Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in the Philippines

The 10 Must-Visit Spots in 2025

With over 7,000 islands, UNESCO-listed coral reefs, and extraordinary marine biodiversity, the Philippines is one of the best places in the world for scuba diving and snorkeling. Whether you’re a certified diver or simply enjoy colorful swims, the archipelago offers a unique experience with every immersion.

1.Why Dive in the Philippines in 2025?

The Philippines is internationally recognized as a global marine biodiversity hotspot. On your dives in 2025, you might encounter:

Whale Sharks – Donsol, Cebu, and Leyte are famous for observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Sea Turtles – Green and hawksbill turtles thrive in spots like Apo Island and Tubbataha Reef.

Sardine Run – The legendary sardine run in Moalboal lets you dive among millions of sardines, an unforgettable spectacle.

Colorful Corals – Philippine reefs like Tubbataha and Anilao offer an incredible variety of hard and soft corals, perfect for macro photography and close observation.

2. Favorable Climate

Water temperature – Warm year-round, between 79°F and 86°F (26°C–30°C), ensuring comfortable conditions in any season.

Dive season – Diving is possible all year, but March to June is considered the best period, with optimal visibility and dry weather.

3. Accessibility for All Levels

Beginners – Calm waters and shallow sites are perfect for introductory dives with certified instructors.

Intermediate & advanced divers – Drift dives, wrecks, technical dives, and current sites offer more adventure.

Training – Many PADI and SSI dive centers offer courses and certifications, from Open Water to Divemaster and even Instructor level.

4. Competitive Prices

The Philippines often offers better rates than other famous Asian destinations (like Indonesia or Thailand), both for dive packages and for accommodation and dining.

You’ll enjoy excellent service at an affordable price, making it attractive for divers seeking great value.

In short: Diving in the Philippines in 2025 means choosing a destination that combines exceptional biodiversity, perfect year-round weather, sites for every skill level, and very competitive prices – all with the warm welcome of the locals and the stunning natural beauty of its islands and beaches.

Top 10 Dive Spots in the Philippines

1. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (Palawan)

For: Experienced divers, liveaboard enthusiasts, underwater photographers.
Vibe: Exclusive, adventurous, serene (protected zone, only accessible by cruise).
Snorkeling or diving? Diving only (depth and access require liveaboard trips).

Photos : Scuba Diving Magazine – Tubbataha.

2. Apo Reef (Occidental Mindoro)

For: Divers of all levels, nature photographers, active families, groups.
Vibe: Natural, adventurous, peaceful.
Snorkeling or diving? Best for scuba diving (deep waters, incredible visibility).

Photos : Apo Reef Photos – Apo Reef.

3. Malapascua (Cebu)

For: Shark lovers, passionate divers, laid-back travelers.
Vibe: Calm by day, social in the evening (beach bars).
Snorkeling or diving? Diving recommended (thresher sharks, macro life).

Photos : Malapascua Diving Gallery.

4. Coron (Palawan)

For: Wreck diving fans, history buffs, technical divers.
Vibe: Trendy, adventurous, some nightlife.
Snorkeling or diving? Scuba for WWII wrecks, snorkeling in lakes and lagoons.

Photos : Coron Wreck Diving.

5. Balicasag Island (Bohol)

For: Beginners/intermediates, families, snorkelers, photographers.
Vibe: Quiet, natural, slightly touristy.
Snorkeling or diving? Both – turtles and reefs accessible by snorkeling, drift dives for more action.

Photos : Balicasag Gallery.

6. Moalboal (Cebu)

For: Backpackers, young travelers, sardine run lovers.
Vibe: Lively, tourist-friendly, festive at night.
Snorkeling or diving? Both – snorkeling for sardine run, scuba for walls and wrecks.

Photos : Moalboal Sardine Run.

7. Anilao (Batangas)

For: Macro photographers, beginners, dive clubs.
Vibe: Peaceful, village atmosphere, technical focus.
Snorkeling or diving? Scuba only (macro life hard to see when snorkeling).

