Alona Beach Travel Guide
Explore the stunning Alona Beach with our comprehensive tour guide, featuring places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to Alona Beach
- List of Places to Visit in Alona Beach
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Alona Beach
- Best Things to Do in Alona Beach: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Alona Beach
- Food and Drink Scene of Alona Beach
- Where to Stay in Alona Beach
- What to Buy in Alona Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Alona Beach
- Best Time to Visit Alona Beach
- Do’s and Don’ts of Alona Beach
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Alona Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Alona Beach
- Where to Go Next from Alona Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Alona Beach
Alona Beach is a paradise located in Panglao Island, Bohol, in the Visayas region of the Philippines. This stunning location boasts crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and an array of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an adventure-filled getaway, Alona Beach has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Alona Beach
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Alona Beach may be a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, but it’s also an excellent place to learn more about the Philippines’ rich cultural history. When visiting Alona Beach, you won’t want to miss the Baclayon Church, the oldest stone church in the Philippines. The church was built in 1595 and is considered one of the best-preserved Jesuit-built churches in the country. You can also visit the Blood Compact Monument, which commemorates the first international treaty of friendship between the Spanish and the Filipinos.
Natural Attractions of Alona Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
The natural beauty of Alona Beach will take your breath away. You can enjoy scenic views and witness an array of wildlife by taking a boat ride to Balicasag Island. This island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving thanks to its diverse marine life and coral reefs. For an adrenaline rush, try cliff jumping at Ariel’s Point on Boracay Island, or take a relaxing paddle board tour around the island.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Alona Beach
Alona Beach is the perfect place to explore on two feet or two wheels. Take a guided hike through the lush jungle surrounding the beach, where you will encounter exotic flora and fauna. For a more challenging experience, rent a bike and explore the nearby countryside at your own pace.
Best Things to Do in Alona Beach: Activities and Tours
When visiting Alona Beach, there is an array of activities to choose from. For water enthusiasts, try thrilling activities like jet skiing or parasailing. Adventure seekers may want to experience island hopping tours or zip lining through the jungle canopy. For a more laid-back experience, try a sunset dinner cruise or take a stroll through the local markets.
Week-Long Itinerary for Alona Beach
If you have the luxury of a week to explore Alona Beach, we recommend dividing your time between outdoor adventures, cultural activities, and relaxation. Here is a sample itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive and relax on the beach.
- Day 2: Take a guided hike through the jungle and explore the local markets.
- Day 3: Rent a bike and explore the nearby countryside.
- Day 4: Take a tour of the historical sites and learn more about the Philippines’ cultural heritage.
- Day 5: Try thrilling water activities or relax on a sunset dinner cruise.
- Day 6: Take a boat tour to Balicasag Island or try your hand at cliff jumping.
- Day 7: Depart and bring home memories to last a lifetime.
Food and Drink Scene of Alona Beach
Must-Try Dishes
When visiting Alona Beach, you must try the local seafood. Enjoy fresh fish, prawns, and squid cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Other must-try dishes include lechon (roast pig) and adobo (a savory stew).
Local Beverages
Sample a variety of local beverages while visiting Alona Beach, including coconut water, buko juice, and fresh fruit shakes. You can also try the local rum-based cocktail, Tanduay Ice, a refreshing drink perfect for sipping on the beach.
Where to Stay in Alona Beach
You can find a range of accommodation options in and around Alona Beach, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. A favorite is the Henann Resort, a five-star hotel with modern amenities and direct access to the beach. For those on a budget, the Harmony Hotel is a great option, offering comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.
What to Buy in Alona Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
When visiting Alona Beach, take home a piece of the local culture with you through souvenirs and products. Some of the must-buy items include handmade crafts, shell jewelry, and the local barako coffee. You can also bring home sweet treats like suman (sticky rice cake) and hopia (a flaky pastry filled with sweet bean paste).
Local Culture and Customs of Alona Beach
When visiting Alona Beach, it’s essential to always show respect to the locals and their culture. Filipinos are known for their friendly nature, and it’s essential to reciprocate that friendliness. You should also be mindful of their customs, especially during religious celebrations.
Best Time to Visit Alona Beach
The best time to visit Alona Beach is from November to May when the weather is dry and sunny. During these months, you can expect the best beach conditions and the most opportunities for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Alona Beach
Do:
- Respect the local culture and customs.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Attempt to learn some basic Filipino phrases.
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the environment.
- Disrespect the local culture or traditions.
- Attempt to take photos with local animals.
- Leave your belongings unattended on the beach.
Safety and Health
Safety in Alona Beach
Alona Beach is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s essential to remain vigilant. Be mindful of your belongings, especially on the beach, and don’t venture into areas that are marked off-limits.
Health in Alona Beach
When visiting Alona Beach, it’s important to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to prevent heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Also, take precautions against mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants or using mosquito repellent. Lastly, avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled or purified water.
Getting to Alona Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Alona Beach
If you’re traveling by air, the nearest airport to Alona Beach is Tagbilaran Airport, which is around 20 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to reach Alona Beach.
Bus Stations Near Alona Beach
If traveling by bus, you can take a bus to Tagbilaran City and take a tricycle from there to Alona Beach. The distance from Tagbilaran City to Alona Beach is around 20 km.
Other Options
You can also rent a car or motorbike to reach Alona Beach and then explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
How to Get Around in Alona Beach
You can explore Alona Beach and its surroundings on foot or rent a bicycle. Alternatively, you can hire a tricycle or motorcycle taxi as an affordable transportation option.
Where to Go Next from Alona Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Once you’ve explored Alona Beach, there are plenty of nearby destinations to discover. You can take a short ferry ride to Cebu or explore the famous Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island. Also, don’t miss a visit to the Tarsier Conservation Area to see the world’s smallest primate up close.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Alona Beach is the perfect destination. With its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and range of activities, Alona Beach should be on any traveler’s bucket list.
