South Palms Resort (南方棕櫚渡假村), Luxury resort Panglao
Calling all Bohol beach lovers! The former South Palms Resort Panglao has transformed and is now known as Oceanica Resort Panglao. This beachfront paradise boasts the same stunning seascapes and prime location, but with a fresh new name and, perhaps, exciting updates to discover.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine white sand, thrilling water adventures, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Oceanica Resort Panglao promises an unforgettable island escape. Get ready to experience Bohol beach bliss at Oceanica Resort Panglao!
South Palms Resort is stunning, Luxury resort Panglao, incredibly beautiful, and tranquil. South Palms Resort Panglao (南方棕櫚渡假村) can be found on the pristine Philippine island of Panglao, not far from the capital city of Tagbilaran, Bohol. This truly breath-taking resort has it all from white sandy beaches, topaz seas, uninterrupted views of true paradise, 2 pools, great food, superb staff, oh yeah, and its own farm that grows and farms a lot of the products that you’ll be eating and drinking whilst at your stay.
We have been there as a staying guest and visitor something like 5 times now, so this review comes from first-hand experience. We hope you like it and make this one of your favourite South Palms Resort Panglao reviews.
South Palms Luxury Resort Panglao Review: Contents
Picture courtesy of South Palms Resort Panglao.
Luxury resort Panglao
The breathtaking beachside setting of South Palms Resort Panglao is perhaps one of the most attractive aspects of this resort hotel. The luxury resort Panglao is situated on its very own 1Km stretch of white sand beach, apparently, this runs for 1Km, which is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and generally making the most of the dazzlingly topaz waters of the Philippine seas here.
The first time I walked onto this beach I was truly mesmerized and took these two photos, one to my right, and then the Pano. I had to pinch myself for being so lucky to have the chance to be in paradise found once more in my life.
Beautiful Beachfront resort Panglao
The accommodation at South Palms Resort Panglao is modern, airy, and roomy, and guests have their pick of several different rooms from bungalows, to beachfront premium and up one more to 2 bedroom villas. All of these are furnished with contemporary conveniences such as air-conditioning, televisions with flat-screen displays, and access to the internet via Wi-Fi: it truly is a luxury resort Panglao.
Beachfront resort Panglao
The resort also provides a variety of amenities for guests to make use of while they are staying at South Palms Resort Panglao. These include a spa, two large outdoor swimming pools, a well-equipped fitness center, and two dining selections to choose from. Plus, a not-so-hidden-gem is a 5-minute shuttle bus down the road in their very own South Farm, and she is a beauty. More later.
In addition to these facilities, South Palms Resort Panglao (南方棕櫚渡假村) also provides its visitors with a variety of activities and excursions that they can enjoy throughout their stay. Keep reading and we’ll deep-dive into those below from our adventures at luxury resort Panglao.
Why Panglao Island?
Panglao Island, located in the Bohol province of the Philippines, is a popular tourist destination known for its white sand beaches and world-class diving and snorkelling sites. The island attracts both local Filipinos and foreign visitors, and there are a variety of resorts, hotels, and rental cottages available to accommodate tourists. You could also come here when Bohol celebrates its Fiestas and Festivals.
Overall, Panglao Island is a great destination for travellers looking to enjoy beautiful beaches like Alona Beach, water activities, and a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Whether you are visiting the Philippines for the first time or are returning for a second or third trip, Panglao Island is definitely worth a visit.
We have stayed at South Palms Resort quite a few times now, since ‘finding it’ in 2021 when some Air BnB customers staying at our house, also had a few nights there and posted the experience on Facebook. It is paradise personified, and the food at South Palms Resort Panglao is seriously a top-drawer location. The main reason for that is that most of the produce comes from South Farm, about 1km away from the beach.
The location of South Palms Resort Panglao is a really appealing feature. Some of the most breathtaking, white sandy beaches with topaz seas in the Philippines, such as Alona Beach and Doljo Beach, are located within easy driving distance of the farm and the resort. These beaches are famous for the brilliant clarity of their waters and the pure whiteness of their sand, and they are ideal locations for activities like swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.
But the beach at South Palms is equally stunning, and you can benefit from that with a short walk from your room.