Photos : Anilao Underwater.

8. Puerto Galera (Mindoro)

For: All-level divers, social travelers, bar hoppers.
Vibe: Touristy, friendly, festive.
Snorkeling or diving? Both – varied dives (wrecks, drifts, macro) plus easy beach snorkeling.

Photos : Puerto Galera Dive Sites.

9. El Nido (Palawan)

For: Instagrammers, couples, families.
Vibe: Very touristy, scenic, vibrant nightlife.
Snorkeling or diving? Exceptional snorkeling in the turquoise lagoon, scuba for caves and walls.

Photos : El Nido Underwater.

10. Siargao

For: Explorers, surfers, adventurous young travelers.
Vibe: Relaxed, “slow travel”, less crowded.
Snorkeling or diving? Both – still-wild and preserved spots.

Photos : Siargao Dive Pics.

Conclusion & Tips

Traveler profiles: From party-loving backpackers to tech divers, families, couples, or solo adventurers.

Best for nightlife: Moalboal, El Nido, Malapascua, Boracay.
Most touristy: Puerto Galera, Coron.
Quiet & wild: Tubbataha, Apo Reef, Balicasag, Siargao.

Snorkeling recommended: El Nido, Balicasag, Moalboal (sardine run).
Scuba recommended: Tubbataha, Coron, Malapascua, Anilao, Apo Reef for the most spectacular reefs and wrecks.

• Enjoy planning your trip – the Philippines is breathtakingly photogenic and offers an underwater adventure for every travel style.

  • Best Snorkeling Spots in the Philippines

    • Here’s a breakdown for each site: who it’s for, the vibe, snorkeling vs. diving advice, plus links/photos to visualize your next adventure.

      1. Honda Bay (Palawan)

      For: Perfect for beginners, families, kids, and groups. Ideal for those who enjoy island-hopping, white-sand beaches, and an easy, accessible experience.

      Vibe: Fairly touristy and lively. Some islands are busy (like Starfish Island and Cowrie Island), but you can find quieter spots with private tours. Meals and gear are often included in organized trips.

      Snorkeling or diving? Primarily designed for snorkeling. The shallow seabed is better suited for mask and fins. The corals are nice but less pristine than elsewhere (some damaged areas). Diving is possible, but it doesn’t compare to El Nido or Tubbataha.

      Photos:

      • Photos :

        • Galerie Honda Bay : Instagram Honda Bay 2025

        • Images snorkeling & plages : Tripadvisor Honda Bay

        • Expérience island hopping : Travelsetu Honda Bay

      2. Apo Island

      For: Nature lovers, photographers, snorkelers, divers, and small groups. Perfect if you dream of swimming with turtles in crystal-clear water surrounded by vibrant coral gardens.

      Vibe: Wild, preserved, peaceful. Few tourists, local guides, rustic beaches. A “slow travel” nature experience.

      Snorkeling or diving? Outstanding snorkeling (easy encounters with turtles, colorful corals within meters of the shore, excellent visibility). Diving is available, but snorkeling alone is enough to enjoy the show.

      Photos :

      • Galerie Apo Island : Instagram Apo Island

      • Trips et tortues : Tripadvisor Apo Island

      • Photos snorkeling : Liveaboard Apo Island

      3. White Beach (Boracay)

      For: Travelers looking for a festive vibe, couples, families in search of a postcard-perfect destination, and beginner snorkelers.

      Vibe: Very touristy, festive, and lively day and night (parties, bars, restaurants, shopping). World-famous for its powdery white sand and sunsets.

      Snorkeling or diving? Snorkeling is easily accessible from the shore but remains basic (pretty tropical fish, simple corals, few large species). Great for fun and first-time snorkelers, but not the most spectacular biodiversity. For better snorkeling in Boracay, try Angol Point near Station 3 or join an island-hopping tour.

