Most people visit Bohol for a quick stop. Check out the Chocolate Hills, maybe spot a tarsier, then move on.
But after spending 11 days exploring the island, we realized just how much Bohol has to offer beyond the typical tourist path. And whether you’re visiting for snorkeling, diving, hiking, or just posting up somewhere peaceful, where you stay in Bohol can make or break your trip.
In this guide, I’m breaking down the best areas to stay in Bohol based on our experience there. I’ll also share my top picks for hotels, guesthouses, and hostels in each one. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two weeks, this guide will help you figure out the best place to stay in Bohol that actually matches your vibe.
Where to Stay in Bohol Complete Guide
We ventured all over Bohol to get a real feel for each area. Our first stop was Dauis, a semi-rural area on Panglao Island. We chose to stay in Dauis because we wanted to be close to all of Bohol’s best snorkeling spots and the tourism scene without being in the middle of the chaos. And honestly, it worked out great for us.
Dauis was peaceful, with a more local vibe, yet it was just a 10-minute motorbike ride to Alona Beach, the main tourist strip in Panglao. We’d zip down there for restaurants, shops, and beach time, then head back to quiet evenings in Dauis. It gave us the best of both worlds.
That said, Dauis isn’t for everyone. If you don’t ride a motorbike, staying there can be a bit of a hassle. You’d have to walk out to the main road and flag down a tuk-tuk any time you want to go anywhere.
If convenience is your priority, especially for short stays, then staying right in Alona Beach is probably the better call. Alona Beach without a doubt has some of the best resorts in Bohol, and definitely the most hotels overall. The entire area is catered towards tourism, and its where most tours depart from, and has all the boats that do day trips to Balicasag Island.
Next, we headed to the opposite side of Bohol to Anda. It was a total change of pace.
Anda felt much more remote and relaxed. Things are spread out, and it was less chaotic, more relaxed, while still having a tourist-friendly vibe.
For example, Anda has a few resorts right up there along White Beach, and Cabagnow Cave Pool is a natural swimming pool located not far from town. Anda was also a great base when we explored off-the-beaten-path spots like Alicia Panoramic Park, Can-umantad Falls, and Princess Manan-aw Cave.
Then there are Carmen and Loboc, two areas starting to gain traction with tourists.
Carmen is home to the iconic Chocolate Hills, and accommodations have started to pop up nearby to cater to visitors.
Loboc, known for its river cruise, is also seeing a rise in tourism. The area has cute little inns and cottages right along the river’s shores.
Both of these places are great if you want to be close to their key attractions, but in our experience, they’re better for short stays. Maybe a night or two max. Without your own transportation, you’re limited in what you can do in Carmen and Loboc, since there’s not much within walking distance and these areas are pretty spread out. If you stay there, I’d definitely recommend renting a motorbike.
Best Areas to Stay in Bohol
Here’s our quick breakdown of the 6 main areas in Bohol where most travelers stay. Could you stay elsewhere? Sure. But these are the areas that actually make sense if you’re visiting the island. However, some are definitely better than others.
If you just want my quick recommendation: stay in the Panglao area if you’re in Bohol for 4 days or less. It’s the most convenient and has the widest range of tours, restaurants, and activities.
If you’re staying in Bohol for longer, consider splitting your time between Panglao and Anda so you can see a different part of the island.
That said, even if you base yourself in Panglao for a full week, between the snorkeling, island hopping, caves, waterfalls, and day trips, you won’t run out of things to do.
Alona Beach (Panglao)
Alona Beach is the heart of the tourism industry in Bohol. It’s an energetic area packed with resorts, dive shops, restaurants, shopping, and tour operators. If you’re doing any island hopping, day tours, or diving, chances are it’ll start from there. Even if you’re not staying in Alona, you’ll probably end up there at some point.
But because of that, Alona is also the busiest and most expensive area in Bohol. Everything from food to tuk-tuk rides to accommodations costs more. But for many travelers, the price is worth it. You’re in the middle of the action, and everything you need is nearby.
If you’re visiting Bohol for snorkeling or diving, Alona Beach is the best place to stay. Balicasag Island, Napaling Reef, and other top dive sites are all within range of Alona Beach.
Doljo Beach (Panglao)
Just north of Alona Beach is Doljo Beach. It’s another tourist area that’s a solid choice if you want to stay close to the action but in a quieter setting. It’s about 15 minutes from Alona and home to luxury resorts, freediving schools, and a new upscale mall right by the beach.
