Dive into the wild: The Philippines’ underwater wonders

Did you know that the Philippines has 7,000+ islands, with thousands of them unnamed and uninhabited? It also sits right in the sweet spot for divers of all abilities and diving preferences. Want muck diving, check, protected coral reefs, check, large ocean life, wrecks, drift dives, check – you get the message.

It’s famous as a hotspot for marine biodiversity, and even in this nation of over 115m people you can get away from it all and experience serene unforgettable dive experiences, so let’s focus on some of the more hidden dive sites away from the famous areas of Tubbataha and Puerto Galera and start dreaming of your next trip.

Moalboal, Cebu: the magical Sardine Run

Few experiences rival the Sardine Run in Moalboal, Cebu. Beneath these calm tropical waters, divers find themselves enveloped by shimmering walls of thousands of sardines (or Tamban in the local tongue), a surreal spectacle that shows off the beauty and abundance of nature. How the fish all know which way to turn together at the same time is a question that is commonly posed? Located off Panagsama Beach, this phenomenon is accessible year-round, with depths and visibility perfect for all skill levels, but is best seen during the dry season from November to May.

Beyond the Sardine Run, Moalboal offers colourful coral gardens teeming with reef fish, sea turtles, and macro critters, making it a diverse diving destination.

Anilao, Batangas: a macro photographer’s paradise

Anilao is the Philippines’ crown jewel for muck diving and macro photography. Black sand slopes and coral rubble teem with tiny marvels like frogfish, mimic octopuses, and nudibranchs. For underwater photographers, this site is pure magic. Dive spots like Secret Bay and Twin Rocks deliver unforgettable critter encounters, earning Anilao its reputation as a must-visit for macro enthusiasts. Fun fact: The Philippines’ first dive shop opened here in 1965.

Anilao is also a champion of sustainable tourism. Many dive operators promote conservation through reef-cleaning initiatives and responsible diving practices.

Malapascua, Cebu: thresher shark encounters

Malapascua, a small island off Cebu, is world-famous for its resident thresher sharks and has earned the title of being the most consistent site in the world for encountering them. These sleek, long-tailed predators can be spotted at Monad Shoal, a submerged seamount where they rise from the deep for early-morning cleaning sessions. Witnessing their graceful movements is a privilege reserved for those willing to take a pre-dawn plunge.

Malapascua also boasts vibrant coral gardens, manta rays, and macro life, making it an all-around diving destination.

Donsol, Bicol: swimming with whale sharks

Donsol offers a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to mass whale-shark tourism. Here, divers and snorkellers have the opportunity to swim with these gentle giants under strict regulations that prioritise the animals’ well-being. Unlike some other sites in Southeast Asia, encounters in Donsol are kept intimate, preserving the natural behaviour of these majestic creatures.

Ticao Island, Masbate: manta bowl adventures

Close to Donsol lies Ticao Island, home to the thrilling Manta Bowl. This dive site features strong currents that attract pelagic species, including schools of manta rays gliding effortlessly against the flow. Its strong currents and the need for reef hooking to stay in one spot mean this dive is one for the more advanced diver.

Davao: rare marine encounters in the south

Davao, located in the southern Philippines, is a must-visit for divers seeking unique experiences. At Samal Island, you’ll find underwater caves, shipwrecks, and coral-covered walls that attract rare sea creatures like pygmy seahorses and nudibranchs. Lucky divers might even encounter the elusive whale shark cruising these waters. Davao’s deep dive sites and diverse ecosystems make it an unparalleled destination for marine explorers.

Conservation meets adventure

Diving in the Philippines offers more than just extraordinary encounters—it’s also an opportunity to support sustainable tourism. Many local operators work to protect marine ecosystems through reef conservation programs and eco-friendly dive practices. Choosing lesser-known sites not only reduces the pressure on over-touristed areas but also provides a chance to engage more deeply with the local environment and communities.

The Philippines’ underwater treasures offer a blend of adventure and conservation. With direct flights from Australia and easy accessibility from many major airports across the globe, it’s easier than ever to explore this marine paradise responsibly.

Don’t forget to follow Where Wild Things Roam on Instagram!