Unforgettable Escapade: Our Family and Friends Tour in Panglao Island, Bohol

May 7, 2022 - Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines

You know that feeling when you're counting down the days to a trip, and then suddenly—bam!—you’re there, standing on white sand, staring at a sea so blue it looks unreal? That was Panglao Island, Bohol for us.

It wasn’t just a vacation. It was a wild, sun-drenched adventure with the best crew imaginable—our family and closest friends. And let me tell you, it was the kind of trip that makes you wish you could freeze time.

Day 1: Paradise Unlocked

The moment we landed in Bohol, the adventure mode kicked in. Our group was buzzing with energy—backpacks slung, GoPros ready, and everyone hyped like kids on Christmas morning. As our van rolled into Panglao, the view alone was enough to drop jaws. Palm trees swayed in the breeze, and the ocean sparkled like a dream.

We checked into a stunning beachfront resort at Alona Beach, where the sand was soft as flour and the vibe was total island chill. First order of business? Slippers off, cold drinks in hand, and feet in the water before sunset. Pure bliss.

Day 2: Island Hopping Madness

We were up before sunrise for one of the most epic days of the trip: island hopping! With the wind in our hair and music blasting from our boat’s speakers, we cruised across the open sea. Dolphins even made a surprise appearance, dancing in the waves beside us—it felt like something out of a movie!

Balicasag Island blew our minds. Snorkeling there was like diving into a live aquarium. We swam with sea turtles (yes, actual sea turtles!), schools of neon fish, and corals that looked like underwater gardens.

Next stop: Virgin Island, with its jaw-dropping sandbar stretching out into the sea. We snapped selfies, flew drones, and feasted on sea urchins and fresh scallops from the local vendors. It was salty, messy, and ridiculously fun.

Day 3: From Hills to River Thrills

We took a break from beach life to explore Bohol’s famous inland gems. First up, the iconic Chocolate Hills—hundreds of giant, Hershey’s Kiss-shaped mounds that looked like they’d been plopped down by giants. We climbed up the viewing deck, and the view? Unbelievable.

Then it was off to meet the cutest locals ever at the Tarsier Sanctuary. Those tiny, wide-eyed primates had us all saying “awww” every five seconds.

Lunch was a full-on feast on a floating restaurant along the Loboc River. As the boat drifted down the emerald waters, we devoured grilled seafood, lechon, and sticky rice while a live band played OPM classics. One of our titas even got up to sing—and killed it!

Nights to Remember

Every night in Panglao was a party in its own way. Bonfires by the beach, star-gazing on the sand, late-night chats over cocktails, and of course—karaoke battles that turned into sing-along dance-offs. The kids chased sand crabs while the rest of us danced barefoot under the stars.

We laughed until our stomachs hurt, played games, shared stories, and reminded ourselves how lucky we were to be together in this little slice of paradise.

Memories Made, Hearts Full

As our last day rolled in, no one wanted to leave. There were hugs, promises of “we have to do this again,” and one too many group photos. But we didn’t just take home souvenirs—we brought back something better: memories that stitched us all closer together.

Panglao gave us the perfect backdrop for something rare and beautiful: real connection in a world that moves too fast.

One thing’s for sure—we’ll be back. And next time, we’re bringing even more people.

By: Meme Borja