      Photos :

      • Galerie White Beach : Instagram White Beach

      • Images snorkeling : Shutterstock Boracay Snorkeling

      • Cartes postales plage : iStock White Beach Boracay

      Tips by Traveler Profile:

      • Beginners/Families: Honda Bay, White Beach (easy access, facilities, safety)

      • Nature/Authenticity: Apo Island (marine life, corals, preserved setting)

      • Festive/Touristy: White Beach (glamour, relaxation, fun snorkeling)

      Snorkeling vs. Diving: For variety (turtles, corals, marine life), Apo Island wins for snorkeling. Honda Bay is great for discovery trips, while White Beach is more about the beach vibe than biodiversity.

      Overcoming the Fear of Sharks, Moray Eels, and Other “Underwater Monsters”

      It’s common for beginners to fear meeting impressive marine creatures like sharks, moray eels, or even piranhas. But these animals are part of the ocean’s magic. Here’s how to turn anxiety into confidence and fully enjoy your experience.

      1. Understand the Reality Behind the “Monsters”

      Sharks: Their bad reputation comes from movies, but in reality, most sharks are harmless. Attacks on humans are extremely rare and usually accidental. For divers, spotting a shark (whale, whitetip, thresher) is a privilege and a peaceful sight.

      Moray Eels: Intimidating with their heads and teeth, morays are shy and usually only emerge at night or to feed. They only bite if provoked or touched.

      Piranhas: Not found in Asian seas (including the Philippines). They live in South American freshwater and rarely pose a risk to swimmers or divers.

      2. Stonefish, Octopuses, Jellyfish – Staying Safe

      The Philippine underwater world is rich and fascinating, but requires some precautions:

      Stonefish: Camouflaged among corals and rocks, sometimes brightly colored or patterned. They may have venomous spines that cause pain if touched.

      Octopuses: Intelligent and shy. Usually hidden in crevices and change color to blend in. They don’t attack unless threatened. Dangerous blue-ringed octopuses are very rare in the Philippines.

      Jellyfish: More common in warmer seasons or certain currents. Stings can range from mild to painful, with some causing allergic reactions. Stay vigilant when swimming in open water.

      Summary:

      • Wear a rash guard to protect from stings, scratches, and the sun.

      • Never snorkel alone.

      3. Importance of Wearing a Rash Guard or Wetsuit

      • Protection from stings & cuts: Keeps skin safe from jellyfish, coral cuts, and fish spines.

      • Sun protection: Prevents sunburn during long water sessions.

      • Thermal comfort: Even in warm water, helps maintain body temperature.

      4. Why You Should Avoid Swimming Alone

      • Safety: Health issues, strong currents, or unexpected encounters can happen.

      • Shared experience: More eyes to spot marine life and ensure mutual safety.

      • Emergency help: A buddy can react immediately if needed.

      5. Practical Tips for a Stress-Free Marine Experience

      • Get local info on marine life from guides or dive centers.

      • Wear protective gear even for snorkeling.

      • Never touch marine animals.

      • Swim with a buddy or guided group.

      • Stay calm and move gently in the water.

      • If stung or injured, seek medical advice immediately.

      Very Important!

      Dive guides and instructors in the Philippines are trained not only to help you discover the beauty of the underwater world, but also to ensure your safety and provide first aid in case of an accident or health issue underwater. They always carry a complete medical kit, which often includes:

      • First aid supplies (disinfectants, bandages, gauze, wraps)

      • Basic medications (antihistamines, pain relievers, corticosteroids)

      • Tools to quickly treat stings, cuts, or irritation (antiseptic creams, jellyfish sting treatments, protective barriers)

      • Equipment for more serious emergencies (such as oxygen therapy gear, if available) while waiting for evacuation

      This professional readiness reinforces the importance of always diving or snorkeling with qualified guides or instructors. Not only do they make sure the dive runs smoothly, but they can also respond effectively to incidents and ensure the safety of the whole group.

      In short:

      Always diving with a buddy isn’t just about shared fun and physical safety — it’s also about making sure appropriate medical care is immediately available if needed. This greatly reduces risks and allows you to enjoy the underwater world with peace of mind.