What does South Palms Resort Panglao have to say about themselves?
“A tropical paradise of fine white sand, crystal clear waters and swaying palm trees awaits you at South Palms Resort Panglao in the Philippines. Featuring a traditional Filipino ambience along the waters Bohol beach, our resort is perfect for family holidays, romantic getaways or business trips. Nested in a beautiful place, South Palms Resort Panglao is a vast resort where you will enjoy a safe trip.
Our beach resort in Panglao will allow you to enjoy a tranquil holiday amongst the majestic blue skies and soothing waves of a tropical island paradise. Make lasting memories relaxing at Zenses The Spa, working out at our fitness centre, snorkelling or diving amongst unique marine life”
What is special about South Palms Resort Panglao? It's the best Beachfront Resort Panglao...
I heard a rumor that the km’s of uninterrupted white sandy beaches at South Palm Resort Panglao, is actually the longest beaches in the whole of Panglao. When you walk out onto that beach for the first time it is kind of jaw-dropping, so I get that stat completely.
All 78 rooms and villas at South Palms Resort Panglao offer an atmosphere of tranquillity and modernity. Infusing modern features with traditional Filipino patterns, dotted between the palm trees. All are single stories so they do not interrupt any of the stunning nature on offer to the eyes.
It feels almost like they are eco-cabins, integrated with nature. The design approach of their Panglao apartments and villas creates an atmosphere of true relaxation in a tropical paradise. I can vouch for that.
We walked at night to the bar and restaurant to listen to live music, grab a cocktail or two, and consume some deliciously fresh food. As we did there was a plethora of nature at your feet, with frogs jumping, Hermit Crabs scuttling, exotic birds galore and bats squeaking as they navigate through the trees. Simply amazing. This is not your usual concrete jungle or hotel complex that has taken over nature, this is seamlessly integrated with it.
We have booked into their incredible premium beachfront villas every time we have stayed, well we do have Jude Jude with us. Large, private, and with private beach access to boot, a hammock, and a delightful patio overlooking the most incredible scenery. The premium beachfront rooms have a separate living area and a generous 78 square meters of space, making them perfect for families or couples, and they are beauties.
I really do recommend you to make your next trip to Panglao with the family one to remember by staying in one of their superb Panglao villas. You just sort of deflate. It’s hard to describe, but deflate works for me as all your angst, work pressure, life pressure, anxiety and so on just exhales out of you and you relax as you ‘deflate’. It’s an incredible experience, and he is my son and I do exactly that – deflating on our private hammock.
From your villa patio, you get this view, looking back at the hotel beach and restaurant. Take a breath. Is that not stunning or what?
Walk out the front door of the villa and you get this view of South Palms Resort Panglao’s second pool. It’s almost like having your very own exclusive pool for your stay. There is literally no one here.
I spent hours exploring the shallow topaz waters with my little mate. We found so many Chocolate Chip Cookie Starfish, which are our favorites, and sea cucumber galore. Luckily for them, my Wife was not hungry, and Jude was in a playful mood corralling them like his own starfish livestock.
What dining is there at South Palms Resort Panglao?
What do South Palms Resort Panglao say about their two restaurants?
Oceanica Restaurant South Palms Resort Panglao
Coast Pool Bar South Palms Resort Panglao
“Enjoy a unique experience every day at the Coast Pool Bar, the perfect place to chat, watch the sunset and have fun while savouring your favourite drinks.”
You have to love that coconut. Literally just hacked from the tree above, chopped to give access to the meat and juice inside, and branded in such an uber-cool way. Little things make all the difference. Winner!!!
I have to admit we always gravitated to Coast Pool Bar. It’s a me-thing I sort of can’t get over since watching a lot of Anthony Bourdain, and he said once; “Food Tastes better with Sand Between your Toes…” I had the very good fortune to meet the man once, and boy does his words echo to this day. So, yeah, for us/me, it’s always the beach option, and Coast Pool Bar is a beauty.
South Palms Resort Menu - our dining choices
Fish Steak Off The Grill; 3 pcs of Tangigue marinated in garlic, Calamansi, parsley, and Olive oil, served with Native Sauce and crispy potato chips. @ PHP 425.
