Scuba Diving In The Philippines Guide: Dive Spots, Costs + More

Thinking about scuba diving in the Philippines but don’t know where to start?

Don’t worry, if scuba diving in the Philippines is on your bucket list, this guide is a great starting point.

I was born and raised in the Philippines, so I’ve always felt connected to its incredible waters. Even though I learned to dive in Australia, I keep coming back to explore the amazing dive sites here (and to visit family, of course).

With 7,641 islands, the Philippines is packed with dive spots for everyone, from beginners to experienced underwater adventurers. In this guide, I’ll show you the best accessible dive spots, costs, and tips to make your trip unforgettable and safe. Grab your fins—this is going to be fun!

Why Scuba Dive in the Philippines?

The Philippines is a dream destination for divers, and it’s not just me saying it. This Asian archipelago has been consistently named the World’s Leading Dive Destination by the World Travel Awards for six years in a row, starting in 2019.

This award, often called the “Oscars of the travel industry,” puts the Philippines ahead of famous spots like the Maldives, Fiji, and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

What makes the Philippines special for scuba divers? Here are the top reasons:

✅ Diverse Marine Life: You’ll find everything from tiny nudibranchs to whale sharks. Plus, even rare creatures like the diamondback squid eggs (yes, I saw it—read about it here).

✅ Year-Round Diving: Thanks to its tropical climate, the water in the Philippines stays warm and inviting all year. Average temperatures range from 26°C to 30°C (78°F to 86°F). This makes it comfortable for divers with minimal thermal protection—perfect for enjoying those long, leisurely dives.

✅ Affordable Costs: Diving in the Philippines is budget-friendly, especially if you take advantage of dive packages that bundle accommodations, meals, and dives for an incredible value. The experience? Absolutely priceless.

✅ Welcoming Locals: Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality, and dive operators reflect this with genuine care and friendliness. The experienced dive guides here are exceptional. They often spot the rarest creatures and ensure every dive feels like a unique underwater treasure hunt.

With over 7,000 islands to explore, let me guide you to the crème de la crème of easily accessible dive sites I’ve personally experienced.

Top 6 Accessible Dive Spots in the Philippines

The Philippines is part of the Coral Triangle, a global hotspot for marine biodiversity and home to some of the richest underwater ecosystems in the world. It even boasts UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Tubbataha Reefs, renowned for their pristine coral walls and incredible marine life.

While Tubbataha is often hailed as a bucket-list destination, it requires a liveaboard to access. In this guide, I’m focusing on dive sites that are easily accessible, well-suited for beginner divers, and just as rewarding.

Even without Tubbataha, the Philippines is brimming with dive sites that can rival the world’s best destinations. Narrowing it down to just six was no easy task, but I’ve chosen these spots for their accessibility and arranged them by distance from Manila. These are places I have personally explored and loved. Read on to find your next unforgettable dive spot!

1. Anilao, Batangas

Best For: Macro photography, beginner-friendly diving.
Location: 2-3 hours from Manila by car.

Anilao is a diver’s playground, especially for macro enthusiasts. Expect to see frogfish (painted, warty, and giant varieties), pygmy seahorses hiding in gorgonian fans, flamboyant cuttlefish that look like living lava lamps, and, of course, nudibranchs—like the photogenic Chromodoris and Hypselodoris.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot rare finds like rhinopias or a blue-ringed octopus showing off its neon warning signals.

If you’re just starting out with scuba diving, Anilao is also a great choice. The waters are calm, clear, and perfect for beginners looking to earn their diving stripes. Don’t worry—you won’t be thrown into anything too intense. You can explore colorful coral gardens teeming with reef fish, like butterflyfish, angelfish, and clownfish (yes, you’ll find Nemo). 

For seasoned divers, Anilao’s deeper sites feature thriving reefs with colorful hard and soft corals, giant barrel sponges, and occasional pelagic surprises like trevallies or barracudas passing by.

Getting to Anilao is easy—just a 2 – 3 hour drive from Manila. Most dive resorts in the area cater specifically to divers, offering all-in-one packages that include accommodation, meals, and guided dives. While Anilao isn’t the place for white sandy beaches, you can still enjoy killer sunsets and maybe sneak in a day trip to nearby beaches in Batangas if you’re craving some sand.

PRO TIP: If you’re into macro photography, bring extra memory cards—Anilao’s critters will keep your camera busy. For more tips and details about diving here, check out my Ultimate Guide to Diving in Anilao.

2. Puerto Galera, Mindoro

Best For: Affordable diving, coral gardens
Location: 2-3 hours from Manila by car to Batangas Port, followed by a 1-hour ferry ride.

