Virgin Island in Panglao is One of Bohol’s Most Picturesque Views
Updated April 11, 2019
One of the last stops that you’ll make during your island hopping tour in Bohol is the Virgin Island, a breathtaking sight that’s one of Bohol’s iconic island destinations.
Virgin Island
According to tour guides, you’ll find mangrove trees planted on the island where fish reside in. You can also walk across the shallow waters of the island and admire the crystal clear waters. If you’re observant, you’ll even find colorful starfish scattered in the water (just make sure not to touch them!).
Boats usually dock on this island after touring Balicasag Island. It is the perfect place to end the tour because of the picturesque view, one that would remind you of movie scenes.
Also read: Balicasag Island in Panglao is One of Bohol’s Best Snorkeling and Diving Spots
There’s a mini-market on the island as well, where locals sell various products such as food and jewelry made from pearls. Some of the locals will greet you as your boat docks on the island.
Isola di Francisco
Isola di Francisco is a part of the famous Virgin Island, and you’ll be greeted by a statue of St. Pio of Pietrelcina. It’s the perfect place to go when you want to reflect and relax—thanks to the birds singing that only add to the feeling of being one with nature.
There’s also a museum that exhibits natural objects depicting the beauty of God’s creations. And of course, there are statues with a scene from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus Christ rescues Peter from drowning.
The statue of St. Pio of Pietrelcina
Statues that depict Jesus Christ saving Peter from drowning
Further, you’ll find a one-hectare long sandbar that will truly make you feel like you’re in paradise. It’s the perfect place for that IG-worthy photo! You can also walk to the end of the sandbar to fully embrace the serenity.
It’s recommended to visit the island in the morning during weekdays if you want some alone-time. But nonetheless, it doesn’t get too crowded so it’s still alright to visit in the afternoon.
While there is no accommodation available, it is only a 10-minute boat ride away from Panglao Island. There are no entrance fees to these islands, and they are included in the island hopping tours.
Visiting Bohol’s Virgin Island will surely make you feel at one with nature!
Tip: There’s a free shuttle service going to the island from Panglao Port, just make sure to get your name listed early as they only accept passengers by 9 am. You’ll be given a priority number that will be called when it’s your turn to board the boat. The shuttle is available from 9 am to 2 pm with their last call at 3 pm going back to Panglao Port.
How to get here:
- Virgin Island is included in most island hopping tours, you can also opt to charter a boat from Alona Beach going to Virgin Island which is 10-minutes away from Alona Beach.
- You can also ride their shuttle from Panglao Port. Do take note that they only accept passengers starting 9 am.
For tours around Bohol, you can contact Bohol Tours and Nature’s Wonder Travel & Tours, they are a Tagbilaran City-based travel agency who can assist you in your adventures on the island. You may contact them through boholtourismphilippines@gmail.com, you may also visit their website at boholtourism.com.ph. You may also contact them at 038-422-8321 / 0926-750-4755.
A version of this appeared in Philippine Primer’s Japanese magazine April 2019 issue.
Written by Feliz Grace Bueno