Dauis
Located on the east side of Panglao Island, Dauis sits between Alona Beach and Tagbilaran City. It’s a quieter, more rural area with a local neighborhood feel. But Dauis is still close enough that you can easily ride a motorbike or hop in a tuk-tuk to get to all the tourist hotspots.
However, Dauis is not walkable. It’s more rural and spread out, and there’s no real town center. But that’s part of the appeal. It works best if you’re comfortable riding a motorbike. Otherwise, you’ll need to rely on tuk-tuks, which can add up cost-wise over time.
If you’re someone who likes having space while being close to the action without being in the middle of it, Dauis is your spot.
Tagbilaran
Tagbilaran is Bohol’s capital city and its main population center. It sits right across the bridge from Panglao, but on the mainland of Bohol Island.
Staying in Tagbilaran City makes sense if you’re doing a quick stopover and need to be near the ferry terminal or bus station. But I don’t recommend it for more than a night. It’s a busy, noisy city with traffic, concrete, and very little charm if you’re there for beaches or relaxation. There are some budget hotels and local eateries, but not much in the way of resorts or vacation vibes.
Bohol Ecotel is a solid western-style hotel for a stay in Tagbilaran.
Carmen
Carmen is right in the middle of Bohol, and it’s best known as the home of the iconic Chocolate Hills. If you’re coming to Bohol to check out the island’s unique landscapes, this is the place to see them up close. The area is quiet, rural, and light on tourist infrastructure, with limited restaurants, no nightlife, and few places to stay.
Carmen is pretty much smack dab in the middle of Bohol, so theoretically it’s a good base for exploring the entire island. However, in practice, not so much. Carmen is kind of in the middle of nowhere, so you’d be better off basing yourself somewhere else if you’re looking to explore.
It’s great for a one-night stay if you want to catch sunrise or sunset over the Chocolate Hills without a long drive. But beyond the Chocolate Hills, there’s not much else going on there. I recommend staying at Casa Aguelo since it’s right down the road from the main Chocolate Hills Viewpoint.
Anda
Tucked away on the southeastern coast of Bohol, Anda is the island’s quieter, more remote tourist hub. It’s known for its uncrowded white-sand beaches, limestone cave pools, and is an excellent base to explore the waterfalls and rugged landscapes of East Bohol.
While the town of Anda is small, it has just enough to support tourism. It has a handful of restaurants and local shops. The beaches in Anda have some of the nicest resorts, perfect for couples retreats and those looking to ‘get away from it all’.
Anda is also a great base if you want to explore places like Can-umantad Falls, Cabagnow Cave Pool, or Alicia Panoramic Park — all of which are too far for a day trip from Panglao. If you’re planning to stay in Bohol for more than a few days, splitting time between Panglao and Anda gives you two very different, but equally worthwhile experiences. I recommend staying at Casa Amihan in Anda because it’s located beachfront along White Beach.
Loboc
Loboc has recently grown into a small but promising tourism spot, thanks to its scenic Loboc River, home of the popular river cruise. Loboc sits in a lush, central part of the island that’s close to several inland attractions like waterfalls, the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, and the Bilar Man-Made Forest.
It’s an up-and-coming destination that still holds onto its village feel, with a few eco-lodges and boutique stays popping up along the riverbanks. If you’re looking for something more nature-oriented and don’t mind being away from the convenience of more tourism-centric places, Loboc makes a peaceful base for exploring Bohol’s interior. Fox & The Firefly Cottages is my recommendation in the Loboc area.
Where to Stay in Alona Beach, Panglao
Amorita Resort
Amorita Resort is a quiet luxury escape perched on a cliff at the far end of Alona Beach. It offers a more private, refined experience just steps away from the action. It’s known for its beautiful setting, spacious rooms and villas, and top-tier service that feels personal without being over the top.
The resort has two infinity pools, a spa, excellent on-site dining, and its own private beach, aptly named ‘Secret Cove’. The resort will keep you busy with its watersports activites, archery, and sunset cocktails.
It’s not the cheapest option, but if you’re looking for a more peaceful and polished stay without sacrificing location, Amorita is one of the best places to stay in Bohol.
Alona Vida Beach Resort
Alona Vida Beach Resort is smack dab in the middle of Alona Beach. It’s not a luxury resort, and the pool and room amenities are fairly basic, but it allows you to stay beachfront without blowing your budget. It’s rooms are clean, spacious, and simple, with either pool or garden views, and its location is hard to beat for convenience.