      6. Techniques to Overcome Fear

      • Learn and prepare: Take an intro session (briefing or course) before diving. Knowing what to expect and how to behave reassures you.

      • Breathe and manage stress: Underwater, keep a slow, steady breathing rhythm. Stress speeds up your heartbeat — slow down, observe, and let yourself drift.

      • Trust your guide: They know the sites and will take you only to safe areas. Always follow their instructions.

      • Look, don’t touch: The golden rule in snorkeling and diving — observe without trying to touch or feed marine animals.

      • Remember fear is normal: Even experienced divers feel it the first time — it fades as wonder takes over.

      • Visualize positive images: Watching videos or photos of calm, beautiful underwater interactions helps replace fear with curiosity.

      7. On-Site Practical Tips

      • Tell your instructor if you’re nervous — they can adapt the dive and choose calmer, shallower sites.

      • Avoid sensationalist media and focus on reputable sources or real traveler feedback.

      • Share your experience afterward — talking about it helps put things into perspective.

      8. Key Takeaways

      Your fear is natural, but the Philippine marine life — sharks, turtles, tropical fish — is non-aggressive if respected. Snorkeling and diving sites are designed for both safety and enjoyment.

      The underwater world is far richer in beauty than in danger — embrace the adventure and you’ll leave both enchanted and confident.

      “Underwater, you learn to observe and respect. Even the most impressive creatures are fascinating, rarely dangerous.” – Dive Guide, Philippines

      Safety Awareness

      There’s no such thing as zero risk in diving, even in the paradise-like tropical waters of the Philippines. The sea can bring strong or unpredictable currents, and you may also feel unwell before a dive (stress, fatigue, nausea). Never dive if you’re not physically or mentally ready.

      Stay alert at all times: follow your guide’s instructions, always dive with a buddy, gear up properly, know your limits, and never underestimate the ocean. These measures are essential to minimize the risk of accidents, which are rare but possible.

      Practical Diving Tips for the Philippines

      • Best season: March to June for optimal visibility

      • Budget: Scuba $27–$44 / Snorkeling $5–$11

      • Gear: Rent locally or bring your own

      • Dive centers: Choose PADI or SSI-certified operators

      Environmental Safety Rules

      1. Do not touch corals – They are fragile, living organisms. Contact can damage them permanently and cause skin cuts or irritation.

      2. Avoid chemical sunscreen – Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life, or wear a rash guard.

      3. Respect marine life and keep your distance – Observe without touching or feeding animals to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.

      Summary: Diving or snorkeling in the Philippines is safe and incredibly rewarding when you follow professional guidance, respect the ocean, and take basic safety measures. With these habits, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking underwater experience while helping preserve it for the future.

  FAQ – Scuba Diving in the Philippines

  1. Do I need certification to scuba-dive in the Philippines?

  
  No. Many dive centers and dive shops offer “learn to dive” programs for beginners. If you want a full certification, you can take a PADI Open Water course during your trip.

  2. What is the best scuba diving season in the Philippines?

  
  The best diving conditions are generally from March to June, with calm seas, excellent visibility, and warm water. However, most dive sites are accessible year-round.

  3. Which dive sites are the most famous?

  
  Top spots include the Tubbataha coral reef (a UNESCO barrier reef), Apo Reef, and Coron’s shipwrecks. You’ll also find manta rays in Ticao Pass and thresher sharks in Malapascua.

  4. What kind of marine life can scuba divers expect?

  
  You can see everything from tiny critters to giant pelagics: manta rays, reef sharks, turtles, schools of fish, and healthy coral-reefs teeming with life.

  5. What scuba equipment do I need to bring?

  
  Most dive centers rent full scuba gear and snorkelling equipment, including wetsuits, masks, fins, and a regulator. Bringing your own dive gear is optional but can improve comfort.

  6. Can I dive on a liveaboard in the Philippines?

  
  Yes. You can go aboard a dive boat or luxury liveaboard to reach remote dive sites like Tubbataha. Liveaboards often include all dive trips, meals, and dive training.

