Ultimate Guide to Diving in Anilao: Tips & What You Need To Know

Looking for a world-class diving destination in the Philippines? 

Anilao diving is a top contender, known for its incredible marine biodiversity and diverse dive experiences. As someone who’s explored its underwater wonders, I can vouch for its reputation as a diver’s paradise. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—where to dive, who to dive with, and practical tips to make the most of your trip. Get ready to discover why Anilao is a must-visit for divers of all levels!

Anilao Diving Overview

Anilao is often called the nudibranch capital of the world—and for good reason. This coastal town in Batangas is home to a stunning array of marine life, from tiny critters to colorful coral gardens.

Suppose you’re into muck diving, reef diving, or capturing incredible underwater photos. In that case, Anilao offers diverse underwater experiences that can cater to your diving interests.

When I first dived in Anilao, I was struck by its convenience. Just a 2-3 hour drive from Manila, it’s the perfect spot for a quick dive getaway. And the biodiversity! I spotted my first green sea turtle here, saw schools of jackfish, and marveled at volcanic bubbles rising from the seabed. 

Beginners will love the shallow, calm reefs, while experienced divers will appreciate the deep sites and variety of critters. Underwater photographers, get ready to fill your memory cards—this is macro heaven.

Recommended Dive Center: Buceo Anilao

If you’re looking for a top-notch dive center, I can’t recommend Buceo Anilao enough. Located right on the water, this dive center offers everything you need for a secure and seamless experience. The staff are professional, friendly, and go above and beyond to make your dives memorable.

Why Choose Buceo Anilao?

✔️ Facilities: Spacious boats, high-quality rental gear, and a cozy dive resort right on-site.

✔️ Services: Guided dives, gear rental, underwater photography support, and PADI certification courses.

The dive guides at Buceo Anilao are exceptional. They set up all your gear for you (you’d love this!), and they’re incredibly skilled at spotting critters you’d miss on your own.

Best Diving Sites in Anilao

Anilao boasts over 50 dive sites, each offering something unique. You’ll find a site to love whether you’re here for coral gardens, critters, or pelagics. Here are my top picks:

1. Cathedral Rock

Cathedral Rock is one of Anilao’s most iconic dive sites, and it feels almost like a religious experience—literally.

Its centerpiece is the famous underwater cross placed between two large boulders, making it a unique dive site with a touch of spiritual charm. At depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters, it’s accessible to both beginner and advanced divers.

As you descend, colorful anthias swirl around you like an underwater confetti parade, moray eels peek out with their signature “toothy grins,” and if you’re lucky, a sleek barracuda might make a surprise cameo. The interplay of light and shadow around the cross adds a dramatic flair that underwater photographers will adore.

PRO TIP: For the best photos, dive in the late morning when the sunlight hits the cross just right—instant Instagram gold.

2. Secret Bay

Welcome to critter central! Secret Bay is Anilao’s ultimate muck diving spot, where the weird and wonderful thrive.

This shallow site (5 to 18 meters) is a paradise for macro enthusiasts who love to spot the tiniest of marine treasures.

Imagine frogfish so well-camouflaged they look like sea debris, tiny seahorses playing hide-and-seek, and nudibranchs in colors that would make a rainbow jealous. This is a photographer’s dream, with endless opportunities to snap unique and alien-like creatures.

PRO TIP: Bring a strong macro lens—you’ll want to get up close and personal with these critters. Also, Secret Bay is a prime spot for night dives, when even more bizarre marine life comes out to play.

3. Twin Rocks

Twin Rocks is where beginner divers fall in love with the ocean—and seasoned divers rediscover their passion.

It’s a shallow site (5 to 15 meters) located near the shore, making it easy to access and perfect for those just starting out.

This site is like an underwater nursery, filled with clownfish darting around their anemone homes, turtles cruising by as if they own the place, and schools of reef fish that add a riot of color to your dive. The calm waters make it a great place to perfect your buoyancy, and it’s also a favorite for night dives when the critters get extra lively.

PRO TIP: Night diving at Twin Rocks is magical. Keep an eye out for nocturnal critters like crabs and shrimp—they’ll be working the night shift.

4. Sombrero Island

Sombrero Island is a site that wears its name well—above the water, it looks like a sombrero, and below the surface, it’s a fiesta of marine life.

This spot is ideal for intermediate divers, with depths ranging from 15 to 30 meters and coral gardens that look like they were plucked straight from a nature documentary.

