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Alona Beach (Panglao Island, Bohol)
Best time to visit
Early morning offers calm water and the fewest crowds, ideal for snorkeling; late afternoon brings vivid sunsets and lively beach bars. Dry season from November to April reduces rain and sea swell, improving dive visibility.
Budget tips
Alona Beach is public and free to access; island-hopping and dive trips cost extra, typically PHP 800-1,500 per person, and mask/snorkel rentals run about PHP 150-300, so share boats and book locally to save.
Recommended for
Scuba divers and snorkelers, Couples and sunset chasers, Backpackers, Families
Plan your visit
Half day to full day
About
Raske fakta: A narrow crescent of powdery white sand backs onto a strip of palm-fringed restaurants and dive shops, making it easy to swap snorkeling gear between sunbathing and a fresh seafood dinner. Many small operators run short boat trips to colorful reefs, and casual snorkelers often see sea turtles, reef sharks, and dense schools of fusiliers within a 10 to 20 minute ride.
Høydepunkter: Local volunteers run a tiny hatchery that coordinates nightly releases, sometimes sending over 5,000 baby sea turtles into the surf during peak months, and watching the little flippers scamper under headlamp beams feels unexpectedly emotional. Lantern-lit beachfront grills fill the air with smoky coconut and garlic while barefoot bands play on the sand, so you can nibble grilled prawns and watch lantern reflections ripple across wet sand.
Insider tips
- Wear reef shoes and reef-safe sunscreen for comfortable swimming and to protect coral.
- Arrive before 8:30 AM for the calmest water, best snorkeling visibility and fewer vendors.
- Walk east past the pier for quieter sand and cleaner photo backgrounds at low tide.
- Book Balicasag or Virgin Island trips for morning departures and split boat costs with other travelers to cut prices.
Practical info
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