Henann Resort Alona Beach

Set on 160 acres of lush, beachfront grounds, the Henann Resort Alona Beach is one of the most famous hotels in Panglao. First-time visitors may not be blown away immediately upon arrival due to its rather subdued lobby, but the outdoors are what make this hotel a top pick in the area. Manicured lawns shaded by tall palm trees give the property a serene, inviting feel, while several large, crystal-clear pools with whirlpools and swim-up bars offer plenty of space to relax. Indoor common areas have been designed with the local style in mind, featuring lots of dark-wood finishes and delicate latticework accents, but the focus is outside, with huge windows that show off the gardens. 

Although it has only been open since 2015, the property has quickly become a popular hangout spot for locals and visitors alike, who flock to the resort for its gorgeous gardens, beautiful pools with swim-up bars, and excellent restaurants. Non-guests can purchase day passes, which keeps the property lively -- and even a tad crowded on weekends -- and the Sea Breeze Cafe and Christina’s Restaurant are generally busy for lunch and dinner. The property is large enough for guests to find a quiet nook away from the hustle and bustle, but couples seeking something more intimate may prefer the charming Amarela Resort, though it is not as fancy as the Henann Resort Alona Beach. The Bellevue Resort Bohol has more kid-friendly amenities, making it a great alternative for families, while those on a tight budget may want to compare rates at the Bohol Sea Resort, offering cozy bungalows and apartments in a quiet area a five-minute drive from Alona Beach.  

As its name suggests, the Henann Resort Alona Beach is located directly on Alona, which is the island’s most famous stretch of sand and one of the top tourist destinations in Bohol. There are dozens of restaurants, shops, and beachfront cafes in the area, and the vibe is lively, especially on weekends. Though most visitors come to Panglao for its beautiful beaches and great snorkeling, Hinagdanan Cave -- located a 25-minute drive from the property -- is also a popular attraction, featuring pretty rock formations and a swimmable underground lake. Tagbilaran Airport can be reached in about 40 minutes by car. The hotel offers airport transfers for a fee. 

The hotel has 400 pleasant rooms housed in three connected buildings and several smaller villas. Choices range from 431-square-foot Deluxe Rooms to 1,367-square-foot villas with private pools and separate living areas. Decor is somewhat simple for a luxury hotel, especially the off-white floor tiles and blond-wood furniture in standard units, but aquamarine accents on walls and pillows, padded headboards, and bed runners in neutral hues add some style. Additionally, all rooms feature a few local touches -- including wooden shutters, latticework accents, and a few pieces of furniture made with dark hardwood -- that add charm. Villas are more stylish and luxe than rooms, with a darker palette, wooden screens with shell inlays, and leaf designs carved into cream-colored accent walls.

All hotel rooms -- which include Deluxe, Premier, and Family units -- feature empty mini-fridges, air-conditioning, cable TV, safes, and electric kettles. Suites and villas come with minibars stocked with free items (all replenished daily free of charge), and Presidential Suites and Villas have Nespresso machines. Bathrooms in Deluxe and Family units are spacious and feature marble counters, huge mirrors, and walk-in showers; all others have separate showers and soaking tubs. Free bottled water and free Wi-Fi are available in all room categories. 

Most visitors come to Panglao Island for its beaches, and the Henann Resort is set along one of the nicest stretches of sand in the area, complete with loungers and umbrellas, and surrounded by dozens of bars, restaurants, and shops. Adjacent to the beach is the hotel’s gorgeous infinity pool, featuring a popular swim-up bar and two whirlpools. Additionally, there are two other large pools on-site, both with swim-up bars and ample loungers. The resort offers three dining options, including two well-known restaurants popular with locals, which serve varied buffets and tasty a la carte options. Room service is available throughout the day, but not overnight. 

The gym is well-equipped and pleasant, with air-conditioning and modern machines, while the spa offers a wide array of body treatments and salon services in an elegant space. Couples’ massages are available, and some of the treatment cabins have outdoor soaking tubs. The hotel is home to a huge convention center that can host up to 1,000 guests. There is also a staffed business center with several computers and a printer. A shop sells sundries and souvenirs. Unfortunately, there are no kids' club or kid-centric amenities.