1. Tubbataha Reefs
Tubbataha is located in the Sulu Sea, southeast of Palawan Island, and is one of the best diving destinations in the Philippines. Its remote location has allowed it to be well-preserved, and the Philippines is home to 90% of the world's coral species. A diving trip to Tubbataha is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Diving in Tubbataha allows you to see 11 different species of sharks, 479 species of fish, and large pelagic fish such as jacks, manta rays, tuna, and whale sharks. Additionally, Tubbataha has one of the highest population densities of whitetip reef sharks, making shark sightings common here.
The best time to dive is from mid-March to mid-June, when the weather is warm, sunny, and the water temperature is comfortable, making it ideal for diving activities.
2. Subic Bay
This bay was once the site of the largest overseas U.S. naval base until it was opened to tourists and diving enthusiasts after the U.S. military withdrew in 1992. Within the diveable depth range of Subic Bay, there are several shipwrecks and the wreck of the USS New York, which are frequently visited by divers. As divers descend, they can see the twin barrels of the large guns faintly, making it a great place to experience history.
Subic Bay has excellent natural conditions, with calm seas year-round. It also features unique dive sites with ship and aircraft wrecks due to its historical military elements. Exploring these ancient relics is the highlight of a diving trip.
The best time for diving is from November to May of the following year, during which the marine environment of Subic Bay is very suitable for diving activities.
3. Dumaguete
This region is one of the easiest places in the world to swim with whale sharks, and divers have the chance to see them every day. It also has one of the most pristine coral reserves in the world and is listed as one of the top ten diving destinations globally. Here, snorkeling allows you to get up close and personal with the world of clownfish.
Highlights: DAUIN Beach is a famous diving destination in Dumaguete, and the DuCoMi Pier in this area is one of the best diving spots where you can see humphead wrasses, sea turtles, whale sharks, and other aquatic life.
Best diving time: November to May.
4. Boracay Island
This place is Boracay Island, rated as one of the top ten best beaches in the world. The emerald-like sea provides the best conditions for diving, attracting countless divers and non-divers. There are more than 30 dive sites on Boracay Island, with YAPAK, CROCODILE, CAMIA, FRIDAYS, and LAUREL being the most famous, suitable for divers with OW and AOW levels and above. Here you can see various fish such as barracudas, jacks, and sharks. This place is suitable for diving all year round.
5. Cebu Island
Cebu has always been known for its captivating blue waters, and the discovery of thresher sharks has made this tourist spot even more famous. For those who love surfing and diving, conquering this blue sea is a great joy.
Highlights: The small islands around Cebu boast white sandy beaches and numerous diving spots, the most famous being Malapascua (commonly known as Mama Picasa Island), which has over 20 diving spots. The warm tropical waters here amaze divers with their diversity and scenic beauty. The waters around Cebu are clear, teeming with fish, and you can see thresher sharks, manta rays, hammerhead sharks, dolphins, and other marine life.
Best diving time: Suitable all year round.
6. Bohol Island
This is the tenth-ranked island in the Philippines, known as the Coral Island because its beaches are formed from coral stones broken and washed by the sea. Even under the scorching sun, it feels cool to step on. Attractions on the island include ancient churches, the Blood Compact Shrine, and the world's smallest tarsier forest area (Tarsius Monkey).
Highlights: There are black coral groups, dolphins, and lionfish here, making it an excellent diving destination.
Best diving time: Suitable for diving all year round, with the best period from March to September.
7. Anilao Island
Anilao is one of the birthplaces of diving in the Philippines and a paradise for divers. Whether you are snorkeling or scuba diving, whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, you can find a suitable dive spot here.
Highlights: Numerous dive sites with marine life such as sea turtles, pygmy seahorses, and soft coral groups.
Best diving time: Suitable all year round.
8. Dolphin Bay
This place is called Dolphin Bay because dolphins are frequently seen here throughout the year. It has a natural harbor that provides shelter from the wind, creating a rich underwater ecosystem and terrain. It is renowned as a famous diving paradise in Asia and is one of the main sites for technical diving in Asia, attracting many diving enthusiasts to come for certification. Highlights: This is recognized as one of the top diving sanctuaries, with abundant marine life. Must-dive spots include Holeinthewall, Cayons, and the more challenging Fishbow. Here, you can observe dolphins, manta rays, and hammerhead sharks. Best diving time: January to June and October to December.
9. Coron Bay
Coron is a famous shipwreck diving spot in the Philippines, but the more accurate name is Coron Bay. If you are an enthusiast of shipwreck diving, then you definitely cannot miss Coron Bay.
There are over 15 shipwreck diving spots to choose from, all of which are Japanese ships sunk by the US Air Force in 1942. Most of the shipwrecks are located in dark bays, with the best visibility at a 40-meter-long submarine chaser in East Tangat. Here you can see shipwrecks, dugongs, and large schools of fish.
The best diving season is from October to May of the following year.
