Quietly perched on a limestone cliff at the southern edge of Alona Beach in Panglao Island, Bohol, Amorita Resort offers a balance of privacy and accessibility. With sweeping views of the Bohol Sea, the resort provides a tranquil setting away from the crowds yet remains within reach of Alona’s lively beach scene via a discreet private exit.
A recent three-day visit highlighted why Amorita continues to attract travelers and earn international acclaim, including its most recent honor: the Condé Nast Johansens Award for Excellence as the “Best for Weddings, Parties, & Celebrations.” This recognition underscores its reputation as a destination for creating memorable experiences through attentive service and high-quality amenities.
The property’s prestige was further cemented this year with its inclusion in the Condé Nast Johansens coffee table book, a curated collection of top hotels and resorts worldwide. As the only Philippine property featured, Amorita stands among an elite group celebrated for their unique appeal. A copy of the book is found inside the rooms, offering guests a glimpse of the international recognition the hotel has achieved.
The resort’s accommodations embody a commitment to understated luxury. The villa, a hallmark of Amorita’s offerings, was spacious and meticulously designed. With clean lines, natural materials, and modern furnishings, the interiors exuded a timeless elegance, the kind that wouldn’t feel out of place in a Taschen home interior coffee table book. At its center was a private plunge pool, providing an exclusive retreat. Days often revolved around the pool, where light breakfasts, freshly brewed coffee, and buko juice served straight from the coconut were enjoyed on a floating table.
Dining at Amorita: A culinary journey
Dining is a standout feature of the Amorita experience, with its three restaurants offering distinct culinary options.
Saffron Restaurant, the resort’s main dining venue, highlights a contemporary take on Filipino cuisine. Its menu celebrates local flavors with fresh ingredients and inventive reimaginations of classic dishes. Notable must-tries include the lechon pork belly dinuguan—crispy pork belly chunks served with a savory blood stew—and crispy pata kare-kare, featuring deep-fried pork knuckles accompanied by eggplant, banana heart, bok choy, and string beans in a rich peanut sauce. For dessert, the tablea Chocnut cake is a decadent finale, a moist local chocolate cake topped with chocolate-peanut cream and whipped chocolate ganache.
The Lost Cow focuses on international fare, with its Beef Wellington earning praise for its flaky crust and tender filling. Another highlight is the USDA Prime Grade beef tomahawk steak, a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for sharing.
Tomar Tapas x Bar offers Spanish-inspired small plates and drinks. The menu includes flavorful selections such as pan con tomate y anchoas (pickled white fish, anchovies, and tomato over grilled bread), ceviche de pescado (diced fresh fish in spiced citrus vinegar), and mejillones en escabeche (pickled mussels in house-infused olive oil). The oven-baked fish with vegetables and olives (pescado al horno con Verduras) and tuna ceviche (diced tuna marinated in citrus juices and spices) showcase the kitchen’s dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Tomar also serves hearty paellas, each with its own character. The paella de mariscos offers a saffron-infused rice medley with mixed seafood, while the paella tinta features squid ink rice paired with seafood for a briny depth of flavor. Meat lovers will appreciate the paella de vaca, with tomato-infused rice and tender roasted beef.
Cliffside haven
The resort’s location is central to its charm. Positioned on the cliffs, it provides uninterrupted views of the ocean and dramatic sunsets, all in a setting removed from Alona Beach’s busy atmosphere. For those interested in venturing beyond the resort, the private exit allows convenient access to the bustling beachfront, home to restaurants, bars, and shops. This balance of seclusion and connectivity adds to Amorita’s appeal.
Beyond its stunning surroundings, snazzy accommodations, and exceptional dining, what truly sets Amorita apart is the warmth of its staff. The team embodies genuine Filipino hospitality, creating an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and effortless. From the groundskeeping crew who maintain the resort’s lush gardens to the attentive chefs crafting meals with care, and the lobby receptionists greeting each guest with a smile, every interaction reflects a commitment to excellence.
The staff strikes a perfect balance—attentive without being intrusive, always ready to assist but never overbearing. Whether it’s a timely refill of buko juice by the pool, thoughtful dining recommendations, or a seamless check-in process, their dedication enhances the overall experience. This level of service elevates Amorita to a world-class standard, making it not just a resort but a property poised to impress travelers on an international scale.
For travelers seeking a blend of peaceful retreat and modern comfort, Amorita delivers a well-rounded experience. Its cliffside location offers respite from the crowds, while its thoughtful design, culinary offerings, and proximity to Alona Beach ensure guests have access to both relaxation and exploration.