Panglao Island in Bohol is a veritable paradise with its tropcal climate and scenery and its splendid beaches, but one has never truly been there if one hasn’t visited the Shell Museum. This fascinating museum, owned by Mr. Quirino Hora, houses thousands of shells and other specimens marine life and is one of the main attractions of the island. The Shell Museum is considered to be one of the biggest collections in the world, as Mr. Quirino Hora has earnestly and painstakingly been collecting shells for more than 30 years.  Besides combing the beaches and sea exploration, Mr. Hora has amassed his collection through trading and purchasing shells he does not yet have.  His persistence has enabled him to discover two unique shells in Panglao, both also named after him.

No fees are collected from visitors although they do accept donations that go a long way in paying for maintenance and repair costs, says the owner. there is a souvenir shop where various items and trinkets made from shells can be bought at very affordable prices.

Be sure to drop by the Shell Musuem the next time you're in Panglao Island to discover the enjoyment to be had being surrounded by the most amazing and fascinating shells in the world.

How to get there

From Manila, just take a flight to Tagbilaran, which takes a little over an hour. It is also possible to take a boat to Bohol from Manila, but will take 25 hours.  Currently, there are numerous daily flights from Manila to Tagbilaran.

If you’re in Tagbilaran City, you can take a jeepney going to Panglao or tell a “habal-habal” (motorcycle for hire) to take you to Panglao Beach.