Panglao Island Hopping: Dolphins, Balicasag & Virgin Island
Overview
Set out from Panglao at first light, when the sea is at its calmest, in a traditional outrigger bangka. The first stop is the open water off Pamilacan, where pods of dolphins often surface around the boats in the early morning; sightings are common but never guaranteed.
Next comes Balicasag Island, a marine sanctuary ringed by coral reef. Snorkel along the edge of the reef, where the sea floor drops away into deep blue, and look for turtles, schools of fish and soft corals. The island also has a white-sand beach for a break in the sun.
The last stop is Virgin Island, off Panglao, where a long sandbar appears at low tide, perfect for wading in the shallows; at high tide you swim around the island instead. Expect to be back at your hotel around lunchtime. Tours usually include hotel pickup and the boat; snorkel gear, sanctuary fees and lunch vary by operator.
Highlights
- Dolphin watching at sunrise off Pamilacan
- Snorkel the reef wall at Balicasag
- Turtles and reef fish in a marine sanctuary
- Sandbar at Virgin Island at low tide
- Back by lunchtime
What's included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off on Panglao
- Shared outrigger boat and crew
- Snorkel gear, unless stated by the operator
- Balicasag sanctuary and island fees, unless stated by the operator
- Lunch
- Tips
Location
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Itinerary
Frequently asked questions
Sightings are common in the early morning but they're wild animals, so nothing is guaranteed. Boats keep their distance and don't feed them.
Usually between 5:30 and 6:00am, to reach the dolphin area at the best time. You're normally back around midday.
