12 BEST BOHOL TOURIST SPOTS & BEST THINGS TO DO (2025 TRAVEL GUIDE)
Looking for the best things to do in Bohol? From the world famous Chocolate Hills to incredible scuba diving at Balicasag Island, this guide will show you the top Bohol tourist spots, activities to try, and how to plan the perfect Bohol itinerary.
1. Marvel at the Chocolate Hills
Bohol’s most famous attraction, the Chocolate Hills, is a must see. Over 1,200 cone shaped hills stretch across the landscape, turning brown in the dry season.
No trip to Bohol is complete without the Chocolate Hills. I cover the full Countryside Tour experience here.
- Best Viewpoints: Carmen Chocolate Hills Complex & Sagbayan Peak.
- Best Time To Visit: Sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views.
- Why Visit? One of the best tourist sports in Bohol with stunning views.
- Try the ATV tour for a fun experience around the Chocolate Hills.
- Book a tour of the Chocolate Hills here.
2. Visit The Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary
Get up close with the world’s smallest primate, the Philippine Tarsier, at the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary.
- Why Visit? A top Bohol tourist spot for wildlife lovers.
- Location: Corella, 20 minutes from Tagbilaran city.
- Tip: No flash photography, tarsiers are nocturnal.
- Book the full countryside tour here.
3. Cruise The Loboc River
Relax on a floating restaurant while cruising through Loboc’s lush jungles.
- Includes: Local buffet, live music, and scenic river views.
- Best For: Families, couples, and food lovers.
- A must do in any Bohol itinerary!
- Book the Loboc River tour here.
4. Go Scuba Diving At Balicasag Island
Bohol is a diver’s paradise with incredible marine life at Balicasag and Pamilacan Islands and so much more!
Top Dive Sites:
- Balicasag Island – Turtles, colourful corals, and schools of Jacks.
- Pamilican Island – Strong currents, tuna, barracudas, whale sharks.
- Doljo Point – Deep walls and vibrant coral formations.
- Best Time To Dive: December to May for best visibility.
- Why Visit? One of the top activities to do in Bohol.
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5. Relax on Alona Beach
Located on Panglao Island, Alona Beach is known for its white sand, beachfront bars, scuba diving shops, and island hopping tours.
- Things To Do: Resorts, Swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, bars, and restaurants, and sunset drinks.
- Best For: A relaxing Bohol travel experience.
- Find beachfront hotels and resorts here.
6. Explore Hinagdanan Cave
A limestone cave with crystal clear waters and unique rock formations.
- Why Visit? A hidden gem among Bohol attractions.
- Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds.
- Photo Spot: Snap a shot with light filtering through the cave.
7. Experience Danao Adventure Park
For thrill seekers, Danao Adventure Park offers extreme activities.
- Do the 70m free fall canyon swing.
- Zip lining, rock climbing, and river tubing.
- Why Visit? A must visit tourist spot in Bohol for adventure lovers.
8.Walk Through Bilar Man Made Forest
A 2km stretch of towering mahogany trees creating a thick canopy and tunnel like effect, making it a cool and shady stop for tourists.
Best For: A quick stop on the way to or from the Chocolate Hills.
9. Visit Pamilacan Island
A less crowded alternative to Balicasag Island, perfect for diving, snorkelling, and dolphin watching.
- Why Visit? A peaceful escape and one of the best places to visit in Bohol.
10. Explore The Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape
A hidden gem for hiking, birdwatching, and eco tourism.
- Best Trails: Canopy walk and forest trails.
- Why Visit? A lesser known yet stunning Bohol tourist spot.
11. Witness the Magical Glow of Fireflies on a River Cruise in Bohol
- Why Visit? A mesmerizing nighttime experience, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
- Location: Abatan River or Loay River, 30 minutes from Tagbilaran City.
- Tip: Visit on a moonless night for the best viewing experience.
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Swim With Whale Sharks In Bohol: When & Where To See Them
One of the most thrilling experiences in Bohol is the chance to swim alongside gentle giant whale sharks. Tours typically operate from Lila, a town on the southeastern coast of Bohol, where these massive yet harmless creatures are frequently spotted.
What to Expect on a Whale Shark Tour:
- Close Encounters: Snorkel or dive with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Boat Tours: Small group tours take you to the feeding areas where whale sharks gather.
- Best Time to Visit: While sightings are not guaranteed, the best chances are from November to May.
⚠️ Important Note: Whale shark tours in Bohol have reportedly been suspended or restricted in recent months due to environmental concerns. Be sure to check in advance whether tours are currently operating.
👉 Book alternative marine tours like Balicasag diving and island hopping here.
Perfect 3 Day Bohol Itinerary: What to Do Each Day
- Day 1: The Bohol Countryside tour will allow you to see the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Bilar Man Made Forest, Loboc River Cruise, and Baclayon church.
- Day 2: Scuba diving at Balicasag island, Hinagdanan Cave, and Alona Beach sunset drinks.
- Day 3: Pamilacan Island, adventure activities in Danao or Raja Sikatuna hikes, or chilling out on Alona Beach.
Best Month to Visit Bohol
The best time to visit Bohol is during the dry season, from December to May, when you can enjoy sunny weather and calm seas.
- Best for Beach Lovers and Scuba Divers: If you’re visiting Bohol’s top beaches or planning to scuba dive, March to May is ideal when the water is clearest and the ocean is calmest.
- Great for Sightseeing: If you want to explore Bohol’s famous tourist spots like the Chocolate Hills and other Bohol tourist attractions, January to May offers the best weather with less rain.
How to Get to Bohol: Flights & Ferry Options Explained
Getting to Bohol is pretty easy, whether you’re coming from Manila or Cebu. Here’s what you need to know:
- From Manila: Take a direct flight to Panglao International Airport, the easiest and fastest way to get to Alona Beach, the main tourist area of Bohol.
- From Cebu City: Hop on a ferry to Bohol. The Cebu to Bohol ferry schedule has multiple trips daily, and travel time is around 2 hours.
- 👉 Book your flights and ferry tickets hassle-free! Find the best deals here.
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Where To Stay In Bohol
Finding the perfect place to stay in Bohol depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for, whether you want beachfront relaxation, easy access to top Bohol tourist spots, or a mix of both.
- Panglao Island: The best area for beaches, nightlife, and easy access to scuba diving sites like Balicasag and Pamilacan Islands.
- Tagbilaran City – A great choice if you want a more budget friendly stay while being close to historical sites and transport hubs.
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Final Thoughts: Why Visit Bohol?
Bohol is one of the best places in the Philippines, offering an unforgettable mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the Chocolate Hills, diving with marine life at Balicasag, or relaxing on Alona Beach, Bohol has something for every traveler.
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