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Balicasag Island is a small island that belongs to the Bohol region, but lies only about 25–30 kilometers off the coast of Cebu. Most visitors to Balicasag Island come from Panglao and Bohol, just as we did. In this post you will find everything about Balicasag Island at a glance.
Balicasag Island Guide
Getting to Balicasag Island
Getting to Balicasag usually means going via the nearby island of Panglao, which is reachable by plane via Bohol-Panglao International Airport. From there, numerous resorts and local operators offer boat trips to the island that usually take about 30 minutes.
At Danao Beach you can also hire a boat directly; the price is negotiable, but should usually be around 2,500 PHP per boat.
At Alona Beach there are more than enough options for the trip to Balicasag Island as well, but in principle arriving via Danao Beach is the best way to get to Balicasag Island.
Another option for exploring Balicasag Island is guided tours, which can be booked at Alona Beach, at local travel agencies and of course online via GetYourGuide*.
Accommodation on Balicasag Island
Balicasag Island is inhabited, and Balicasag Island Dive Resort is the only accommodation for tourists. Since Typhoon Odette in 2021, however, Balicasag Island Dive Resort has been closed and was still NOT reopened in 2025. So there is currently no option to stay overnight on Balicasag Island.
The island can therefore only be explored on day trips. It is advisable to stay on Panglao at Alona Beach. One hotel recommendation for Alona Beach here:
Balicasag Island Beaches
Balicasag Island is a small, almost round island lined with beaches all around. Many stretches are rocky or have rough coral sand. The nicest sandy beach is at the Marine Sanctuary.
The public beach and other stretches are freely accessible, while a conservation fee has to be paid for the Marine Sanctuary.
Snorkeling & Diving on Balicasag Island
Besides sunbathing and swimming, it is mainly snorkeling and diving that draw most visitors to Balicasag Island. The following spots are the best known and are also 100% easy to access for snorkelers.
Marine Sanctuary
The Marine Sanctuary on Balicasag Island is a protected marine reserve famous for its breathtaking underwater world. Visitors can discover a fascinating variety of corals, tropical fish and sea turtles here, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. To protect the fragile environment, access is strictly regulated. Entry to the Marine Sanctuary costs about 250 PHP per person and is only possible until 12 noon. After that, visitors can only enter the island’s public beach.
Tickets for the Marine Sanctuary must be bought in advance at Danao Beach, the starting point of the boats that go to Balicasag. It is best to arrive early, as visitor numbers are limited and the rules help protect the experience sustainably.
Unfortunately that only really works in theory. There are still corals, plenty of fish and even turtles at the Marine Sanctuary, but Typhoon Odette and many careless tourists have permanently damaged a large part of the coral garden.
In principle a visit to the Marine Sanctuary is definitely worthwhile, but it is a shame that it cannot be visited all day, which would help spread out the crowds a little. As it is, everything is concentrated on the morning.
Turtles Point
Turtles Point is another snorkeling spot on Balicasag Island, known mainly for sightings of sea turtles. Access here is also only allowed with the Sanctuary ticket.
More Spots for Snorkeling and Diving
Besides the famous Marine Sanctuary, Balicasag Island offers more first-class snorkeling and diving spots known for their exceptional underwater world. One highlight is the so-called Black Forest, a steeply dropping reef that impresses with its black corals and the variety of colorful reef fish such as angelfish and parrotfish. This spot is especially popular with divers, as turtles and occasionally even reef sharks can often be seen here. For snorkelers, the shallower zone around Diving Point West is a good fit, where lively coral formations and a vibrant ecosystem can be experienced up close. The clear, warm waters and the light current make the island an ideal place for both beginners and experienced divers.
Guided snorkeling and diving trips are organized by local operators and are a perfect way to discover the full beauty of this underwater world. If you go on your own, it is advisable to agree with the boatman in advance that he should take you to various snorkeling spots, as the beach is only partly easy to explore on foot.
Conclusion Balicasag Island Guide
Balicasag Island is without doubt a beautiful spot that impresses with its underwater world and scenic drone views. The beaches are partly rough and offer only a few sandy stretches, yet the island still leaves a lasting positive impression. Unfortunately the growing mass tourism is noticeable, and it is a pity that the former dive resort has been closed for years – a chance to enjoy the island away from the crowds is lost with that. Still, a visit to Balicasag is an absolute must from our point of view if you are on Panglao Island, because the natural beauty and the unique experience make this side trip unforgettable.
Do you have any questions or additions about Balicasag Island? Leave a comment!