Siargao

Siargao, renowned as the Philippines' surfing capital, holds a spectacular secret beneath its waves for scuba divers. Situated on the edge of the Philippine Trench, the island offers a unique underwater topography characterized by dramatic drop-offs, intricate tunnels, and vibrant coral gardens. With a handful of pristine dive sites, divers can explore unique formations like the Blue Cathedral, a stunning underwater cavern system. This emerging dive destination provides a sense of raw, untouched beauty, distinct from the more frequented dive spots in the country, attracting those seeking adventure and discovery. Diving conditions in Siargao are generally excellent, featuring warm tropical waters year-round and good visibility that can exceed 30 meters on clear days. While some sites can have strong currents suitable for experienced divers, there are also sheltered spots perfect for beginners. The main appeal for divers visiting Siargao is the opportunity to explore a less-crowded underwater paradise. It's a chance to witness healthy reef systems and diverse marine life without the bustle of major tourist hubs, combining world-class surfing with incredible underwater exploration.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Siargao, Philippines?
The most popular dive site in Siargao, Philippines is the Blue Cathedral. It's a large underwater cavern with multiple openings that allow sunlight to penetrate, creating ethereal light effects resembling stained-glass windows. This unique topography, with its chambers and swim-throughs, makes it a thrilling dive and a favorite for underwater photographers. It is best suited for advanced divers due to its depth.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Siargao, Philippines?
Besides the famous Blue Cathedral, Seeco Reef is a great site known for healthy corals and frequent turtle sightings. For a less-crowded hidden gem, the dive sites off Pilar offer exciting drift dives along walls teeming with fish. Dako Island also has beautiful and shallower coral gardens, perfect for easier dives and spotting macro life away from the main dive traffic.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Siargao, Philippines?
Water temperatures in Siargao, Philippines are consistently warm and tropical. Expect a pleasant 28-30°C (82-86°F) from March to November. During the slightly cooler, windier months of December to February, the water temperature may dip to a still-comfortable 26-27°C (79-81°F). Diving is comfortable throughout the entire year.
When is the best time to visit Siargao, Philippines?
The best time for diving in Siargao, Philippines is during the dry season, from March to October. This period typically offers the calmest sea conditions, sunniest weather, and best underwater visibility. While diving is possible year-round, the monsoon season from November to February can bring stronger winds and rougher seas, which may limit access to some offshore dive sites.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Siargao, Philippines?
Underwater visibility in Siargao, Philippines is generally very good, especially during the prime diving season from March to October. Divers can often expect excellent clarity ranging from 15 to over 30 meters (50 to 100+ feet). Visibility can be reduced after heavy rains or during the monsoon season (November-February) due to runoff and rougher seas, but usually remains good.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Siargao, Philippines?
Siargao, Philippines is not known for major, predictable migrations like those in other parts of the country. However, its location near the deep Philippine Trench means surprise encounters with large pelagic species are always possible. Divers have reported occasional, lucky sightings of manta rays, eagle rays, and various shark species, particularly at deeper offshore sites, but these are not guaranteed seasonal events.
What marine life can I expect to see in Siargao, Philippines?
Divers in Siargao, Philippines can see a rich variety of marine life. Expect schools of barracuda, jacks, and tuna, along with reef dwellers like angelfish, sweetlips, and butterflyfish. Sea turtles are commonly spotted. The healthy corals host macro life like nudibranchs and frogfish, while reef sharks and eagle rays occasionally pass by the deeper sites.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Siargao, Philippines?
For the warm tropical waters of Siargao, Philippines, a 3mm shorty or even just a rash guard and board shorts are sufficient for most divers. If you tend to get cold or are planning multiple dives over several days, a 3mm full wetsuit provides extra comfort and protection. A 5mm suit is generally unnecessary.
How do I get to Siargao, Philippines?
To get to Siargao, Philippines, you can fly into Sayak Airport (IAO) from major hubs like Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB). From the airport, it is a 45-minute journey to the main tourist town of General Luna, where most dive shops are located. You can take a shared airport van or a private tricycle (tuk-tuk) for this transfer.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Siargao, Philippines?
Diving in Siargao, Philippines is exclusively shore-based, as there are no liveaboard operations that service the island's dive sites. All diving is conducted via day trips on local 'bangka' boats operated by dive centers located in General Luna. This allows you to easily combine your diving activities with enjoying Siargao's famous surf culture and island life.
All Dive Sites in Siargao (7)
Blue CathedralBurgosCasulianDaku ArchDapaPilarSanta Monica