The simplest way to reach Panglao is to fly into Bohol-Panglao International Airport (airport code TAG), which sits on Panglao Island itself. From Manila the flight takes roughly an hour and a quarter to an hour and a half. The other route is the fast ferry from Cebu City to Tagbilaran, then a road transfer across the bridge to Panglao. This guide covers both routes and how to get from the airport to your resort.
Ways to Reach Panglao at a Glance
| Route | Travel time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fly from Manila to Panglao Airport (TAG) | About 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes | Nonstop on Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines |
| Fast ferry from Cebu City to Tagbilaran | About 2 hours | OceanJet sails from Cebu's Pier 1, then a road transfer to Panglao |
| Panglao Airport to Alona Beach by car | Most guides say about 15 to 20 minutes | Some guides give a shorter time |
Is Panglao Airport the same as Tagbilaran Airport?
In practice, yes. Bohol-Panglao International Airport opened in late November 2018 and replaced the old Tagbilaran Airport as the gateway to Bohol, with all flights moving to the new airport from 28 November 2018, according to Philstar. The airport is on Panglao Island, not in Tagbilaran City.
How do you fly to Panglao Airport from Manila?
Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly the Manila to Panglao route nonstop, and booking sites quote flight times of roughly 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Check schedules on the airline websites, because frequencies change.
Is Panglao Airport an international airport?
It is classified as an international airport, and Philippine Airlines moved its Incheon flights to it when it opened. International routes can change, so check with the airlines, and expect to connect through Manila or Cebu for many routes.
Can you get to Panglao by ferry?
Yes. OceanJet runs fast ferries between Cebu City's Pier 1 and Tagbilaran, and the crossing takes about 2 hours. Tagbilaran is on Bohol's main island, so you then need a road transfer across the bridge to Panglao. Allow extra time for that leg.
How do you get from Panglao Airport to your resort?
You have a few options once you land:
- Pre-arranged resort transfer. Resorts such as Amihan Resort in Danao, Panglao, can arrange round-trip airport transfers. Amihan is about 7 minutes by car from the airport.
- Shared or private transfer. These can be booked in advance, and they save you negotiating on arrival.
- Tricycle. Tricycles are available outside the terminal. Fares are negotiated, and guides quote around PHP 150 to 250 for a whole tricycle to central Alona, so agree on the price before you board.
How do you check your transfer is sorted?
Before you travel, confirm three things:
- Your resort has your flight details and arrival time.
- You know the price agreed for the transfer and whether it covers the return trip.
- You have the resort's phone number saved offline. Amihan Resort's front desk is open 24 hours: +63 38 427 1929 or +63 947 202 6694.
If your flight is delayed, message the resort ahead so they can adjust the pickup.
Where can you stay close to Panglao Airport?
Amihan Resort in Danao, Panglao is about 7 minutes by car from the airport. It is not beachfront, and it is a 7 to 8 minute walk to Alona Beach. The resort has 25 rooms across five types, one shared outdoor pool and a poolside lounge bar, and the guests can use the pool, restaurant and lounge areas at the adjacent Bathala Resort. Round-trip airport transfers can be arranged through the resort's tour desk, and scooter rental and private car hire on request.
Book at amihanresortpanglao.com, by phone, or by email at [email protected].