Where to Stay in Bohol for Diving and Snorkeling

Bohol is one of the Philippines’ most beloved dive and snorkel destinations. With vibrant coral reefs, calm clear waters, and abundant marine life, it attracts underwater enthusiasts from all over the world. Whether you’re a certified diver, a beginner, or a snorkeler looking for a reef adventure, Bohol has the right spot for you.

In this guide, we explore the best areas and accommodations in Bohol for diving and snorkeling. From Panglao’s convenient jump-off points to Anda’s untouched coral gardens, you’ll find the perfect base for your aquatic adventures.

Why Dive and Snorkel in Bohol?

• World-class reefs and healthy marine biodiversity

• Easy access to famous islands like Balicasag and Pamilacan

• Many dive schools and tour operators

• Short boat rides to top underwater sites

• Year-round warm water and good visibility

Best Areas in Bohol for Diving and Snorkeling

1. Panglao Island – Best Overall for Accessibility and Dive Infrastructure

Panglao Island, connected by bridge to mainland Bohol, is the most popular base for divers and snorkelers. It offers easy access to some of Bohol’s best marine sanctuaries and dive centers.

Key Dive & Snorkel Spots:

• Balicasag Island – Top-rated dive site with sea turtles, barracudas, and wall dives

• Pamilacan Island – Coral gardens, reef sharks, and dolphins

• Doljo Point – Macro life and great for experienced divers

• Napaling Reef – Snorkel-friendly cliffside reef near Panglao town

Pros:

• Many dive resorts and PADI centers

• Options for every budget

• Close to airport and tours

• Great for beginners and pros alike

Recommended Resorts for Divers:

• Panglao Island Dive Resort – Full-service dive center and beachfront access

• Sea Explorers Alona – Excellent dive pros, equipment, and day trips to Balicasag

• Oasis Resort – Comfortable, dive-focused, and central in Alona

• Natura Vista – Eco-conscious and quiet with good snorkeling access

2. Balicasag Island – Best for Proximity to Top Dive Sites

Balicasag is a small, protected island located 30 minutes by boat from Panglao. It’s a marine sanctuary with walls, drop-offs, and abundant sea turtles.

Best For:

• Divers who want to wake up right next to the reef

• Avoiding crowds

• Total immersion in marine life

Dive Highlights:

• Black Forest – Schooling jacks, turtles, deep blue water

• Cathedral Wall – Soft corals and reef sharks

• Rico’s Wall – Colorful fish and vibrant coral

Recommended Stay:

• Balicasag Island Dive Resort – Simple accommodations run by the Philippine Tourism Authority. Dive shop on-site and reef is just steps away.

Note: Electricity and Wi-Fi are limited. Best for 1–2 night stays.

3. Anda – Best for Pristine and Undiscovered Reefs

Anda is on Bohol’s eastern coast and offers quiet, uncrowded diving. With 16+ dive sites and very healthy coral, it’s a paradise for divers looking to avoid the crowds of Panglao.

Dive Sites:

• Dapdap Wall – Soft corals and great visibility

• Paradise Garden – Colorful shallows perfect for snorkelers

• Coco White – Sloping reef with lots of fish

• Caves and caverns – For advanced divers

Snorkeling Spots:

• House reefs in front of dive resorts

• Public beach areas with easy entry

• Coral Gardens near East Coast Anda

Recommended Dive Resorts:

• Magic Oceans Dive Resort – High-quality dive operations, European management, beachfront

• Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa – Luxury and reef access, personalized dive experiences

• Blue Star Dive & Resort – Cliffside views, on-site dive center

• Anda White Beach Resort – Quiet and laid-back, snorkeling right out front

4. Cabilao Island – Best for Macro Diving and Calm Conditions

Cabilao is a small island northwest of Panglao and perfect for macro photographers and advanced divers. It’s home to pygmy seahorses, frogfish, and great wall diving.

Dive Highlights:

• Lighthouse Wall – Vertical drop with corals and reef sharks

• South Point – Nudibranch heaven

• Schooling barracuda near current splits

Recommended Resorts:

• Polaris Beach & Dive Resort – Peaceful with full dive setup

• Cabilao Sanctuary Beach & Dive Resort – Secluded and eco-friendly

• Ocean Vida Divers Cabilao – For serious divers and photo-focused guests

5. Pamilacan Island – Best for Dolphin Watching + Snorkeling

Pamilacan Island is famous for dolphin watching but also offers exceptional snorkeling and beach life. The reef drop-off is close to shore and visibility is excellent.

Best for:

• Couples or families who love calm, scenic snorkeling

• Half-day tours or overnight island life

Recommended Stay:

• Pamilacan Island Paradise – Native cottages, beach access, dolphin tours

• Nita’s Nipa Huts – Local homestay, authentic island experience

Dive & Snorkel Conditions in Bohol

Where to Get Certified (Open Water) in Bohol

Most dive centers in Panglao and Anda offer certification courses. Recommended schools:

• SeaQuest Dive Center (Panglao)

• Philippine Fun Divers (Alona Beach)

• Magic Oceans Dive Center (Anda)

• Genesis Divers (Panglao)

These offer PADI and SSI courses with multi-language instruction and safe conditions for first-time divers.

What to Pack for Your Bohol Dive Trip

• Personal mask and snorkel (if preferred)

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Underwater camera or GoPro

• Quick-dry towel and rashguard

• Aqua shoes for rocky entry points

• Anti-fog spray for mask visibility

Sample Itinerary for Divers and Snorkelers (5 Days)

Day 1 – Arrive in Panglao
• Check in to dive resort
• Orientation or fun dive at Napaling Reef

Day 2 – Full Dive Day
• 3 dives around Balicasag
• Evening relaxation, gear cleaning

Day 3 – Transfer to Anda or Cabilao
• Scenic countryside drive
• 1 sunset dive or snorkel

Day 4 – More Diving + Snorkeling
• 2 wall dives + macro dive
• Optional night dive (especially in Anda)

Day 5 – Snorkeling and Relaxation
• Easy beach snorkel or dolphin tour
• Afternoon massage, fly or ferry out

Final Thoughts

Bohol is a paradise for underwater explorers of all levels. Whether you’re doing your first dive in Panglao, snorkeling in Balicasag’s turtle haven, or chasing rare macro critters in Cabilao, the island offers unforgettable marine encounters. Plus, the quality of resorts and dive operators is excellent—making your stay safe, enjoyable, and world-class.

Panglao is perfect for beginners and those wanting everything in one place.
Balicasag is for serious marine immersion.
Anda offers unspoiled reefs for those who want peace and discovery.
Cabilao is heaven for macro lovers.
Pamilacan is your quiet island snorkel base.

Whichever you choose, the underwater magic of Bohol awaits.