11 Thrilling Places for Scuba Diving in Philippines

The Philippines is a beautiful Southeast Asian country known for its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life and fascinating underwater scenery. With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines popular places and attractions are in a tropical paradise that attracts tourists worldwide. One of the most popular activities here is scuba diving, and for good reason.

Scuba diving in the Philippines offers an unforgettable experience with over 500 species of coral and an abundance of marine species, including whale sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and colourful schools of fish. But what truly sets it apart is the World War II shipwrecks, a thrilling opportunity for divers to explore history while underwater, adding a unique and exciting element to your diving adventure. 

In this article, we'll take a deeper look into scuba diving in Philippines and some of the best places you must visit to get the most out of this unique experience.

The Philippines, part of the Coral Triangle, boasts some of the world's most biodiverse marine environments. From the vibrant reefs to the historic wrecks, diving here is both thrilling and enriching.

To ensure a worry-free exploration of these underwater marvels, securing overseas travel insurance that includes coverage for scuba diving is a wise choice, protecting you from unforeseen circumstances during your aquatic adventures. Some of the popular scuba diving sites in the Philippines are:

1. Moalboal, Cebu

Moalboal, a small town on the southwest side of Cebu, is the heart of marine biodiversity in the Philippines. This makes it a perfect destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. The town's healthy reefs and steep walls are home to a wide variety of marine life, especially sardines and occasional whale sharks. 

Moalboal is best known for its Sardine Run, where millions of sardines form huge bait balls, and Pescador Island, which offers dramatic walls with colourful soft corals and fascinating macro life.

• Popular Diving Spots: Magic Island House Reef, Pescador South, Sardine Ball, White Beach, Airplane Wreck, Tongo Point Marine Sanctuary, Ronda Bay Marine Sanctuary, Sunken Island, Panagsama Beach, Neptune’s House Reef, Pescador Island, Amigos House Reef.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Schools of sardines, whale sharks, snappers, jacks, barracudas, reef sharks, hammerheads, eagle rays, manta rays, stonefish, dolphins, tuna, turtles, thresher sharks, pygmy seahorses, sardine balls, octopus, nudibranch, electric clams, cuttlefish, ghost pipefish, frogfish and a host of crustaceans.
  
• Depth: 15m -40m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 1,400 – PHP 27,200 & Courses – PHP 5,500 – PHP 50,000

2. Malapascua, Cebu

Malapascua, a tiny island in the Philippines, is a diver's paradise. Known as the 'Thresher Shark Capital of the World,' Malapascua is the only place where you can consistently see these majestic creatures. Monad Shoal, a sunken island near Malapascua, is the best spot to dive with these shy creatures. Divers rest 10 meters below the surface to watch the sharks be cleaned.

The island is also famous for its excellent macro life. Gato Island, located nearby, boasts some of the most amazing macro life in the area, including seahorses, cuttlefish, nudibranchs, and mantis shrimp in action.

• Popular Diving Spots: Monad, Chocolate Island, Lapus Lapus, Gato Island, Bugtong Bato, Deep Rock, Quiliano, Sambowan, Lighthouse Wreck, Dona Marilyn Wreck, Exotic House Reef.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Corals, cleaner fish, nudibranchs, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, eagle rays, thresher sharks, reef sharks, tiger sharks, manta rays, stonefish, seahorses, frogfish, turtles, dolphins, shrimps, crabs, sea snakes, critters.
  
• Depth: 5m - 25m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 1,200 – PHP 5,200 & Courses - PHP 3,000 – PHP 22,000

3. Mactan, Cebu

Aside from the breathtaking underwater views, Mactan is also known for its warm and clear waters, making it an ideal location for diving enthusiasts of all skill levels. The island offers a variety of PADI courses suitable for beginners and advanced divers.

The many dive sites here offer perfect opportunities for underwater photography and wreck diving. As you explore the underwater world in Mactan, you will encounter a wide variety of marine life, colourful coral formations and various species of sharks. 

• Popular Diving Spots: Tambuli Aeroplane Wreck, 7 Seas Reef, Nalusuan Island Marine Sanctuary, Hilutungan Island Marine Sanctuary, Talima Marine Sanctuary, Agus Bay, Coral Reef Resort, San Juan Wreck, Shangri-La Marine Sanctuary, Kontiki Marina.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Coral walls, stonefish, seahorses, eagle rays, manta rays, whale sharks, sardines, batfish, snappers, groupers, jackfish, stingrays.
  
• Depth: 12m - 40m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 1,500 – PHP 8,000 & Courses - PHP 3,000 – PHP 25,000

4. Puerto Galera, Mindoro

Mindoro in the Philippines is one of the most famous places to go scuba diving. According to UNESCO, the Apo Reef is 'the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world'. The Puerto Galera, another recognised best scuba diving spot in the Philippines, is a series of little, nearly landlocked coves at the northern tip of Oriental Mindoro.

Scuba divers looking to explore some gorgeous reefs and take advantage of a vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches will find Puerto Galera the ideal destination for diving in the Philippines.