South Farm Native Vegetable Law-Oy; Local specialty made with assorted fresh native vegetables, topped with the grilled petite fish filet. This is classic Filipino cuisine. @ PHP 345.
Farm Fresh Spring Rolls; Homemade fresh Spring rolls, filled with South Farm vegetables, served with peanut sauce. @ PHP 295.
Angus Fillet Mignon; USDA beef tenderloin, wrapped in bacon, grilled to your preference, served with garlic truffle mashed potatoes, buttered vegetables, and charred yellow corn. Check out those edible flowers too from South Farm. @ PHP 1,355.
Fish Carpaccio Salad; Fish carpaccio served with mesclun greens tossed in garlic aioli balsamic reduction, roasted shallots, garlic, cherry tomato, and shaved parmesan. NOT a family favourite! @ PHP 495.
Grilled Four Cheese with Chips; Ranch-grilled cheese sandwich, served with crispy potato chips and petite salad. @ PHP 455.
South Palms Resort Panglao Our Conclusions
An opulent beachfront retreat, South Palms Resort is situated on the Philippines’ stunning island of Panglao, Bohol. It is a top location for both visitors and locals because it provides the ideal balance of comfort, relaxation, and adventure.
The hotel is proud of its stunning private white sand shoreline, where visitors can engage in a range of water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The resort’s surroundings’ crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, which can be discovered on excursions or on your own. In addition, visitors can choose to appreciate the tropical weather by lounging on the beach or swimming in the resort’s pools.
The rooms at South Palms Resort are roomy and tastefully decorated, and each one is furnished with contemporary conveniences like air conditioning, flat-screen Televisions, and cozy beds to ensure a restful stay for every visitor. The rooms also have private patios or porches with stunning views of the garden, pool, or ocean.
An all-day dining eatery, a beach bar, and a poolside bar are available for dining at the property. These establishments serve a variety of dishes from around the world as well as light drinks and cocktails. Additionally, guests have the option of having a private dinner on the shore or a candlelit dinner for two.
The resort’s on-site spa provides a range of services, including massages, body treatments, and facials, for those who want to decompress and unwind. The spa’s layout aims to foster a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere so that visitors can completely indulge in a rejuvenating experience.
The South Palms Resort is a superb location for social gatherings, business meetings, and weddings. Up to 200 guests can be accommodated in its large, luxurious function rooms, and any event will have a beautiful backdrop thanks to the resort’s prime beachfront position.
In conclusion, South Palms Resort provides the ideal escape for anyone looking for a lavish and unwinding holiday in the Philippines. It is not surprising that it is one of the best resorts in the country given its stunning setting, cutting-edge amenities, and first-rate service.
One thing I’d suggest when you come and stay at South Palms Resort Panglao is to bring some waterproof shoes. The waters are crystal clear up to about waist deep, but then you start reaching corals, So one, the corals can be very sharp on your feet, but they were covered in nasty little sea urchins. Believe me, you don’t want sea urchin spines in your foot. But maybe bring some tongs and collect these buggers for free Uni. Yummo!!!
You can also jump that shuttle and visit South Farm Panglao for a lovely destress walk, fish, carabao ride, and perhaps even lunch or dinner. Farm-to-Table, and Lake-to-Table in action, right in front of you.
It does not get much better than South Palms Resort Panglao. I truly love this place. It really is a top place to visit in Panglao the Philippines. I have even worked from here once. Come on, that is not a bad office view now is it?
And it is funny that we originally stumbled upon it because an Air BnB client visited and posted on their Facebook. Goodbye to one of my, now, favourite places on the planet. South Palms Resort Panglao. Be seeing you again in June 2023. The return.
What are the opening hours of South Palms Resort Panglao?
24x7x365
What are the contact details of South Palms Resort Panglao?
- Mobile: +639 17 716 7609
- Telephone: +63 38 502 8288
- E-mail: info@southpalmsresort.com
Can you go to South Palms Resort Panglao if not a guest?
Absolutely yes, you can. Just rock up and enjoy. They have a great restaurant on the beach nestled between the palm trees that is just wonderful, offering a mix of local Filipino cuisine and tantalizing Western offerings. Views to die for as you dine with toes in the sand.
