Sunsets, Sea Turtles & So Much Laughter: Our Unforgettable Family & Friends Tour in Panglao Island, Bohol

May 7, 2022 - Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines

You know you’re in for something special when the group chat goes from "When are we going?" to “Bring extra chargers, waterproof bags, and don’t forget the speaker!” The hype was real, and the moment our feet touched the ground in Bohol, we knew—this trip was going to be legendary.

Arrival: Island Vibes Activated

The second we landed, the city stress melted away. No honking cars, no rushed schedules—just palm trees, fresh air, and the sound of the ocean calling. We drove straight to Alona Beach in Panglao, where our beachfront resort greeted us with stunning views, a sea breeze that deserved its own song, and staff who treated us like family.

The first few hours? Sand between our toes, coconut juice in hand, and a thousand photos taken before sunset. Everyone was smiling—and we hadn’t even started the real adventure yet.

Island Hopping: Our Own Ocean Playground

The next morning, we woke up before sunrise (yes, everyone showed up on time—miracle!) and hopped on a boat for island hopping. With music playing, sunglasses on, and spirits high, we were ready to explore.

Our first stop was Balicasag Island, and wow. Crystal-clear waters. Coral reefs. Sea turtles just casually swim with us. We snorkeled like pros (well, some of us), took underwater selfies, and laughed every time someone screamed at a surprise fish.

Then came Virgin Island, where a picture-perfect sandbar appeared like magic. We walked barefoot on the soft white sand, took “model shots” for the 'Gram, and feasted on freshly caught sea urchins and scallops sold by local vendors right in the middle of the sea. It was raw, salty, messy, and perfect.

Bohol Highlights: Hills, Tarsiers & River Feasts

Because no trip to Bohol is complete without seeing the sights, we took a day to explore the mainland. First stop? The iconic Chocolate Hills. They looked like giant chocolate kisses scattered across the land — and yes, someone tried to lick the air for a joke (classic).

Then we visited the Tarsier Sanctuary, where the kids couldn’t stop saying “Awww!” at the tiny, wide-eyed primates clinging to trees. We learned a lot, but mostly we just melted from the cuteness overload.

By lunchtime, we were floating down the Loboc River aboard a bamboo boat-turned-buffet. With lechon, grilled seafood, pancit, and kakanin on our plates, a live band serenaded us with OPM classics. One of our titas got up to sing, and then—no surprise—our guitar-loving uncle joined in. It turned into a floating family concert, and honestly? We crushed it.

Chill Nights: Beer, Karaoke & Poolside Laughs

After a day full of sun and adventure, we ended the night poolside at the resort bar, beers in hand, soaking in the warm breeze and good vibes. Laughter echoed across the pool as stories and jokes flowed freely—some old, some new, all hilarious.

Then came the karaoke. What started as one brave soul with a love song turned into a full-on sing-off. One friend delivered “Bohemian Rhapsody” with so much passion, the resort staff actually applauded. Meanwhile, the kids splashed nearby, playing their own games as the grown-ups lounged, laughed, and raised their bottles to more nights like this.

No phones. No work stress. Just unfiltered joy, the kind you can’t schedule but always remember.

The Goodbye We Didn’t Want to Say

On our last day, we took one last walk along the beach, toes in the sand, hearts a little heavier. We didn’t want to leave. We had sunburns, full SD cards, and enough inside jokes to last us a year. But more than that, we had memories that stitched us even closer together.

Panglao gave us the perfect mix of adventure, rest, and connection. And as we boarded the van back to the airport, we all knew one thing:

This wasn’t goodbye — it was “until next time.”

Panglao Travel Tip:
If you're planning a getaway with your barkada or big family, Panglao Island is it. Beautiful beaches, epic experiences, friendly locals, and memories you'll talk about forever. Just don’t forget the speaker… and maybe an extra bottle opener.

By: Meme Borja