Things to do in Panglao
Top 7 Must-Try Activities
Panglao isn’t just beaches… It’s an island that rewards curiosity.
From sunrise boats to sunset reefs, Panglao creates memories. Start with the island’s most-loved adventure.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ #1 guest-rated: Panglao Fishing Charter
#1 Panglao Fishing Charter
Join a 4-hour private reef & deep-drop charter with local pros. All gear, captain, and tackle included – just bring excitement.
#2 Scuba Diving Tours
Panglao sits 10 minutes from Balicasag’s world-famous walls like Black Forest and Diver’s Heaven, where sea turtles graze and drop-offs plunge to 40 m. Closer in, Arco Point offers swim-throughs and macro life—making the area suitable for both beginners and seasoned divers.
#3 Jetski Panglao
Embark on an adrenaline-fueled journey like no other as you rev up your jet ski and dive headfirst into the mesmerizing beauty of Panglao, Bohol. One of the most fun things to do in Panglao!
#4 Island-Hopping & Dolphin Watching
Boats leave Alona as early as 6 a.m. to spot spinner dolphins in the Bohol Sea, then anchor at Balicasag for turtle-filled snorkeling and finish with a stroll on Virgin Island’s sandbar, all back by early afternoon. The tour bundles three headline experiences into a single half-day.
#5 Chocolate Hills Day Trip
An hour’s drive inland brings you to Bohol’s 1,260-plus conical karst mounds spread over 50 km²; the grass turns cocoa-brown in the dry season, giving the hills their name. Climb the Carmen or Sagbayan viewing decks for a 360° panorama of this National Geological Monument.
#6 Tarsier Sanctuary Visit
At the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary in Corella, guides help you quietly spot the palm-sized, nocturnal primates clinging to low branches in a protected forest where roughly 200 individuals live. Flash-free photos and whispered tones are mandatory to safeguard this endangered species. The entry fees go to increasing their habitat and caring for rescued tarsiers.
#7 Bohol Waterfall Tour
Escape the crowds and trek into Bohol’s untouched jungle. Swim in clear natural pools, explore hidden waterfalls, and enjoy a flexible small-group experience guided by locals. Hotel pickup included.
Ready to fish the reefs of Panglao?
Planning your trip to Panglao? Here are a few insider tips from locals and guides to help you make the most of your stay – from the best months to visit to the best beaches in Panglao. Or, find out the best time to go fishing in Panglao and what to expect each season.
🏝️ Panglao Insider Tips & Quick FAQs
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Panglao
Panglao is a great destination all year, but each season offers its own charm.
- Dry Season (March–June): Expect calm seas, bright skies, and crystal-clear water — perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and fishing trips.
- Cool Season (November–February): Comfortable temperatures and steady ocean conditions make this the peak tourism season. It’s the best time to explore both Panglao and the mainland of Bohol.
- Rainy Season (July–October): Don’t let the rain scare you off — mornings are usually sunny and calm before afternoon showers. Fewer crowds and lower prices make it a great time for quieter adventures.
👉 Curious about fishing conditions throughout the year? Read our full Month-by-Month Guide to Fishing in Panglao.
💰 Average Tour Costs
Panglao offers experiences for every budget.
- Group & Shared Tours: ₱1,000–₱2,000 per person covers most island-hopping, countryside, or snorkeling packages.
- Private Charters: ₱3,000–₱10,000+ for a private boat, fishing trips, or custom itinerary.
- Adventure Add-ons: Diving, dolphin watching, or ATV rides typically start at ₱2,500+.
Pro tip: many tours include hotel pickup, so you can start right from your resort or Airbnb.
🛵 How to Get Around Panglao
Getting around Panglao and nearby Dauis is easy and affordable.
- Scooter Rentals: The most flexible way to explore — usually ₱300–₱600/day.
- Tricycles: Widely available and perfect for short trips. Fares range from ₱100–₱300 depending on distance.
- Resort Vans or Private Transfers: Great for families or airport pickups.
- Walk or Bike: Alona Beach, Danao, and Dauis areas are compact and walkable.
If you’re connecting from Cebu, ferries to Tagbilaran run daily – see our guide on How to Get from Cebu to Panglao for details.
🎯 Quick Travel Tips
- Bring cash – ATMs and places that accept cards can be limited outside Alona.
- Keep small bills for tricycles, markets, and local cafés. Many won’t have change.
- Power banks and reef-safe sunscreen are your best friends.
- Wi-Fi is common in resorts, but data (Globe) is more reliable outdoors. Pick up a Globe sim card and use promo SURF4ALL99 for 9 GB/7 days (₱99)
🏝️ Need More?
Don’t waste hours scrolling travel forums. Our free Panglao Travel Guide gives you:
- ✅ Insider tips from locals and guides
- 🎣 The best months and times to fish
- 🏖️ Must-see attractions & day trips
- 🚤 How to get from Cebu or Tagbilaran
- 💰 Budget-friendly tour and transport advice
Enter your email below and get our 2025 Panglao Travel Guide instantly.