What is the address of South Farm Panglao?
Brgy, Panglao, 6340 Bohol, Philippines
How to make a booking at South Palms Resort Panglao?
You can book direct on their website; https://www.southpalmsresort.com/en/
Or the usual suspects such as Booking.com, Agoda, Klook, and so on. Use our BFFs below at Booking.com and Klook Philippines.
What is the cost of a room at South Palms Resort Panglao?
Clearly, this depends on your room choice and the time of year you plan to stay, but you’d need to be budgeting SGD $2-400 a night for a deluxe room including bed and breakfast, per night, which equates to USD $1-300.
How to get to South Palms Resort Panglao?
If you are staying in Panglao it’s a quick 20 minutes scooter or tricycle ride. If you are coming from Tagbilaran, I’d allow about 45 minutes by scooter or tricycle, or 30 minutes by taxi or car.
What is there to do near to South Palms Resort Panglao, Bohol, the Philippines;
South Farm Panglao
On the beautiful island of Panglao, just off Bohol, in the Philippines is where you’ll find the stunning and peaceful South Farm Panglao, which is part of the South Palms Resort Panglao. The farm is located on nine hectares of land and boasts breath-taking vistas of the surrounding countryside. It is the farm supplying produce for the fantastic Filipino cuisine (insert link to 40 unbelievable Filipino foods) at the most beautiful South Palms Resort Panglao (links to that blog and vice versa).
The farm is surrounded by lush greenery and boasts a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. The farm cultivates a wide selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and livestock all of which are utilized in the preparation of scrumptious and wholesome meals for visitors that are staying at South Palms Resort.
Picture courtesy of South Farm Panglao.
South Farm Panglao is an excellent location for having a few hours, maybe lunch or dinner and just taking it easy and unwinding. Anyone who is wishing to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life will find that this spot is the ideal place to go because of its stunning location, and delectable food.
Add to that, that you can get your caveman on and go hunting, well fishing, for your lunch or dinner that the restaurants will then cook up for you then and there. That in itself is quite unique. We have benefitted from fishing kilos of Tilapia and Milkfish from their lakes, it’s such fun to be sustainable, catching your lunch.
Picture courtesy of South Farm Panglao.
Map of South Farm Panglao, map of the Philippines
Hinagdanan Cave Panglao
There is also Hinagdanan Cave within the town of Dauis on Panglao. There are many visitors each year who come to see the stalactite and stalagmite formations for which it is famous. The cave features a huge, crystal-clear underground pool that you can swim in, as many different kinds of bats, that make the cave their home, fly above.
Map of Hinagdanan Cave Panglao, map of the Philippines
Chocolate Hills Panglao
Then you simply must visit The Chocolate Hills, which are one of the most incredible geological features that can be found on the island of Bohol in the Philippines. There are between 1,260 and 1,776 hills, each measuring 30-50 meters (100-160 feet) in height.
The hills get their name because the grass acquires a chocolate brown colour during the dry season. The Chocolate Hills Panglao are a must-see for any visitor to Bohol, and rightfully so, as they are one of Bohol’s most famous sights. The Philippines has designated these hills as a National Geological Monument, making them protected. And the Philippine National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) has designated them a protected landscape.
There are some very cool adventure parks in and around the Chocolate Hills, with ATVs, zip lines, bunjy-jumps, and so on.
Map of the Chocolate Hills Bohol, map of the Philippines
Blood Compact Tagbilaran
A little morbid, but super-interesting for any history buffs is The Blood Compact which came from a ceremony in the Philippines called the Sandugo (or the Blood Compact) that was used to solidify a friendship or a bond between the Filipinos and the Spanish. For this rite, both participants cut themselves and then shared a cup of their mingled blood together.
The native chieftain of Bohol, Datu Sikatuna, and the Spanish conquistador, Don Miguel López de Legazpi, are claimed to have performed the ritual on the island of Panglao in Bohol in 1565. A memorial commemorating the Blood Compact may be found just outside Tagbilaran City-centre. Sandugo itself has become a major festival now in Tagbilaran, click here to read more in our 14 exciting Filipino festivals of 2023
Map of the Blood Compact Tagbilaran
To be honest, it is quite endless what we could recommend. The list of cool things to do will just go on and on including; island-hopping tours, snorkelling and diving excursions, and other aquatic adventures that will get your pulse-pumping, as we did with Whale Sharks at Lila, on Bohol. We’ll cover some more of these incredible opportunities later in the blog.
