20 best things to do in Bohol

Bohol Island is in the Visayas, the central group of islands in the Philippines. It's the 10th largest island in the country, covering about 1,860 square miles (4,821 km²). While Bohol is an island on its own, it also includes 75 smaller islets, many of which are tucked around the northern coast. Like a lot of the Philippines, Bohol is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and jungles. Here's our favorite things to do in Bohol. 

#1 See the majestic Chocolate Hills

The Chocolate Hills are one of Bohol's most recognized landmarks and why many consider Bohol to be one of the best islands of the Philippines. There are over 1,200 cone-shaped hills spread across about 19 square miles (50 square kilometers ). During the rainy season, from June to November, the hills are carpeted in lush, velvety green. 

But come the hot, dry season, the hills change into a soft cocoa shade, making them look like mounds of chocolate. There’s a special viewing platform from where you can see right out over the expanse of hills, or you can hike among them.

The hills have a unique shape, and their origin is still debated—some believe they were formed by ancient coral reefs, while others suggest volcanic activity. The main viewpoint provides a great panoramic view, especially during sunrise or sunset. Local folklore says the hills are the tears of a heartbroken giant.

#2 Go kayaking with fireflies along the Abatan River

If you're looking for something a little different, try a nighttime kayaking trip along the Abatan River. As you paddle, you'll see fireflies lighting up the mangroves, creating a peaceful and magical scene. 

This is often done in a group with guides who provide insights about the fireflies and the river's importance to the local community. The sound of your paddle in the water, along with the glowing fireflies, is quite a calming activity and one of the best things to do in Bohol.

#3 Walk through the man-made forest in Bilar

Take a walk through the man-made forest in Bilar, where towering mahogany trees line a mile-long (2 km) stretch of highway. This forest, planted in the 1960s to prevent soil erosion, creates a cool, shaded path that’s noticeably cooler (about 5-10°F or 3-5°C) compared to the surrounding area. 

The forest is a peaceful place with sunlight filtering through the trees, and it's a great place to escape the heat. It's a popular stop for cyclists and road trippers for a break from the usual landscape. For more tips for escaping the heat, see our Philippines travel tips.

#4 See the tarsiers

Bohol is home to the world’s smallest primate, the tarsier. These tiny creatures, with huge eyes and bodies only about 4 inches long, are nocturnal and quite fascinating to watch. 

The sanctuary where they live tries to replicate their natural environment and allows you to see them in a stress-free, protected space. It's a great spot for wildlife lovers, photographers, and families who want to teach kids about conservation. 

The tarsiers' ability to rotate their heads 180 degrees and their impressive jumping skills are just some of the features that make them so interesting. 

#5 Swim underground in the Hinagdanan Cave

Hinagdanan Cave is a limestone cavern that’s definitely worth a visit. It was discovered by chance when a farmer found a hole while clearing his land. The cave has a crystal-clear lagoon framed by stalactites and stalagmites. 

Sunlight filters in through small openings in the ceiling, lighting up the water below. The name Hinagdanan means "laddered," referring to the original wooden ladder used to access the cave. 

Visitors can swim in the cool waters, surrounded by ancient rock formations. The acoustics inside are pretty remarkable, too—whispers seem to travel across the water. If you're looking for a break from the heat, this is one of the best things to do in Bohol.

#6 Take a Loboc river cruise

Not sure what to do in Bohol? Try a leisurely ride along the Loboc River on a traditional floating restaurant, one of the more interesting way to get around the Philippines. As you cruise, you’ll pass lush jungle, nipa palms, and small villages where kids wave from the docks. 

Onboard, you’ll hear live traditional music, and at riverside stops, locals perform Filipino dances and songs. The floating restaurants serve Filipino buffets with regional dishes while you enjoy the peaceful river views. This is a great way to experience a quieter, more cultural side of Bohol that’s hard to reach by road. 

#7 Head to Pamilacan Island for dolphin watching

Hop on a boat to Pamilacan Island for a chance to see dolphins in the wild. The island, once a whaling community, now plays a role in protecting the same dolphins their ancestors once hunted. During the boat ride, spinner and spotted dolphins may swim alongside, jumping and sometimes bringing their calves along. 

Between December and June, you might even spot migrating whale sharks or sperm whales. After the boat tour, you can relax on the island’s beaches or snorkel.