Puerto Galera is the place where my love for coral gardens began when I was young, and it continues to be a favorite for its accessibility and affordability. Just a short boat ride from Batangas, the underwater world here is a riot of color, thanks to its coral gardens that are teeming with life.

You’ll see clownfish darting through anemones, parrotfish grazing on the reef, and schools of damselfish and anthias weaving through the corals.

For macro lovers, keep an eye out for tiny nudibranchs like Chromodoris and Nembrotha species, mantis shrimp snapping through the sand, and gobies peeking out from their burrows.

What makes Puerto Galera even more appealing is its affordability. There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations and dive shops that offer excellent value. Dive packages are particularly enticing, often bundling dives, gear, and lodging into one convenient deal.

And when you’re not diving, the area offers a laid-back vibe with beachfront restaurants, friendly locals, and fun activities for groups or families. One of my favorite experiences was riding a banana boat with friends—it was an absolute blast, filled with laughter, splashes, and plenty of near wipeouts!

You can also try kayaking, island-hopping, or simply unwind at White Beach with a refreshing drink as you watch the sun set over the horizon. For those wanting a mix of underwater adventure and above-water relaxation, Puerto Galera is the ideal escape.

PRO TIP: Don’t miss a sunset view from White Beach after your dives—it’s the perfect way to end your day in Puerto Galera. And if you’re diving, ask your guide about sites like Verde Island or specific coral garden hotspots—they know all the hidden gems.

3. Coron Bay, Palawan

Best For: Wreck diving, unique lake dives
Location: Fly from Manila to Busuanga Airport and take a 30-minute ride to Coron town

Coron is a dream destination for divers who love a mix of history and adventure. This small town in Palawan is home to some of the best wreck diving in the world, with over a dozen sunken Japanese WWII ships waiting to be explored. These wrecks aren’t just relics—they’re like underwater museums teeming with marine life. It’s eerie, fascinating, and breathtaking all at once.

If wreck diving isn’t your thing, there are also excellent reef diving opportunities for those who want to explore coral gardens and diverse marine life. Another spot to check is Barracuda Lake, where divers can experience the surreal thermoclines—layers of warm and cool water that look and feel otherworldly.

Coron’s magic isn’t limited to diving—it’s just as spectacular above water. One of my favorite experiences was an island-hopping tour with a big group of family members all packed onto a traditional outrigger boat. The boatman even grilled our lunch right there, and we enjoyed it while floating in the middle of the turquoise sea. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

These tours take you to powdery white sand beaches, hidden lagoons, and serene lakes like Kayangan Lake, often called the cleanest lake in the Philippines. For non-divers, Coron offers stunning views, laid-back island vibes, and plenty of ways to soak up the natural beauty.

PRO TIP: Stay at a dive resort near Coron town for easy access to dive shops and tours. And don’t forget your surface interval activities—Coron’s island-hopping tours and stunning Kayangan Lake are must-dos, especially if you are traveling with non-divers.

4. Dauin, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental

Best For: Muck diving, coral reef conservation enthusiasts
Location: 1h 30 min flight from Manila

Dauin may be a small town, but it punches way above its weight when it comes to diving. This quiet coastal spot is famous for muck diving, which, despite its less glamorous name, is like an underwater safari.

You’ll find critters here that are straight out of a sci-fi movie—think ornate ghost pipefish, blue-ringed octopuses, flamboyant cuttlefish, and even the occasional hairy frogfish. If you’re into macro photography or love spotting the weird and wonderful, Dauin is your playground.

What makes Dauin even more remarkable is its commitment to coral reef conservation. Many dive resorts here are actively involved in restoration projects, like building artificial reefs and protecting marine biodiversity.

Dive Society Dauin, for example, is doing incredible work to preserve the underwater ecosystem. If you’d like to make a difference while diving, you can learn how to get involved or even participate in their programs.

When you’re not underwater, Dauin offers a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for unwinding. While it’s not big on non-diving activities—there aren’t many restaurants or nightlife options in the area—it’s a great spot to relax.

Spend your downtime chatting with new dive buddies, catching up on your favorite book, or simply soaking in the beautiful sunsets. With a busy dive schedule of up to four dives a day (especially if you’re managing a camera rig), those quiet moments can feel like the perfect balance.

PRO TIP: If you’re staying in Dauin, take advantage of its proximity to Apo Island—a short boat ride will get you to some of the most stunning coral gardens in the Philippines. For more details, check out my Dauin Diving Guide.

