Best time to visit Philippines

Snorkelling and Scuba Diving in Philippines

Do not miss a chance to get acquainted with the undersea inhabitants of the Philippines

Best time: November–April (all year)

Snorkelling and Scuba Diving
Snorkelling and Scuba Diving
Snorkelling and Scuba Diving

Depending on what you are looking for—a blue-water golden fish or deep-water exotic species—you can choose snorkelling or scuba diving in the Philippines. The dry season is preferable, as the water remains clear as glass and smooth. The problem is climate differs across the islands—owing to four different climate types there's no one and the same dry season for the Philippines overall. November through to April are known as dry months roughly for half of the Philippine Islands. So this period may be assumed as the most favorable for diving but in fact, diving is a year-round activity.

Among numerous recommended locations are the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, El Nido’s Bacuit Bay, Bicol, Bohol, Panay, and Mindanao or Mindoro.

If you're interested in wreck diving, there's nice spot around Coron, the seabed landscapes off Palawan and Subic Bay have largely changed after World War II.

Practical info

What is the best time to visit the Philippines for snorkelling or scuba diving?

The Philippines is best for snorkelling and scuba diving during the dry season when the water is clear and calm. Although this season varies throughout the islands, diving can be done throughout the year. Diving is especially favored during November and April in about fifty percent of the islands. Show more

Can snorkelling and scuba diving be done all year round in the Philippines?

Yes, diving is possible throughout the year in the Philippines due to the country's varied climate types and dry season differences. The best time for diving depends on what visitors desire to see, and diving can be undertaken at any moment of the year. Show more

What are the best locations for snorkelling and scuba diving in the Philippines?

For top snorkelling and scuba diving experiences, visit the Philippines' many diving sites including Bohol, Bicol, Mindanao, Mindoro, El Nido’s Bacuit Bay, and Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Each site offers unique scuba experiences and exotic marine creatures, complemented with a diversity of underwater landscapes. Show more

Are there any unique underwater species found in the Philippines?

Philippine waters provide a home to diverse and exotic marine life species, including hammerhead and whale sharks, turtles, sea rays, colorfully patterned fish, exotic underwater creatures and other types of sharks. Both shallow and deep waters can provide unforgettable snorkeling and scuba diving experiences. Show more

What is the history behind the wreck diving spots in Coron and Subic Bay?

Wreck diving spots in Coron and Subic Bay are the remnants of significant historical events. Japan’s ships in Coron were bombed during World War II by US air raids. The Subic Bay previously served as the largest US military facility outside America before 1992. While diving, visitors are awed by this unique experience of a historic war memorial, figuring an alternative way of learning the country's history. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin