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I am not a serious diver. I do have a license and have dived in Vietnam, Malaysia, and more extensively in my home country—the Philippines. I can say that the Philippines is one precious gem for diving. If you have not been to the country, and you are a diver, or planning to get your diving license in the Philippines, so this is your chance. Here are the top diving spots in the Philippines that I have curated for you. If there are other diving destinations that you think should be here, let me know!
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Puerto Galera, Mindoro
Located on the island of Mindoro, Puerto Galera is one of the most popular diving spots in the Philippines. With crystal clear visibility and a wide variety of marine life, it’s easy to see why. Expect to see everything from clownfish and sea turtles to barracudas and reef sharks.
So if you’re looking for an adventure underwater, check out Puerto Galera!
Puerto Galera has some of the clearest waters in the world which make it perfect for diving enthusiasts of all levels of experience. With its vast array of marine life and coral reefs, it’s no surprise that this destination features prominently on lists of best diving spots around the globe. If you’re looking to explore what lies
Anilao, Batangas
Are you looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? Then Anilao, Batangas is the perfect place for you! This hidden gem (not really super hidden, but sure) is known for its world-class diving spots, and it’s just a few hours away from Manila. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful underwater world of Anilao!
Top Accommodations in Anilao, Bantangas
Tubbataha Reefs National Park
Have you ever wanted to explore one of the world’s most beautiful reefs? Tubbataha Reefs National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Sulu Sea of the Philippines. It is known for its diverse marine life, including over 600 species of coral. Diving in Tubbataha is an experience that you will never forget! And oh yeah, it is in my bucket list. I do not even think I can afford to dive here. Yep, it is expensive.
Coron, Palawan
If you have not been to Coron, you should. Its secret lagoons and lakes are simply jaw-dropping. No wonder, every year it makes it to the list of top destinations to visit. But yeah, it is pretty popular already. For many people, diving is the primary reason for visiting Coron. As Palawan’s most famous dive destination, it offers beautiful clear waters, healthy reefs, and an abundance of marine life. But there is more to this small town than just diving – it’s also a great place to relax, enjoy the fresh seafood, and explore the nearby islands. Whether you’re a experienced diver or a first-time traveler, Coron is sure to offer something for everyone.
Top Accommodation Picks in Coron
El Nido, Palawan
El Nido is a stunningly beautiful place, and diving here is an amazing experience. The reefs are healthy and the marine life is incredible. You can see turtles, sharks, rays, and so much more. The water is warm and clear, making for great visibility. There are plenty of dive sites to choose from, so you can find something that suits your level of experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, El Nido has something to offer you.
Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan and is home to some of the best diving in the country. With over 50 dive sites to choose from, such as the ones in Coron and El Nido, there’s something for everyone.With its verdant rainforest backdrop, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life, this place is a paradise for divers and snorkelers of all levels of experience. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced diver looking for new challenges, Puerto Princesa has something to offer everyone. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable underwater adventure, be sure to add Puerto Princesa to your bucket list!
Donsol, Sorsogon
Donsol – Donsol is located in the province of Sorsogon and is best known for its whale sharks. These gentle giants can be seen here from December to May. Plus, Sorsogon does it ethically compared to how Oslob (Cebu) runs its whaleshark-centered tourism. Donsol, Sorsogon is known as the whale shark capital of the world and is definitely a top diving destination in the Philippines. Although diving with these gentle giants is the main attraction, Donsol has much more to offer divers of all levels. Come explore some of the best reefs in Southeast Asia and encounter an array of amazing creatures that call this place home.
Top Accommodation Picks in Donsol
Caramoan Island, Camarines Sur
Who would’ve thought that in the sleepy town of Caramoan, there’s an underwater paradise just waiting to be explored? For divers and travelers alike, this hidden gem is a must-see. With its crystal clear waters and abundant marine life, diving in Caramoan Island is an experience you’ll never forget.
Gota Village is a small village in Caramoan and has become popular after being the setting of Survivor: Season 26. Caramoan has also gained traction for its diving scene. With its sheltered bays and diverse marine life, it’s no wonder why this village is so popular with divers.
Top Accommodation Pick in Caramoan
Siquijor
Siquijor is a small island off the coast of Bohol and is known for its white-sand beaches, astounding sunsets, and clear waters. It’s also
Siquijor is not your average dive destination. Sure, there are beautiful coral reefs and plenty of fish to see – but there’s also something a little bit spooky about the island. This, combined with its off-the-beaten-path location, makes Siquijor a must-dive for adventurous travelers looking for an otherworldly experience. So if you’re brave enough to take the plunge, here’s what you can expect on a dive in Siquijor.
