The beauty of a Island in Visayas

Updated: Mar 22, 2020

Bohol is the main island of Bohol Province, which also includes 75 smaller islands. The island lies southeast from Cebu Island and southwest of Leyte Island in the Central Visayas region. This oval-shaped island is the tenth largest of the Philippine archipelago. Bohol is a haven of tropical natural beauty. The coastline of the island is skimmed by gentle coves and white sand beaches.

Bohol is well-known locally as a paradise for divers and snorkelers, though it's not as internationally famous as Boracay. Dolphin watching and whale watching tours are popular with both residents and visiting tourists. The best season is from March to June, but dolphins can be seen year-round. Bohol is famous for its Chocolate Hills; its tarsiers, which may be the world’s smallest primate; its heritage sites and old stone churches.

MUST DO'S AND MUST GO'S:

Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Baclayon

Known as the second oldest stone church in the Philippines, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Baclayon was completed in 1717. The iconic and historic church has been serving the people of Baclayon for over three centuries. Interestingly, the church was built using corals and egg whites.

Activities To Do:

– While parts of the church have been damaged by a recent earthquake, the church’s facade remains intact. The architecture and interiors have also been preserved enough for a few snaps.

– A convent-turned-museum also sits adjacent to the church. It houses several religious artifacts dating back to the 16th century. Anyone who loves history would enjoy this site.

Panglao Island

Panglao Island is Bohol’s very own piece of Boracay. The white sand, blue waters and the nightlife make this one of the best Bohol tourist spots. Aside from the beach, the coral reefs and marine life make it a great snorkeling and diving spot as well.

Activities To Do:

– Enjoy the sun and the sand as you sunbathe on the fine white beach of Panglao Island. Aside from the famous Alona Beach, restaurants and bars line the shore making relaxing or partying on the beach easy.

– Snorkeling is also a must-try in Panglao Island because of its rich and diverse marine life. Equipment rentals are scattered around the area.

Don’t Miss: The sunset is just mesmerizing here. The shore, the sound of the waves and the sunset as your backdrop — sounds like an epic vacation.

Hanging Bridge 

Dubbed by CNN as one of the Most Spectacular Foot Bridges in the World, the Bohol Hanging Bridge is a must-visit. The 131-foot long bridge is made of bamboo and steel and hovers 25-meters atop the Loboc River. It offers a perfect view of the river and its surrounding nature.

Activities To Do:

– Face your fears and cross the wobbly Bohol Hanging Bridge! Don’t worry. It will sway from left-to-right but it’s perfectly safe.

– At the end of the bridge you will find “Buko King”, a local hero who can peel open a coconut using his bare teeth. AND he does it in under 10 seconds.

OTHER PLACES YOU CAN VISIT IN BOHOL: