Ultimate Guide to Where to Stay in Bohol, Philippines

Introduction

Bohol, a beautiful island province in the Philippines, is a dream destination for many travelers. With its stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush green hills, it’s no wonder why so many people are drawn to this paradise. In 2019, the number of visitors even reached 1.58 million according to an article by BusinessMirror. But with so many options, deciding on the best area to stay in Bohol can be overwhelming especially for first timers. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we will explore the key areas to stay in Bohol, the types of accommodations available, and some special accommodations that you should consider for your trip. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into it!

Have you ever noticed that the area you choose to stay can make or break your trip? It’s fascinating how the right location can enhance your experience, making your trip to Bohol more enjoyable and memorable. That’s why it’s so important to choose the best area to stay in Bohol island.

Key Areas to Stay in Bohol

Panglao Island – The Best Place to Stay for Beach Lovers

Panglao Island is the most popular area to stay in Bohol, and for good reason. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines, including the famous Alona Beach. This white sand beach is lined with palm trees and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts.

In my experience, staying in Panglao Island is a great choice for beach lovers. You can spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoying water sports such as snorkeling and island hopping. At night, Alona Beach comes alive with bars, restaurants, and live music, making it the perfect place to stay in Bohol for nightlife.

Best Hotels in Panglao Island

• Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort is located on a private beach and offers spacious rooms with stunning sea views. The resort features a spa, an infinity pool, and a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine. It is one of the best resorts in Bohol for those looking for a relaxing and pampering stay.
• Henann Resort Alona Beach: This 5-star hotel is located directly on Alona Beach and offers a wide range of facilities, including several swimming pools, a spa, and multiple restaurants and bars. The rooms are modern and comfortable, making it a great place to stay in Bohol for families.

Anda – Where to Stay in Bohol for Outdoor Activities

Anda is a lesser-known area in Bohol, but it is quickly gaining popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. It is home to some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches on the island, as well as several caves, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

When I first visited Anda, I was blown away by its natural beauty. It is the perfect place to stay in Bohol for outdoor activities such as hiking, caving, and snorkeling. Additionally, Anda is less crowded than Panglao, making it a great option for those looking to escape the crowds.

Best Hotels in Anda

• Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa: Yes, this resort is also located in Anda! It is one of the best places to stay in Bohol for those looking for a luxurious and relaxing escape. The resort offers a wide range of activities, including diving, snorkeling, and island hopping.
• Anda White Beach Resort: This mid-range resort is located directly on a beautiful white sand beach. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine.

Tagbilaran – Where to Stay in Bohol for Families

Tagbilaran is the capital city of Bohol and is a great place to stay for families. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Additionally, Tagbilaran is home to several shopping malls, restaurants, and attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring Bohol.

Many of us feel that staying in a city may not offer the same natural beauty as staying on the beach, but Tagbilaran has its own charm. It is a bustling city with a friendly local community, and it offers all the amenities and facilities that you may need during your stay.

Best Hotels in Tagbilaran

• Bohol Tropics Resort: This resort is located on the waterfront and offers stunning views of the sea. It features a swimming pool, a restaurant, and spacious rooms with modern amenities. It is a great option for families looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Bohol.
• MetroCentre Hotel: This mid-range hotel is located in the heart of Tagbilaran and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. It is a great option for those looking for a convenient and affordable place to stay in Bohol.

Loboc – Where to Stay in Bohol for Nature Lovers

Loboc is a small town located in the interior of Bohol, along the Loboc River. It is surrounded by lush green hills and is home to several natural attractions, including the famous Chocolate Hills and the Loboc River Cruise.

In my experience, staying in Loboc is a great option for nature lovers. You can spend your days exploring the natural beauty of the area, visiting the Chocolate Hills, and taking a river cruise. Additionally, Loboc is home to several eco-resorts and guesthouses, making it a great option for those looking for eco-friendly accommodation in Bohol.

Best Hotels in Loboc

• Loboc River Resort: This eco-resort is located along the Loboc River and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. It features spacious and comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. It is one of the best places to stay in Bohol for nature lovers.
• Nuts Huts Resort: This budget-friendly resort is located in the hills of Loboc and offers basic but comfortable accommodation. It is a great option for backpackers and budget travelers looking for a unique and affordable place to stay in Bohol.

