The First-Timer’s Travel Guide to Bohol, Philippines

Hotels and beach resorts in Bohol are a constant favorite among travelers wanting to see the best of the Philippines’ Central Visayas Region. And the usual number 1 tour destination after check-in: the Chocolate Hills, a group of about 1,700 grass-covered hills that turn brown during summer. But with all of Bohol’s history and natural beauty, this attraction isn’t all that you can look forward to for your vacation.

Here’s a pocket guide for first-timers who want to explore the province’s tourist spots.

1. Blood Compact Shrine

Located along Carlos P. Garcia Circumferential Road, the Blood Compact Shrine is a memorial to the historic friendship pact between Filipinos and Spaniards. On March 16, 1565, Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and then Bohol chieftain Datu Sikatuna slit their wrists and dropped blood in wine. This ritual is locally known as “Sandugo”, which means “one blood”.

2. Baclayon Church

With religious relics dating back to the 16th century, Baclayon Church is also a destination not to miss. Located in the municipality of Baclayon, just 6 km from Tagbilaran, it the second oldest stone church in the Philippines.

3. Punta Watch Tower

Punta Watch Tower is a triangular edifice in the municipality of Maribojoc, some 14 km west of Tagbilaran, overseeing the seas of South Bohol. It was originally created as a lookout against pirates. From its topmost window, you will enjoy a view of Siquijor, Cebu, and Mindanao.

4. Balicasag Island

Because of the province’s natural underwater beauty, snorkeling and diving are also among the top activities here. And one of the default destinations for this is Balicasag Island. The easiest way to plan a trip is asking assistance from your beachfront resort in Bohol.

5. Bilar Manmade Forest

Another favorite stop among tourists is the Bilar Manmade Forest in Carmen Town. It spans 2 km and boasts a lush spread of red and white mahogany trees.

6. Hinagdanan Cave

Located on Panglao Island, Hinagdanan Cave is a naturally lighted limestone cavern that features a deep lagoon and many large stalactites and stalagmites. “Hinagdanan” literally translates to “laddered” — to get inside the cave, one has to go down using a ladder.

Choosing an accommodation that offers tour packages is never a bad idea. Easily explore these destinations on our list with beach resorts in Bohol like Bohol Beach Club. Discounted room rates and special promos are available on its website.

Bohol in 3 Ways: Different Attractions You May Visit in Bohol, Philippines

A getaway in a beachfront resort in Bohol presents a great opportunity to discover a set of must-visit attractions in the province. With the various interesting spots you will find around the locale, you will be up for a multifaceted holiday. Truly, among the many reasons the province is one of the favorite destinations in the country, is that a new type of experience is available at every turn. Beaches Bohol's prime tourist attraction is a set of havens for beach bums. The town of Panglao alone is home to 4 irresistable beaches. 1. Alona Beach is probably the most developed beach in Panglao. It is about one and a half kilometers long, lines with a slew of restaurants, bars, and various types of accommodation in Bohol. 2. Lying under the shallow waters of Bagobo Beach is the finest white sand you’ll ever see and touch. It’s so fine you’ll start wondering whether the beach is made entirely of cornstarch. 3. Like Alona, Dumaluan Beach is a white-sand strip running one and a half kilometers along. If you’re still undecided about where to stay in Bohol, this is the go-to place. Here, you'll find some of the most luxurious beachfront resorts in Panglao. 4. Doljo Beach takes pride in its crystal clear water. It is also within proximity to Doljo Point and Doljo House Reef, which are spectacular diving sites just off the coast of Panglao. Diving Spots Those who love underwater adventures will surely be thrilled to discover these diving spots in Bohol. 1. Found in the west of Danao Beach, Balicasag Sanctuary is a deep coral wall starting at 3-meter depth and going down to up to 60 meters. The wall offers a good chance to find various nudibranch, eels, frogfish, scorpion fish, and leaf fish. 2. A 15-minute boat ride from Danao Beach will bring you to Arco Point, also known as the Hole in the Wall. It is a shallow dive spot with maximum 25-meter depth. It is common to see giant frogfish, nudibranch, slugs, moray eel, and snake eels in this spot. 3. About 5 minutes to the west of Danao Beach, an old outrigger dive boat named Habagat was sunk on purpose. Habagat Wreck is a dive spot for experienced divers since the wreck is at 35 to 38-meter depth. 4. A 30-minute boat ride from Danao Beach will bring you to Napaling, steep wall dive with big gorgonians and black corals. Schools of barracuda and jackfish can also be seen here from time to time. Historical Sites Bohol is also a cradle of rich history and heritage. 1. Located at Barangay Bool in Tagbilaran City, the Blood Compact Site marks the location where Datu Sikatuna, a native chieftain, forged a blood compact with Don Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, representing the King of Spain. 2. The Dagohoy Historical Marker in the town of Danao was installed by the Philippine Historical Comission to honor the heroic deeds of Francisco Dagohoy. He led the longest revolt in the country against the Spaniards which lasted for 84 years. 3. Atop the Mt. Carmel Hill is a historical tower of adobe and limestone. It was built to serve as a belfry of a church which was burned down during the Philippine revolution. 4. Punta Cruz is an ancient stone watchtower built by the townspeople as a lookout for incoming pirates. The tower commands a breathtaking view of the sea facing Cebu, Siquijor, and Mindanao. Make the most of your vacation in a beachfront resort in Bohol by exploring these tourist attractions that are surely for the books.