Why Panglao Is Easy to Stay Longer
Panglao is a small island that makes it easy to extend your stay. We even considered moving here for a couple of months next year.
Panglao offers something unique. It’s about waking up without plans, strolling to the sea, swimming, enjoying breakfast, and realizing you don’t need to rush anywhere. I found myself appreciating the simplicity of focusing solely on living well today.
Located next to Bohol, many visitors use Panglao as a beach base. However, if you take your time, the island reveals its calm and pleasant charm.
Where it is and how to get there
The easiest way to reach Panglao is by flying or taking a ferry via Cebu. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours, and tickets for both ferries and flights can be booked through the Trip app.
Fastest route:
Cebu → Tagbilaran
Flight duration: approximately 1 hour
Cost: typically 40–90 USD one way
From the airport, it’s a 15–20 minute ride to Panglao’s beaches via tricycle or motorbike. If you’re already on Bohol, Panglao is connected by bridges, and the drive takes around 30 minutes.
When to visit Panglao
The best time to visit is from December to May. February and March offer the most comfortable weather, while April and May are hotter but feature excellent sea conditions.
From March to May, algae blooms may occur, especially at:
• Alona Beach
• Popular beaches without strong currents
These blooms are not constant or widespread. Often, switching beaches or adjusting swimming times solves the issue. Reef areas and boat trips are usually unaffected.
Where to stay
Panglao is straightforward, with no distinctly "bad" or "good" areas—it's more about your preferred pace.
Alona Beach
The most popular area, bustling with cafes, shops, dive centers, and activity. It can be noisy but is ideal for those who want to be in the heart of everything.
A bit away from Alona
Quieter, more spacious, and budget-friendly. Perfect for those seeking calm without complete isolation. Many beautiful and aesthetic hotels are available.
West and north of the island
Less crowded, offering a more local experience. Ideal for long stays, especially if you have a motorbike.
We stayed at Fun Hotel and were very satisfied. You can find my review on my page.
Beaches and the sea
Panglao isn’t about one perfect beach—it boasts a variety of beaches, each unique.
Alona Beach
The busiest beach with tourists, yet spacious enough. It features a sandy shore, and swimming past some algae leads to the reef. Some visitors have even spotted whale sharks near the reef beyond the buoys. Whale sharks are harmless to humans.
The beach is lively and convenient, offering boats, tours, dive centers, and stunning sunsets. Occasionally, the water may be slightly cloudy, but not always.
Dumaluan and White Beach
These beaches are more spacious and tranquil, ideal for swimming and long walks.
Reefs
Many reefs are accessible directly from the shore. With a mask and snorkel, you can enjoy daily underwater exploration without needing tours.
Things to do in Panglao
Panglao is perfect for:
• Snorkeling from the shore
• Exploring nearby beaches
• Taking boat trips to small islands
• Watching sunsets
• Enjoying seafood
For more activities:
• Diving
• Reef excursions
• Day trips to Bohol for its hills and waterfalls
Other options include visiting a cave, jet skiing, banana boating, parasailing, or dolphin-watching boat trips. These activities are affordable and easy to arrange locally.
Food and cafes
Food on Panglao is simple and accessible. Numerous cafes offer European and Asian cuisine, along with fresh fish, fruits, rice, coconuts, and even McDonald’s near Alona Beach.
The island has shops and several 7-Eleven stores. If you need specific products, it’s best to purchase them in advance.
Cash remains essential, as cards are not universally accepted. Exchange offices are plentiful, offering better rates than Cebu and significantly better than the airport.
Getting around the island
Motorbikes are the best transportation option, with rentals costing 10–15 USD per day. Rental shops are widespread and typically don’t require a license, though riding without one is not recommended. Always adhere to traffic rules.
Alternative transportation includes:
• Tricycles
• Taxis (Grab is unavailable here)
Short rides usually cost 2–5 USD.
Places I recommend visiting
• The cave
• Various beaches—bring your own mask and snorkel to avoid rental fees
• Napaling Reef: Stunning but crowded. Swim farther out for a better experience. Entrance fee: 200 pesos per person. Parking and hotel area access: 100 pesos. Lockers and tables are available.
• A picturesque palm tree alley about 10 minutes from Alona Beach. Ideal for longer stays, with mosquito spray and food recommended. It’s quiet, with few visitors, offering palms, sea views, and perfect sunsets.
• Diving: While not extraordinary, it’s solid. Certified divers can enjoy dives for 1,500–2,000 pesos, cheaper than many other destinations.
Thank you for reading. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Wishing you a fantastic trip and unforgettable experiences.