The Philippines is up there with one of my favourite countries I’ve been to. Home to the most beautiful beaches in the world, welcoming locals and rich culture and history. It’s one of those places that you could visit time and time again.
On a recent trip to the Philippines, I discovered one of my new favourite spots – Panglao Island. This magical little place is nestled into the bottom of the well-known island of Bohol and is home to some of the most sparkly, turquoise beaches I’ve ever laid eyes on.
Panglao is ideal for travellers who are after a relaxing reprieve (cocktail on the beach-style. As well as, adventure lovers who want to dive into the islands INSANE underwater world or explore local caves! There is a little something for everyone.
Every sunrise and sunset in Panglao is a postcard-perfect moment. So, trust me when I say you’ll want to find accommodation that offers a front-row seat to the action.
Lucky for you (and me!), I’ve explored every inch of Panglao and I’ve rounded up the four best areas and accommodations on the island. After reading this guide on where to stay in Panglao, you should have a much better idea of which area is best for you!
So, let’s dive on in.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Panglao?
Panglao is one of the top spots for backpackers in The Philippines for lovers of all things hot, sandy and cheap! From endless stretches of beach to INSANE underwater worlds to hidden caves – there is a lot to uncover on this little island.
In this article, I’ll take you through my top picks for the BEST areas to stay in – including the best places to stay in each and things to do. But if you’re short on time, here are my hand-picked top three places to stay on the whole island – yep, these are the creme de la creme.
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Ecostay Panglao Resort Hotel | Best Hotel In Panglao
Located along a quiet inland part of the east coast of Panglao, this eco stay offers basic yet comfortable accommodation with a low price tag (and an even lower carbon footprint). It has all the mod-cons of a hotel, fitted into a more rustic and down-to-earth package.
Alona’s Coral Garden Resort | Best Resort In Panglao
Suitable for adults only, Alona’s Coral Garden Resort is one of my top picks for couples in Panglao. It’s a peaceful sanctuary in the buzzing centre of Alona Beach, with a pool and central courtyard, as well as a small restaurant and bar. It feels more like a homestay than a resort, with a very wholesome vibe. Leave the kids at home for this one!
Mad Monkey Panglao | Best Hostel In Panglao
For the most social hostel experience in Panglao, you’ll want to reserve your spot at Mad Monkey. Choose from shared dorms to private suites, and enjoy access to classic hostel experiences like yoga sessions, organised group tours, and pub crawl evenings.
Mad Monkey is a chain of hostels and is often my top pick when it comes to the best hostels in the Philippines for backpackers.
Panglao Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Panglao
Alona Beach
Think of Alona Beach as Panglao’s equivalent of Phuket. It’s the centre of the action and is perfect for those after a lively and social beach vacation. Think watersports, beach bars, and loungers set up on the beaches
The East Coast (Beach of Bohol, Dumaluan Beach, and White Beach, Up to Dao)
For a more laid-back and tranquil beach vacation, the East Coast of Panglao, reaching from the Beach of Bohol past Dumaluan Beach up to Dao, might be the winning ticket. The area has pristine stretches of sand without the crowds of Alona.
Danao Beach
Danao Beach is another popular part of the island but is much quieter than Alona. It’s perfect for travellers who want to be close to the action while being able to retreat to a quieter hotel at the end of the day.
Bingag / Dauis
This Panglao neighbourhood offers visitors a more secluded and remote experience. It’s a local residential area with a few hidden gem resorts and guesthouses, perfect for those after a respite from the busy beaches of West Panglao.
If you’ve done your research, chances are you’ll be familiar with the island of Bohol. Well, Panglao is one of the best places to stay in Bohol as it’s the island’s premier beach destination. It’s a small island located southwest of Bohol, connected to the main island by the Gov. Borja Bridge.
Technically, Panglao is divided into two municipalities: Dauis and Panglao. The main beaches, like Alona Beach and Dumaluan Beach along the East Coast, are located within the Panglao municipality.
