By Nathan Allen

I didn’t request it, but the staff even cleaned my room twice in one day! Each time, they left personalized notes and small treats. The restaurant staff showed the same level of dedication and professionalism. Special touches like this do not go unnoticed.

Plus, just take a look at that beachfront! Another award for best beach of any of my hotel stays.

The resort feels quite different that others I’ve visited in the Philippines. It’s situated on a wide open property covered with bermuda grass and perfectly-spaced coconut trees. I kind of felt like I was Magnum P.I. in Hawaii ( I used to watch the show as a kid:) 

I loved the giant, super-comfy hammocks and swings you can relax in (You can see me in one further down the page). 

Everything You Need – All In One Place

Bohol Beach Club is located on Panglao Island, but a few kms away from the hustle and bustle of Alona Beach. However, I felt there really is enough to offer here on the property…unlike some other places I’ve stayed, I never got anxious to explore outside of the resort.

It’s perfect for people with kids, but also large enough to provide space for the people who don’t always appreciate them. Haha.

If you make the effort to wake up for sunrise, you will not be disappointed! It’s directly in front of the beach, and it was one of the best I’ve ever seen.

Check Bohol Beach Club rates.

Diving With Bohol Beach Club

This was truly a memorable experience…if you want to learn, I recommend doing a Discovery Dive with Edgar, the local dive master. He does a great job explaining everything and helping you to feel comfortable. You will practice in the safety of the swimming pool before graduating to the beautiful, blue sea out front.

On my way to dive near Pamilacan Island, we spotted dolphins…and I don’t mean just a few. There must have been hundreds out there! It’s no wonder the dolphin watching tour is so popular. Unfortunately, like an idiot, I forgot to use my zoom lens to capture some nice photos.

There are also snorkeling / diving trips to Balicasag Island, which is known for incredible corals and sea turtle sightings.

Pictures From the Restaurant & Property – Bohol Beach Club Review

If you visit the Philippines, you have to try a mango shake! The country is famous for its mangoes. In general, I’d say the food at Bohol Beach Club was a solid 8.5/10. Pizza was pretty good, but the burger and calamares were excellent!

Philippine Cultural Performance

This was another highlight of my stay, and certainly something that sets Bohol Beach Club apart from other properties. Growing up, whenever somebody would go on vacation in Hawaii, they would bring home photos and videos of the native Luau (dinner and dance presentation).

As I’ve explored the Philippines, I’ve found that there is so much wonderful native culture and heritage as well, but it receives very little attention. Therefor, it was refreshing to see these dancers wowing the audience with their gracious smiles and traditional attire. The Filipinos in the audience seemed to be beaming with pride, and that made me smile.

I commend Bohol Beach Club for putting this together!

Overall, this was probably the best proper vacation I’ve ever had. If I were to nitpick, my only complaint would be too much pressure coming from the shower in my room. Haha, usually people complain about not enough pressure:) The bottom line is, no, Bohol Beach Club did not disappoint.

Allan, the General Manager, is truly a class act. I watched him personally check on his guests each and every day. He was a very attentive and accommodating host, but without being intrusive in the slightest. The mark of a true professional!

I’m thankful for the opportunity to share this experience with my readers. I was impressed, but you don’t have to take my word for it, read the reviews for yourself:)

Check Bohol Beach Club rates.

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– Nathan Allen

www.idreamedofthis.com

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Related Blogs: Meet Bohol, the Philippines’ Sun-Kissed Island Paradise

Goodbye, Gopro…I Finally Review the TG-4 Underwater Camera in the Philippines

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By Nathan Allen

This is Island Life

If you’re looking to get away from the fast food chains on other more developed islands, you’ll love Siargao. While it does have a few high-end resorts like Dedon and Kalinaw, for the most part, it still maintains its simple, funky charm. The best part is that if you use a Globe wifi stick, you can get decent signal almost anywhere – and for as little as $1 per day.

The Iconic Cloud 9 Boardwalk

In Siargao, I fulfilled my dream of learning to surf…but I definitely didn’t do it at Cloud 9! This is where you’ll find some of the best surfers in the world. To give you an idea, the waves you’ll see below are nothing compared to the massive swells during the “tournament season” starting in November.