5. Apo Island, Negros Oriental

Best For: Coral gardens, snorkeling with sea turtles
Location: ~40-minute boat ride from Dauin

Apo Island is one of the standout diving destinations in the Philippines that’s hard to beat. Just an hour’s boat ride away from Dauin, this island is known for its healthy hard coral reefs and its abundance of turtles—seriously, they’re everywhere. Even snorkelers get a front-row seat to the action—just wade in, and you’re in the middle of a turtle haven.

The dive sites around Apo are packed with incredible sights. Steep coral walls bursting with healthy hard corals provide the perfect backdrop for schools of colorful Anthias and tiny damselfish darting around. You’ll also spot big moray eels, shrimp gobies chilling in the sand, and striking blue ribbon eels adding a pop of color to the reef.

If you’re lucky, you might even swim into a massive school of jacks, where you can literally be surrounded by the action—it’s like being inside a fishy tornado.

And for critter lovers, keep an eye out for Nembrotha nudibranchs and sea snakes cruising through the dive sites. With visibility often exceeding 30 meters, the views here are nothing short of breathtaking.

Apo Island also got that raw, untouched charm on land. The beaches are postcard-worthy, with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Facilities are basic, but that’s part of its charm—it’s all about nature here. You can either stay overnight on the island or visit on a day trip from Dauin like I did.

PRO TIP: The boat ride to Apo Island can get bumpy if the seas are rough, so bring motion sickness tablets just in case. Once you’re on the island, consider hiring a local snorkeling guide—they know exactly where the turtles hang out and can even help you snap some great photos. Want more ideas? See if Dauin is worth visiting in my post here.

6. Moalboal, Cebu

Best For: Sardine Run, vibrant marine life, budget-friendly travel
Location: ~2.5 hours from Cebu City by car

If swimming with millions of shimmering sardines sounds like something out of a nature documentary, welcome to Moalboal—the home of the famous sardine bait ball (also called the Sardine Run). What’s unique about Moalboal’s Sardine Run is that it’s just a few meters from the shore, so you don’t even need a boat to experience this jaw-dropping phenomenon. 

But the sardines aren’t the only stars of the show. The waters around Moalboal are also rich with coral reefs, sea turtles, and, if you’re lucky, the occasional thresher or whale shark passing by. It’s the kind of place that offers something for ocean lovers—divers, snorkelers, and even your friend who just wants to float around and take selfies with the sardine ball in the background.

Beyond the underwater magic, Moalboal is a lively little town with a great vibe. You’ll find beachfront restaurants, live music, and an overall laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a day of diving.

If you’re up for more adventure, there are plenty of things to do here. Kawasan Falls is just a short trip away, where you can try canyoneering (basically hiking, swimming, and leaping off cliffs all in one day—10/10 for adrenaline junkies).

As someone who has experienced Moalboal, I can confidently say this place checks all the boxes: unforgettable dives, affordable accommodations, and plenty of activities for divers and non-divers alike.

PRO TIP: The sardines are there year-round, but for the best visibility, dive early in the morning, around 6-7 AM, when the water is calm and the light hits just right. For more tips, check out my Moalboal Sardine Run Guide.

Scuba Diving in the Philippines Prices

One of the many reasons scuba divers love the Philippines is its affordability—it’s one of the best places to dive without breaking the bank. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend:

🤿 Fun Dives: $30-$50 per dive (gear rental included): Whether it’s a single dive or a full day of underwater adventures, fun dives in the Philippines are reasonably priced.

Most dive shops include gear rental in the cost, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer to. Booking multiple dives often gets you a better rate, so don’t hesitate to ask about dive packages.

🤿 Open Water Certification: PADI: $350-$500 ⏐ SSI: $300-$450: If you’re ready to become a certified diver, both PADI and SSI courses are widely available in the Philippines.

SSI tends to be slightly cheaper, but both certifications are globally recognized and include the same basic training. Plus, with the Philippines’ stunning reefs as your training ground, you’re in for a memorable learning experience.

🤿 Marine Park Fees: ~$5-$10 (depending on location): Most dive sites are within marine protected areas, which means you’ll pay a small conservation fee. These fees are essential for maintaining the health of the reefs and supporting local conservation efforts.

🤿 Gear Rental (Standalone): ~$10-$20 per dive: If your package doesn’t include gear, most dive shops offer affordable rental options.

PRO TIP: Save money by booking dive packages directly with resorts or dive shops. Many packages combine accommodations, meals, and multiple dives, which can save you a lot in the long run. And if you’re traveling in a group, ask about discounts—most operators love accommodating dive buddies!