The entire island is just 35 square miles big. It’s tiny! To make things easy, the island has just two main roads: one that circles the island along the coastline and a road that runs lengthwise through the island’s centre to connect the two main towns. Motorcycle taxis and rentals are simple and affordable, making it super easy to get from one part of the island to another.
Alona Beach is Panglaos’s main beach destination. Here, you will find the highest concentration of hotels, restaurants, and bars. The white sand beaches are the stuff of dreams, and I highly recommend this area for couples or families looking for a fun yet safe beach holiday.
Photo: @Rhenzy
The East Coast is better for those after a more relaxed experience. Particularly around Dumaluan Beach, this area is known for its laid-back vibes and limited nightlife. You’ll easily find a good range of affordable accommodations around here.
Danao Beach is another bustling hub yet slightly quieter than Alona. It’s great for adventure seekers, solo travellers, and couples who want to be close to the action without being in the thick of things. Danao is also suitable for budget travellers, offering a mix of mid-range accommodations.
Bingag/Dauis is located close to the mainland of Bohol, yet surprisingly, it offers a more off-the-beaten-track experience than the busier beaches to its west. If you’re wondering where to stay in Panglao for an authentic Filipino experience, Bingag is a residential area with a local flair you might be after.
Panglao’s Four Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s dive in for a bit more detail on these four areas to stay during your trip to Panglao so you can make the right choice for the type of trip you’re on.
Having said that, I really don’t think there is a bad place, cus I love them all!
1. Alona Beach – Where to Stay in Panglao for Your First Time
Think of Alona Beach as Panglao’s more mellow equivalent of Phuket. It’s the centre of the action and is perfect for those after a lively and social beach vacation. Think watersports, beach bars, and loungers set up on the soft white beaches. The beaches are dotted with beachfront resorts, bars, and restaurants, it’s easy to see why this is the heart of the island’s tourism scene.
It’s also a hub for diving and island-hopping tours, so if you’re interested in exploring what’s beneath the surface of the turquoise water, this is a good spot to base yourself. It might be the busiest part of the island, but the vibes are always great in this resort town.
Pro Tip: If you wanna go diving in Panglao, be sure to hit up Alex — he’s a LEGEND and really knows his stuff… both under AND above water. Just reach out via WhatsApp and let him know I sent you: +44 7812 648968.
Alona’s Coral Garden Resort | Best Adult-Only Resort in Alona Beach
Alona’s Coral Garden is a resort by definition, but it feels more like a cosy bed and breakfast in reality. Sure, cosy might not be the best word to describe a resort in the tropics, but it has a homely and welcoming feel that sets it apart from traditional hotels and resorts.
The resort only allows adult guests, so you can be assured you won’t have to share the pool area with any screaming children. After a day at the beach (which is a short ten-minute walk away), you can unwind by the pool with a drink from the onsite restaurant.
Abraham Bohol | Best Hostel in Alona Beach
Abramah Bohol is one of the newest properties managed by an international brand of hostels. I love it for its low price point, friendly staff, and location within walking distance of some of the best beaches in Panglao.
As if the comfortable rooms, shared pool, and free bike parking weren’t enough, this place to stay in Panglao’s Alona Beach also serves a tasty breakfast each morning, which is included in the rate.
Spacious One-Bed Apartment with Shaded Terrace | Best Apartment Rental in Alona Beach
If you’re the type who prefers a private living space to a shared one, you’ll be right at home in this rental unit in Alona Beach. The modern apartment is beautifully decorated with wooden furnishings and comfortable furniture, but my favourite part has to be the high ceilings.
You could prepare a simple meal in the kitchenette and enjoy it at the indoor or outdoor dining table located under a covered terrace.
