Panglao is a small island connected to the main island of Bohol by road bridges, and it is the most visited part of the province. Most of its accommodation, restaurants, and nightlife are concentrated around Alona Beach on the southwestern tip - a lively strip of white sand lined with guesthouses, dive shops, and seafood restaurants that stays busy into the evening.
Panglao's real draw for many visitors is its marine life - the waters around the island offer excellent diving and snorkelling, with clear visibility and diverse reef life. Island-hopping trips to nearby islets, including Balicasag Island - known for its wall dives and sea turtle sightings are easy to book from the beach.
Away from the water, Hinagdanan Cave is one of the most accessible caves in the Philippines, reached by a short staircase that leads down into a limestone cavern containing a crystal-clear underground lagoon with stalactites overhead. Bohol Bee Farm is another worthwhile stop: an organic farm known for its honey, beekeeping tours, and a farm-to-table restaurant that works well for families or anyone wanting a break from the beach.