• Popular Diving Spots: Apo Reef, Sabang Wrecks, Manila Channel, The Canyon, Monkey Beach, Dungon Wall, The Seagrass, Drop Off, Washing Machine, Tamaraw Reef, Deluna House Reef, West Escarceo.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Jacks, snappers, fairy basslets, trigger fish, groupers, trevallies, drummers, barracudas, reef sharks, corals, sea fans, turtles, moray eels, cephalopods, sea snakes, lionfish, lobsters, sweetlips, nudibranchs, crustaceans, octopus, frogfish, seahorses.
  
• Depth: 5m - 50m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 1,500 – PHP 24,000 & Courses - PHP 2,500 – PHP 65,000

5. Boracay, Aklan

Boracay Island, located in the province of Aklan in the Philippines, is a haven for scuba diving enthusiasts. The island offers a wide range of diving sites, each with its unique features and marine life. There are several shallow dive sites where you can learn the basics of scuba diving and explore the colourful reefs. For the more experienced divers, the deep dive sites offer a more challenging experience with encounters with larger marine life.

Aside from the world-class diving experience, Boracay also offers a unique marine conservation program. The Boracay Foundation, in partnership with the local government, has implemented several measures to protect and preserve the island's marine life and coral reefs. Divers can take part in this program by participating in reef cleanup activities, underwater surveys, and coral planting programs.

• Popular Diving Spots: Angol Point, Yapak, Camia, Laguna de Boracay, Crocodile Island, Laurel Island.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Turtles, coral gardens, macro-life, mola mola, reef sharks, rays, barracudas, jacks, snappers, triggerfish, trevallies, tunas, feather stars, nudibranchs, shrimps, clownfish, garden eels, lionfish, batfish, groupers, sweetlips, angelfish, scorpionfish, boxfish.
  
• Depth: 5m - 32m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 2,400 – PHP 24,000 & Courses - PHP 2,500 – PHP 65,000

6. Busuanga & Coron, Palawan

Busuanga and Coron in Palawan, Philippines, are known for their incredible scuba diving experiences. The area boasts some of the world’s best wreck dives, with over a dozen Japanese warships sunk during World War II that have become artificial reefs and home to a plethora of marine life.

The place has become a scuba diving haven for beginners and experienced divers alike. The Barracuda Lake is also a unique attraction, with a thermocline that separates the fresh and saltwater layers. Apart from wreck diving, the waters surrounding Busuanga and Coron are also filled with pristine beaches and breathtaking snorkelling spots. 

• Popular Diving Spots: Sand Pit Reef, Landing Craft, Lusong Gunboat, Irako, Dimanglet, Cathedral Cavern, Coron Virgin, Alcatraz, Barracuda Lake, Skeleton Wreck, Akitsushima, Siete Picados, Okikawa Maru, Kogyo Maru, Olympia Maru, Pirates Cyc Reef.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Clownfish, lionfish, crocodile fish, reef fish, seahorse, lionfish, whale shark, turtle, stingray, cuttlefish, octopus, nudibranchs, scorpionfish, turtles.
  
• Depth: 10m - 24m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 2,400 – PHP 5,200 & Courses - PHP 5,500 – PHP 22,500

7. Tubbataha Reef, Palawan

Located in the heart of the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers 97,030 hectares of protected marine area. Its waters are teeming with life, including over 600 species of fish, 360 species of corals (accounting for around 50% of the coral species in the world), and 13 species of dolphins and whales. Scuba diving in Tubbataha Reef is a unique and unforgettable experience. The water temperatures are warm, and visibility is often excellent, making it perfect for great photo ops.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a paradise for scuba divers and underwater enthusiasts. Its pristine coral reefs and rich marine life are home to a staggering array of marine species, making it one of the best diving spots in the Philippines and even in the world. 

• Popular Diving Spots: Tubbataha Reef Natural Park, North Atoll, South Atoll, Jessy Beazley Reef, Amos Rock.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Sea turtles, sharks, corals, reef fishes, rays, seagrass, algae, seabirds, gorgonians, nudibranchs, ornate ghost pipefish, seahorses, tiger sharks, whale sharks, whitetips, frogfish, dolphins, barracudas, tunas, groupers, giant trevallies.
  
• Depth: 5m - 30m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 2,400 – PHP 24,000 & Courses - PHP 5,500 – PHP 65,000

8. El Nido, Palawan

El Nido is a picturesque coastal town situated in the northern part of Palawan Island in the Philippines. The town is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a diverse array of marine life, making it a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. From shallow coral gardens to deep underwater caves, there is something for everyone. Even those interested in underwater photography must visit El Nido, which is an excellent destination.