Jagna – The Best Place to Stay for Relaxation

Jagna is a small town located on the southern coast of Bohol. It is less touristy than other areas on the island, making it a great option for those looking for a quiet and relaxing escape. Jagna is home to several beautiful beaches, as well as hot springs and waterfalls.

I remember the last time I visited Jagna, I was impressed by its laid-back atmosphere and friendly local community. It is the perfect place to unwind and recharge your batteries.

Best Hotels in Jagna

• Bohol-Lahoy Dive Resort: This dive resort is located directly on the beach and offers comfortable rooms, a diving center, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. It is a great option for those looking to combine relaxation with diving or snorkeling.
• Idea Pension House: This budget-friendly pension house is located in the center of Jagna and offers basic but comfortable rooms. It is a great option for budget travelers looking for a convenient and affordable place to stay in Bohol.

Carmen – Where to Stay in Bohol for Adrenaline Junkies

Carmen is located in the interior of Bohol and is home to the famous Chocolate Hills. It is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the island and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from ATV riding to zip-lining.

I feel that staying in Carmen is a great option for adrenaline junkies. You can spend your days exploring the Chocolate Hills, riding ATVs, and zip-lining over the Loboc River. Additionally, Carmen is home to several guesthouses and homestays, making it a great option for budget travelers.

Best Hotels in Carmen

• Chocolate Hills Adventure Park: This adventure park offers basic but comfortable accommodation, as well as a wide range of outdoor activities, including zip-lining, biking, and hiking. It is a great option for those looking for an adventurous and active stay in Bohol.
• Villa Del Carmen Bed & Breakfast: This bed and breakfast is located in the center of Carmen and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. It is a great option for those looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Bohol.

Types of Accommodations in Bohol

Luxury Resorts

Bohol is home to several luxurious resorts that offer world-class facilities and services. These resorts often feature private beaches, swimming pools, spas, and gourmet restaurants. Staying in a luxury resort is a great option for those looking to pamper themselves and enjoy a relaxing and luxurious stay in Bohol.

Best Luxury Resorts in Bohol

• Amorita Resort: This 5-star resort is located on a cliff overlooking Alona Beach. It offers spacious and luxurious rooms, two infinity pools, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant. It is one of the best luxury resorts in Bohol for those looking for a romantic and pampering escape.
• The Bellevue Resort: This 5-star resort is located directly on the beach and offers luxurious rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and several restaurants and bars. It is a great option for those looking for a luxurious and convenient beachfront resort in Bohol.

Mid-Range Hotels

Bohol also offers a wide range of mid-range hotels that offer comfortable rooms and modern amenities at a more affordable price. These hotels often feature swimming pools, restaurants, and convenient locations, making them a great option for those looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay in Bohol.

Best Mid-Range Hotels in Bohol

• Bohol Beach Club: This beachfront resort is located on a private beach and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine. It is one of the best mid-range hotels in Bohol for those looking for a beachfront location and modern amenities.
• Alona Kew White Beach Resort: This beachfront resort is located directly on Alona Beach and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. If you’re looking for a convenient and comfortable beachfront resort in Bohol, this is the one for you.
• South Palms Resort: This resort is located on a beautiful stretch of beach in Panglao and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. If you’re looking for place to stay that’s somewhat upscale but won’t break the bank, South Palms Resort is a great choice.

Budget Accommodations

For budget travelers, Bohol offers a wide range of budget accommodations, from hostels to guesthouses and homestays. These accommodations often offer basic but comfortable rooms and are a great option for those looking for an affordable place to stay in Bohol.

Best Budget Accommodations in Bohol

• Nuts Huts Resort: As mentioned earlier, this budget-friendly resort is located in the hills of Loboc and offers basic but comfortable accommodation. It is a great option for backpackers and budget travelers looking for a unique and affordable place to stay in Bohol.
• Alona Hammocks: This budget-friendly hostel is located near Alona Beach and offers dormitory rooms, private rooms, and hammocks. It is a great option for budget travelers and backpackers looking for a social and affordable place to stay in Bohol.

Beachfront Hotels

Staying in a beachfront hotel is a great option for those looking to maximize their time on the beach. These hotels often offer stunning sea views, direct beach access, and a wide range of facilities, making them a great option for a beach holiday in Bohol.

Best Beachfront Hotels in Bohol

• Bohol Beach Club: As mentioned earlier, this beachfront resort is located on a private beach and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine. It is one of the best beachfront hotels in Bohol for those looking for a beachfront location and modern amenities.
• Alona Kew White Beach Resort: As mentioned earlier, this beachfront resort is located directly on Alona Beach and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. This is a great option if you want to stay right along the beach.

