Anda Travel Guide (Bohol/Visayas/Philippines/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Anda

Located in the eastern part of the popular island of Bohol in the Visayas region of the Philippines, Anda is a small coastal town that boasts of pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to Anda.

List of Places to Visit in Anda

Anda offers a variety of attractions that cater to different interests.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sto. Niño de Anda Parish Church - This Baroque-style church was built in the early 1800s and is one of the oldest churches in Bohol.
Cabagnow Cave Pool - This hidden lagoon is located in a cave and has crystal-clear waters. It’s believed to be a sacred place where the natives performed rituals in the past.
Guindulman Bay Boardwalk - A scenic boardwalk that offers a panoramic view of Guindulman Bay. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset.

Natural Attractions of Anda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Anda White Beach - This long stretch of white sand beach is the main tourist attraction in Anda. It offers a serene atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Candijay Mangrove Forest - This protected mangrove forest is located in nearby Candijay. Visitors can take a paddleboat ride to explore the mangroves and spot wildlife.
Badiang Spring - This natural spring is a popular spot for locals to cool off. It has crystal-clear waters and a lush surrounding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Anda

Anda is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some popular routes for hiking and biking:

Anda to Candijay Rice Terraces Trail - A scenic trail that passes by the picturesque rice terraces of Candijay.
Anda Lamanok Island Trail - A moderate hike that leads to the mysterious Lamanok Island, where visitors can see ancient rock formations and caves.

Best Things to Do in Anda: Activities and Tours

Anda offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests.

Boat Tour to Lamanok Island - Visitors can take a boat tour to Lamanok Island to explore the caves, rock formations, and ancient burial sites.
Island Hopping Tour - Visitors can explore nearby islands and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the crystal-clear waters.
Scuba Diving Expedition - Anda is known for its rich marine life, and diving enthusiasts can explore the underwater world and spot different species of fish, corals, and sea creatures.

Week-Long Itinerary for Anda

Here’s a week-long itinerary that covers the best of Anda:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Arrival and check-in
Day 2	Explore Anda White Beach and the nearby attractions
Day 3	Visit the historical sites in Anda
Day 4	Hiking or biking in the rice terraces of Candijay
Day 5	Take a boat tour to Lamanok Island
Day 6	Island hopping tour
Day 7	Scuba diving and departure

Food and Drink Scene of Anda

Anda offers a variety of local and international cuisine that caters to different tastes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Grilled Seafood - Anda is known for its fresh seafood, and visitors can enjoy grilled fish and other seafood dishes at local restaurants.
Binakhaw - A local delicacy made from tuba (coconut wine) infused with different herbs and spices.
Utak-utak - A blood sausage made from pork, rice, and spices.

Local Beverages

Tuba - A locally-made coconut wine that has a sweet and sour taste.
Barako Coffee - A strong and aromatic coffee made from Liberica beans that are grown in the region.

Where to Stay in Anda: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Anda offers a variety of accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:

Anda Resort - A beachfront resort that offers luxurious villas, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
La Petra Beach Resort - A mid-range resort located on the beachfront that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
Kims Garden Inn - A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the town center that offers basic rooms and a garden area.

What to Buy in Anda: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Anda offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that visitors can bring home as a remembrance of their trip. Some popular items include:

Peanut Kisses - These are sweet and crunchy peanut-based cookies that are a popular pasalubong (souvenir) from Bohol.
Tarsier Souvenirs - Visitors can buy tarsier-themed souvenirs such as keychains, mugs, and shirts.
Shell Crafts - Anda is known for its shell crafts, and visitors can buy different items such as jewelry, trinket boxes, and wind chimes.

Local Culture and Customs of Anda

The locals in Anda are predominantly Roman Catholic, and religious festivals play an important role in their culture. The town celebrates the Feast of Sto. Niño de Anda every January, where locals participate in colorful parades and processions.

Best Time to Visit Anda

The best time to visit Anda is from December to May when the weather is dry and sunny. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, and accommodations may be more expensive. The rainy season in Anda is from June to November, and visitors may experience heavy downpours and occasional typhoons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Anda

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Anda:

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your impact on the environment.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.

Don’t:

Litter or leave trash on the beach.
Touch or disturb the marine life.
Disrespect the locals or their beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Anda

Anda is generally safe, but visitors should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of petty crimes such as theft. It’s advisable to not leave valuables unattended on the beach and in public areas.

Health in Anda

Visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and protect themselves from the sun. It’s advisable to wear long sleeves and pants, use mosquito repellent, and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Getting to Anda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Anda by air, land, and sea. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Anda

Panglao International Airport - The nearest airport to Anda is Panglao International Airport, located about 95 kilometers away.
Tagbilaran Airport - Another airport near Anda is Tagbilaran Airport, located about 110 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Anda

Integrated Bus Terminal (Tagbilaran) - Visitors can take a bus from the Integrated Bus Terminal in Tagbilaran to Guindulman, and then take a tricycle to Anda.

Other Options

Private Car Transfer - Visitors can arrange for a private car transfer from Panglao International Airport or Tagbilaran Airport.

How to Get Around in Anda

The main mode of transportation within Anda is tricycles. Visitors can hire tricycles for a fixed price to get around the town and its nearby attractions. Motorcycles and bicycles are also available for rent at local shops.

Where to Go Next from Anda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other destinations near Anda, such as:

Dumaguete - A vibrant city that offers a variety of attractions such as historical sites, waterfalls, and diving spots. It’s located about 150 kilometers away from Anda.
Bohol Countryside - Visitors can explore the beautiful rural landscapes of Bohol and visit iconic attractions such as the Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Sanctuary, and Loboc River. It’s located about 130 kilometers away from Anda.

Conclusion

Anda is a hidden gem in Bohol that offers a unique and authentic travel experience. With its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and warm local hospitality, Anda is a destination that should not be missed. Plan your trip to Anda today and discover the beauty of this off-the-beaten-path paradise.

Anda Image Gallery

Anda town center

Anda market hall