  7. Are there diving courses available for all levels?

  
  Absolutely. From beginner diving courses to advanced specialties like Nitrox, wreck diving, and freediving, the Philippines has some of the best scuba diving training in Asia.

  8. Is buoyancy control important?

  
  Yes. Good buoyancy protects the reef, saves air, and makes you a better scuba diver. Many dive training programs include buoyancy workshops.

  9. Can I combine scuba diving with snorkelling or freediving?

  
  Yes. Many dive sites are also great for snorkelling and free-diving, especially shallow reefs with colorful fish and coral gardens.

  10. Are there any decompression or safety considerations?

  
  Always follow your dive training and avoid skipping safety stops to prevent decompression issues. Use a dive computer and consider Nitrox for longer bottom times.

  11. Do I need special travel destinations for great diving?

  
  Not at all. While the Philippines is famous, other world-class destinations include Roatan, Cayman, and the Great Barrier Reef — but for variety and value, the Philippines ranks among the best diving spots globally.

  12. Can beginners dive on shipwrecks?

  
  Some shallow shipwrecks are suitable for beginners, but deep wrecks require advanced certification. Always follow your dive center’s recommendations.

  13. Where can I rent or buy scuba equipment?

  
  Most dive shops rent or sell scuba equipment, including masks, fins, wetsuits, and regulators. Some also sell specialty scuba gear for underwater photography or technical diving.

  14. Is there a difference between a dive shop and a dive center?

  
  A dive shop may focus on selling or renting scuba equipment, while a dive center usually offers full dive training, dive trips, and guided excursions on dive boats.

  15. Can I learn to dive during a short vacation?

  
  Yes. The PADI Open Water course takes about 3–4 days and includes pool sessions, dive training, and four open-water dives at local dive sites.

  • Conclusion – Why the Philippines Is a Diver’s Paradise

    The Philippines is a dream destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts thanks to a unique mix of factors that make it a true underwater paradise:

    1. Exceptional Marine Biodiversity

    From giant whale sharks to tiny macro creatures like seahorses and nudibranchs, and from massive sardine schools to graceful green turtles, marine life here is unmatched.

    Coral reefs such as those in Tubbataha, Apo Island, and Balicasag rank among the most diverse and pristine in the world, offering colorful, vibrant dives.

    2. A Variety of Sites for All Levels

    Whether you’re a beginner looking for a calm-water intro dive or an experienced diver eager to explore Coron’s historic wrecks or Malapascua’s technical drift sites, the Philippines has a wide range of locations to suit all profiles. Its accessibility to every skill level makes it one of the most inclusive diving destinations in the world.

    3. Ideal Conditions Year-Round

    With water temperatures consistently between 79°F and 86°F (26°C–30°C) and generally good visibility, diving is possible all year. The best period — typically March to June — offers crystal-clear waters for spotting marine life and enjoying ideal weather.

    4. Commitment to Conservation and Safety

    Many sites are protected (such as UNESCO-listed Tubbataha) and follow strict conservation rules to maintain reef health. Local dive centers are deeply involved in marine ecology awareness and ensure safe experiences with experienced guides and proper emergency equipment.

    5. A Rich, Overall Travel Experience

    Beyond the diving, the warmth of the Filipino people, the breathtaking island scenery, and the chance to pair underwater adventures with moments of pure relaxation on paradise beaches make the Philippines a complete travel experience — for both the eyes and the soul.

    Whether it’s exploring Tubbataha’s pristine depths, swimming with turtles at Apo Island, or witnessing Moalboal’s jaw-dropping sardine run, the Philippines delivers an endless array of spectacular dive sites. It combines natural beauty, warm hospitality, and safety, offering an experience accessible to all divers.

    So pack your fins, mask, and snorkel — the underwater paradise of the Philippines awaits, promising wonder, adventure, and respect for nature in an unforgettable setting. Diving here means immersing yourself in one of the planet’s best-kept treasures.