Things to See and Do in Alona Beach
Photo: Alex Hatton
- Buckle up for a jet ski experience along Alona Beach
- Hold on for dear life on a parasailing experience near Alona Beach
- Take a short hike to Kalipayan Beach
- Learn to dive in Panglao with Dive Squad – you can book a dive by reaching out to Alex via WhatsApp, just let him know I sent you: +44 7812 648968.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. The East Coast of the Island – Best Place to Stay in Panglao on a Budget
For a more laid-back and tranquil beach vacation, the East Coast of Panglao, reaching from the Beach of Bohol past Dumaluan Beach up to Dao, might be the winning ticket. The area has pristine stretches of sand without the crowds of Alona. The resorts here are generally less luxurious, more affordable, and ultimately more relaxed.
The calm water makes this one of the best places to stay in Panglao for a budget family holiday. I felt a real connection to nature in this area, and while nightlife and restaurant options might be limited, it’s just a short drive from the buzz of Alona if you need it.
The Mayana Resort | Best Hotel on The East Coast
I’m a fan of everything about this hotel, from the traditional style hotel rooms to the swimming pool to the delicious food served at the restaurant. In fact, the beds are so comfortable that the only issue you might have will be trying to get out of bed in the morning.
But arguably the best part of the hotel is its breakfast selection, which offers a la carte, continental, or an American-style breakfast each morning.
Ecostay Panglao Resort Hotel | Best Eco-Hotel on The East Coast
I’ve always been a fan of an eco-hotel. While you shouldn’t expect anything luxurious here, the Ecostay Panglao Resort Hotel is equipped with everything you might need for a comfortable stay.
The suites are simple, built with local materials, and designed to keep cool in the daytime. The staff will go above and beyond to make sure guests are happy, and can even organize bike rentals or island hopping tours from the property.
Bohol Coco Farm | Best Hostel on The East Coast
The East Coast isn’t known for having too many hostels, but the Bohol Coco Farm brings the hostel energy and social vibe we love so much. It’s located on a huge green property that hinges on the beaches of East Panglao. Hammocks and sitting spaces are dotted across the property, which set the scene for connecting with other travellers.
But it’s the main dining area that grabbed my attention. Featuring family-style seating, an indoor/outdoor design, and moody hanging lighting, this spot makes it easy to travel solo in this Panglao neighbourhood without ever feeling like you’re alone.
Things to See and Do on The East Coast
- Snorkel over the reef at Libaong White Beach
- Free dive down to the wrecked plane at the South Palms dive site
- Join a tour and visit the Bohol Bee Farm
- Buy fresh pitaya fruits at the Pitaya Dragon Fruit Farm
3. Danao Beach – Best Area in Panglao For a Family-Friendly Beach Vacation
Danao Beach is another popular part of the island but is much quieter than Alona. It’s perfect for travellers who want to be close to the action while being able to retreat to a quieter hotel at the end of the day.
Photo: @rhenzcape
The beach is calm and beautiful. While it might not have the same soft sand as Alona, it’s a popular place to go snorkelling and diving. Resorts are typically low-key and budget-friendly, and there are a bunch of mid to upper-range accommodations, too. I rate this part of the island for families because it’s quiet and peaceful and offers more of a local vibe than a touristy one.
Selectum Mangrove Resort | Best Resort in Danao Beach
Danao Beach can be busy at times, so it’s important you have a peaceful space to return to after a day at the beach. This property is quiet and relaxing, with private suites arranged around a central swimming pool.
The on-site restaurant deserves a mention. It serves healthy (and delicious) helpings from breakfast through to dinner. They can make almost anything, from chicken soup to pancakes to tempura prawns.
Mad Monkey Panglao | Best Hostel in Danao Beach
Social butterflies wondering where to stay in Panglao, this one’s for you… Mad Monkey Panglao might just be the island’s best hostel. It offers daily tours and activities designed to get guests to mingle and socialise while experiencing the beauty of the island. Ideal for those solo travelling in the Philippines.
When you aren’t island hopping with new friends, you can always relax by the pool, spark up a conversation at the bar, or even take a leisurely evening to reboot in your newly remodelled room.