Special Accommodations

Bohol Bee Farm – A Unique Place to Stay in Bohol

The Bohol Bee Farm is a unique and eco-friendly accommodation option in Bohol. It is located on a cliff overlooking the sea and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The farm is home to several bee hives and offers a wide range of organic products, including honey, jams, and teas.

In my experience, staying at the Bohol Bee Farm is a unique and memorable experience. You can spend your days exploring the farm, learning about beekeeping, and enjoying delicious organic meals. Additionally, the farm offers a wide range of activities, including cooking classes, farm tours, and spa treatments.

Unique Features of Bohol Bee Farm

• Organic Farm: The Bohol Bee Farm is home to several organic gardens where they grow their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Guests can take a farm tour and learn about organic farming and beekeeping.
• Organic Restaurant: The farm has its own restaurant that serves delicious organic meals made with ingredients grown on the farm. It is a great place to enjoy healthy and delicious meals with stunning sea views.
• Spa: The farm also has its own spa that offers a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs. It is a great place to relax and pamper yourself during your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best area to stay in Bohol?

A: The best area to stay in Bohol depends on your preferences and what you are looking for in your trip. If you are looking for beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife, Panglao Island is a great option. If you are looking for outdoor activities and natural beauty, Anda or Loboc may be a better fit. If you are looking for a convenient base for exploring the island, Tagbilaran may be the best option.

Q: What are the best luxury resorts in Bohol?

A: Some of the best luxury resorts in Bohol include the Amorita Resort, The Bellevue Resort, and the Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa.

Q: What are the best budget accommodations in Bohol?

A: Some of the best budget accommodations in Bohol include the Nuts Huts Resort, Alona Hammocks, and the Idea Pension House.

Q: What are the best beachfront hotels in Bohol?

A: Some of the best beachfront hotels in Bohol include the Bohol Beach Club, Alona Kew White Beach Resort, and the Amorita Resort.

Additional Tips for Your Stay in Bohol

Tips for Island Hopping

Island hopping is a popular activity in Bohol and is a great way to explore the surrounding islands and enjoy the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here are some tips for island hopping in Bohol:

• Book a Tour: There are several tour operators that offer island hopping tours in Bohol. It is recommended to book a tour as it is more convenient and often includes transportation, lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
• Bring Sunscreen and Water: The sun can be very strong here in the Philippines, so it is important to bring sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Respect the Environment: It is important to respect the environment and not leave any trash behind. Additionally, it is important to not touch or disturb the marine life.

Recommendations for Alona Beach

Alona Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Bohol and is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. Here are some recommendations for Alona Beach:

• Arrive Early: Alona Beach can get crowded, especially during the high season. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach.
• Try the Local Cuisine: There are several restaurants and food stalls along Alona Beach that serve delicious local and international cuisine. It is a great opportunity to try some local dishes, such as adobo or sinigang. For more recommendations on where to get the best food in Bohol, explore where can visitors get the best food in Bohol.
• Enjoy the Nightlife: Alona Beach has a lively nightlife with several bars and restaurants that stay open late. It is a great place to enjoy a drink and listen to live music.

Tips for Staying in Bohol with Family

Bohol is a great destination for families, as it offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are suitable for all ages. Here are some tips for staying in Bohol with family:

• Choose a Family-Friendly Accommodation: It is important to choose an accommodation that is family-friendly and offers facilities such as a swimming pool, a restaurant, and spacious rooms.
• Plan Activities in Advance: It is recommended to plan activities in advance, as some attractions and tours may require advance booking. Additionally, it is important to consider the interests and abilities of all family members when planning activities.
• Consider the Travel Time: Bohol is a large island, and it can take time to travel from one area to another. It is important to consider the travel time when planning activities and to allow for rest breaks in between. For more tips on getting around Bohol, visit our how to get around Bohol article.

Recommendations for Bohol Beach Club

The Bohol Beach Club is one of the most popular beachfront resorts in Bohol and is a great option for those looking for a beachfront location and modern amenities. For more hotel recommendations, read our best hotels in Bohol blog post.

In my experience, the Bohol Beach Club offers excellent service and facilities. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the resort is well-maintained and clean. The location is also excellent, as it is located directly on a private beach and is within a short drive to several attractions and activities.