Panglao island
Panglao is a small but increasingly popular island situated southwest of, and linked to Bohol by a bridge. It is known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Bohol has a slightly different atmosphere, with a lot more vegetation. [Read More about Bohol]
The island is dotted with resorts and boutique hotels, but you can find some cheaper Airbnb and hostels too ! I was sleeping in a house and have not used any other kind of accommodation, so I am not able to recommend you some by experienced but I have heard that these are good places to stay at.
Bohol Coco Farm - Recommended for solo travelers. Privates and dorms available
Blue Planet Panglao - Recommended for couples
Must go to beaches in Panglao:
Alona Beach: Alona Beach is the most famous of Panglao's beaches and is a hub for water sports, snorkeling, and diving. [Read More]
Doljo: Another very nice beach is Doljo beach. It is located in the North Ouest of Panglao and is much more secluded than Alona. You’ll need to go through an open shopping center to arrive at the beach.
Dumaluan Beach/Bohol Beach: Dumaluan Beach is probably my favorite one. You can walk for ages alongside palmtrees, on white sand, with clear blue water next to you. You will pass by some resorts, but nothing like the big noisy ones you can find in Alona. Here, it is more peaceful. There are sunbeds and hamacs you can relax on, swings you can swing on, all free of charge (unless it is clearly stated that they are exclusively for the resort’s guests). [Read More]
Activities and sports in Panglao:
Island-hopping: Balicasag and virgin island [Read More]
Swim with whale sharks (from Panglao to Bohol): [Read More]
Rent a scooter: Rent a scooter and drive around the island.
Eat some street food !
Fitness in panglao: If you also have this thirst for sport, I recommend you go to Bob Gym , it is small but you’ll find all that you need.
Yoga in Panglao: Jing Yoga and Welness is a beautifully decorated outdoor studio. One hour class costs 350 PHP and is given by Jing. I did a late afternoon class so we practiced Hashta yoga for a relaxed mind and body. I highly recommend this place because no matter your level, Jing will make sure you are following and will give you everything necessary to make you feel comfortable.
Top food places in Panglao:
Overgrown: Yummy vegetarian food and healthy drinks. ($$)
Sicily: Enjoy your Italian meal by ordering some REALLY GOOD pasta and mains (the salmon was very good). Their pizzas were a bit tasteless though, so I would not go back for them. ($$$)
Saway Wonderland: For Thai food. Uncommon setting for the type of service, but delicious food. I recommend the red curry with chicken. ($$)
Nonki: Sushi and other Japanese food ($$$)
Mist: This should probably be on the top of the list. The entire restaurant is made out of bamboo, and has three floors. Everything is subtly decorated; from the cozy chairs in which you eat, to the presentation of the dishes and beverages, to the overall feeling it gives off. You even have a Japanese style area where you eat sitting on the ground. I highly recommend the crab tacos and the salmon nigiri as starters, then the grilled salmon and the Pyro Maquerel for the dish. Even the drinks were delicious. I recommend you take the lemonade of the day and add a shot of vodka to it 😏. ($$$)
Street food : Along the road you will see several tricycles selling street food. Lookout for one called Mary’s by Mosh and Chum, they sell delicious siomai which are sorts of dimsum. 3 for 30 PHP (0,50 cents). ($)
Ru-Tea: For bubble tea lovers. ($)
Going out in Panglao: Although you have many bars and restaurants, Panglao is not one of my favorite places to go out. I do recommend going to Bamboo place for a cocktail. They are of good quality and the overall place is really fancy with it’s music and decoration while being super welcoming and affordable. I have not tried the food but it does look very good too.
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