Freediving Panglao & Bohol

Panglao is an island in the Philippines located in the southwestern part of the province of Bohol. It is connected to the provincial capital, Tagbilaran City, by two bridges.


how to get there

The easiest way to get to Panglao, Philippines, depends on your starting point, but there are two main convenient options:
Fly Directly: The absolute easiest way is to fly directly to Bohol–Panglao International Airport (TAG). This airport is located right on Panglao Island, and it receives daily domestic flights from major hubs like Manila (MNL) and Cebu (CEB), as well as some international flights. Once you land, it’s a short ride by taxi or tricycle to your accommodation on Panglao (e.g., Alona Beach).
Ferry from Cebu: If you are already in the Visayas region (especially Cebu), the most common and often cost-effective route is to take a fast ferry from Cebu City to Tagbilaran Pier (the capital of the main Bohol island). The ferry ride typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Panglao Island is connected to Tagbilaran by bridges, so from the pier, you can take a short tricycle or taxi ride to your final destination on Panglao.

Special Features of Panglao Bohol

Direct Shore Access to Deep Walls: The northern and western coasts of Panglao, especially at sites like Napaling Reef, feature dramatic underwater topography. The coral reef starts very close to the shore and quickly drops off into a steep wall that plunges to significant depths (over 25m and in some spots, fixed lines reach 130m).
Rich Marine Biodiversity: Panglao and the nearby islands are part of the “Bohol Marine Triangle” and host more species of marine life than all of Japan or the Mediterranean Sea. This density of life includes vibrant hard and soft corals, turtles (Green and Hawksbill), colorful reef fish, and various macro life like nudibranchs and frogfish.
The Napaling Sardine Run: A major attraction is the spectacular, year-round “sardine run” at Napaling Reef, where massive schools of sardines congregate close to the shore, offering an awe-inspiring experience for both snorkelers and freedivers.
Sheltered, Calm Waters: The island’s location, particularly the west side, is often sheltered from strong winds and waves, providing clear, calm water conditions for a large part of the year.
For Freediving: The close proximity of the deep drop-offs means freedivers can train for depth just a short swim or kayak ride from the shore, eliminating the need for long boat trips. The consistently clear, warm water 26c to 30c and minimal current also create near-perfect, year-round training and recreational conditions, leading to Panglao being dubbed the “Freedive Capital of Asia.”
For Snorkeling: Sites like Napaling Reef offer world-class snorkeling right from the beach, allowing easy access to the coral reef, the massive sardine ball, and sea turtles in the shallow, well-lit waters.Nearby Balicasag Island is another premier destination, famed for its marine sanctuary where snorkelers can reliably swim with numerous sea turtles and explore vibrant shallow coral gardens.

recommended for freedivers in Bohol :

freedive academy

offering Recreational Courses and Professional Freedive Development

blue freedom

freediving school, started as a non profit, now offering courses and fun dives.

Kauban Freediving Bohol 

offering intruduction and wave courses.

Freedive Panglao

Freediving Courses from beginner up to professional levels.

What else
to do ?

Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit

Peak/Dry Season: December to May. This is the ideal time for your trip.
Weather: Expect minimal rainfall, calm seas, and perfect conditions for beach activities, island hopping, and diving.
Crowds & Price: This is the most popular time, particularly December to February (cooler, drier) and March to May (hotter, very dry). Prices for flights and accommodation will be at their peak, and you should book well in advance.
Chocolate Hills: The dry season is when the grass on the Chocolate Hills turns its distinct golden brown hue.
Off/Wet Season: June to November.
Weather: Expect quick, predictable afternoon showers, but often plenty of sunshine in between.
Benefits: You’ll find lower accommodation rates, fewer crowds, and the island is very lush and green, which is beautiful for photography.

Accommodations: Budget vs. Luxury

Panglao, especially the main tourist hub of Alona Beach, offers a wide range of options catering to every budget.
Type
Best Area
Examples & Style
Luxury
Alona Beach, Doljo Beach, quieter stretches of Dumaluan Beach
5-Star Resorts: Amorita Resort, Henann Resort Alona Beach, Donatela Hotel. These offer private beaches, multiple pools, and world-class service.
Mid-Range
Alona Beach area, Danao
Comfortable hotels and resorts with pools, good service, and proximity to restaurants (e.g., Linaw Beach Resort, Marina Point Bay Resort).
Budget
Alona Beach area (Tawala)
Numerous guesthouses, inns, and hostels (like Mad Monkey Panglao or Moon Fools Hostel). You can find very affordable dorm beds or basic private rooms here.
Tip: While Alona Beach is the most expensive and busiest area, it offers the greatest density of budget options, as well as the most establishments.



Restaurants & Dining

The dining scene is vibrant, especially along Alona Beach, where restaurants set up tables right on the sand at night.
Fresh Seafood: Head to Alona Beach in the evening, where stalls display fresh catches of the day that you can have grilled on the spot.
Farm-to-Table: Visit Bohol Bee Farm, famous for its organic produce, delicious salads, fresh bread, and unique homemade ice cream (try the malunggay flavor!).
International Cuisine: Alona Beach and the surrounding area have a great selection of international fare, including:
Italian: Giuseppe Pizzeria & Sicilian Roast (highly rated for wood-fired pizza).
Healthy/Vegan: Shaka Bowls (known for acai bowls).
Asian: Wonderland Thai or Garlic n’ Lemon Bistro.
Filipino: Look for carinderias or budget-friendly spots like Aftertaste for local classics.

How to Get Around

From the Airport: Panglao is home to the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG). You can take a taxi, van transfer, or a tricycle to your accommodation.
Short Distances: Tricycles are the most common transport for short trips (e.g., from your hotel to Alona Beach). Always agree on the fare before you ride to avoid being overcharged.
Inland & Long Distances (Best Option):
Motorcycle/Scooter Rental: Starting from around $\text{PHP } 300\text{ per day}$ (about $\text{USD } 5$), this is the most flexible and budget-friendly way to explore Panglao and the main island of Bohol (for the Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, etc.) at your own pace.
Private Car/Van: Best for groups or families. You can hire a car/van with a driver for a full-day tour to Bohol’s countryside attractions.
Public Transport: Jeepneys and buses run from the Integrated Bus Terminal in Tagbilaran (Bohol’s capital, connected by bridge to Panglao) to various points on the main island, offering the cheapest way to travel.

For Whom is this Area Recommended?

Panglao is a fantastic, versatile destination for almost everyone:
First-Time Visitors to the Philippines: It offers a wide variety of activities, reliable infrastructure (by island standards), and easy access via a major airport.
Beach Lovers: Alona Beach, while busy, has beautiful white sand, while Dumaluan Beach is a great choice for those seeking a more tranquil, picturesque stretch of sand.
Scuba Divers and Snorkelers: Panglao is the main jump-off point for two world-famous dive/snorkel spots:
Balicasag Island: Known for spectacular coral reefs, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life.
Napaling Reef: Famous for its incredible sardine run (a massive school of fish) accessible right off the shore.
Adventure Seekers and Sightseers: It is the most convenient base for day trips to Bohol’s iconic inland sites, including the Chocolate Hills, the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, the Loboc River Cruise, and the Hinagdanan Cave.
Couples and Families: The range of luxury resorts and mid-range accommodation, combined with a balance of activity and relaxation, makes it great for both.