Panglao Watchtower
A 19th-century hexagonal watchtower on Panglao Island, Bohol, offering a glimpse into Spanish colonial history and unique architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Panglao Watchtower
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 19th-century hexagonal watchtower on Panglao Island, Bohol, offering a glimpse into Spanish colonial history and unique architecture.
"Its unique hexagonal design is a notable feature of Spanish-era architecture in the Philippines."
Combine with Church Visit
Easily visit the St. Augustine Church right next door for a double dose of history! :church:
Appreciate from Outside
Entry is not allowed, so enjoy its unique structure and historical presence from the exterior. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hexagonal Architecture
Panglao Island, Bohol
Admire the unique 5-storey hexagonal design, reputedly the tallest of its kind in the Philippines.
Historical Significance
Adjacent to St. Augustine Church
Step back in time at this Spanish colonial-era watchtower, a testament to Bohol's rich history.
Overlooking Views
Panglao Island
Imagine its past role as a lookout, commanding views over the town and sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Panglao Watchtower
Understanding the Panglao Watchtower Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Church Visit
Easily visit the St. Augustine Church right next door for a double dose of history! :church:
Appreciate from Outside
Entry is not allowed, so enjoy its unique structure and historical presence from the exterior. :camerawithflash:
Part of a Bohol Tour
Often included in island tours, making it a convenient stop with other attractions. :bus:
Historical Context
Built in 1851, it served as a lookout during the Spanish colonial period. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Church Visit
Easily visit the St. Augustine Church right next door for a double dose of history! :church:
Appreciate from Outside
Entry is not allowed, so enjoy its unique structure and historical presence from the exterior. :camerawithflash:
Part of a Bohol Tour
Often included in island tours, making it a convenient stop with other attractions. :bus:
Historical Context
Built in 1851, it served as a lookout during the Spanish colonial period. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Panglao Watchtower for its unique hexagonal architecture and historical significance as a Spanish colonial-era lookout. It's often praised as a convenient and interesting stop, especially when combined with the adjacent St. Augustine Church. Some reviewers note that entry is not permitted and mention the presence of individuals asking for money.
"This was one of the stops in our BOHOL tour the Panglao Watchtower.
Just imagine how long the Spanish influenced us almost over 300 years.
You can really see the history in BOHOL.
You can also see the cracks caused by the strong earthquake that once hit the area.
I hope this place will be preserved for the next generations."
Anjhel Zyra
"4 stars as its a monument you see it enjoy its history from outside not allowed to enter. You can pass by when you visit St Aug church which is next to it."
Bill Machhour
"Incredible beauty and a must see for those devote to catholicism. Be aware that some of the unfortunate, seemingly homeless people here may unrelentant when asking for money."
Todd Gould
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Panglao Watchtower is located on Panglao Island, Bohol. It's often included in organized Bohol island tours, which typically use vans or buses. If you're traveling independently, you can hire a tricycle or a taxi from Tagbilaran City or other parts of Panglao. Some visitors have mentioned taking a cab from McDonald's in Panglao, with fares around 300 PHP for a round trip, including waiting time.
While direct public buses might not stop right at the watchtower, you can take a tricycle or a local jeepney towards Panglao town and then arrange for a tricycle to take you to the watchtower. It's often more convenient to include it as part of a pre-booked tour or hire a private vehicle for the day.
Many travelers opt for organized Bohol tours that cover multiple sites like the Panglao Watchtower, Hinagdanan Cave, and Bohol Bee Farm. For independent exploration, tricycles are common for shorter distances, while habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) can be used for longer trips. Renting a scooter is also an option for more flexibility. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a ticket to visit the Panglao Watchtower. It is a historical monument that can be viewed from the outside. There is no admission fee for viewing the exterior.
Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed to enter the Panglao Watchtower. It is preserved as a historical structure, and access inside is restricted. You can admire its unique architecture and historical presence from the outside.
As the watchtower is an outdoor monument, it is accessible at any time. However, for the best experience and to avoid potential issues with local vendors or security, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours.
📸 📸 Photography & History
The Panglao Watchtower was built in 1851 during the Spanish colonial period. It served as a lookout point to monitor the sea and protect the island from pirates. Its unique hexagonal design is a notable feature of Spanish-era architecture in the Philippines.
Its most striking feature is its 5-storey hexagonal shape, which is reputedly the tallest of its kind in the Philippines. This distinctive design sets it apart from other historical structures in the region.
Yes, the watchtower's unique architecture makes for great photos, especially with the blue sky or during the golden hour. It's also often photographed alongside the adjacent St. Augustine Church, offering a blend of historical and religious landmarks.
Some reviews mention visible cracks caused by a past earthquake. While not a primary attraction, these details add to the historical narrative of the structure and its resilience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with the adjacent St. Augustine Church to explore the intertwined religious and historical development of Panglao Island. 📸 Photographers
The juxtaposition with the St. Augustine Church offers opportunities for capturing contrasting architectural styles and historical periods in a single frame. While entry is restricted, the exterior details and its commanding presence provide ample material for creative shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Bohol's Past: The Panglao Watchtower
+1The tower's most distinctive feature is its 5-storey hexagonal design, a unique characteristic that sets it apart from many other watchtowers in the Philippines. This unusual shape is not just for aesthetics; it likely offered structural advantages and a wider field of vision. While visitors cannot ascend the tower, its imposing presence and intricate details can be appreciated from the surrounding grounds, offering a tangible connection to centuries of history.
Many visitors discover the Panglao Watchtower as part of a larger Bohol heritage tour, often paired with the adjacent St. Augustine Church. This combination allows for a deeper understanding of the island's historical and religious development. Despite the inability to enter, the watchtower's exterior tells a story of resilience, with some visitors noting visible cracks from past earthquakes, a testament to its enduring presence through natural challenges.
Navigating Panglao Island: Getting Around and Making the Most of Your Visit
+1 If you prefer independent travel, tricycles are a popular and affordable option for getting around Panglao town and to nearby sites. For longer distances or more flexibility, consider hiring a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) or renting a scooter. When visiting the Panglao Watchtower, remember that it's primarily an exterior viewing experience. While you can't go inside, its unique hexagonal structure and historical context are captivating. It's often visited in conjunction with the St. Augustine Church, which is right next door, making it an efficient stop for history and culture enthusiasts.
To make the most of your visit, consider the timing. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded than weekends or afternoons when tour groups are more prevalent.
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