Melo Villareal
Travel Guide to Pamilacan Island in Baclayon, Bohol
Bohol, Philippines — Have you ever been to a paradise? Some people say that paradises don’t exist. Well, I beg to differ because I just been to one. On the second day of our three-day Bohol tour, after having a satisfying breakfast at Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort, we visited another popular tourist spot in Bohol. This time we went to Pamilacan Island in Baclayon Bohol.
Pamilacan Island is also famous for Dolphin and Whale Watching tours. Bohol is a haven to more than 11 species of dolphins and whales, including the bottle-nose dolphin, Risso’s dolphin, pantropical spotted dolphin, long-snouted dolphin, Fraser’s dolphin, melon-headed whale, short-finned pilot whale, Bryde, and the sperm whales. Make sure to leave your hotel and start your island tour early to catch these playful dolphins.
About Pamilacan Island
The small island of Pamilacan is nestled in the heart of the Bohol Sea. Its name is derived from the word pilak, which is a large hook made and used by islanders to capture manta rays.
Pamilacan is a coral island, and fossilized seashells are preserved on the island’s rocky hill. Jaws and other bones of marine mammals and whale sharks adorn some homes in the village. The blue waters surrounding the island teem with lush and colorful marine life.
Calling this island beautiful is an understatement. In fact, I can’t describe its beauty in one word. But I have to say that this place is truly a paradise. The ambiance is calming and the sand is well-refined and white. If you want to have an amazing vacation, this place is perfect for you.
Things to do in Pamilacan Island
I came on the island together with fellow travel writers and friends from the Department of Tourism. Upon reaching the island, we had a simple but filling “merienda” prepared by the locals.
After eating, some went for snorkeling while some of us just walked around the island to take photos. One of the most interesting structures in the island is the 200-year-old Spanish fort. According to the locals, it served as a look-out post for Moro pirates. The specific watchtower is a declared National Cultural Treasure.
Travel Tips
Here are some travel tips. I hope this will be helpful to you my fellow traveler. If you’re going to this paradise of an island, bring the following:
- Sunblock – The sun can be unforgiving on the outdoors. So if you don’t want to suffer from skin conditions, protect your skin with sunblock.
- A Date – Believe me, you don’t want to be alone in this beautiful island. So you should bring a date to make your trip more fun. If you cant find a date, bring your family and friends 🙂
- Extra Cash – You don’t want to have problems with the payment so bring to extra cash with you.
Pamilacan Island Hotels and Resorts
There are very few accommodation options on the island of Pamilacan.
Pamilacan Island Paradise Hotel
[Check Rates and Availability]
The resort is a private beach villa on a seven-hectare property. The 220 square meter accommodation offers 3 guest rooms of various sizes. The resort also offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
How to Get There
Here, let me show you how to get to this paradise. If you’re coming from Manila, you can get there by taking a plane. Once you’re in Tagbilaran airport, go to Baclayon or Loay boat station. It’s about 10 to 25 minutes to the station. After that, ride a boat to reach Pamilacan Island. In my estimation, it will take you about 35-50 minutes to get there. But if the waves are terrible, it might take you longer.
But if you’re coming from Cebu, you can go to Tagbilaran port by ferry. Cebu and Bohol are near to each other so it will take you only one and a half hours to get there. Also, there are at least seven trips per day so you have lots of options. And of course, once you reach Tagbilaran, you know what to do.
Pump-boat rental from Baclayon to Pamilacan Island can cost upward from Php 1,500 per boat depending on its passenger capacity.
My time on this island is unforgettable. I will definitely come back soon.
Bohol Island Hopping Tour
See three of Bohol’s most beautiful islands with this half-day island hopping tour. Discover what makes Bohol a favorite for locals and foreigners with a visit to Balicasag Island and Virgin Island.
See also:
- Discover Bohol’s Very Own Chocolate at Dalareich Chocolate House
- Bohol Travel Guide
- Best Island Hopping Destinations in the Philippines
