"Why I Chose Doljo Over Alona — and Didn’t Regret It"

π΄ First Time in Bohol (2014): Not What I Expected
The first time I visited Bohol with my friends in 2014, we stayed at Dumaluan Beach Resort. It was okay—clean and quiet—but at the time, I thought we had missed out. Everyone was talking about Alona Beach, and I felt like that was where we should have gone. I was expecting something livelier, more exciting, more Instagrammable.
π A Second Chance: 2016 Return with a Better Plan
In 2016, I had the chance to return—this time with my family—and I wanted to do it right. While browsing hotel deals, I stumbled on a discounted stay at The Bellevue Resort in Doljo Beach, Panglao. The photos online were stunning: an infinity pool, elegant rooms, and a secluded beachfront. I booked it immediately.
But... I still wanted to see Alona Beach for myself. So I asked our driver to stop there before checking in.
π️ My Honest Opinion: Alona Beach Isn’t for Me
When we arrived at Alona Beach, I was honestly disappointed.
- π§♀️ Too crowded — it felt more like a market than a beach
- π️ Shoreline was narrow, barely enough space to enjoy the view
- π― Garbage on the sand, and the vibe felt overly commercialized
In contrast, Dumaluan Beach suddenly seemed so much better — cleaner, wider, and quieter. And now, I was about to experience Doljo Beach at Bellevue Resort.
π Checking in at Bellevue Resort Panglao: 5-Star Feels for the First Time
Our driver dropped us off after our Alona detour, and stepping into The Bellevue Resort felt like entering another world.
- π¨ This was our first time staying in a 5-star hotel, and as a family that came from humble beginnings, it was a surreal experience.
- π«Ά My mom and sisters were amazed — they didn’t even want to leave the room at first!
- π I felt so happy I booked this for them. It wasn’t just a vacation; it was a memory I’ll always treasure.
π What We Loved About Bellevue Resort
- π Spacious, stylish rooms with private balconies and great views
- π§Ό Clean, modern bathrooms with full amenities
- π️ Private beach that was peaceful and pristine
- πΈ Infinity pool perfect for photo ops (my sister the fashionista had a mini-shoot π)
- π½️ In-house restaurant serving Filipino and international dishes
- π Sunset views right from the beach or pool deck
- π§ Kid-friendly amenities like a play area and wading pool
- ♿ Wheelchair-accessible areas
- π Free Wi-Fi, concierge service, spa, gym, and airport transfers
Even celebrities choose Bellevue when visiting Bohol. I even spotted a popular 90s actor during our stay — though I respected his privacy (I get why they’d want to stay here!).
πΊ A Few Regrets? Sure.
We didn’t swim in the beach or pool — just lounged around,
relaxed, and took in the vibe. If I could go back, I’d definitely plan a full
chill day just for swimming and exploring more of the resort.
π Doljo, Dumaluan, or Alona?
πΉ Dumaluan Beach –
Great for quiet, casual getaways; wider beach, less crowd
πΉ
Alona Beach – Overrated, in my opinion. Too busy, too loud, not so clean
πΉ
Doljo Beach at Bellevue – Private, elegant, and best for meaningful
stays
π§³ Planning a Trip to Panglao?
If you want luxury, peace, and a personal experience—go for Doljo Beach and book a night or two at The Bellevue Resort. It may be a splurge, but for special trips or family bonding, it’s worth every peso.
π Save this post for later or share it with someone planning a Bohol escape.
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