Diving in Bohol is a captivating experience that showcases the Philippines' rich marine biodiversity and stunning underwater landscapes. With warm, clear waters and a variety of dive sites, it's an ideal destination for both beginners and seasoned divers. The region is especially known for its vibrant coral gardens, steep walls, and the incredible variety of marine life that inhabit its reefs.
One of the top dive spots in Bohol is Balicasag Island, a marine sanctuary famous for its dramatic drop-offs and crystal-clear visibility. Here, divers can encounter massive schools of jackfish swirling in hypnotic patterns, green sea turtles gracefully gliding through the reef, and a wide variety of macro life tucked into colorful corals. The sanctuary is well-protected, making it a favorite among underwater photographers and marine conservationists.
Panglao Island, where many dive resorts are based, offers convenient access to several dive sites with healthy reefs, reef sharks, and occasional sightings of barracudas and rays. It’s also a great place for night dives and courses, with calm conditions and easy shore entries.
Another must-visit is Pamilacan Island, located between Bohol and Mindanao. Known for its history of whale and dolphin hunting (now long ceased), the island is now a peaceful community that offers access to pristine reefs and occasional sightings of larger pelagic species. The coral formations here are impressive, with a mix of soft and hard corals that attract reef fish, sea snakes, and sometimes even passing manta rays or whale sharks.
Overall, diving in Bohol offers a perfect mix of breathtaking scenery, ecological richness, and relaxed island life. Whether you’re exploring deep walls or shallow coral gardens, each dive reveals something new and unforgettable beneath the surface.
October to June, dry season, offers the best conditions for scuba diving. June to October, rainy season. Be ready to be wet.
Getting to Bohol from Manila and Cebu is convenient, with several travel options available depending on your schedule and budget.
From Manila, the fastest way is by plane. Daily direct flights operate from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Bohol-Panglao International Airport, with a flight time of about 1.5 hours. Major airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia offer multiple flights daily. Upon arrival in Bohol, Panglao’s beaches and dive resorts are just a short drive away.
From Cebu, you can either fly or take a ferry. While flights are available, most travelers prefer the scenic and economical fast ferry route. Several ferry companies, including OceanJet and SuperCat, operate between Cebu Pier 1 and Tagbilaran City Port or Panglao Port, with travel times of about 2 hours. Ferries run multiple times daily, making it easy to plan your trip.
Once in Bohol, local transportation such as vans, tricycles, and motorbikes are available to take you to Panglao, Anda, or other diving destinations. Whether you’re coming from the capital or just across the water, getting to Bohol is simple and adds to the adventure.
This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Ming Li (PADI pro), Skylodge Dive Shop, Big Blue Divers. Disclaimer