Overview of the Area

Anda is on the east side of the province and is known for having the best beaches in Bohol. This place has a more laid-back atmosphere, away from crowds and tourists. To reach Anda from Manila, you can catch a flight directly to Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol. Then, from Tagbilaran, it’s a 2-hour drive through the scenic, rural charm of the island province’s countryside.

Must-Visit Spots and Attractions

Anda Beach

Anda Beach offers relatively untouched waters which is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. This place has fewer crowds and is a perfect setting for sunsets. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, then you should discover this hidden gem. And, if you wanna get into the more exciting, you can snorkel on the lively coral reefs offshore and observe diverse marine life.

Although Anda Beach is on the remote side of Bohol, it has many accommodation options. The best time to visit Anda Beach is from November to April as there are fewer chances of rainfall.

Quinale Beach

Many people immediately think of Boracay, El Nido, and Puerto Galera, when talking about white sand beaches in the Philippines. Tourists have yet to discover this majestic place. While it’s gradually becoming popular, it’s still not as known as other Bohol beaches like Dumaluan, Panglao, and Alona. 

Quinale Beach has shallow waters, thus, making it friendly for travelling families with kids. The beach also has a bar that offers food for a reasonable price. Such a steal for a beach bar, to be honest. This place is more suitable for a relaxing getaway, far from the city.

Cabagnow Cave Pool

Cabagnow is a cave pool in Bohol and is known for being the deepest among the five other ones in the southeastern part of the province. This hidden gem comes with deep, blue water, that offers a different swimming experience. Tourists can dive into this cool water or use an iron ladder for a safer entry. And, if you’re not a swimmer, don’t worry, there’s an available ring buoy in the area.

You can see tons of limestone formations. Harsh weather, seawater filtering of soft limestone rocks, and other geologic activities have formed cave pools like this. This has enticed both locals and foreign tourists. But unlike other natural attractions, Cabagnow is private property but can be accessed for a fee.

Lamanok Island

On the easternmost edge of Anda, you can find Lamanok– the “cradle of civilization” in Bohol. It’s technically not an island, but a point or a peninsula. But since you can only access it by boat, it’s customary to refer to it as an island. 

Lamanok is home to several caves that showcase ancient cave paintings and burial sites. With a short boat ride on a guided tour, you can have more insights about its history and significance in Bohol history. It’s best to go here during high tides, so you can kayak along the thick mangroves that stretch back to the mainland. Also, snorkelling here is a must. There’s a marine sanctuary of sea stars, giant clams, and other varied species.

Combento Cave Pool

Like Cabagnow, Combento is another popular cave pool. Although it’s not as vast as you may imagine, it’s spacious and interesting enough to visit. This pool also doesn’t make you claustrophobic since its wide opening allows ample light to enter. The water reaches the neck level depending on the tide. 

If you have a lot of free time, it’s nice to check out the smaller cave pools in Anda– Kaligoon Cave Pool, East Coast Cave Pool, and Kalorenzo Cave Pool.

Can-Umantad Falls

Can-Umantad is the tallest waterfall in Bohol at 60 feet high. Because of its height, its cool waters fall in several layers before finally pouring down into its basin. As a result, getting close to the waterfall’s final layer is not that frightening. 

If you’re someone who loves to hike, there are climbing trails that lead to the top of the falls. You can get a spectacular view of the place and its lush forest from above. Although Can-Umantad is not in Anda, tourists don’t leave Bohol without taking a dip here. It’s just near Anda, in the town of Candijay. Driving to this place only takes about an hour.

The Perfect Itinerary with Anda Tour Package

This 2-day Anda Bohol Package Tour will take you to the best of what Bohol can offer. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, visit the Can-Umantad Falls, swim in Cadapdapan Rice Terraces, and see other iconic spots like the Chocolate Hills. This also includes a quick stop at historical sites like the Baclayon Church and a driving tour of the Bilar man-made forest. One of the best parts of this tour is Lamanok Island: the main attraction in Anda. You’ll be amazed by its rock shelter, ancient graveyard, boat coffins, and caves with prehistoric paintings. 

Itinerary Overview:

On the first day, your tour begins at 8:00 AM from Abraham Bohol in a comfortable coaster or bus. By 8:30 AM, you’ll reach the Chocolate Hills viewpoint where you can opt for an ATV tour. At 10:00 AM, enjoy a scenic drive through the Bilar man-made Forest, followed by a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary at 11:00 AM. You’ll then have some free time at the Loboc River at noon, where you can try out a stand-up paddleboard tour. After a quick stop at Baclayon Church at 2:00 PM, you’ll head to Anda, arriving at the Cabagnow Cave pool by 5:15 PM for a refreshing swim. Departing from there at 6:00 PM, you’ll arrive at the Hostel by 6:15 PM.

The next morning starts with breakfast at 7:30 AM, followed by a tour of Lamanok Island at 9:30 AM. At noon, you’ll depart for the Cadapdapan Rice Terraces and arrive by 1:00 PM, just in time for lunch. Afterwards, enjoy a walk through the Rice Terraces and visit Can Umantad Falls. The day wraps up with a drive back to Abraham Bohol, making a stop at Chido Cafe at 6:00 PM, before arriving back at your starting point by 7:00 PM. Please note that the times for departures and arrivals might vary.

Essential Anda Travel Tips

The best time to visit is during the dry season – November to April. There are fewer chances of rain, which makes it favourable for beach activities, outdoor attractions, and hiking trails. If you’re visiting Lamanok Island in the event of bad weather, the cancellation will rely on the discretion of the Philippine Coast Guard. But you don’t have to worry since guided tours ensure your trip is smooth. 

There are various transportation options around here – from tricycles to jeepneys, and motorbike rentals. Tricycles are suitable for travelling short distances, while jeepneys are ideal for farther areas. Renting motorbikes is popular here for tourists since it gives freedom and lets you travel at your own pace. Overall, it’s relatively easy to navigate, but guided tours can have everything arranged for you.

Internet connectivity and cell signals are generally reliable, although it’s somewhat remote. The locals speak the Visayan language and are knowledgeable speakers of English. Communicating with them is usually straightforward, and their hospitable nature will upgrade your travel experience.

While you can see the traces of tourists in other travel destinations, Anda continues to offer its unspoiled nature. Anda promises an unforgettable travel experience whether you’re on its white sand beaches, deep blue water cave pools, or exploring its history on Lamanok Island. This destination is a perfect mix of relaxation and exciting adventures.