Panglao

Panglao, a small island connected to Bohol in the Philippines, is a world-renowned diving hub situated in the heart of the Coral Triangle. Its reputation is built on breathtaking wall dives, exceptional macro photography opportunities, and vibrant coral gardens. With famous sites like Balicasag Island Marine Sanctuary, divers can experience spectacular underwater cliffs teeming with life, from vast schools of jackfish to resident sea turtles. The island offers a diverse range of dive sites, including gentle slopes, dramatic drop-offs, and muck diving hotspots, catering to every interest and skill level.

Diving conditions in Panglao are favorable year-round, with warm tropical waters and generally good visibility. The accessibility of its 14+ dive sites, most just a short boat ride from the shore, makes it an incredibly convenient destination. Divers should visit for the sheer density and diversity of marine life, the ease of travel, and the welcoming dive community. Whether you're a novice looking for your first open water adventure or an experienced diver hunting for rare critters, Panglao provides an unforgettable underwater experience.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Panglao, Philippines?
The most popular dive area is undeniably Balicasag Island, a protected marine sanctuary. It's famous for its pristine coral walls, consistently great visibility, and abundant marine life. Divers flock here to see the massive schools of jackfish at Black Forest, swim with the numerous sea turtles that patrol the reefs, and explore the vibrant soft and hard corals that cover the dramatic drop-offs.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Panglao, Philippines?
Well-known sites include Balicasag Island and Pamilacan Island for turtles and pelagics. For something less crowded but spectacular, try Napaling Reef. It features a stunning wall and a resident school of sardines that creates a mesmerizing vortex. The house reefs along Alona Beach, such as Kalipayan, are also fantastic hidden gems for macro life and night diving, often overlooked by those heading to the bigger islands.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Panglao, Philippines?
Water temperatures in Panglao, Philippines are warm and tropical year-round. They typically range from 27-30°C (80-86°F). The coolest months are generally December to February, where temperatures might dip to 26-27°C (79-81°F). The warmest water is usually found from March to June, making diving comfortable in any season.
When is the best time to visit Panglao, Philippines?
The best time to dive in Panglao, Philippines is during the dry season, from November to May. This period offers the calmest seas, sunniest weather, and optimal underwater visibility. While diving is possible all year, the wet season from June to October can bring occasional rain and a higher chance of typhoons, which may affect boat schedules and surface conditions.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Panglao, Philippines?
Underwater visibility in Panglao, Philippines is generally excellent, especially during the dry season (November to May), when it can often exceed 30 meters (100 feet). During the rainy season, visibility might occasionally be reduced due to runoff but typically remains very good, averaging between 15 and 25 meters (50-80 feet), ensuring great views of the reefs and marine life.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Panglao, Philippines?
While Panglao itself isn't a primary migration spot for megafauna, day trips can be arranged to see whale sharks in nearby Anda or Southern Leyte. Pamilacan Island, a short trip from Panglao, is a great spot to see dolphins year-round and, occasionally, Bryde's whales from March to June. The sardine ball at Napaling Reef is a spectacular, non-seasonal event.
What marine life can I expect to see in Panglao, Philippines?
Panglao, Philippines offers incredible biodiversity. Common sightings include green and hawksbill turtles, large schools of jackfish and barracuda, and various frogfish species. It is a macro paradise, famous for pygmy seahorses, ornate ghost pipefish, and hundreds of nudibranch species. Reefs are vibrant with colorful anemonefish, moray eels, and countless other reef fish amidst healthy coral gardens.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Panglao, Philippines?
With water temperatures consistently between 26-30°C (79-86°F), a 3mm wetsuit, either shorty or full, is more than sufficient for diving in Panglao, Philippines. Many divers are comfortable in just a rash guard and board shorts, especially during the warmest months (March-June). A thin full suit is recommended for extra thermal protection on multiple dives and defense against stingers.
How do I get to Panglao, Philippines?
To get to Panglao, Philippines, fly into the Bohol-Panglao International Airport (TAG). The airport receives daily domestic flights from major hubs like Manila (MNL) and Cebu (CEB). From the airport, the main tourist area of Alona Beach is just a 10-20 minute taxi or tricycle ride away, where most dive resorts and operators are located.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Panglao, Philippines?
Staying on shore is the standard and most practical option for diving in Panglao, Philippines. All 14+ dive sites are easily accessible via daily day-trip boats (bangkas) from the numerous resorts and dive centers along Alona Beach. Liveaboards are not common for Panglao alone but may include it as a stop on a broader Visayas itinerary. Shore-based diving offers more flexibility and better value here.
All Dive Sites in Panglao (14)
Alona Beach House ReefArco PointBbcDanao WallDoljo HousereefDoljo PointGak AngKalipayanLibaongMomo BeachNapalingPuntodSunriseTawala Mpa