The resort has a small but decent pool, and while the beach is right out front, it’s the on-site Coco Vida Bar that really stands out. They serve solid food, strong cocktails, and host live music most nights.
Nautilus Hostel & Hammocks
Alona Beach isn’t just fancy beachfront resorts… there are awesome budget options, too! Nautilus Hostel & Hammocks is one of them. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the beach, close enough to all the restaurants and nightlife, but tucked away on a side road to stay peaceful.
The hostel has a mix of private rooms and dorm beds, so even if you want your own space to sleep in you can still meet other travelers. The common area and garden are beautifully maintained, with lots of space to hang out, work, or just relax in a hammock. If you’re wondering where to stay in Alona Beach on a budget, this is it.
Where to Stay in Doljo Beach, Panglao
Modala Beach Resort
Modala Beach Resort is beachfront right at Doljo Beach. The rooms are spotless, spacious, and thoughtfully designed, and the infinity pool overlooking the ocean is one of its highlights. The resort has an open layout, and each room has a balcony.
The resort also has tons of amenities, including a fitness center, an outdoor pool, bars and restaurants, and private access to Doljo Beach.
It’s not as lively as Alona, so if you’re after nightlife or a busier scene, this area might feel a little slow. But it’s adjacent to a shopping mall, which is super convenient for food, snacks, or anything you forgot to pack.
North Zen Villas
North Zen Villas is a peaceful, nature-forward resort near Doljo Beach. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, with clean, well-designed rooms, a pool, and lush greenery all around.
It’s not a beachfront resort; instead, it’s known for its bamboo walkway through the mangroves that leads to a sunset deck over the water. But staying there gets you access to its sister property Oceanica Beach Resort, which has a private beach access.
Staff are friendly and helpful, and the resort offers extras like yoga classes, spa services, and tuk-tuk connections to nearby spots. Overall, it’s a great pick if you want something off the main Alona strip with natural beauty and a quieter vibe.
Mario Dive Resort
Mario Dive Resort gives you 5-star service without the 5-star price tag. The resort has a clean, laid-back vibe with everything you need: a pool, on-site restaurant, a karaoke room, and of course, a dive center.
The rooms aren’t luxury-level, but they’re clean and comfortable. The staff goes above and beyond to cater to your needs, and will happily shuttle you around anywhere in Panglao Island. Or if you prefer to motorbike yourself, there is a complimentary motorbike you can borrow from the resort. Your choice.
If you want to dive, relax, and feel completely looked after, Mario Dive Resort is the place.
Where to Stay in Dauis, Bohol
Mithi Resort and Spa
Mithi Resort & Spa is a secluded resort on Panglao Island. It has its own private beach with clean, soft white sand and crystal-clear water. The free airport shuttle and on-call service around the property make getting around easy, especially since the resort is spread over a big area. The resort also has a spa, tennis court, a bar, and a restaurant.
If you’ve ever seen the little islet off the north coast of Panglao Beach, that’s part of Mithi Resort, a spot used for weddings, dinners, and gatherings. What’s even crazier is that the resort also has its own private cave, Cambagat Cave, for exclusive use of resort guests to swim or dive in.
Bluewaves Apartment
I wasn’t sure what to expect when we booked Bluewaves Apartment. It’s tucked into a quiet neighborhood in Dauis, away from shops and restaurants. But it ended up being one of our favorite places we stayed in the Philippines. The apartment was clean, convenient, and had everything we needed, including a kitchenette, drinking water, a comfy bed, air-conditioning, and a hot shower.
What made our stay smooth was the host, who lives on-site. She was super responsive, helped us with transportation, and even helped us with a motorbike rental directly through the property, which was super convenient. The bike was waiting for us when we arrived, and we just left it there when we moved on.
It’s a peaceful area, and while you’ll definitely want a motorbike to get around, this place is great if you’re looking for a quiet, well-equipped base in Panglao with a helpful host and good value for money. I wouldn’t mind basing at Bluewaves Apartment long-term next time we’re in Bohol.
Midnite Inn
Midnite Inn is a clean, affordable option in Dauis that works well as a base for exploring both Panglao and Bohol. It’s tucked away in a quiet spot, about 15–20 minutes by scooter to Alona Beach, so you’ll definitely want to rent a motorbike, which you can do directly from the inn.
It’s rooms are clean, with comfy beds, and good A/C. There’s also a nice little pool, free drinking water, and a small on-site restaurant and bar. This isn’t a place with a ton of walkable dining or nightlife nearby, but is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful, budget-friendly stay with solid amenities and don’t mind riding around.
