Panaon Island

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
18/08/2025
Wawa Bridge connects Panaon island to mainland Leyte.
Ronald Tagra, Wikimedia Commons

Panaon Island offers an exceptional marine environment, making it a prime destination for underwater exploration and encounters with diverse marine life. Visitors can experience vibrant coral reefs and witness whale sharks, locally known as "Tikitiki," often sighted year-round. Beyond its rich underwater world, the island provides secluded white sand beaches and lush natural landscapes for tranquil discovery.

The island's ambiance is primarily focused on nature and diving, with opportunities to connect with fellow visitors at local dive resorts, such as Pintuyan Dive Resort.

Top 4 Things to do in Panaon Island

Panaon Island offers immersive experiences centered around its vibrant marine ecosystems and serene natural landscapes.

1. Whale Shark Interaction (Snorkeling)

Engage in a respectful encounter with the 'Tikitiki,' or whale sharks, off the coast of Pintuyan. This guided snorkeling experience allows visitors to observe these gentle giants in their natural feeding grounds. Adhering to strict guidelines ensures a minimal impact on the whale sharks and their habitat, providing a memorable and ethical wildlife interaction. Visitors should bring their own long-sleeved rash guard and long pants for sun protection and adherence to local guidelines.

Cost: Approximately PHP 4,500 for a solo participant, or PHP 2,000 per person for groups of two to five. This cost typically covers the boat trip, a touring guide, spotters, and environmental fees. Rental of mask, snorkel, and fins is available for an additional PHP 180. The excursion duration at sea is limited to three hours.

Transport: Whale shark tours generally depart from Pintuyan. If arriving from other municipalities on Panaon Island, local transport such as a tricycle or private hire vehicle would be necessary to reach Pintuyan Dive Resort or other tour operators in Pintuyan.

2. Scuba Diving in Marine Sanctuaries

Explore the exceptional underwater world of Panaon Island, renowned for its diverse and well-preserved coral reefs. Dive sites like Napantao Marine Sanctuary feature impressive coral walls teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and various other marine creatures, offering a captivating experience for both novice and experienced divers. More advanced divers may also consider the challenging drift dive under the Wawa Bridge.

Cost: A single boat dive with full rental equipment (including tank and weights) costs around PHP 2,100 (for air) to PHP 2,200 (for Nitrox). Dive packages for multiple dives are available at reduced per-dive rates. Individual equipment rentals are also possible (e.g., BCD for PHP 250, regulator for PHP 250, wetsuit for PHP 150). Additionally, Marine Park Area (MPA) fees of PHP 150-200 per dive apply.

Transport: Dive resorts, such as Pintuyan Dive Resort, organize boat trips to various dive sites around the island. Transportation to the resort itself would typically involve land travel (e.g., tricycle, private car) if not staying within walking distance of the dive center.

3. Discover Secluded Beaches and Snorkel

Unwind on the pristine white sands of Panaon Island's secluded beaches, particularly those in areas like Liloan and San Francisco. These tranquil coastal spots are ideal for relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying a quiet picnic. The clear, calm waters invite snorkeling directly from the shore, providing opportunities to observe vibrant shallow-water marine life amidst healthy coral. Some resorts, like Pintuyan Dive Resort, offer free snorkeling at their house reefs.

Cost: Minimal, primarily involving transportation expenses to reach less accessible beaches. Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) can be rented for approximately PHP 180 from local resorts or brought by the visitor.

Transport: Accessibility varies by beach. While some may be walkable from nearby accommodations, others might require local transport such as tricycles or rented motorbikes. Taxis are generally not available for short, localized trips.

4. Trek to Silago Falls

Embark on an inland adventure by trekking through Panaon Island's lush interior to reach the beautiful Silago Falls. This hike offers a refreshing change of scenery from the coastal activities, leading through verdant forests to a hidden cascade. The reward is a chance to cool off with a refreshing dip in the clear waters of the falls.

Cost: Costs are expected to be minimal, potentially including a small fee for a local guide if one is desired or necessary. Specific price information was not readily available.

Transport: Silago Falls is situated on the eastern side of Panaon Island, within the municipality of Silago. Transportation from major towns like Liloan or Pintuyan would necessitate arranging a private vehicle or motorbike, as public transport options to the falls are limited.

Check out our other pages on Panaon Island

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Philippines

Central Visayas
Eastern Visayas
Mindanao
Northern Luzon
Palawan
Southern Luzon