Panglao is more than just a gorgeous stretch of white sand beaches; it’s a hub for diverse tours that reveal Bohol’s natural beauty, wildlife, and local culture. Whether you want to see tiny primates in their sanctuary, swim alongside whale sharks, or explore hidden caves, Panglao’s tour options offer something for every traveler. We particularly love the Premium Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers & River Experience for its all-in-one adventure through Bohol’s iconic sights, and the Swim with Sea Turtles & Dolphins Island Hopping Tour for its relaxed, small-group marine encounters. These tours showcase the region’s mix of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and local hospitality, making your trip both memorable and authentic.
For a quick brain refresher, here’s a short overview: This list covers a broad spectrum of activities including wildlife encounters, cultural visits, scenic landscapes, and active water sports. There’s a luxury-all-in-one experience, budget-friendly options, and specialized tours like whale shark snorkeling and scuba diving. Dive into the details below to find your perfect match.
1. Bohol: Premium Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers & River Experience
At number 1, this all-in-one full day tour combines the Chocolate Hills, the tiny but fascinating Tarsiers, and a relaxing Loboc River cruise. The tour is led by an expert English-speaking guide who ensures smooth coordination, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free experience. The premium transport and carefully paced schedule mean you won’t feel rushed through Bohol’s highlights. Visitors often praise the full-day itinerary and the opportunity to see the most iconic sights in a single trip. The Loboc River buffet with live music adds a cultural flavor to the day. With over 200 verified five-star reviews, this tour is suited for those seeking convenience and quality, especially first-time visitors or families.
Bottom Line: If you want a deluxe, hassle-free way to see Bohol’s top attractions, this premium tour is hard to beat.
2. Bohol: Budget Chocolate Hills & Tarsiers – Backpacker Special
Number 2 on our list offers incredible value with a budget-friendly price of $24 per person. This no-guide, hotel pickup included tour covers Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, Man-Made Forest, and Loboc River. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see key landmarks without the additional cost of a guided tour. The flexible van transport means no crowded meet-up points, adding convenience. The Loboc River cruise with buffet and live music is a highlight, providing a laid-back cultural experience. While it doesn’t include a guide, the trusted team behind this tour has over 500 verified five-star reviews, giving confidence in its reliability.
Bottom Line: Best suited for budget travelers who want a flexible, straightforward day exploring Bohol’s highlights.
3. Bohol: Swim with Sea Turtles & Dolphins Island Hopping Tour
At number 3, this 7-hour small-group tour offers the chance to see wild dolphins and swim with sea turtles at Balicasag. The tour includes hotel pickup, all gear, and a guided snorkeling experience. It’s ideal for those looking for an immersive marine adventure. The chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat and snorkel in calm, shallow reefs makes this tour particularly attractive. The reviews note the friendly guides and smooth logistics, making it accessible even for less experienced snorkelers. Since it’s a full-day tour, it’s suited for active travelers eager to explore the underwater world.
Bottom Line: Perfect for marine life lovers who want a well-organized, intimate snorkeling adventure.
4. Bohol: Whale Shark Snorkel Tour with Hotel Pickup
Number 4 is the most exclusive wildlife experience, with whale sharks—the biggest fish on Earth—at its core. For $114, this full-coordination, full-day tour includes hotel pickup, boat transfer, and a guided encounter with these gentle giants in a government-regulated site. The 30-minute in-water face-to-face with whale sharks is a highlight for many travelers seeking a truly unique wildlife moment. The tour’s personalized support means you’re in safe hands, and the reviews echo the high satisfaction level. This experience is best for those who want to combine adventure with comfort and are happy to invest a bit more.
Bottom Line: If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming with whale sharks, this is the most reliable and well-organized option.
5. Panglao: Snorkeling at Napaling Reef with Sardines Experience
Number 5 offers a mesmerizing underwater experience at Napaling Reef, famous for its sardines. Priced at $36 per person, it’s a non-swimmer-friendly tour that’s perfect for beginners. The expert guide and photographer/videographer ensure you capture your underwater moments, making it a favorite for families or first-timers. The reef’s calm, shallow waters guarantee an easy, safe snorkel. The focus on underwater beauty and relaxing pace makes it a highlight for those wanting an accessible reef experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for non-swimmers or families looking for a gentle, colorful reef adventure.
6. Bohol: First-Time Scuba Dive – No Experience Needed
Number 6 is tailor-made for beginners. For $100, you get a half-day intro to scuba diving—no license required. After a brief classroom session, you’ll practice in shallow water before venturing into the reef with an instructor. The inclusion of marine fees, gear, and underwater photos makes it an attractive package. The reviews mention the confidence boost and fun of trying scuba for the first time. It’s perfect for those curious about diving but unsure about the full commitment. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers eager to experience their first ocean dive safely and comfortably.
7. Panglao: Private Cave Pool, Beach & Scenic Day Tour
Number 7 offers a private, flexible day exploring Panglao’s quiet side. For just $28, you can swim in a spring-fed cave pool, relax at a hidden white-sand beach, and choose your final stop—either the South Farm or Mangrove Forest. The optional lunch at the Bohol Bee Farm adds a delicious local touch. This tour’s private nature, with hotel pickup, makes it perfect for travelers wanting a personalized pace without crowds. The flexibility is its main strength—ideal if you like to customize your day.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a relaxed, private day exploring Panglao’s less-visited spots.
