Your guide to Panglao

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Travellers and cabin class, 1 Adult, Economy

Just off the coast of Bohol in the central Philippines, Panglao pairs powdery beaches with coral reefs alive with marine life. Trips to Panglao revolve around clear water and laid-back island days, whether you’re diving the reefs or stretching out on a quiet patch of sand. Two bridges link the island to Bohol, making it a convenient base for exploring sights like the famous Chocolate Hills. Discover it all, with our Panglao travel guide.

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Panglao highlights

Where to stay

Most resorts cluster around Alona Beach, where hotels line one of the island’s most popular stretches of sand. Seeking a quieter setting? Consider the Doljo Peninsula, which offers a calmer shoreline and a less developed feel. If you’re here to dive, the island’s north side has hotels that place you closer to several well-known reef sites.

World-class diving

Crystal-clear water and thriving coral reefs make this island one of the Philippines’ standout diving destinations. The best visits to Panglao centre on exploring its biodiverse underwater world, where reef sharks, manta rays and tropical fish move through the reefs. On the island’s north side, Napaling Reef is a favourite spot, known for its swirling schools of sardines.

Colonial history

Reminders of Spanish colonial rule appear across Panglao. Start at St Augustine Parish Church, a 19th-century Baroque landmark that still serves as an active place of worship. A short walk away stands the five-storey Panglao Watchtower, a hexagonal stone structure once used by Spanish forces to watch for ships approaching the island.

Panglao: Know before you go

Language	Filipino, English
Currency	Philippine peso (₱)
Time zone	UTC+8 (PHT)
High season	November - May
Low season	June - October

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Things to do in Panglao

Family friendly

Hinagdanan Cave offers an easy underground adventure just outside of town. A short staircase leads into a limestone cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites and a calm pool for a refreshing swim. Openings in the cave ceiling let sunlight stream in, illuminating the rock formations and water below. The stone can be slippery, so wear sturdy water shoes or sandals.

Nightlife

Panglao’s nightlife centres on Alona Beach, where evenings bring fire dancers, beach bars and music along the sand. Settle into a shoreside lounge with your feet in the sand, or wander a little inland where clubs keep the party going with DJs and late-night dancing. The whole strip stays lively well past midnight.

Beaches

Panglao is all about beaches, and Alona is its star, a lively stretch of white sand lined with restaurants, bars and dive shops. For a quieter scene, head to nearby Danao Beach, where sunsets draw smaller crowds. Farther south, Dumaluan Beach offers a broad shoreline and a gently sloping seabed that makes swimming easy.

FAQs about visiting Panglao

Is it safe to visit Panglao?

Panglao is generally a safe place to travel, but exercise caution when exploring its beaches and reefs. Only go diving with outfits certified by PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors). Be sure to monitor the weather during storm season, typically July to October.

When is the best time to visit Panglao?

Here for the beach? Plan your trip during the dry season, which runs roughly from December to April. You’ll find deals during the wet season, when you can still enjoy stretches of sun after cloud bursts. Just make sure to follow storm warnings and heed safety precautions.

How expensive is a trip to Panglao?

Panglao can be an affordable beach destination, thanks to its wealth of budget hotels, guesthouses and public beaches. At the same time, the island is home to several upscale resorts, particularly around Alona Beach, where prices rise for beachfront rooms and full-service amenities.

How many days do you need for a trip to Panglao?

Budget at least three days in Panglao to visit the beaches, go snorkelling or diving, and see historical attractions. Allow at least a week if you plan to explore other sites in Bohol, like the Chocolate Hills.

Is Panglao a good place to visit?

Panglao is a great beach getaway. You’ll spend most of your time here relaxing on the sand, swimming among colourful reefs and joining in beach party fun at night.

What currency is used in Panglao?

The Philippine peso (₱) is the official currency in Panglao. Credit and debit cards are accepted at many hotels, resorts and dive shops, but it’s helpful to carry some cash for small restaurants, markets and transport.

What language is spoken in Panglao?

Cebuano (often called Bisaya) is widely spoken in Panglao and across the island of Bohol. Filipino and English are also commonly used, especially in hotels, restaurants and tourist areas.

What is the hottest month in Panglao?

May is typically the warmest month in Panglao, with average highs around 31°C. The dry, sunny weather makes it a popular time for beach days, diving and island hopping.

What is the coldest month in Panglao?

February usually brings the coolest weather, with average lows around 24°C. But temperatures stay warm pretty much year-round, making the island a reliable beach destination in any season.

What is the rainiest month in Panglao?

July is typically the wettest month, with average rainfall of about 30 centimetres. Showers often arrive in short bursts, leaving plenty of time to explore indoor attractions between beach outings.