Thresher sharks of Malapascua - a scuba divers guide
Just a short boat ride off the coast of Cebu lies the tiny tropical paradise of Malapascua. The ...
Scuba diving in
Cebu and VisayasThe heart of the Philippines combines unrivalled shark, reef and muck diving, with breathtaking landscapes, off-the-beaten-path islands and energetic nightlife.
Diving Highlights
The Visayas is an island group at the heart of the Philippines, where white-sand beaches, hidden gems, stunning natural landscapes, vibrant nightlife and spectacular diving combine to create a perfect dive holiday destination. The major islands include Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Negros, Guimaras, Panay, Romblon, Samar, and Leyte – but it’s the breathtaking spots in between that make this part of the archipelago so irresistible. The Visayas truly has something for everyone, especially the smiles of the welcoming local people who delight in welcoming travelers to experience their piece of paradise.
Destinations in Cebu and Visayas
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Top Cebu and Visayas experiences
Year round
Dive with thresher sharks at Malapascua Island
Encounter magnificent thresher sharks at Monad Shoal, and relax on the unspoilt white beaches of this paradise island!
November to April
Swim with Moalboal’s schooling sardines
Experience the world-renowned sardine run right off the beach, and on your dry day, enjoy a relaxing swim or a bamboo raft ride at Kawasan Falls.
Year round
Explore the Chocolate Hills and Loboc River
Cruise the Loboc River in search of the world’s smallest primate, then head to the Chocolate Hills - Bohol’s famous natural formations that are as strange as they are stunning!
October to June
Go muck diving and more in Dumaguete
Explore Dumaguete’s amazing muck diving and critter hunting and dive Apo Island with its turtles and schooling fish.
October to June
Dive all day, party all night at Alona Beach
White sand beaches, bars and clubs, and dive centres galore! Dive and snorkel with turtles at Balicasag Island, and enjoy Alona’s nightlife.
Cebu and Visayas dive seasons
The Visayas enjoy a tropical climate, and temperatures vary little throughout the year. It is hot all year with a chance of rain, no matter the season. Diving is great year-round thanks to sheltered ocean conditions and warm waters, but there are a few things to note that will help you decide the best time for your trip.
The dry season
The best time to visit the Visayas is said to be winter – December through February – thanks to warm temperatures that aren’t as stifling as the summer and monsoon seasons. The chance of rain is at its lowest this time of year, and dive conditions are very inviting with calm seas. Water temperatures are cooler, ranging from 26C to 28C, so thermally-challenged divers should opt for a thicker wetsuit. This period also coincides with the high tourist season, so be sure to book well in advance to guarantee availability!
The wet season
The hottest months are April to June, which is summer in the Visayas. June marks the start of the monsoon season which lasts until about October. Storms and strong winds are frequent, which can impact diving. But that doesn’t mean rain every day. Downpours can pass quickly and there are still days of constant sunny skies and calm seas. Water temperatures are much warmer at around 29C to 31C, and because this marks the low tourist season, even the most popular dive sites will be quieter.