Clearly, The South Palms Resort Panglao is consistently ranked as one of the best resorts in the area, rightly so, and provides guests with everything they might want or need for a vacation that is both restful and pleasurable while on the breathtakingly beautiful island of Panglao.
This resort has everything you might want for a vacation, whether you want to unwind with some sunbathing on the beach, get pampered at the spa, or explore the local culture and do some bucket-list activities. It’s a stunner, and if you have the budget, has to be on your die-die-must-try itinerary whilst on Panglao Island.
One of the top attractions in the area is the famous Alona Beach, which is just a short drive from South Palms Resort Panglao. The beach is known for its white sandy shores and crystal clear waters, and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
If you’re interested in nature and wildlife, Panglao Island is home to a number of interesting attractions. The island is home to a number of species of birds, including the Philippine Eagle, which is not only one of the largest eagles on the planet, but also one of the rarest and most endangered eagles in the world.
You can also visit the Philippine Tarsier Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a number of tarsiers, the planet’s smallest primates found only in the Philippines. How could you not want to see this little fella on your trip?
Panglao Island is also home to a number of cultural attractions, such as the Bohol Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and cultural objects from the region. The island is also home to a number of churches and temples, including the St. Augustine Church, which dates back to the 16th century, and Baclayon Church, which was founded in 1596 by Spanish Jesuit priests and was originally made of wood and nipa (a type of grass).
Bohol Island Hopping
Panglao Bohol diving
An island-hopping journey. The beautiful reefs and abundant marine life off the coast of Panglao are a haven for scuba divers and snorkelers.
You won’t be able to find the words to describe the beauty of places like Balicasag Island, Cabilao Island, Pamilacan Island, and the Habagat Shipwreck: the very best Panglao Bohol diving.
Seriously have thought about visiting Balicasag Island for snorkelling and diving. It will take you about 45 minutes on a local Filipino outrigger to get there and then transfer to a smaller boat. We have done this and swam with sea turtles in 10-15m depth topaz seas, and then floated over incredible drop-offs that divers would be scrambling to explore. Balicasag Island is a tiny tropical paradise.
The island is surrounded by reefs and reef fish, making it a prime location for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Panglao Bohol diving
The Balicasag Marine Sanctuary is a popular destination due to its vibrant coral reefs and a wide variety of fish species, including parrotfish, angelfish, and clownfish. Both novice and seasoned divers will enjoy exploring the spectacular underwater world at the refuge.
While scuba diving and snorkeling are certainly two of the most popular things to do on the island, there are many other things to do as well. Guests can relax with a stroll around the island, swim in the inviting waters, or test their fishing skills in the calm seas.
All things considered, Balicasag Island is a Philippine treasure that you should not pass up. The stunning marine life and tranquil environment make it an ideal getaway for people who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and rediscover the beauty of marine nature.
Map of Balicasag Island
Bohol Bee Farm
A trip to the Bohol Bee Farm is an absolute necessity if you are interested in having an experience that is both one-of-a-kind and informative while you are on the island of Bohol. This eco-friendly farm can be found in the town of Panglao, and its mission is to educate people about the significance of bees to the natural world while also working to preserve and protect them.
When guests arrive at the Bohol Bee Farm, they are greeted by a member of the helpful staff who provides a concise summary of the farm as well as its primary objective. After that, you will start the tour with a visit to the bee colonies, where you will learn about the life cycle of bees as well as the vital function that they play in the process of pollinating plants.
A number of different beehives are on show at the farm, including one that is constructed traditionally out of logs and one that is constructed more recently out of plastic. You will also have the opportunity to get very close to the bees and watch them go about their busy life.