8. Bohol: Firefly Watching River Cruise with Hotel Pickup
Number 8 provides a peaceful evening experience on Loboc River, where you can see fireflies under the stars. The 45-minute boat ride is tranquil and free of loud music or crowds, making it perfect for couples or families seeking a quiet nature moment. The hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience. The reviews reflect its serene, authentic experience, with many noting it’s a peaceful way to end the day. This tour is suitable for all ages and those wanting a gentle, nature-focused activity.
Bottom Line: A calming, scenic way to enjoy Bohol’s natural night-time beauty.
9. Bohol: Dolphin Watching & Balicasag Island Hopping Tour
Number 9 combines dolphin watching with island hopping at Balicasag. For around $41, it offers crystal-clear waters and marine encounters, making it a good choice for active travelers. The dolphin sightings are usually in the early morning, and the tour includes snorkeling with turtles and vibrant reef fish. The reviews note the friendly guides and smooth logistics, ideal for a full marine day. It’s well-suited for those wanting both wildlife viewing and underwater exploration in a single tour.
Bottom Line: A lively, nature-centric tour for marine lovers who want variety.
10. Bohol: Chocolate Hills Tour with Loboc River Lunch Buffet
Number 10 is a full-day sightseeing tour that combines cultural, historical, and natural sites. For $66, you’ll visit Baclayon Church, the Blood Compact Shrine, the Python & Butterfly Sanctuary, and enjoy a buffet lunch on Loboc River. The tour also stops at the Chocolate Hills and the Tarsier Sanctuary. The detailed itinerary ensures you see Bohol’s most iconic landmarks in a single day. While reviews are mixed, the value lies in its comprehensive coverage and the lunch experience. It’s best suited for travelers interested in a wide-ranging tour with cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a full cultural and scenic itinerary in a single day.
$66 per person
11. Panglao: Balicasag Island Tour with Turtle & Dolphin Watching
Number 11 is a shorter, 5-hour tour focusing on dolphin watching in the morning, combined with Balicasag Island snorkeling. It’s priced at $37 and is ideal for travelers with limited time or seeking a quick marine escape. The early dolphin sighting and snorkeling are highlights, but reviews are mixed, mainly due to the relatively short duration and some logistical concerns. Still, it’s a cost-effective option for a taste of Panglao’s marine life.
Bottom Line: Suitable for a quick marine adventure, especially if dolphin watching is your priority.
$37 per person
12. Bohol: Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling at Balicasag Island
Number 12 offers a 6-hour tour that blends dolphin watching at sunrise with snorkeling at Balicasag. It provides guided marine exploration and is popular among those wanting a comprehensive reef tour. The vibrant coral reefs and frequent dolphin sightings make this a favorite. However, with only 3 reviews, it’s less tried than others. Still, the value for money and the chance to see dolphins and turtles in one trip make it attractive.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers wanting a full marine adventure with some flexibility.
$47 per person
13. BOHOL: Dolphin Watching, Turtle Swim and Island Party
Number 13 is a more lively option, combining dolphin watching, turtle swimming, and a beach party vibe. The reviews are unavailable, but the focus on music, drinks, and fun on a scenic island makes it a unique choice for lively groups or young travelers. It’s perfect if you want to combine wildlife with a festive atmosphere, though it may lack the quiet serenity of other tours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for party-goers and those wanting a vibrant, social experience.
$80 per person
14. Bohol Mirror Of The World + Panglao Island Tour
Number 14 offers a balanced tour of Bohol’s diverse landscapes, including white sand beaches, limestone caves, and historic churches. For $60, it’s a great overview if you’re interested in both natural and cultural sights. The highlight is the mirror of the world landscape, along with Panglao’s scenic charm. This tour is especially good for travelers wanting a broad snapshot of Bohol in a manageable day. The reviews are not available, but the itinerary suggests an appealing mix.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a diverse, well-rounded day with a bit of everything.
$60 per person
15. Bohol: Panglao Island Hopping & Dolphin Watching Tour
Finally, number 15 focuses on early morning dolphin sightings and island hopping at Balicasag. For $47, it offers an efficient 5-hour experience with snorkeling, dolphin watching, and marine exploration. The itinerary is packed but practical, making it ideal for travelers who want a quick, active day. Reviews suggest it’s a popular choice and provides good value for those short on time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a compact marine adventure with plenty of wildlife action.
$47 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. If you’re seeking a luxury, comprehensive experience, the Premium Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers & River Experience is hard to beat. For budget travelers, the Backpacker Special offers a reliable way to see the highlights without breaking the bank. Marine enthusiasts will appreciate the whale shark or Balicasag Island snorkeling tours, while those after a relaxed, private day might prefer the Panglao private cave, beach, and scenic tour.
Also, think about your physical activity level—if you’re comfortable snorkeling or diving, the Swim with Turtles & Dolphins or First-Time Scuba Dive will enrich your trip. Booking early is wise, especially for popular wildlife tours like the whale shark swim or dolphin watching, as these can fill up quickly during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Panglao and Bohol offer a rich variety of tours that cater to different interests—from wildlife encounters to scenic exploration and cultural experiences. For first-timers, the Premium Chocolate Hills & River Experience provides a well-rounded view, while adventure-seekers might opt for the Whale Shark Snorkel or Balicasag Island trips. Families and relaxed travelers will find the private Panglao cave and beach tour perfect, and those craving a lively party vibe might enjoy the Island Party tour.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early will ensure you secure your spot on these popular excursions. Take your pick based on your interests and travel style—Bohol’s tours promise fun, memorable moments, and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful region.