Pamilacan Island – the Bohol’s Best Kept Secret
It was my first time in Bohol and the first time in the Philippines.
It was a big dream to see on my own eyes this gorgeous archipelagic country, so when the opportunity came up, I couldn’t resist!
I spent over a month in Bohol, traveling on a scooter and discovering all the best places, which are still wild and pure.
All right Kinga, but where are you going with this introduction?
Well, as you probably know, I always beat the crowds and try to show you the authentic way to discover each country. After little research and a meeting with local fisherman, I found myself on a pump-boat to the Bohol’s best kept secret – Pamilacan Island.
I was so exited to explore a new island, especially very little known and see how people live there.
Pamilacan Island is located only 12,5km away from Bohol island and the journey takes about an hour or less, depending on weather conditions. The island is a suburb of the Municipality of Baclayon.
The small paradise is home to over 200 families, which live and form a community together.
Pamilacan island is not only another blessed with white sand beaches island in the Philippines, but it also has a long story behind it. In the past, this place was a center of hunting whale sharks and cetaceans. Over the years, the community made a complete transformation. Today, the residents protect and take care of the marine life of the Bohol sea. They put effort to support the Pamilacan’s fishermen community, which also look after the safety of whale sharks.
The life on the Pamilacan island is very simple. Most residents are fisherman, who depend on fishing to provide them with food from the sea. However, today the biggest income comes from tourism.
The main attractions for visitors include dolphin and whale watching, snorkeling, diving and fishing. During the day, you can explore beaches and lay down on the soft, white sand, which feels like powder under your feet. Also, you can have a walk inside the island to see how residents live and work there.
If you have some time, I recommend to stay on the Pamilacan island at least for one night! There are few very well known cottages where you can stay. I chose Liwayway sa Bohol – Pamilacan Bed & Breakfast and couldn’t be happier! The food was very tasty, the hospitality just perfect and the family very lovely and welcoming.
The local food consists mostly fishes, rice and vegetables. There are three meals per day and honestly, they are absolutely awesome. Everything is freshly prepared, well seasoned and super healthy. And don’t forget to try fried bananas! A taste of heaven in mouth.
Oh and the sunset on the Pamilacan island!
Believe me or not, but it was one of the most spectacular sunsets I have ever seen!
From yellow, orange to red and pink, the sky was just like a dream. And as it was raining on the north of the Pamilacan island, a little rainbow appeared on the sky, brightening the little Fort on the island. Little miracles!
HOW TO GET THERE
From Tagbilaran city, take a bus or a motor to Baclayon Pier. When you reach the place, talk to locals and say that you want to go to Pamilacan Island. Keep in mind that you would have to wait for a boat, as there are only few boats going to the island per day. The cost depends on your bargain skills, however, the total cost for a whole boat cannot be lower than 1500 PHP. I paid 250 PHP that day (total 8 persons).
You can also rent a boat for yourself at Alona beach. There are plenty of boats ready to take you to this paradise, but be aware that the price can be higher.
Are you already planning your dream holiday? Pamilacan Island will surely sweep you off your feet the moment you step here.