Where love, origin, and history meets you…
Photo by Mr. Al Dave Gonzalez
Ready to experience the picturesque sandbar and pristine white sand with shallow crystal-clear water? Then Pungtud Island is just the place for you. Pungtud Island is known as the Virgin Island in Bohol. Where it shows beautiful crystal clear waters and a famous picturesque c-shaped sandbar that emerges during low-tide. With visitors even describing it similarly to a comma, bent spoon, and even sometimes a tadpole where it curves into the sea. The Island is located at the coast of Panglao, Bohol.
Pungtud’s Origin
The name Pungtud Island likely originates from the Visayan word “Pungtud” which means sandbar or shoal. It correlates with the island’s defining feature, the c-shaped sandbar that emerges during low tide, which makes it like a semi-hidden esque sandbar.
Locals and Travellers often refer to it as Virgin Island, which emphasizes the untouched beauty and serene atmosphere. Some would even say that it is a hidden paradise that emphasizes its tranquil and almost ethereal beauty.
The Island, under the jurisdiction of Panglao, is managed by the Panglao Island and Balicasag Island Area Management Board. The virgin slang is part of the municipality of Panglao, which is known for its rich history and vibrant culture. In recent years, parts of the island have been fenced off due to private ownership, which limits access to certain areas.
How to Get There?
Exact Location: Panglao, Bohol Philippines
- By Car: If you’re in Tagbilaran City, you have to drive to Panglao Island via the Borja Bridge or New Panglao-Tagbilaran Bridge which takes around 30 minutes to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Because Pungtud Island is a sandbar you cannot reach it by land. Then once there, head to departure points between: Alona beach – Popular for Island-hopping tours, Momo beach – a quieter alternative, or Doljo beach – offers private boat rentals. Then you have the option between renting a boat or by joining an island-hopping tour. Travel time from Panglao to Pungtud Island is around 15-20 minutes
- By Commute: You can take a jeepney or tricycle from Tagbilaran City to Panglao which takes around 30-40 minutes. The fare is around ₱50-₱100, depending on the mode of transportation. Because Pungtud Island is a sandbar you cannot reach it by land. Then once there, head to departure points between: Alona beach – Popular for Island-hopping tours, Momo beach – a quieter alternative, or Doljo beach – offers private boat rentals. Travel time from Panglao to Pungtud Island is around 15-20 minutes.
