Top 5 Diving Locations in the Philippines

The Philippines is a paradise for scuba divers, boasting over 7,000 islands surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, rich marine biodiversity, and crystal-clear waters. From gentle drift dives to thrilling wall dives, this archipelago offers something for every level of diver. Here’s a look at the top 5 diving locations in the Philippines, including the spectacular dive sites in Boracay and Bohol.

1. Boracay: The Jewel of the Visayas

While Boracay is famous for its powdery white sand beaches, its underwater world is equally captivating. The island offers a variety of dive sites, from shallow coral gardens to deep walls teeming with marine life.

• Yapak: This world-class dive site is a must for experienced divers. Known for its dramatic wall dives, Yapak features steep drop-offs that attract large pelagics like tuna, barracuda, and even reef sharks. The site is also adorned with colorful corals and swarms of tropical fish.
• Crocodile Island: A favorite for macro photographers, this site is perfect for spotting nudibranchs, frogfish, and other small marine creatures.
• Angol Point: Ideal for beginners, this shallow dive site boasts vibrant coral gardens and a variety of reef fish.

Boracay’s underwater offerings, combined with its lively topside atmosphere, make it a favorite destination for divers and beach lovers alike.

2. Bohol: A Haven for Marine Biodiversity

Bohol is a premier diving destination known for its rich marine ecosystems and proximity to world-class dive sites.

• Balicasag Island: A protected marine sanctuary, Balicasag is famous for its steep walls covered in hard and soft corals. Divers here can encounter schools of jacks, barracudas, and sea turtles in crystal-clear waters.
• Pamilacan Island: This tranquil spot offers incredible drift dives where you can see colorful corals, reef sharks, and a plethora of reef fish.
• Panglao Island: With easy access from Alona Beach, Panglao boasts several dive sites featuring vibrant reefs, gentle slopes, and fascinating macro life.

Bohol’s blend of underwater beauty and serene landscapes provides a more laid-back diving experience, perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

3. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tubbataha Reefs is often considered the crown jewel of diving in the Philippines. Located in the Sulu Sea, this marine sanctuary is only accessible by liveaboard, offering pristine dive sites far from human activity.

• North Atoll: Known for its breathtaking walls and abundant marine life, including sharks, manta rays, and turtles.
• South Atoll: Features a variety of reef sharks, colorful corals, and large schools of fish.
• Jessie Beazley Reef: A smaller reef that’s teeming with biodiversity, from tiny critters to large pelagics.

With exceptional visibility and thriving marine ecosystems, Tubbataha is a bucket-list destination for divers.

4. Anilao: The Macro Haven

Located just a few hours from Manila, Anilao is a hotspot for macro enthusiasts and underwater photographers. Its calm waters and thriving muck diving sites make it ideal for spotting rare critters.

• Secret Bay: A famous muck diving site where you can find rare nudibranchs, mimic octopuses, and flamboyant cuttlefish.
• Sombrero Island: Offers stunning coral gardens and a chance to see schools of reef fish.
• Twin Rocks: A favorite for beginners and experienced divers alike, known for its calm conditions and vibrant marine life.

Anilao is also a great destination for divers looking for a quick getaway, offering both shore and boat diving options.

5. Apo Island: The Turtle Paradise

Apo Island, located off the coast of Negros Oriental, is a small volcanic island renowned for its vibrant reefs and resident sea turtles.

• Chapel’s Point: A sloping reef dive that offers encounters with turtles, reef sharks, and schools of jacks.
• Coconut Point: Known for its exhilarating drift dives, where you can glide over vibrant corals and spot larger pelagic species.
• Rock Point: A wall dive featuring colorful soft corals and plenty of macro life.

As a marine sanctuary, Apo Island is a prime example of successful marine conservation, providing divers with some of the healthiest reefs in the Philippines.

Why the Philippines Is a Diver’s Paradise

The Philippines offers unparalleled diversity when it comes to dive sites. From the thrilling walls of Yapak in Boracay to the serene sanctuaries of Balicasag in Bohol, each destination offers its unique appeal. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, these top diving locations provide unforgettable underwater adventures.

We’re dedicated to helping you discover the world’s most incredible dive destinations. If you’re ready to explore the Philippines’ underwater wonders, reach out to us to plan your next diving adventure!