Where to Stay in Anda, Bohol
Anda White Beach Resort
Funny enough, we discovered Anda White Beach Resort when we ate at their restaurant one night. It’s one of the most popular spots to stay in Anda as it’s just outside of town, so it’s a quiet area with a peaceful, intimate vibe.
The hotel is beachfront along Anda’s White Beach, which, in my opinion, is the most beautiful beach in Bohol. The rooms are spacious and clean, with air conditioning, private balconies, and direct access to the beach.
The on-site restaurant serves both local and Western dishes, and we actually ended up eating there two nights in a row.
R&D Traveller’s Inn
R&D Travellers Inn is a clean, no-fuss stay right on the main road into Anda. We stayed there while exploring the area and found it to be a comfortable, convenient base. The rooms were spacious and spotless, and the large courtyard was secure and perfect for parking our motorbike. There’s even a swimming pool for cooling off, which was much needed after a day out.
There’s free coffee and tea available all day, and the vibe is low-key and relaxed. Their staff were friendly and helpful; they even managed to arrange a van transfer to Ubay for us, which wasn’t easy to find.
Casa Amihan
Casa Amihan is a spot that’s quiet, scenic, and a little tucked away. It’s a small beachfront resort with direct access to a calm stretch of White Beach. It’s the ideal place to unplug for a bit.
Rooms are clean and well-kept, with air conditioning, outdoor seating, and ocean views from some of their terraces. There’s also a pool, and the staff can help organize snorkeling trips, kayaking, or boat tours right from the resort.
While there aren’t other restaurants nearby, most people don’t mind because the on-site restaurant has amazing Filipino and Western food.
Where to Stay in Carmen, Bohol
Bohol Hammock Hostel
Bohol Hammock Hostel is set in the rural hills near Batuan. It is an open-air hostel with mattresses surrounded by mosquito nets in its shared dormitory room.
The atmosphere is what makes this place stand out. It has a free-spirited, communal vibe. Think cold outdoor showers, no A/C, and chickens roaming its beautiful grounds. The property has hammocks, yoga decks, shared seating, and even karaoke nights. It’s social without being a party hostel.
It’s a bit remote, so having your own transport helps, but you can also rent scooters there. If you’re after comfort and convenience, this probably isn’t for you. But if you want a budget stay with character and community, Hammock Hostel is a solid choice.
Khloe Serenity Guest House
Khloe Serenity Guest House is located in Batuan, a quiet village not far from Carmen and the Chocolate Hills. If you’re looking for an authentic Filipino accommodation, this is it. It has simple, clean, affordable rooms with bamboo walls. But what really sets this place apart is its host. She goes above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome and ensures their needs are taken care of.
The setup is basic but comfortable. The property has stable WiFi, and you can rent a motorbike directly from the property, which helps since public transport in this area is limited.
Casa Aguelo
If you’re looking to stay as close as possible to the Chocolate Hills, Casa Aguelo is tough to beat. It’s within walking distance of the main Chocolate Hills viewpoint (though it is uphill). Rooms are simple, clean, and air-conditioned, with private bathrooms. The property itself is well-kept, with a garden, sun terrace, and shared kitchen.
The hosts are super friendly and helpful, and can assist with motorbike rentals, taxis, or local tips. Breakfast is served in-room, with options from continental to Filipino. There’s no dinner service, but a few restaurants are a short walk away.
Where to Stay in Loboc, Bohol
Loboc River Resort
If you’re staying in Loboc, Loboc River Resort is probably the most well-known option. It’s set right on the river in a quiet, forested area, with rooms that mix natural materials with modern touches. Some have balconies overlooking the water, where you can spot wildlife like birds and fireflies right from your room.
The staff gets a lot of praise for being friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is peaceful and laid-back. There’s a restaurant on-site, and the resort can help set up activities like firefly watching, kayaking, or trekking. It’s not luxury, but it’s comfortable and has everything you’d need for a relaxing stay in nature.
Fox & The Firefly Cottages
If you want to stay somewhere that feels tucked away in nature but still close to the Loboc River, Fox & The Firefly Cottages is a solid pick. It’s set in a lush, green part of Loboc and has a quiet, eco-friendly vibe. The cottages are simple but cozy, with a peaceful atmosphere and friendly staff.
The on-site restaurant gets good reviews, especially for its local and vegan-friendly options. Though keep in mind, you’ll probably be eating there a lot unless you have a motorbike, since other food spots aren’t super close.