Best Time to Scuba Dive in the Philippines

One of the great things about the Philippines is that you can dive here year-round, thanks to its tropical climate and consistently warm waters. That said, different seasons can impact visibility, marine life activity, and overall dive conditions. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan:

☀️ Dry Season (December to May):

The dry season is hands-down the best time to scuba dive in the Philippines. Expect clear skies, calm seas, and excellent visibility underwater—perfect conditions for spotting vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

March to May is peak season, and while it’s the hottest time of the year, it’s also when marine life is most active. Schools of fish are plentiful, turtles are cruising around, and even whale sharks are more likely to show up.

Bonus: April and May are also great months for island-hopping and beachside sunsets, making it an ideal time for scuba divers traveling with non-divers.

🌧️ Rainy Season (June to November):

The rainy season comes with its perks and challenges. While you can score cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds, there’s a higher chance of rain and occasional typhoons, particularly from August to October.

This can affect visibility and even lead to canceled dive trips if the seas get too rough. However, if you’re diving in areas like Anilao or Dauin, which are somewhat sheltered, you can still enjoy good conditions most of the time. Plus, some critters, like octopuses, tend to make more appearances during the rainy season, especially in muck diving spots.

🌊 Water Temperatures

The water in the Philippines stays consistently warm, ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), so you’ll rarely need anything thicker than a 3mm wetsuit. If you’re diving deeper into sites or wrecks, you might want to pack a 5mm wetsuit for added comfort.

PRO TIP: Plan your trip during the shoulder months—November and early December or late May and early June. You’ll get the benefits of decent weather, good visibility, and fewer crowds while avoiding the high prices and busier dive sites of peak season.

Essential Entry Tips for Traveling to the Philippines

Preparing for your trip to the Philippines is simple, but having the right documents and information ensures a hassle-free journey:

👉 Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. If it’s expiring soon, renew it before your trip to avoid unnecessary headaches at immigration.

👉 Return or Onward Ticket: Immigration requires proof of your exit from the Philippines, so make sure you have a return or onward ticket handy. It’s a small but important detail that can save you a lot of hassle.

👉 Visa-Free Entry for Many: Most travelers can stay in the Philippines without a visa for up to 30 days. However, always double-check if this applies to your nationality, you can check that in the official Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs website here. Policies can vary, and some countries may require a visa depending on the purpose of your visit.

👉 eTravel Requirement: All travelers, regardless of nationality, are required to register for the eTravel platform before entering the Philippines. Registration is free and ensures a smoother entry process. Complete the form online at the official eTravel website.

👉 Longer Stays: If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, consider applying for a visa extension at a local Bureau of Immigration office. Extensions are relatively straightforward, but plan ahead to avoid overstaying.

👉 Health and Safety: While not an entry requirement, ensure you have travel insurance that includes health coverage. It’s also wise to check for any required vaccinations or health advisories before you go.

For the most up-to-date information, visit the official Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs website. With these preparations in place, you can focus on enjoying your trip to the Philippines—both above and below the surface!

FAQs

Have questions about scuba diving in the Philippines? Here are some quick answers to help you plan your trip and make the most of your underwater adventure.

Is the Philippines suitable for scuba diving?

Absolutely! With diverse marine life, affordable costs, and accessible dive sites, the Philippines is one of the best places in the world to dive.

What month is best to scuba dive in the Philippines?

The best months to dive are March to May when the weather is dry, the seas are calm, and visibility is at its peak. However, you can dive year-round depending on the location, as many areas remain accessible even during the rainy season.

Where is the best place to scuba dive in the Philippines?

Where you should scuba dive in the Philippines depends on your interests. Coron is ideal for exploring wrecks, while Anilao and Dauin are perfect for spotting macro critters. If you’re after big schools of fish, nothing beats the Sardine Run in Moalboal.

The Wrap-Up: Scuba Diving in the Philippines

I hope this guide inspires you to take the plunge (pun absolutely intended) and explore the Philippines’ breathtaking underwater scene. With its diverse marine life, incredible dive sites, and warm hospitality, you’re in for unforgettable adventures both above and below the surface.

As you plan your scuba diving trip, remember to do your part in protecting these beautiful marine ecosystems. Small actions—like using reef-safe sunscreen, picking up trash during your dives, or supporting eco-conscious dive centers—go a long way in preserving the Philippines’ underwater wonders for future generations. 

Don’t forget to check out the linked posts for tips and insights from my dives. Now’s the perfect time to plan your next adventure—grab your fins, double-check that your mask isn’t foggy, and start exploring. Happy travels!