Anda

Anda, Bohol

This remote town on Bohol's northeastern coast features untouched white-sand beaches, dramatic cliff formations, and excellent diving opportunities with minimal tourism development. Anda offers an off-the-beaten-path experience combining pristine coastal beauty with adventurous exploration of hidden coves and pristine reef systems.

Things to do

• Anda White Beach Swimming — Wade and swim in the powder-soft white sand beach stretching along the town proper, ideal for sunrise and sunset viewing with minimal crowds.
• Cave Exploration at Cambugahay Falls — Trek inland to discover freshwater waterfalls and cave systems hidden within limestone cliffs, offering natural pools for bathing.
• Scuba Diving at Anda Reef — Dive pristine coral gardens and drop-offs teeming with tropical fish, nudibranchs, and occasional larger pelagics in virtually undisturbed waters.
• Snorkeling in Hidden Coves — Boat-hop to secluded rocky coves along the northeastern coast where shallow reefs meet crystal-clear waters perfect for mask-and-snorkel exploration.
• Cliff-Top Hiking and Photography — Hike scenic coastal trails atop dramatic limestone cliffs with panoramic views of the Mindanao Strait and opportunities to photograph dramatic rock formations.
• Island Hopping to Nearby Islets — Take a bangka boat tour to small uninhabited islands with pristine beaches and house reef snorkeling just minutes offshore.
• Fish Spawning Season Observation — Visit during full moon nights in specific months to witness synchronized fish spawning events visible from boats near the reef edges.

Food to try

• Grilled Grouper (Lapulapu) — Fresh-caught grouper from local fishermen grilled whole with salt and lime, served with steamed rice and fish sauce, representing the town's primary protein staple.
• Tiyula ng Manok — Boholano chicken stew simmered in coconut milk with ginger, garlic, and local spices, reflecting the region's signature comfort food tradition.
• Grilled Squid (Pusit) — Fresh-caught local squid grilled over charcoal and served with garlic rice, showcasing the bounty of Anda's coastal waters.
• Tulingan (Mackerel) Tinola — Local mackerel fish soup cooked with ginger, green papaya, and malunggay leaves, a nourishing everyday dish in fishing communities.
• Dried Fish (Tuyo) and Rice — Sun-dried local small fish served as a breakfast pairing with steamed rice and vinegar, a practical fisherman's meal found in local eateries.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Fishing Schedules and Areas — Most locals fish early morning and late afternoon; avoid loud activities during these times and ask permission before diving or snorkeling in actively fished waters.
• Learn Basic Cebuano Greetings — English proficiency is limited in Anda proper; locals appreciate visitors who attempt Cebuano phrases like 'Maayong buntag' (good morning) and 'Salamat' (thank you).
• Pack Your Own Supplies — Anda has minimal commercial establishments; bring sunscreen, snacks, drinking water, and medications from Tagbilaran City as options are extremely limited.
• Observe Sunday Mass Tradition — The community is deeply Catholic; Sundays feature town-wide mass attendance, so plan activities accordingly and dress modestly when near the church.

Nearby

• Camotes Islands — 20 km
• Homonhon Island (Eastern Visayas) — 37 km
• Mactan Island — 62 km
• Gilutongan Island — 66 km