Travel in Bohol
Bohol is one of the Philippines’ top tourist destinations, and it’s easy to see why.
The island offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring coral reefs and swimming in waterfalls to relaxing on pristine beaches. You can dive into an underwater cave, witness stunning geology, and even meet some of the world’s smallest primates.
The Chocolate Hills are Bohol’s iconic geological formation. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots in Bohol and is a symbol of the island, featured in its official flag.
How to Get to Bohol
Bohol is accessible by air and sea. The island’s main entry point is Panglao International Airport, which has regular flights from Manila, Seoul, Davao, and Busan. If you’re in Cebu, you can take a ferry to Tagbilaran City in Bohol.
How to Get Around Bohol
Renting a motorbike is the best way to explore Bohol. You can rent a motorbike for 300 to 500 pesos per day, giving you the freedom to visit the island’s attractions at your own pace.
Alternatively, tricycles, tuk-tuks, and taxis are available in tourist-heavy areas, while buses and jeepneys operate on the main roads. If you’re looking for comfort, you can also hire a private driver for day tours or rent a car in Panglao.
Read our full blog post: How to Rent a Motorbike in the Philippines: Complete Guide
Best Time to Visit Bohol
We recommend visiting Bohol in January, February, or March. These months are part of the island’s dry season, making them perfect for outdoor activities. During this time, all of Bohol’s waterfalls will still be flowing, as some may dry up later in the dry season.
- Dry Season (January to April): This is the best time to visit Bohol. The weather is sunny with little to no rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, hiking, and swimming.
- Wet Season (June to November): During these months, Bohol experiences heavier rainfall and occasional tropical storms. We recommend avoiding these months due to unpredictable rainfall and hotter temperatures. Although it’s not constant rain, downpours can be frequent, especially in July and August. However, the wet season is less crowded, which can be nice if you don’t mind occasional rain showers.
- Shoulder Seasons (May and December): May is the hottest month in Bohol, but stays relatively dry. December, though cooler, still sees a bit of rain. December also marks the beginning of the island’s tourism season, particularly around the holidays.
What to Pack for Bohol
Here are some of our must-have items you might not have thought of when packing for a trip to Bohol.
- Crocs: During our time in Bohol, I was so glad to have Crocs to protect my feet when exploring rocky terrain and chasing waterfalls. They are the ultimate shoe in the Philippines for a reason – many Filipinos wear them too!
- Snorkel: With all the amazing snorkeling spots in Bohol, it helps to have your own snorkel set like this one if you plan to do some underwater activities! Plus, you won’t need to worry about renting a snorkel, which may be of… questionable quality.
- Sunscreen: For some reason, sunscreen is expensive in the Philippines and I’ve even encountered places selling fake sunscreen that doesn’t work! So I recommend bringing your own sunscreen to Bohol.
- Dry Bag: With all the sand, salt, and water flying everywhere during our adventures, I was so glad to have a dry bag to keep all my things safe from the elements!
- Travel Towel: In my opinion, a travel towel like this one is super necessary for a trip to Bohol! It packs down nicely and was there for me anytime I went swimming, or just needed to brush sand or dirt off.
Our Free Bohol Google Maps Locations
Do you need a handy map with all our Bohol locations? We’ve got a Google Map with all the Bohol locations in this post (plus a LOT more). Sign up in the box below and we’ll deliver it right to your inbox, plus our top tips to help you plan your Bohol adventure.
Are You Following Our Bohol Blog Series?
During our 11-day adventure in Bohol, we found some of the island’s most stunning natural wonders—epic waterfalls, caves, and incredible snorkeling spots. To help fellow adventurers, we’ve put together guides to the best places we found. You can check them out by clicking the links below.
- Start planning your trip here: Bohol Travel Guide
- Our Bohol accomodation/area guide: Where to Stay in Bohol
- Our Ultimate Guide to Bohol: 24 Awesome Things to Do in Bohol
- How to plan your Bohol vacation: Bohol 3 Day Itinerary
- Interested in chasing waterfalls?: 5 Best Waterfalls in Bohol During Dry Season
- Our favorite hike in Bohol: Alicia Panoramic Park Hike
- Our favorite day tour in Bohol: Balicasag Island Snorkeling
- Our favorite waterfall in Bohol: Dimiao Twin Falls (Pahangog Falls)
- Our favorite place to swim in Bohol: Cabagnow Cave Pool
- How to rent a motorbike in the Philippines