A wide range of plants and animals call the Bohol Bee Farm in Bohol, Philippines, their home in addition to the bees. The farm is home to a number of animals, including chickens, ducks, and goats, and also features a verdant garden with a wide selection of vegetables and herbs. Solar energy and natural products are used in the construction of the farm’s buildings, as the owners of the farm are dedicated to environmental preservation.
At the Bohol Bee Farm, visitors have the chance to try and purchase honey that was made in the area. This is one of the attraction’s features. The farm sells a wide range of honey-based products, including unprocessed honey, honeycomb, and honey-infused cosmetics and personal care items such as lip balm and body lotion. The honey is not only tasty, but it also provides a memorable keepsake from your time spent in Bohol.
In general, the Bohol Bee Farm is a location that is not only entertaining but also educational, making it appropriate for tourists of all ages. Visit the Bohol Bee Farm if you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind experience on the island, whether you’re interested in bees, the environment, or simply want to do something different.
Whale Shark Swimming Lila, Panglao
Panglao Bohol diving
Click here for our YouTube review of Taug Whale Shark Snorkelling.
Some individuals of the whale shark can grow to be over 40 feet long, making it the largest fish in the world. These gentle giants can be found all around the world in warm temperate and tropical waters, and they are a favourite subject for underwater photographers and snorkelers. In the Philippines, the municipality of Lila offers one of the best opportunities to swim among whale sharks.
On the island of Bohol, in the middle of the Philippine archipelago, you’ll find the quaint little town of Lila. The waters nearby are home to a thriving population of whale sharks, which can be spotted at any time of the year. Swimming beside these magnificent animals is an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life, and it is one that you must not pass up if you find yourself in this part of the world.
You will need to schedule a tour with a local operator in order to swim with the whale sharks in Lila. These tours normally include transportation to and from the diving location, all of the essential equipment, and the assistance of a qualified guide. The trips typically last for approximately one-third of a day, and during that time, you will have the opportunity to swim alongside whale sharks for approximately sixty minutes.
Panglao Bohol diving
Your guide will deliver a briefing on safety guidelines and the behavior of whale sharks before you venture out onto the ocean. It is essential to keep in mind the need to keep a safe distance away from whale sharks at all times, to refrain from touching them in any manner, and to not disturb them in any way. These are wild animals, and as such, they deserve to be handled with care and respect.
After you have entered the water, you will get the chance to swim alongside whale sharks and study them up close while you do so. The combination of these animals’ enormous size and kind demeanour makes them awe-inspiring to say the least. Being in the same room as such a magnificent animal is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should not be missed.
Book your tour well in advance if you want to swim with whale sharks in Lila, Philippines, and make sure to do so if you want to avoid disappointment. During the busiest times of the year, these tours might reach capacity very rapidly. Do not pass up the chance to swim with these incredible animals since it is an experience that you will never forget.
Map to Whale Shark Swimming Lila, Bohol, map of the Philippines
Best restaurants near to South Palms Resort Panglao
In the province of Bohol in the Philippines is where you’ll find the tropical paradise that is Panglao Island. It is the ideal location for anyone looking for a tropical vacation thanks to its powdery white sand beaches, gin-blue waters, and thriving coral reefs. Panglao Island is known for its natural beauty, but it is also home to some of the most acclaimed dining establishments, and I should know as I have likely eaten in them all.
So, if you are in and around South Farm Panglao, here are a few options for you to consider and sate your hunger. Click here to read our original Top 10 restaurants near to South Farm Panglao. But then also have a look at the newly opened and soon-to-be-included in our, soon to come, Top 15 Restaurants in Bohol.
You can also read our top 1o restaurants in Bohol. And, to help you choose what to eat, how about reading up on 40 unbelievable Filipino foods?
Mist Restaurant is Best Restaurant in Panglao
Mist Restaurant, Panglao – read the blog for a complete review of this most awesome restaurant in Panglao. Our first visit was this year in December 2022, and now a top location for us. Best restaurant in Panglao.
Read our Full Review of Mist Restaurant Panglao 2023 – and the Mist Restaurant Panglao Menu 2023.
What are the contact details for Mist Restaurant Panglao?
- Address; Panglao Island Circumferential Rd, Panglao, Bohol, Philippines
- Phone: +63 995 069 2557
- Opening times; 10:30am-10:30pm every day