When most people think of diving destinations, places like the Great Barrier Reef or Bali come to mind. But did you know that there’s a place just south of the Philippines that offers some of the best diving in the world?
Top Accommodation Picks in Siquijor
Moalboal, Cebu
Who doesn’t love a good beach day? Sun, sand, and waves- what more could you ask for? But what if I told you there was a place where you could experience all of that plus an underwater world full of vibrant colors and interesting creatures? Moalboal is that place! Just a few hours south of Cebu City, Moalboal is a popular diving spot in the Philippines for both newbies and experienced divers alike. Dive in the Pescador Island, drop a hello to the resident turtles, and yeah, chase the sardines til they run. 😀 And if you live here, we might become neighbors. 😉
Top Accommodation Picks in Moalboal
Dauin, Negros Oriental
Dauin te is located in the province of Negros Oriental and is home to some of the best diving in the country. With its diverse marine life and sheltered bays, it’s no wonder why this area is so popular with divers. But let us be honest, Dauin becomes a diver’s place since it is great jump off for Apo Island and the city life and convenience that is Dumaguete.
Top Accommodation Picks in Apo Island and Dauin
Apo Island, Negros Oriental
Apo Island is a small island off the coast of Negros Oriental and is well-known for its marine biodiversity. It’s also a great place for beginner divers, as the waters are calm and shallow. It is a sanctuary, so the biodiversity is stunning.
Have you ever seen those documentaries where divers explore shipwrecks and find all sorts of treasures? That’s what diving in Apo Island is like. Except, instead of treasure, you find an abundance of marine life. From spinner dolphins to sea turtles, the animals here are unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere. If you’re looking for an incredible diving experience, Apo Island is the place to be. Don’t miss out! Oh yeah, I got my diving license here. 😀
Malapascua Island, Cebu
Malapascua is a small island north of Cebu that is known for its thresher sharks. This is one of the few places in the world where you can see these elusive creatures up close. Definitely, one of my favorite islands in my homeisland Cebu.
Treasure Island they call it. Malapascua is a small island off the northern tip of Cebu in the Philippines, and known for its excellent diving. Thresher sharks are the big attraction here but divers can also expect to see turtles, nudibranchs, seahorses and many reef fish. The muck diving around the island is also very good with Frogfish, Rhinopias, Harlequin Shrimp and Mandarin Fish all possible sightings. With such great visibility and interesting critters; Malapascua is definitely worth a visit for any diver! ( word count: 100) now go get your scuba gear on! 🙂
Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte
Siargao is known for its world-class surf spots, but there’s a lot more to this Philippine island than waves. The underwater world around Siargao is just as spectacular as the one on shore, and recently I had the chance to experience it firsthand. Siargao may not be the most renowned diving destination in the world, but it’s definitely worth exploring if you’re looking for some unique dive sites.
There are plenty of great dive spots around Siargao that cater to all levels of divers. If you’re a beginner or intermediate diver, check out the coral gardens at Dapa Point or the sunken wreck of the General Luna. For more experienced divers, there are plenty of challenging dives sites to explore,
Top Accommodation Picks in Siargao
Balicasag Island, Bohol
Have you ever dreamt of diving in crystal clear water, surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and colorful fish? If so, then Balicasag Island in Bohol, Philippines is the place for you! Balicasag is a small island located approximately 30 minutes by boat from the city of Tagbilaran. It is well known for its fantastic diving, and has something to offer divers of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, there are plenty of dive sites to explore around Balicasag Island. So what are you waiting for? Grab your dive gear and let’s go exploring!
Panglao Island, Bohol
Panglao Island is a small island off the coast of Bohol and is known for its diving. With its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder why this island is so popular with divers. As a friend said, I never imagined myself diving in the Philippines. It just wasn’t on my radar. But when I was invited to go diving with a group of friends in Panglao Island, Bohol, I couldn’t resist. Turns out, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. The diving here is incredible! If you’re looking for a great dive spot, add Panglao Island to your list. You won’t be disappointed.
Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte
Southern Leyte, for some reason, has not gained the traction its neighboring islands received. But Padre Burgos is as stunning, if not more stunning. And definitely, if you are the kind of diver that does not like to socialize a lot or want to take a break from the rest, then Padre Burgos is for you.
Mantigue Island, Camiguin
I have not dived here, I only did a lot of snorkeling and failed free diving attempts. But I would say Mantigue Island should be more known to the diving community. Yeah, assuming this community is more responsible. This place is so so so precious and beautiful.
Top Accommodation Picks in Camiguin Island
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So there you go, the top diving spots in the Philippines. If you find it helpful and wanna express your thanks to this Cebuana blogger, you can tip me here. My caffeine-powered mind will surely thank you.
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