over Bohol’s stunning landscapes is magical. The island is well known for its natural beauty, and a spectacular sunset just enhances this attribute. The islands boast a vibrant and diverse nightlife catering to all kinds of travelers. There are bars and clubs for dancing, beach bars for a quiet drink in a tropical atmosphere, and bustling night markets filled with food and entertainment.
Alona Beach on Panglao Island is one of the most popular nightlife destinations in Bohol, boasting a variety of beach bars and busy clubs with live music and DJs. The Tagbilaran City Night Market is a great cultural experience when visiting Bohol. The bustling night street market is filled with busy vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious street food like grilled seafood and sweet treats. A unique way to spend an evening in Bohol is taking a firefly-watching tour along the Abatan River. Gliding along the waters with your captain and guide, you will be mesmerized by the twinkling lights of thousands of tiny fireflies illuminating the skies.