As you explore, schools of fusiliers and snappers zip past like they’re late for a meeting, while turtles and the occasional reef shark might stop by to say hello. The vibrant coral formations are not just pretty; they’re a bustling hub of activity, home to countless smaller creatures.

PRO TIP: If currents are present, let them do the work for you—this is an excellent site for drift diving. Just remember to maintain your buoyancy to avoid any unintentional coral close-ups!

5. Arthur’s Rock

Arthur’s Rock might not have the name recognition of some other Anilao sites, but it’s definitely worth a visit. This spot features rocky outcroppings covered in corals, with depths ranging from 10 to 25 meters.

It’s a peaceful escape that caters to divers of all levels, though the occasional current adds a bit of excitement for intermediate divers.

The marine life here feels like a greatest-hits playlist of Anilao’s underwater treasures—reef fish, nudibranchs, and maybe even a friendly turtle passing by. The rocky terrain provides a beautiful backdrop for underwater photos, and the quiet atmosphere makes it a great spot for those looking to avoid the crowds.

PRO TIP: Pack a wide-angle lens for your camera to capture the full splendor of the rocky terrain and vibrant corals. It’s also a quieter site, so you’ll have more time to savor your dive without feeling rushed.

Best Time to Dive in Anilao

While you can dive in Anilao year-round, the best time to visit is between October and June. During these months, the weather is dry, the waters are calm, and there is incredible visibility (up to 30 meters on a good day!).

The rainy season (July to September) can bring reduced visibility. Still, if you’re into macro diving, this is when critters come out in full force. It’s also less crowded during this time, making for a more relaxed experience.

PRO TIP: If possible, plan your trip for weekdays. Anilao is a popular weekend spot, but weekdays are much quieter.

Where to Stay

Whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge, Anilao offers accommodations for every type of traveler. Here are my top picks:

📍 Budget Option: Bentrina Diving Resort – Comfortable rooms with great amenities and easy access to dive sites. A solid choice for divers looking for value. 

📍 Mid-Range Option: Buceo Anilao Beach and Dive Resort – Comfortable rooms and excellent dive packages. 

📍 Luxury Option: Vivere Azure Resort – A boutique resort offering luxury accommodations and stunning ocean views. 

How to Get There

Getting to Anilao is a breeze. It’s a scenic 2-3 hour drive from Manila to Mabini, Batangas. Here are your options:

👉 Private Car: The most convenient option. Rent a car or book a private transfer for a hassle-free trip.

👉 Group Shuttles: Some dive centers, like Buceo Anilao, offer transfer services from Manila. Check in advance for schedules.

FAQs

Got questions about diving in Anilao? Here are some quick answers to help you plan your trip!

Is Anilao diving good?

Yes! Anilao is one of the best diving destinations in the Philippines, offering incredible biodiversity, great visibility, and a variety of dive sites for all levels.

How deep is the Anilao diving?

Dive depths range from shallow 5-meter reefs to deep 40-meter walls, making it suitable for beginners and advanced divers alike.

When to dive in Anilao?

The best time is October to June for calm waters and excellent visibility. However, macro enthusiasts might prefer the rainy season.

What is Anilao famous for?

Anilao is famous for its nudibranchs, colorful coral reefs, and volcanic seabed bubbles, and it is a top spot for underwater photography.

Is Anilao safe?

Yes! Dive centers are professional and follow strict safety protocols. Just ensure you dive within your limits and check your gear before heading out.

What marine species can be seen in Anilao?

You can spot turtles, jackfish, frogfish, seahorses, nudibranchs, and an array of reef fish. 

The Wrap-Up: Anilao Diving

Anilao, Philippines, is a diver’s dream, combining critters, coral, and convenience in a way that few destinations can. You can hunt for nudibranchs, snap incredible reef photos, or simply lose yourself in underwater beauty.

While you’re enjoying the underwater magic, remember to give a little back to the ocean. Use reef-safe sunscreen, resist the urge to touch marine life (no matter how cute that turtle looks), and pick up any stray trash you might spot. Small efforts make a big difference.

If you’re curious about how you can make a difference, check out my guide on Sustainable Diving: Why It’s the Ultimate Path Forward, for more tips on diving responsibly.

If you’re planning a broader adventure in the Philippines, don’t miss my Scuba Diving in the Philippines Guide: Dive Spots, Costs + More to help you plan your trip with ease.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your stay, and prepare for unforgettable dives. Anilao is a place you’ll treasure long after you surface. Safe travels!