Bohol, Philippines
Balicasag is a 25-hectare marine sanctuary in the Bohol Sea. Known for its sea turtles and steep drop-offs, it requires a 30 to 45-minute boat ride from Panglao.
4.9 from 8 traveller reviews on Viator
Tickets & tours
Compare group boat trips and private excursions departing from Alona Beach.
Best valueTwo snorkeling stops. Sea turtles. Dolphins. Virgin Island. A BBQ lunch on board. The morning starts with a boat ride in search of wild dolphins before arriving at...
Top ratedThe Balicasag and dolphin watching stands out because we time the trip smarter to avoid crowds and boost sightings, prioritize safety and guest support (especially for...
Most bookedEnjoy a hassle-free Balicasag Island adventure where everything is taken care of for you. Cruise across the Bohol Sea in search of wild dolphins, snorkel among vibrant...
Explore
Discover designated zones for surface swimming and deep diving.
Balicasag strictly limits diving to 150 certified divers per day.
Book permits in advance.
Plan your visit
Most boat tours last 4 to 6 hours. This includes travel time and snorkeling stops.
Visit between December and May. February to May offers the calmest seas.
Boats depart from Alona Beach. The ride takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills. Small cash bills are essential.
Balicasag Island is a protected marine sanctuary located 6 kilometers southwest of Panglao Island. The local community consists of roughly 100 families. They primarily work in tourism and fishing.
The island features five main dive sites, including Black Forest and Cathedral Wall. Snorkelers mostly visit Turtle Point and the shallow coral gardens. A mandatory local guide in a paddleboat is required for all snorkelers.
Read our guide on Snorkeling Rules to understand the sanctuary limits. You can also review Tour Cost Guide to see what is included in standard boat rates.
We list exactly what is covered, like environmental fees and lunch.
We highlight departure times and total trip duration.
We check tours against current local marine sanctuary regulations.
From Viator
8 reviews of the balicasag day tour on Viator
Our trip to Balicasag Island was a wonderful experience with my family. On our way to the island, we enjoyed watching dolphins swimming and jumping near our boat. When we arrived, we went diving and saw beautiful corals and marine life underwater. The clear water and amazing scenery made the experience even more enjoyable. I really had a great time and would love to visit Balicasag Island again!
Rocky our guide was amazing, and helped us capture some really good pictures! He guided us on our snorkeling adventures, and was very informative. Thank you for a spectacular experience
Nice way to see a lot of bohol nicest things. Loved the variation of the tour. The first museum visit was very interesting. The tarsiers were cute too see and it wasn’t too crowded for them, I would recommend taking the lunch on the river. Good food and nice to experience! Great tour organisation
Overall the experience is a smooth one. The view and lunch was amazing. The guide is friendly as well. Would recommend if you would like to get to know BOHOL countryside a little.
It was an excellent ride to our hotel from the airport! The driver was nice and helpful. Will use this service again and recommend to friends!
Good communicator, Punctual and Good price. The van is clean and the complimentary water bottle is a plus!
Travel tips
Tour Cost GuideA breakdown of Balicasag group tours, private boats, and extra fees.Read 
Snorkeling RulesLearn about the mandatory guide policy and marine sanctuary rules.Read 
Balicasag vs PamilacanCompare Balicasag's sea turtles and corals with Pamilacan's whales.Read 
Best Visit TimeWhen to visit Balicasag for calm seas and clear visibility.Read 
Packing ListEssential gear and items to pack for your boat trip to Balicasag.Read 
Dive Permit GuideHow to secure one of the 150 daily dive slots at Balicasag Island.Read You get there by boat from Alona Beach in Panglao. The ride takes 30 to 45 minutes. You can join a group island-hopping tour or hire a private bangka.
Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills. This fee usually covers the mandatory local paddleboat guide. Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills.
Yes. Green and hawksbill sea turtles are common at Turtle Point. However, touching, chasing, riding, or feeding them is strictly prohibited.
The best time is during the dry season from December to May. The months of February to May offer the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Yes. Accessing the island requires a boat. Booking a tour or hiring a private boat from Panglao is the standard way to visit.
Travel time ranges from 30 to 45 minutes. Departures are typically from Alona Beach.
Secure your island-hopping tour from Panglao today.