The boardwalk is a great place to watch the sunrise – and also a great place to see professional surfers doing their thing. If you want to learn, “Jacking Horse” is the best place nearby. Don’t worry, there won’t be any shortage of people asking if you would like a lesson.

Things To Do in Siargao

Aside from surfing, there are plenty of other things to experience on the island. You can check out the legendary Drunken Carabao Rides, or the infamous Jungle Party every Tuesday and Saturday. You can stroll through a white-sand beach cemetery. You can also book an island hopping tour, or a fascinating trip to Sohoton Cave.

A Slice of Local Life in General Luna

Check out the town of General Luna for a glimpse of the many fishing villages that dot the shores of the Philippines. Here you’ll find local eateries, as well as the busy market – which sells affordable fresh-caught fish. Local kids love to play at the dock each afternoon. You’ll find them jumping into the water to cool off.

Touring Siargao by Motorbike

One of the best ways to see the island is to rent a motorbike and explore it on your own. It might cost about $7.50USD a day, though you could get an even better price if you rent for many days. I took this shot during a trip to Pacifico and Tak Tak falls.

If you’re going to surf, make sure you get a bike with a rack for your surfboard. FYI, you can also rent a surfboard for about the same price…and renting for many days will get you the best price as well. Getting a ride, a bike, or a board is very easy, because people will offer everywhere you go:)

Magpupungko Tide Pool

About 45 minutes from General Luna is fascinating Magpupungko Tide Pool. This is a great place to swim and cool off. Make sure you check the tide table, because the pool is most beautiful (and safest) during low tide.

Where To Eat

My favorite pizza was at Aventino’s, which has 2 locations on the island, and is quite affordable. Many tourists love to eat at Mama’s Grill, which is a no-frills eatery serving great BBQ pork, chicken and fish. Check out Bravo Surf Resort for excellent Spanish Tapas.

If you want to get away from the crowds and eat like a local, check out Wow Siargao or Kayaha Grill…both closer to Cloud 9 on the way from General Luna (they are on the right, but are easy to miss. You might want to ask a local). If you like sushi, you MUST try the Filipino version called Kinilaw. Kayaha Grill had the best I’ve ever tasted, and it’s just $2.50 a plate!

Siargao Hotels

Buddha’s Surf Resort – Located about halfway between General Luna and Cloud 9, Buddha has a great vibe, very friendly staff, and excellent food. Breakfast comes with the room, and I quite enjoyed it. Speaking of my room, I enjoyed the flat screen TV loaded with movies, and my own personal water dispenser…nice touches! Check Buddha’s Surf Resort rates.

Bravo Beach Resort – This is one of my favorite places to chill out and meet some great people. For me, the music and ambience were just right.  The owner is Spanish, as is the chef. You can find excellent tapas here, and don’t forget to wake up early for sunrise on the beach!  Check Bravo Beach Resort rates

Harana Surf Resort – You’ll find Harana tucked away about 1 km before you get to Cloud 9. I loved the striking architecture – traditional meets modern. Run by 2 Texas surfers who wanted to return to their roots in the Philippines. Great guys, and they host a very popular jam session on Saturday nights. Try the nipa wine! Check Harana rates.

Check out more Siargao hotels HERE.

Budget Options For Backpackers

There is a super cheap Dormitel directly across from Cloud 9. I believe there is one aircon room downstairs, and 8 bunk beds upstairs. Jing’s Place and Paglaom Hostel are both affordable options as well. They are located near Kermit’s, which is a bit more pricey and almost always booked up. Like so many others, you may end up wanting to stay on the island long term. Go to Jacking Horse and ask around for the best monthly rates.

There’s Just Something About Siargao…

Everybody who has visited Siargao seems to absolutely love it, but you won’t really understand why until you’ve experienced it for yourself. Put simply, the island has a great vibe. Let’s hope that it stays this way for many years to come!

Enjoy.

– Nathan Allen

Thanks for reading, and feel free to share the island love!

Like my page to follow along with me:)  – Nathan

Goodbye, Gopro…I Finally Review the TG-4 Underwater Camera in the Philippines

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