BUCKET LIST: Top 10 Dive Spots in PH

Housing more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines boasts of some of the most sought-after diving spots in the world. Clear waters, bountiful coral reefs, and diverse fauna and flora are just some of the things that makes these spots world-class.

Due to Presidential Proclamation No. 758, the second week of January was proclaimed as “Best Dives Philippines Week” to promote scuba diving in the country, highlighting the protection and conservation of our underwater marine resources.

To celebrate Best Dives Philippines Week, we have prepared a list of the best diving sites in the country where you can marvel at nature’s underwater bounty.

1. Apo Island, Dauin Negros Oriental

Definitely a haven for snorkelers and divers, Apo Island’s clear waters promise divers sightings of sea turtles and vast coral reefs. As a managed marine reserve, the island also acts as an information resource of the country’s education Center of Marine Biology.

2. Anilao, Batangas

When you only have few hours to spare for leisure, spend it in Anilao, Batangas. Known to be one of the country’s richest dive sites, it’s only two hours by car from Manila.

Aside from reefs and fishes, turtles, sharks and barracuda may also be seen in its waters. Anilao, Batangas is a top choice for underwater photographers because of its colorful corals and shy pygmy seahorses.

3. Coron, Palawan

Craving for a dose of history? Coron, Palawan is the place to be. It features holes, small caves and majestic limestone cliffs.

During the battle of Coron Bay in September 1944, several ships sunk into the sea. Now, these World War II wrecks can be found under Coron Bay, accessible through dives. Don’t miss the beautiful Gunter’s Cathedral where you have to swim through a hole in the bottom of the sea.

4. Monad Shoal, Malaspascua Cebu

Enjoy the rich marine biodiversity of Monad Shoal in Malapascua. Aside from thresher sharks, you also get to see and swim with giant mantra rays—a common sight in the shoal.

Gato Island, a marine reserve and sea snake sanctuary is one of the famous dive sites in the area.

5. Tubbataha Reef, Palawan

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tubbataha is known for its remarkable and flamboyant coral reefs. This is a protected area where approximately 360 species of corals and 600 species of fish can be found.

6. Crocodile Island, Boracay

Boracay Island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beach. Apart from this, Boracay has more to offer—including Crocodile Island, which is just a boat ride away. The island is home to colorful fishes plus coral reefs when you go deeper.

7. Balicasag Island, Bohol

Incredibly filled with various species of fish and coral reefs, Balicasag Island has four dive sites that include Black Forest, Diver’s Heaven, Balicasag Cathedral and Balicasag Sanctuary.

Apart from the impressive array of fish and other marine life found in these sites, Turtle Point is another interesting dive spot, where turtles shelter in the caves 18-20m down the sea wall.

8. Cabilao Island, Bohol

A protected area situated west of Bohol, Cabilao Island is perfect for scuba divers—both beginners and professional. This is home to pygmy seahorses, stunning sea walls, reef critters and brightly colored corals, both soft and hard.

Two dive centers are available in Cabilao: the Cabilao Dive Center in the La Estrella Resort and the Polaris Dive Center.

9. Enchanted River, Surigao del Sur

Surigao’s Enchanted River has been gaining popularity in social media because of its impeccably clean waters. What’s more enchanting abour this river is no one knows how deep it is, which makes for an exciting and challenging dive site.

10. Manta Bowl, Ticao Pass, Masbate

Oceanic manta rays, whale sharks, thresher sharks, hammerheads, black and white tip sharks, blue-spotted sting rays, eagle rays, jacks, tunas, barracuda and sweetlips welcome divers in Manta Bowl.

Also, photographers can enjoy a wide variety of nudibranchs, frogfish, mandarin fish, pipefish, sea horses and coleman shrimps.