Dauin, Negros Oriental, Philippines

Dauin, located on the coast of Negros Oriental in the Philippines, is a world-renowned mecca for muck diving and macro photography. Its dark volcanic sand slopes are a treasure trove for rare and unusual critters, earning it the nickname 'Frogfish Capital of the Philippines.' Divers flock here to search for elusive creatures like flamboyant cuttlefish, blue-ringed octopuses, and a dazzling variety of nudibranchs. The unique environment, consisting of sand, rubble, and artificial reefs, creates the perfect habitat for some of the ocean's most bizarre and wonderful marine life, making every dive a potential discovery.

Diving conditions in Dauin are generally favorable year-round, with calm seas and easy shore entries at many of its 30+ dive sites, making it accessible for all skill levels. Beyond the muck, Dauin offers incredible diversity with a short boat ride to Apo Island, famous for its vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, and pelagic action. This combination of world-class muck diving and pristine reef diving in one location makes Dauin an exceptionally versatile and compelling destination for any underwater enthusiast, from novice divers to seasoned macro photographers.