The Philippines is a land which is known for its idyllic white sand beaches and pristine landscapes, but alongside this, there is also an underwater world which is worth the explore. And this experience is not something one can miss because it is one thing which you can tick off from the adventure bucket list. If you have that thrill inside to explore and dive with the fierce sharks, schools of fishes and amidst the coral islands, then these are the best place to go for experiencing scuba diving in Manila.
5 Best Places For Scuba Diving In Manila
Here are some of the best places to visit to experience the thrill and adventure of scuba diving in Manila while also enjoying the pristine views.
1. Apo Reef
Spread across a region of 27, 469 hectare, this natural Marine Park is located between Mindoro and Palawan province. The Apo reef is also considered the home to the largest atoll in the Philippines and also known as the world’s second largest continuous coral reef. When the divers come here to take a deep, it is very common to take a sight of sharks, manta rays and a varied range of beautiful water species. While this location is a paradise for scuba divers, there are some spots which are restricted from entry due to the strong currents.
How to reach Apo reef: Take a flight from San Jose, Mindoro
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2. Moal Boal, Cebu
This is one of the most beautiful places for scuba diving in Manila where you can actually the beauty of the underwater world. There are many diving spots which have slopes and walls alongside small caves and canyons which boast some colorful coral reefs. Apart from that, the divers can also take a view of schools of Jacks and Tuna which often swim with the turtles. To take a glimpse of the sharks and octopus, don’t miss a trip to Pescador Island.
How to reach Moal Boal, Cebu: Take a flight from Mactan, Cebu
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3. Anilao, Batangas
This is considered as one of the best places for scuba diving in Manila as it is the nearest to the city. And despite being in the vicinity, there are so many amazing diving spots at this place that it is particularly considered the haven for scuba divers. People can experience fascinating activities like muck diving and underwater macro photography. One can witness unique species like Hairy frogfish, Blue-ringed octopus and cuttlefish.
How to reach Anilao: Drive to Mabini Batangas or you can take a bus or shuttle to Lemery town proper where you can take a trike to the dive schools.
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4. Coron, Palawan
What can be more fascinating than if you get a chance to dive through the WWII shipwrecks in Palawan? Taking a dive here at this side of the island will let you explore the wrecked Japanese supply ships while you also swim through the dilapidated pieces of ruins. And apart from that, another thing which you cannot miss while diving here is the Barracuda lake which will definitely chalk out experience like never before and for weaving such a beautiful experience this is one of the places for scuba diving near Manila.
How to reach Coron: Take a flight to Busuanga, Palawan or you can also take a 2GO ferry from Manila.
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5. Tubbataha
And the last but best on the list awaits for the enthusiastic scuba divers to explore. One of the untouched beauties and a UNESCO world heritage site, this dive site is located in the Sulu Sea. It is one of the best reasons to see the beautiful coral reefs and a magnificent 100 m perpendicular walls which is home to extensive lagoons and two coral islands. Though the diving spots located here are only accessed by the live-aboard boats, there is an underwater beauty which is waiting to be explored.
How to reach Tubbataha: Take a flight from Puerto Princessa, Palawan
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A world between the white sand beaches and crystal blue water is waiting for you to be explored. Are you ready for that? If yes, then while you’re planning a holiday in the Philippines make sure to not miss out on these nature’s retreats which will make your getaway an adventurous one.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Scuba Diving In Manila
What is Manila known for?
Manila is known for its rich biodiversity, pristine white sand beaches, mesmerizing landscape, and a very vibrant underwater world which has earned it the name of “Pearl of the Orient”.
Is Manila good for diving?
The sloping reef of Manila features small drop-offs, overhangs, swim-throughs and is teeming with fish which makes for an excellent diving location.
Which is there to do in Manila?
Some of the best things to do in Manila are:
1. Visit The Manila Baywalk
2. Explore The Rizal Park
3. Treat Your Taste Buds At Pasay Seafood Market
4. Shop At The Greenbelt Mall
5. Sing Away On Videoke Nights
Which is the best time to visit Manila?
The best time to visit Manila is between January and April, though the weather may be slightly hot, it’s still a great time to enjoy the Manila climate.
Is scuba diving in Manila safe for first-timers?
With proper training and assistance from certified trainers, scuba diving has absolutely no risk for first-timers and non-swimmers.
Which are the best diving centers in Manila?
The best diving centers that you can find in Manila are:
1. Splash Underwater Imaging, Inc Dive shop
2. Nautilus Dive and Sports Center
3. Siltless Deep Sea Dive Center
4. Mares Philippines
5. Aquaventure Whitetip Manila
Do you have to be certified to scuba dive in Manila?
Yes. having a valid diving certificate is mandatory in Manila and scuba diving without one can land you into serious trouble.
Is scuba diving in Manila expensive?
Not at all. A 3-hour scuba diving will cost you around INR 4200 which is equivalent to 3000 pesos.
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A mass-media graduate, Priyanka is a passionate writer and an avid traveler. Whether it’s about capturing the sunsets or hogging up some delicious food from different places, she never leaves a second to decide. Her mantra of keep going is “work, save, travel, repeat” which she lives by heart.