Three-Bed Luxury Villa with Private Pool | Best Villa Rental in Danao Beach
Live out your tropical dreams at this private three-bedroom villa in Danao Beach. There are few places as beautifully designed and decorated as this one. Simplicity is the theme here, with neutral tones, washed concrete walls, and warm wood throughout.
The home opens onto a central pool courtyard, which feels a world away from the streets of Danao. Outdoor bathrooms, turquoise pool water, and an enviable outdoor movie theatre are the perfect ingredients for a five-star villa experience.
Things to See and Do in Danao Beach
- Island hop on a sunset trip to Virgin Island
- Learn to dive at the Deep Blue Dive Resort
- Take a walk along the beach to the Danao Sunset Viewpoint
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Grab an eSIM!4. Bingag / Dauis – Best Area in Panglao for Adventure Seekers
Even though Bingag and Dauis are located closer to the mainland of Bohol, this Panglao neighbourhood offers visitors a more secluded and remote experience. It’s a local residential area with a few hidden gem resorts and guesthouses, perfect for those after a respite from the busy beaches of West Panglao.
Photo: Alex Hatton
While you aren’t promised great dining and nightlife options, you can count on lush greenery and stunning sea views. If you’d rather spend your time checking out Bohol’s cultural and natural side, Bingag is ideally located for exploring some of the best things to do in Bohol like the Chocolate Hills. I felt right at home in this local village and could still reach the beaches of Alona within half an hour.
Mithi Resort and Spa | Best Spa Resort in Bingag / Dauis
Tucked away between lush palm trees on the beachfront in Bingag, Mithi Resort and Spa is easily the most lavish hotel on this island. It has multiple swimming pools (as if the vast ocean out front wasn’t enough) and rooms so spacious and clean you’ll never want to leave them.
The private location is the perfect place to relax away from the city noises. I recommend checking into a sea view villa for gorgeous views and an outdoor dipping pool that will feature in your dreams for the indefinite future.
Blue Summer Suites | Best Affordable Accommodation in Bingag / Dauis
For a little bit more than the price of a shared dorm room, you could book yourself a private room with a shared bathroom at Blue Summer Suites. This spot might not be luxurious, but it is perfectly comfortable and equipped with all the amenities you might need for a summer vacation.
This superb place to stay in Panglao has a wholesome local atmosphere to it, where you will really feel one with the Bingag community. The hosts here go above and beyond to ensure that your stay is the best it can be.
Modern Studio by the Sea | Best Studio Rental in Bingag / Dauis
You can’t buy happiness (so they say), but you can rent a private unit by the sea. The highlight of this unit isn’t the modern interior but its location on the edge of the cliff overlooking the sea. It’s removed from the busy tourist areas but is just a 20-minute drive from just about any major attraction in Panglao.
Things to See and Do in Bingag / Dauis
- Check out the stalactites hanging in the Hinagdanan Cave
- Take a leisurely stroll through the Clarin Family Park
- Take the opportunity to visit the Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island
- Spend the day on Panglao and San Pedro Beach
- Submerge yourself by swimming with a school of sardines at Napaling Reef
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Panglao
I’ve put together a handy little FAQ just for you based on the questions I get asked the most about where to stay in Panglao…
What To Pack For Panglao
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Panglao
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Panglao.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Panglao
Deciding to visit a tropical island like Panglao is easy. Who doesn’t love mai tais on a soft-sand beach? But figuring out where to stay in Panglao is another story. Although small and easy to travel around, the island is divided into two main municipalities, each with its own smaller towns.
While party lovers might prefer the glitzy ambience at a hostel like Mad Monkey Panglao in Danao and Alona Beach, new families might prefer a quieter resort like Mithi Resort and Spa near Bingag.
Wherever you end up staying in Panglao, I hope you have the best time ever! The island is seriously gorgeous – I hope you love it as much as I did 🙂
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Philippines.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Bohol instead.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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