The Philippines is a nature’s paradise. The country, an archipelago with over 7,000 islands, boasts stunning beaches, diverse ecosystems, and rich biodiversity–a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
If you want to explore marine resources, you can find the best diving spots in the Philippines.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, it is a destination that should be on your bucket list. Here are some of the best diving spots in the Philippines with crystal-clear waters, rich marine biodiversity, and vibrant coral reefs.
The Top 10 Diving Spots in the Philippines
1. Anilao
Batangas
If you are looking for the top diving spots in the Philippines, don’t miss out on Anilao. This site is known as the birthplace of scuba diving in the country. Located in Batangas, it is perfect for a weekend diving trip if you are from Metro Manila, Laguna, or Cavite. One of its most famous activities is macro diving. In Anilao, you will see rare nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and flamboyant cuttlefish. It is also home to unique marine species that underwater photographers will find interesting.
2. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
Palawan, Sulu Sea
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tubbataha Reefs is one of the most unspoiled marine ecosystems in the world. It is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including sharks, manta rays, and over 600 fish species. While it is a year-round destination, the best time to explore Tubbataha Reefs is between March and June.
3. Coron
Palawan
Palawan is truly blessed with natural marine resources. Another top diving site is in the province. Coron is known for its well-preserved World War II shipwrecks–wrecks that are now encrusted with corals and provide a unique diving experience. Here, divers can explore sunken Japanese warships. Coron diving spots may have an eerie appeal but it has beautiful underwater landscapes which make it a favorite among wreck diving enthusiasts.
4. Apo Reef
Occidental Mindoro
Apo Reef holds the title as the 2nd largest contiguous coral reef in the world which makes it one of the best diving spots in the Philippines. Divers will be in awe of its spectacular drop-offs, coral gardens, and diverse marine species. It is also a sanctuary for barracudas, turtles, and reef sharks. Aside from the diving experience, its clear waters make it an ideal spot for underwater photography enthusiasts.
5. Puerto Galera
Mindoro
Not too far from the Apo Reef, Puerto Galera is another popular diving spot in the Philippines with over 40 dive sites. This diving spot in Mindoro has shallow coral gardens and deep wrecks. Like Apo Reef and Anila, Puerto Galera is accessible from Manila. Your encounter with vibrant marine biodiversity is just a ferry ride away from the Batangas City port. It is one of the top choices for both local and international divers.
6. Malapascua Island
Cebu
The South also doesn’t run out of the best diving spots in the Philippines. Malapascua Island is a haven for thresher sharks, You can swim with these elusive sharks as they are seen almost every day at Monad Shoal which is a submerged plateau. But Malapascua Island is not just about thresher sharks, it is also a great site for wreck diving and vibrant coral reefs.
7. Moalboal
Cebu
Another top diving spot in the Philippines is also found in Cebu. Moalboal is known for its mesmerizing sardine run, where millions of sardines move in synchronized patterns, creating a breathtaking underwater spectacle. It is also home to diverse marine life, coral walls, and whale shark sightings occasionally.
8. Balicasag Island
Bohol
The Visayas region is home to many top diving spots in the Philippines. Not far from Cebu is Balicasag Island. This diving site in Bohol is a marine sanctuary known for its clear waters and stunning coral gardens, Here, divers can have encounters with sea turtles, jacks, and barracudas. It is an excellent spot for beginners and advanced divers in search of vibrant marine biodiversity.
9. Dauin
Negros Oriental
Is muck diving your interest? Check out Dauin in Negros Oriental. It is known as the premier muck diving destination in the Philippines. It features black volcanic sand that serves as home to some of the strangest and most fascinating marine creatures such as frogfish, blue-ringed octopuses, and mimic octopuses. Heard of critter hunting? It is also an activity in Dauin that divers should not miss.
10. Camiguin Island
Northern Mindanao
Mindanao also has its premiere diving spot. Known as the “Island Born of Fire,” it features volcanic landscapes and stunning dive sites. Prepare for a unique adventure and sightings with its coral-covered walls, underwater lava formations, and healthy reefs. Underwater photographers should not miss this diving spot.
ALSO READ: Must-Visit Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas Historical Sites for Travelers
Make your dive site exploration easy and successful. Supercat offers fast and convenient ferret services that will take you to some of the world-class dive sites in the Philippines. Whether you’re traveling from Cebu to Bohol or exploring the islands of Palawan and Mindoro, you can reach your next diving destination through ferry travel.
Book your tickets today and experience the best of the Philippines’ underwater wonders!