With 7,107 islands, the Philippines boasts a vast array of bodies of water teeming with diverse marine wildlife and stunning seascapes, making it a popular diving destination in Asia.
The country offers countless diving spots suitable for divers of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner looking for enjoyable recreational activities, an intermediate diver seeking new challenges to refine your skills, or an expert in search of thrilling adventures, the Philippines has something for everyone.
At the top of the list are Anilao in Batangas and the Tubbataha Reefs in Palawan, known for their impressive marine biodiversity and awe-inspiring vertical reef walls that drop to over 100 meters deep.
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993 due to its high density of marine species, along with various birds and marine turtles.
Anilao and Tubbataha Reefs are popular diving spots for deep and open water divers, featuring various types of sharks, schools of fish, turtles, and vibrant corals.
For adventure-seekers and history enthusiasts, the Philippines offers many captivating seafaring tales and numerous sunken ships to explore, including World War II vessels such as Japanese freighters and gunboats. These wrecks have now become habitats for various marine species.
The country offers excellent training spots for novice divers. Cebu is known for its underwater caves, passageways, and diverse marine life. In certain areas, night diving is also possible. The open waters of El Nido in Palawan and Cebu are popular locations for observing nocturnal creatures, which appear majestic in the moonlight.
The Philippines has the highest number of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Heritage Parks and has been designated as a Flyway Network Site, which refers to a network of key sites utilized by migratory waterbirds along the flyway.
The Philippines offers a wealth of opportunities for both new and experienced divers, from Subic and Batangas in Luzon to the central region—Cebu, Bohol, Negros Island, and Palawan—as well as Mindanao, including Davao and Camiguin, along with various spots in-between.
Divers with various skills will enjoy incredible underwater discoveries beneath the crystal-clear waters of the Philippines. The innate warmth and hospitality of Filipinos, along with unique local offerings, will make the experience even more enjoyable.
