Bohol is a province 75 islands located in the Central Visayas region. One of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, it’s a traveler’s paradise filled with beautiful white sand beaches, lush tropical rainforests, and incredible sights that you just can’t find anywhere else.
The province is home to the 10th largest island in the Philippines. Bohol has an abundance of beaches and natural sights that bring the best of the tropics into the forefront. Composed of one capital city and 47 municipalities, it’s got a range of offerings that are sure to please nearly every type of traveler— from families to couples to solo backpackers.
Bohol has been consistently popular as a tourist destination, but has been seeing a rise in tourist arrivals over the past few years. Tourists to Bohol province numbered at over 1.5 million in 2019 alone, and thanks to the province’s natural charms, those numbers are only going to keep climbing.
Many of the best things to do in Bohol are found in Bohol Island. Home to the inimitable, world renowned Chocolate Hills, the island is worth a visit for that sight alone. However, that’s not all that Bohol has to offer. It’s also the home of the famous Philippine tarsier, a nocturnal primate that has captivated the country and the world thanks to its distinctive, saucer-like eyes.
Bohol Island is also home to other incredible natural sights and sounds. The Loboc River is a popular destination, thanks to its gentle, meandering waters and fantastic forest views. Visitors from all over the world travel to its banks to enjoy delicious Filipino food and music on the Loboc River Cruise.
More of a thrill seeker when you travel? Not to worry. The province is filled with a number of different activities that more adventurous-minded tourists can partake in. From ATV rides through the incredible Chocolate Hills, to exploring Bohol’s many waterfalls and caves, to spending a day in the Loboc Ecotourism Adventure Park, even the biggest adrenaline junkie is sure to find something to enjoy.
Bohol isn’t just about sights and sounds, however. It’s also got a rich history. Philippine history enthusiasts can check out the Sandugo Shrine or Baclayon Church for a peek into the country’s rich past, as well as understand local Boholano culture.
The province is also famous for its incredible marine diversity and beaches. The white sand beaches of Panglao Island have been making headlines for decades, and the surrounding waters are considered some of the top rated dive spots in the world. Travelers can also enjoy top-class accommodations— from comfortable hotels in the heart of the city to beautiful, sprawling resorts, you can have your pick of where to stay in Bohol.
Even the best travelers need to refuel, and Bohol province is one of the best places to do that. You can enjoy the delicious, healthy food in Bohol Bee Farm, or enjoy great food and fantastic sounds at Barwoo. Any search for where to eat in Bohol is sure to turn up several choice selections that appeal to any kind of palate.
Bohol’s place as a top tourist spot in the Philippines is indisputable. With hundreds of incredible natural sights, delicious restaurants, comfortable hotels and resorts, there’s nothing more a traveler could ask for. Ready to cross Bohol province off your travel bucketlist? Check out our guide on how to get to Bohol and start booking for a travel experience you’ll never forget.
James Gonzales is a Filipino-American travel enthusiast and writer currently based in the Philippines. After living and working in New York for 10 years, James decided he wanted to see more of the world and leave the city behind. In the course of saving up for what would become an epic trip across Asia, he wrote about previous traveling experiences for various travel websites and publications based in the Lower East Side.
James focused on journeying through the Philippines in the hopes of understanding his roots, and began Daydreaming in Paradise to share his thoughts and experiences. He’s always looking for like-minded travelers to trade stories and swap tips with, and he hopes you’ll join him on his journey.
