Bohol Weekend Itinerary for an Unforgettable Getaway
If you’re looking for a fun weekend away, Bohol is a fantastic option! It’s bursting with beauty, culture, and adventure. You can explore unique landscapes, meet friendly animals, and unwind on beautiful beaches. This itinerary will help you get the most out of your Bohol trip in just three days. From the famous Chocolate Hills to island hopping adventures, every moment will be packed with excitement. Let’s dive into the details of your weekend getaway!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Start your trip bright and early! Arriving at Bohol-Panglao International Airport at around 8:00 AM, you’ll want to fuel up. A great spot to grab breakfast is Gerry’s Grill. They have delicious options, and you can expect to spend around ₱300 ($6). After your meal, at 9:00 AM, it’s time to check out the famous Chocolate Hills. You can rent a motorbike for just ₱500 ($10) which makes navigating around the area so much easier!
Once you’re at the Chocolate Hills, climb up to the viewing deck at 10:00 AM. The sight is truly breathtaking, and don’t forget to snap plenty of pictures! After that, at around 11:30 AM, head over to the nearby Butterfly Sanctuary. Here, you can witness beautiful butterflies fluttering around while learning about their fascinating life cycle. The entrance fee is only ₱100 ($2), making it a great budget-friendly stop!
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
As noon approaches, grab lunch at Bodhi Cafe, where you can indulge in some healthy and tasty dishes. Expect to spend around ₱400 ($8). After filling your belly, at 1:30 PM, make your way to the Tarsier Sanctuary. These little primates are adorable, but remember to be quiet as they are sensitive creatures. The entrance fee is just ₱60 ($1.20).
At 3:00 PM, take a scenic boat ride along the Loboc River. This relaxing ride costs ₱600 ($12) and you get to enjoy the beautiful scenery around you. Keep an eye out for native wildlife! After your boat trip, at around 4:30 PM, visit the Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the zip-line for ₱800 ($16), or just enjoy walking the nature trails.
Evening (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
By 5:00 PM, head back to your accommodation. A great place to stay is Amorita Resort. Once you check-in and refresh, it’s time for dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, where you can enjoy a lovely view of the sea. Dinner will set you back around ₱800 ($16).
After dinner, at around 8:00 PM, take a stroll along Alona Beach. The atmosphere in the evening is perfect for unwinding. If you’d like, grab dessert from a street vendor, costing around ₱200 ($4). Finally, around 9:30 PM, wrap up your day at a beach bar like Red Pirates Pub, known for its live music and chill vibes. Expect to spend about ₱500 ($10) on drinks.
Day 2: Island Hopping and Adventure
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Kick off your second day with breakfast at Juancarlo’s Restaurant, where you can savor a delicious meal for about ₱300 ($6) around 8:00 AM. By 9:00 AM, join an island-hopping tour that takes you to Panglao and Balicasag Island. Booking with Alona Beach Tours is a good option, and the tour fee is around ₱1,200 ($24).
Once you reach Balicasag Island at 10:00 AM, take some time to snorkel and explore the stunning marine life. Equipment rental is usually included in the tour! Don’t forget to keep an eye out for dolphins during the boat ride around 11:30 AM—spotting them can be one of the highlights of your day, and it’s free!
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
After enjoying water activities, it’s time to refuel. Around 12:30 PM, enjoy a packed lunch or a local meal at Balicasag Island Resort, and budget around ₱400 ($8) for that. After lunch, at 2:00 PM, you can either keep snorkeling or take a relaxing swim at the beach.
At 3:30 PM, head back to Panglao and stop by Alona Beach. This is perfect for sunbathing and just relaxing on the sand. If you’re feeling energetic, around 4:30 PM, join some beach games or check out local crafts stores for shopping.
Evening (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
At 5 PM, retreat to your accommodation to freshen up. When you are ready, enjoy dinner at Pizza Republic around 6:30 PM, known for their wood-fired pizzas. Expect to spend about ₱600 ($12) for a hearty meal.
For entertainment, around 8:00 PM, check out a cultural show at Island City Mall. There’s no entrance fee, making it a budget-friendly way to experience local culture. Afterward, around 9:30 PM, unwind at a local bar like Helm Bar. Enjoy the nightlife, and you can expect to spend around ₱500 ($10) on drinks.
Day 3: Historical Sights and Relaxation
Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
On your final day, start with breakfast at Shaka Bohol at 8:00 AM. They are famous for their smoothie bowls and acai, and breakfast will cost around ₱350 ($7). Next, around 9:30 AM, visit Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. The entrance fee is just ₱50 ($1).
After exploring the church, head to the Blood Compact Shrine at 10:30 AM. It’s an important historical site, and there’s no cost to visit this landmark. Finally, at 11:30 AM, stop by the Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary. Say goodbye to the adorable tarsiers for an entrance fee of ₱100 ($2).
Afternoon (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
At noon, enjoy lunch at Care’s Kitchen, which is known for its delightful local dishes, for around ₱450 ($9). After lunch, unwind at Anda Beach, a little more secluded compared to other beaches, perfect for relaxation.
If you feel adventurous around 3:00 PM, try some water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. Renting equipment typically costs about ₱400 ($8). As you enjoy the beach, take in the sunset around 4:30 PM; the views are magnificent, and it’s a perfect way to wrap up your trip.
Evening (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
By 5 PM, return to your accommodation and start packing up your belongings. For your final dinner at around 6:30 PM, head to Hayahay Restaurant. It’s renowned for its great atmosphere and breathtaking views, and you can expect to spend around ₱700 ($14).
For your last evening, take a peaceful night walk along the beach at 8:00 PM to soak in the sights and sounds of the ocean one last time. At 9:30 PM, grab some snacks to go from a local store before heading back to your hotel.
Summary of Costs
At the end of your trip, take a look at the expenses:
- Day 1: ₱2,560 / $51.20
- Day 2: ₱4,900 / $98
- Day 3: ₱1,950 / $39
- Total Estimated Cost: ₱9,410 / $188.20
Recommendations and Tips
When planning your trip to Bohol, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Book accommodations ahead of time to secure the best deals, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack lightweight, comfortable clothes that are suitable for both beach days and adventures.
- Make sure to carry cash, as some local shops and restaurants may not accept cards.
- Stay hydrated while enjoying all outdoor activities—it’s essential!
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself during your activities.
FAQ
Is it safe to travel to Bohol?
Absolutely! Bohol is generally a safe destination for travelers. Just stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
What’s the best time to visit Bohol?
The ideal time to visit Bohol is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. You’ll enjoy great weather for outdoor activities.
Do I need a visa for the Philippines?
It depends on your nationality. Many travelers can enter the Philippines without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Check your country’s requirements for more specifics.
Are there ATMs available in Bohol?
Yes, you can find ATMs in major tourist areas. However, it’s a good idea to have cash on hand for shops and restaurants that may not accept cards.
How do I get around Bohol?
Renting a motorbike is popular for getting around the island conveniently. You can also hire a van or book tours that include transportation.
Now that you have all the details for your weekend getaway to Bohol, it’s time to start planning! Make your arrangements, pack your bags, and get excited for an adventure filled with sightseeing, beach fun, and unforgettable memories. Your adventure awaits in beautiful Bohol—don’t miss out!
