Nova Shell Museum Panglao: Wonders Of The Sea

Nova Shell Museum is a unique and fascinating destination in Panglao Island for tourists interested in marine life and natural history. This museum boasts an extensive collection of shells from around the world, showcasing the beauty and diversity of marine mollusks. Ideal for families and scholars alike, the museum offers an educational and visually appealing experience.

Key Details

Location: Poblacion, Panglao, Bohol, Philippines.
Best Time to Visit: The museum is enjoyable year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April.
Opening Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fee: PHP 60 for adults, PHP 30 for children.

History

The Nova Shell Museum was founded by Mr. Quirino Hora, a local enthusiast and collector whose passion for shells turned into a lifelong quest to gather and catalog shells from different parts of the Philippines and the world. The museum was established as a way to share this passion with the public and educate visitors about the ecological importance of mollusks.

What to See and Do

Explore diverse shell collections including rare and endemic species.
Learn about marine ecology through well-curated exhibits.
Participate in educational workshops during special event days.
Purchase unique souvenirs such as shell crafts at the museum shop.

Tips for Visitors

Photography is allowed but flash is prohibited to protect the delicate shells.
Wear comfortable footwear as you will be on your feet exploring various exhibits.
Check for scheduled events or workshops which might enhance your visit.

Amenities

Restrooms: Available on-site
Parking: Free parking available for visitors
Dining Options: Several local restaurants are located nearby, offering traditional Filipino dishes.

How to Get There

Public Transport: From Tagbilaran City, take a jeepney or bus to Panglao and alight near the museum.
Driving: If driving from Tagbilaran, follow the main road to Panglao Island and follow signs to Poblacion.
Tour Packages: Many local tour operators include Nova Shell Museum in their Bohol day tours, particularly Panglao Island Tour.

Nearby Attractions

Doljo Beach: A quieter alternative to the more bustling beaches, perfect for a serene beach day located just a few kilometers from the museum.
Hinagdanan Cave: Explore this natural wonder with its impressive limestone formations and underground lagoon. Click here to visit the page.
Panglao Church: A historic church showcasing Spanish colonial architecture.

Accommodations

Panglao Regents Park Resort: A comfortable mid-range option with a pool and easy access to local attractions.
The Bellevue Resort: An upscale resort offering luxurious amenities, beachfront access, and exceptional service.
Amorita Resort: Perched atop a cliff, this resort combines luxury with breathtaking views of the ocean.

Persona Experience

Though I’m not a shell person myself, I still love this place because my daughter loves this place. They have enough collection of shells to keep adults and kids busy for an hour. If you have an energetic toddler like me, better not take your eyes off your kid as it’s easy to break things here. Still, I just love how my daughter reacts to each shell she sees. She especially loves the one that was shaped like a seahorse. Nova Shell Museum is included in most tours, it was included in our Panglao Island tour. You can visit our Blog page to read more Bohol travel stories like this.

FAQs

Q: Are the shells for sale?
- A: Some shells and shell crafts are available for purchase at the gift shop.
Q: Is the museum suitable for young children?
- A: Yes, the museum is family-friendly with interactive displays that engage children.
Q: How long does a typical visit last?
- A: Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits.