Hinagdanan Cave, Dauis, Panglao Island
Tucked beneath a private farm in the quiet municipality of Dauis, Hinagdanan Cave is one of the Philippines' most accessible underground swimming experiences — a cathedral of stalactites and stalagmites surrounding a clear, naturally lit subterranean lagoon you can actually swim in.
Inside the cave
A narrow concrete staircase descends about 10 metres into a cavern roughly 30 metres wide, where a natural skylight opening in the ceiling sends shafts of light into the turquoise pool below. The water is cool, brackish, and deep enough to swim freely — bring a waterproof camera.
The cave is small enough that it feels intimate rather than touristy when you arrive early; stalactites hang close overhead and the acoustics make even whispered voices echo. Bring a torch or use your phone light to pick out the formations in the darker corners the skylight doesn't reach.
Getting there and practicalities
Hinagdanan is in Barangay Bingag, Dauis — on the mainland side of the bridge connecting Tagbilaran to Panglao Island, making it an easy stop before or after a beach day on Alona Beach (about 20 km further west).
The entrance is managed by a local family who have maintained the site for decades; the fee is minimal and goes directly to the caretakers. Arrive before 9 a.m. on weekdays for the best chance of having the pool to yourself.
Hinagdanan Cave, Dauis, Panglao Island on video
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