Philippines
Country Name: Philippines
Capital City: Manila
Population: Approximately 116.63 million (2024 est.)
Official Language: Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
Time Zone: Philippine Time (PHT), UTC +8
Diving Overview
The Philippines is a premier diving destination known for its extensive coral reefs, diverse marine life, and historical shipwrecks. With over 7,000 islands, it offers a multitude of dive sites, from the world-renowned Tubbataha Reefs to the wrecks of Coron Bay and the vibrant reefs of Anilao. The warm, clear waters and rich biodiversity make it an ideal location for both novice and experienced divers.
- Number of Dive Sites: Over 200
- Types of Diving: Reef, wreck, muck, wall
- Marine Biodiversity Highlights: Whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, various species of nudibranchs, and abundant coral species.
- Average Water Temperatures: 26-30°C (79-86°F)
- Visibility Range: 15-45 meters (49-148 feet)
Important Information
Optimal Dive Seasons
The best diving conditions are typically from December to May when the seas are calm and visibility is high.
Major Airports
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila),Mactan-Cebu International Airport (Cebu),Clark International Airport (Pampanga),Francisco Bangoy International Airport (Davao),Kalibo International Airport (Kalibo)
The Travel Tip
A 3mm wetsuit is usually sufficient for diving in the Philippines, but consider a 5mm wetsuit for deeper dives or cooler seasons.
Weather Patterns
The Philippines has a tropical maritime climate with a dry season from December to May and a wet season from June to November, characterized by heavy rainfall and typhoons.
Internal Transportation
Options include domestic flights, ferries, buses, jeepneys, and tricycles, providing comprehensive connectivity across the islands.
Attractions
Notable attractions include the beaches of Boracay, the historic walled city of Intramuros in Manila, the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, the Banaue Rice Terraces, and the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.
Top Dive Regions
The Philippines is renowned for its exceptional dive sites, boasting an array of marine biodiversity and underwater landscapes across its extensive archipelago. From vibrant coral reefs to historical shipwrecks, the country offers diverse diving experiences suitable for all skill levels. The top four dive regions in the Philippines include Tubbataha Reefs, Apo Island, Coron Bay, and Anilao, each providing unique underwater adventures.
Tubbataha Reefs
Located in the Sulu Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life, including sharks, manta rays, and large schools of fish
Apo Island
Known for its vibrant coral gardens and rich marine biodiversity, Apo Island offers excellent diving opportunities with frequent sightings of sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish
Coron Bay
This region is famous for its World War II wrecks, providing divers with the unique experience of exploring sunken Japanese warships amidst rich marine ecosystems
Anilao
Located in Batangas, Anilao is a popular dive spot known for its macro photography opportunities, diverse marine life, and easily accessible dive sites
Marine Life
The Philippines’ rich marine ecosystems are home to an astonishing variety of marine life, making it a paradise for divers and marine enthusiasts. The warm, clear waters are teeming with colorful coral reefs, home to a myriad of species such as vibrant nudibranchs, playful sea turtles, and an array of tropical fish. Larger marine creatures like whale sharks and manta rays are frequently spotted in areas like Donsol and Tubbataha, while the numerous shipwrecks in Coron Bay provide habitats for a unique array of fish and invertebrates. The lush seagrass beds and mangroves also support diverse species, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.
Common Species: Whale sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, nudibranchs, reef sharks, various tropical fish, and colorful corals.
Seasonal Highlights: Whale shark sightings peak from November to June, while manta rays are most commonly seen from December to May
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Dive sites in Apo Island
Located off the southeastern coast of Negros Oriental in the Philippines, Apo Island is a diver’s paradise renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, vibrant coral reefs, and exceptional conservation efforts. This small volcanic island, covering just 74 hectares, is part…
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Overview of Apo Island
Apo Island, located in the Philippines, is renowned for its vibrant marine biodiversity and well-preserved coral reefs. It is a sanctuary for divers seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. Recognized globally as a premier diving destination, Apo Island offers an excellent…
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Best time to dive in Coron Bay
Diving in Coron Bay is an unparalleled experience, renowned for its historic shipwrecks, vibrant coral reefs, and enchanting underwater landscapes. Choosing the right time to dive here is crucial to maximize visibility, ensure safety, and witness the most spectacular marine…
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Overview of Coron Bay
Coron Bay, located in the Philippines, is a paradisiacal diving destination known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning underwater scenery, and exceptional biodiversity. Nestled in the northern part of Palawan Island, Coron Bay is a haven for both recreational and professional…
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Dive sites in Coron Bay
Nestled in the northern part of Palawan, Philippines, Coron Bay is a diving enthusiast’s paradise. This unique underwater haven offers a kaleidoscope of marine life, captivating shipwrecks, and striking limestone cliffs that plunge dramatically into the turquoise waters. What makes…
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Best time to dive in Malapascua Island
Diving in Malapascua Island is a unique experience that attracts divers from around the globe. Known for its picturesque underwater landscapes and the chance to encounter thresher sharks, this Filipino island offers a breathtaking adventure beneath the waves. However, choosing…
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Overview of Malapascua Island
Malapascua Island, a gem in the central region of the Philippines, stands out as a premier destination for scuba diving enthusiasts from around the globe. This small island, located in the Visayan Sea, is renowned not just for its pristine…
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Dive sites in Malapascua Island
Malapascua Island, a hidden gem situated in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, offers an unparalleled diving experience that attracts divers from across the globe. With its pristine waters and diverse marine life, Malapascua has become synonymous with notable…
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Best time to dive in Apo Island
Nestled in the Philippines’ vast archipelago, Apo Island is a diver’s paradise renowned for its vibrant coral gardens, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters. Choosing the right time to dive here can make all the difference in ensuring a memorable…