Panglao, municipality of the Philippines in the province of Bohol
Panglao is a municipality on an island in Bohol province on the Philippines and sits along the coast. The town covers around 90 square kilometers and is connected to mainland Bohol by two bridges, with its southern tip featuring several popular white sand beaches such as Alona Beach, Dumaluan Beach, and Doljo Beach.
Panglao was founded by Spanish explorers arriving from Cebu and received its name based on a local word. During the 19th century, a five-story octagonal watchtower was built, which is the tallest of its kind in the Philippines and reflects Spanish settlers' interest in protecting the coast.
The name Panglao comes from a local word meaning 'lonesome place'. The community keeps its bond with the sea through traditional fishing and local celebrations like the San Agustin festival in late August, when residents wear bright clothes and hold processions and dances to honor their patron saint.
The best time to visit is the dry season from December to April with sunny weather and calm seas. An international airport on the island makes arrival easy, and you can rent motorcycles or use tricycles locally to explore at your own pace.
The Nova Shell Museum houses one of the world's largest seashell collections, and scientists confirm that the island has the most diverse shell variety in the South Pacific with over a hundred different species. These rare and colorful shells attract collectors and nature lovers.
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