If you are coming from Manila, the best way is to fly through Tagbilaran, the capital of Bohol Island. From Tagbilaran, you can take a taxi or tricycle to your hotel. Once you have settled and want to reach Panglao, you can take a taxi, which will cost you between 400 to 600 Philippine pesos, approximately.

Alternatively, you can reach Panglao by ferry, although it will take more time than a combination of a flight and a taxi. However, it’s still a relevant option for those who want to turn the journey into an adventure. From Manila, you can take the Superferry bound for Tagbilaran. The journey takes about 24 hours but is significantly cheaper than flying (unless you manage to book a flight through Piso Fare promotions). From Tagbilaran, you can choose to take a taxi or tricycle to get to your hotel.

If you are coming from Cebu, you can opt for a fast craft ferry that costs around 500 pesos. The journey takes between one to one and a half hours. If you are on a tight budget, you can also board one of the slower boats, which usually take between two and a half to three hours.

You should know that accommodation costs in Panglao vary from a few hundred pesos to over 2000 pesos per night. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose between high-end, mid-range, and budget-friendly lodging options across the island. Here are some of the top-rated lodging places based on reviews and feedback from both local and foreign guests.

These are the more budget-friendly options, and it’s important to note that “budget” in the Philippines can sometimes be disappointing, so always check recommendations and reviews!

1. Linaw Beach Resort – Located on Danao Beach, this resort offers spacious rooms with either a king-size bed or twin beds. All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, artwork on the walls, and good-quality showers. The resort’s facilities are of good quality and include an outdoor pool and a children’s playroom with a snooker table, foosball, and dartboards. Hairdryers are available in all rooms, and some offer a sea view from the shower. To book a room at the hotel, you are required to make a reservation/deposit in advance, which can be done through a bank transfer. Room prices start at around 3900 Philippine pesos. During the low season, there are promotions available, and if you book several months in advance, you can also get good rates.

The resort offers elegant rooms with modern design and plenty of space. The rooms are divided into the following categories: Premier Deluxe, Family Lofts, and Villas with one or two bedrooms. Each room is equipped with a minibar, iPod docking station, LCD TV, landline for NDD and IDD calls (subject to additional charges), coffee and tea maker, a shower with hot and cold water, and a balcony. Family lofts and villas also have a veranda and a living room. Villas come with indoor plunge pools.

There are other hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Panglao that cater to various preferences and budgets. One important thing to remember is that in many of these places, payment is in cash only. Some hotels may accept credit or debit cards, but technical difficulties (weak signal or poor network connection) can occasionally occur. So, make sure you have enough cash on hand before arriving in Panglao.

GoKarts – Karting. Were you expecting that in Panglao there would be plenty of options for water-related activities? Well, you’re right. However, you can also enjoy many fun and land-based activities, one of which is Go Karts. At the Dumaluan Beach Resort, there’s a go-kart track where kids (and kids at heart) can enjoy an adrenaline-packed race, navigating through twists and sharp turns on the track.

Jet Skiing – If you love speed and being in the water, then jet skiing is a great choice for you to try with friends or family. You can rent a jet ski for an hour or several hours and let the rider inside you enjoy it to the fullest.

Wakeboarding – Wakeboarding is a bit more challenging but also a lot of fun. If you feel strong, balanced, and up for the challenge, it’s worth trying. Wakeboarding enthusiasts describe it as an adrenaline-packed sport that’s thrilling in a positive way.

Kayaking – For those who want to stay fit and get some exercise while on vacation, this sport is highly recommended. It’s also a lot of fun, especially when you figure out how to do it correctly. Just be careful; your muscles may ache for hours or even a whole day after such an intense activity.

Glass-Bottom Boat Tours – If you’ve ever wondered what’s happening beneath the sea while you’re cruising on a boat or yacht, here’s the answer to your questions. Go on a glass-bottom boat tour, and you’ll be able to see clearly what’s happening beneath the sea surface. It’s a unique experience that will delight both children and adults.

Sea Walking – Not everyone has the courage to learn deep-sea diving, but many people want to experience life underwater. Sea walking is a fantastic solution that allows those who don’t dive (especially young children) to enjoy life beneath the sea. You can expect close encounters with marine life without needing the skills required for deep-sea diving.

Flying Fish – Some say it’s even more thrilling than jet skiing because you’re literally flying over the waves. You can also share this experience with friends and family.

Visit Hinagdanan Cave – The word “amazing” doesn’t even begin to describe what you’ll see inside this cave. The collection of stalactites and stalagmites is incredible and impressive, to say the least. The deep lagoon is also ideal for swimming in the clear and refreshing waters. This is a place you won’t want to miss while in Panglao, and of course, it’s a must for taking photos.

Try the organic ice cream at Buzz Cafe – Bohol may not be the Philippines’ sweet capital, but Panglao certainly leaves its mark in the dessert department. Buzz Cafe started as a simple bee farm and evolved into an organic cafe where you can find excellent organic ice cream. The cafe offers ice cream flavors with traditional Filipino tastes like coconut, salty honey, and mango. They also experiment with less common flavors like purple yam, pandan, peanut kisses, and even durian (a local fruit mainly found in Davao). Your taste buds will be working overtime, especially in its sweet department.

Island Hopping Tour (Including Dolphin Watching) – Waking up at dawn might not seem very appealing, but the reward awaits as soon as you board the boat and start island hopping in search of dolphins. The black circles under your eyes will be worth it. If you depart early enough, there’s a good chance you’ll spot dolphins swimming alongside your boat. These fascinating and friendly creatures, not to mention the cute little sounds they make, are a true delight to observe.

Midday Massage – A vacation isn’t complete without pampering yourself, and what better way to do that than with a luxurious beachside massage? Midday massages are available for a cost ranging from 200 pesos to 300 pesos, depending on the type of massage you prefer. Foot massages are typically cheaper than full-body massages. Since the price difference isn’t significant, you might opt for a soothing or therapeutic full-body massage. If you prefer a more private setting, you can book a massage at a spa. Make sure to book in advance, as spa slots fill up quickly, especially in the evening and at night when vacationers want to relax after a day of swimming, snorkeling, or diving.

Scuba Diving, Freediving – In Panglao, there are several diving sites, and it’s reasonable to assume that you won’t have time to explore them all in a week. Still, your trip won’t be complete without enjoying the experience of diving in the beautiful ocean waters of Panglao. Considering the well-preserved marine life, this is an extraordinary experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

Panglao is one of Bohol’s gems, offering an exciting experience for all visitors, whether they love the beach or prefer more land-based adventures. The perfect blend of white sandy beaches, fun activities, excellent food, and friendly locals makes Panglao a place that everyone falls in love with, over and over again.