• Popular Diving Spots: Paradise Beach, West Entalula Wall, Underwater Forest, Nat Nat, Dilumacad Island, South Miniloc, Tambalanang.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Seahorses, nudibranch, scorpion fish, butterflyfish, angelfish, crustaceans, cephalopods, jawfish, blennies, reef sharks, whale sharks, eagle rays, marble rays, manta rays, stonefish, jacks, snappers, barracudas, groupers, turtles, dolphins, corals.
• Depth: 6m - 30m
  
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 2,400 – PHP 5,200 & Courses - PHP 6,400 – PHP 68,000

9. Tonga Point, Siquijor

Siquijor Island in the Philippines is a hidden gem for scuba diving enthusiasts. With a vibrant marine ecosystem, it is a perfect destination for beginners and experienced divers. The island has numerous dive sites, including the Marine Sanctuary, which offers an up-close look at colourful coral reefs and exotic sea creatures.

Dive enthusiasts can also explore the mysterious sunken plane wreck off the coast of Siquijor, which has become a popular spot for underwater photography. Scuba diving in Siquijor entices divers with its warm waters, breathtaking underwater scenery, and unparalleled diving experiences. 

• Popular Diving Spots: Cesar’s Reef, Dakak House Reef, Asinero, Balas Balas, Pulauan Wreck, Talayong Marine Sanctuary, Bahura Dive House Reef, Cedric Wall, Daquit Shoal, Tulapos Marine Sanctuary, Bogo Marine Sanctuary, Olang Sanctuary, Liloan Lighthouse.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Leather coral, soft coral, fans, sponges, colourful fire hydroids, barracudas, turtles, blue-spotted rays.
  
• Depth: 12m - 65m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 2,400 – PHP 5,200 & Courses - PHP 6,400 – PHP 68,000

10. Anda, Bohol

Anda, Bohol in the Philippines is a hidden gem for scuba diving enthusiasts. The pristine waters and vast marine life make it a much-anticipated destination for beginners and experienced divers. The dive sites in Anda offer a unique experience amongst colourful corals and fishes. The town's location also provides easy access to nearby islands and reefs, such as the famous Apo Island, where divers can swim with sea turtles and explore vibrant coral gardens.

• Popular Diving Spots: Dap Dap, Paradise Garden, Snappers Cave, Lumayac, Wonder Wall, and Virgin East House Reef.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Seahorses, corals, turtles, frogfish, reef sharks, octopus, stingrays, lobsters, nudibranchs, mandarin fish, glass catfish, dragonfish, pygmy seahorses, skeleton shrimps, anemone shrimps, sea moths, mantis shrimps, Napoleon snake eels.
• Depth: 7m - 20m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 2,400 – PHP 5,200 & Courses - PHP 6,400 – PHP 68,000

11. Panaon Island, Southern Leyte

Panaon Island, located in Southern Leyte, Philippines, hosts one of the most popular dive sites - the Napantao Marine Sanctuary. This sanctuary is home to a wide variety of coral species, colourful fish, and other marine creatures. Diving here is truly a feast for the eyes.

The underwater topography of Panaon Island and surrounding dive sites make for very interesting dive experiences that bring scuba divers from across the world. You will find underwater canyons, walls, and drop-offs that offer a thrilling experience for advanced divers. It is also a great spot to witness the annual whale shark migration from November to May. 

• Popular Diving Spots: Libagon, Sogod Bay, Napantao Fish Sanctuary, Tankaan Point, Max Climax Wall, Baluarte.
• Unique Underwater Attractions: Manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, barracudas, turtles, sweetlips, gorgonian corals, stonefish, tunas, jacks, fusiliers, pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs, pipefish, frogfish, napoleon wrasse, batfish, angelfish, snappers.
  
• Depth: 10m - 40m
• Costs: Individual dives – PHP 1,400 – PHP 27,200 & Courses - PHP 3,500 – PHP 23,000

You can go scuba diving in the Philippines year-round. However, the best time to go scuba diving is from December to April as it is the dry season across the country.

Depending on your location of choice, the months of November and May offer excellent diving conditions, nice weather and best time to visit Philippines throughout the year. The ideal time to dive in the Philippines varies depending on where you go because the country is made up of thousands of islands.

Before you go scuba diving in Philippines, be sure to carry these essential items: 

• Valid ID proof is a must
• Swimwear, dry bag and towels
• Scuba diving equipment, if you already have
• Hats, sunglasses and sunblock
• First aid kit

Scuba diving operators in Philippines will also provide you with scuba diving equipment. Be sure to check your equipment before you're in the water to avoid malfunctions.

• Dive only in designated areas, respect your environment and always pay attention to the guidelines set by your instructor.
• Wait for at least 2 hours after eating before you go scuba diving.
• Avoid diving under the influence of substances or if advised against by a medical practitioner.
• There should be a time gap of at least 24 hours between flying and going scuba diving.

What makes the Philippines so unique is its location. The country is situated in the Coral Triangle, also known as the 'Amazon of the Sea', due to its high concentration of marine biodiversity. The Coral Triangle is home to over 76% of the world's coral species and over 3,000 species of fish. 

This makes the Philippines an ideal destination for scuba diving enthusiasts who are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a privilege to witness such a diverse and unique ecosystem.

It never hurts to be ready for any unanticipated events that may occur while travelling. For this reason, obtaining International Travel Insurance to Philippines that covers adventure sports like scuba diving is essential before departing on your vacation! You can completely enjoy your scuba diving experience without worrying about money!