Here to remind you that Bohol doesn’t need a super packed itinerary
For first-timers, it’s the postcard hits: Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, white-sand beaches. But once you’ve done the basics, or if you’re the kind of traveler who wants more than just ticking boxes, there’s a more layered version of the island worth exploring.
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If you’ve read about our recent stay at the new Lime Resort Bohol, this itinerary picks up from there. It’s planned for travelers who want a little adventure, a lot of good food, and just enough downtime to make the trip feel indulgent, and not exhausting.
This isn’t a rush-from-stop-to-stop kind of guide. It’s a mix of outdoor thrills, local flavors, and more down time, ideal for first-time visitors or returning guests ready to see Bohol with fresh eyes.
Here’s how we spent our days:
Your gastronomic guide
Chada
Located along Ester Lim Drive near Alona Beach, Chada is easy to fit into any Panglao day. Chef Bryll Mabalot designed the menu to cater to the island’s mix of diners, which explains the international cuisines available to order.
The croissant pizza is the best-seller and absolutely worth ordering. I’m vouching for this because, until now, I still think about the buttery, flaky crust and how well it works with the sauce and cheese. We also tried the Chada Burger, served with two house sauces—the special BBQ, made with apple cider vinegar, was a personal favorite—along with the Tuscan salmon, salads, and gambas. Portions are generous and easy to share, making it a good choice for group meals.
If you want what the chef personally recommends, go for the Longanisa Pesto Pasta or Chicken Chimichurri. Most ingredients are locally sourced, and the bar menu serves cocktails made using fruit purees from Davao.
Ubeco
Ubeco is a personal favorite. I first went years ago and didn’t get to come back on this trip, but it’s still one I recommend when someone asks where to eat in Panglao. I personally recommend the coconut shrimp with mango chili, which has just the right mix of sweet and savory. The coffee is also worth trying.
Bohol Bee Farm
For your pasalubong stop. It’s about a 20 to 30-minute drive from Panglao and easy to squeeze into the day. Some recos to bring home: kabkab cassava chips. They’re similar to that iconic appetizer from a well-loved Filipino comfort food restaurant. (You can recreate the dip too to save some bucks!)
I also picked up raw honey, the honey spread, and their kalamay, packaged in an empty coconut shell. I also made sure to bring home Asin tibuok for my cooking. If you’re staying a bit, get the salted honey ice cream, served in a cassava cone, it’s creamy, almost custard-like, not overly sweet and a good finish if you decide to dine there as well. The coconut coffee is also worth ordering before heading out.
Going out and about
Hinagdanan Cave
Hinagdanan Cave is naturally striking, with limestone walls, hanging stalactites, and openings in the ceiling that let sunlight pour in. The light creates a glow inside, especially over the natural water below.
That said, I didn’t stay long. I’m not great with enclosed spaces, and while the cave is well-maintained and easy to access, it still felt a bit overwhelming for me. If caves are your thing, though, this is one to visit in Panglao. Some visitors take a quick dip in the water, which is cool and refreshing, especially after being out in the heat.
The site is protected by the local tourism office, and there’s a small entrance fee that goes toward upkeep. The ground can be slippery near the entrance, so please wear proper footwear. It’s a short stop, but still worth seeing, especially if you’re curious about Panglao’s natural landscapes and underground formations.
Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area
The Tarsier Conservation Area is about an hour’s drive. Visits are guided, and the rules are strictly enforced for good reason. Tarsiers are extremely sensitive to noise and light.
Visitors are expected to stay quiet, avoid sudden movement, and never use flash photography. The experience is calm and brief, but seeing tarsiers in a protected environment feels more meaningful when you respect their space.
Loboc River Cruise
The Loboc River Cruise lasts about an hour and includes a buffet lunch and live music on board. Boats move slowly along the river, passing riverside houses and greenery. The food is simple but satisfying, and the experience is more about enjoying the food, the view, and the company.
It works especially well if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a shared meal without needing to plan much. Expect this stop to take around two hours total, including waiting time.
Napaling Reef
Napaling Reef is best known for freediving, and while that’s not really my thing, I still enjoyed it more than I expected. Even if you’re not a strong swimmer or comfortable going deep, it’s hard not to be fascinated by what’s happening underwater.
The local guides are there to help you spot the sardines and guide you through the experience. I was constantly screaming for kuya because the deep blue still scares me, but it’s all worth it. The water is clear, and the beauty underneath is honestly something else.
Even if you’re hesitant about the depth, I’d still recommend it for the experience, the view, and the chance to see what the ocean offers up close.
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