#8 Hike to Pahangog Falls

If you're not sure what to do in Bohol, you might want to take a hike to Pahangog Falls (also called Dimiao Twin Falls), one of Bohol’s lesser-known spots. 

The hike is about 20 minutes through lush jungle, with a scenic stream and bamboo bridges along the way. Once you reach the falls, you’ll find beautiful, turquoise pools perfect for a swim.

The falls are relatively quiet compared to more popular spots, so you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The limestone base of the falls gives the water its distinctive color. It’s a nice escape for anyone looking to get away from the crowds.

#9 Visit the Balicasag Marine Sanctuary

If hoping to see the local marine life, Balicasag Island is a great place to check out. This small island is surrounded by a marine sanctuary with three distinct ecosystems: a shallow coral garden, a wall drop-off, and a sea turtle sanctuary, where you'll often spot green and hawksbill turtles. This is easily one of the best things to do in the Philippines.

Here you'll likely find schools of jackfish swirl together in massive groups, and the coral reefs are full of colorful fish. The shallow reefs are good for beginners, and more experienced divers can explore deeper sites with dramatic underwater walls. 

The area is part of the Philippine Coral Triangle, which is known for its rich biodiversity. The water’s warm year-round, and visibility is generally excellent: it's a great destination for both diving and snorkeling.

#11 Relax on Anda Beach

Looking for a quiet beach without the usual crowds? Anda Beach is a perfect spot. This 1.5 mile (3 km) stretch of white sand and clear water is tucked away on Bohol’s eastern peninsula, far from the busier beaches. 

It’s not just peaceful—it’s beautiful too, with clean sand, limestone cliffs creating secluded coves, and calm waters for swimming. Since it faces the Philippine Sea, you get calmer water and great sunrises. 

It’s the place to go if you’re looking for a more laid-back, authentic beach experience without the usual touristy distractions: easily one of the best beaches in the Philippines.

#12 Walk among the Cadapan Rice Terraces

The Cadapan Rice Terraces in Candijay are a great place in Bohol to witness traditional farming. These terraces, carved into the hillsides, are a testament to the local Boholanos' ingenuity in turning steep land into productive rice paddies. What makes Cadapan stand out is how easy it is to get to compared to other terraces, like those in Banaue. 

The terraces change throughout the year—lush and green during the growing season, golden before harvest, and often reflecting the sky in the water-filled paddies. It’s also a great place for a hike, with small waterfalls nearby.

#13 Cliff jumping in Panglao

If you're looking for a bit of a thrill, Alexis Cliff Dive Resort in Panglao is the place to go. There are platforms at different heights, ranging from a beginner-friendly 10 feet (3 meters) to a more challenging 49 feet (15 meters). 

The water below is clear and deep enough to land safely, which makes it a lot less nerve-wracking. The resort is well set up with safety features like designated jumping zones, depth markers, and trained staff to guide you. Definitely don't try this on your own! See our Philippines travel health tips before as well.

When you're not jumping, you can relax on the wooden sundecks built into the cliffside or take a dip in the surrounding waters.

#14 Visit the Bohol Bee Farm

The Bohol Bee Farm is a great place to learn about organic farming and sustainable agriculture. While it started with a focus on honeybees, it’s since grown to include gardens of herbs, vegetables, and fruits. You can take a tour to see how things are done and even watch a beekeeping demonstration. 

Afterward, head to the farm’s restaurant, which overlooks the sea, to enjoy fresh, locally grown food. Don't miss the flower salads or the unique ice cream flavors like spiced ginger and dragon fruit. It’s also worth checking out the craft shop where local women make handmade items from recycled materials.

#15 Cross the bamboo hanging bridges

The Tigbao Hanging Bridges are suspended high above the Sipatan River and provide a bit of a challenge as you cross. The two 131-foot (40-meter) bamboo and steel cable bridges sway gently with each step, giving you a little adrenaline rush while you take in the views below.

You’ll get a great look at the river’s lush vegetation, coconut groves, and maybe even some locals fishing. The bridges are safe, thanks to steel cables reinforcing the bamboo, but they still have that old-school, bouncy feel.

It’s a fun thing to do in Bohol for anyone looking to take unique photos, and local guides sometimes demonstrate traditional coconut harvesting nearby.