Explore Negros
Negros, the fourth-largest island in the Philippines, offers an exceptional diving experience for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Nestled in the heart of the Visayas, it is divided into Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, each boasting unique underwater attractions. Divers can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, including whale sharks often spotted in these waters. One of the premier diving spots is Apo Island near Dauin, celebrated for its breathtaking coral gardens and abundant biodiversity. The island's proximity to Cebu, known for its own marine wonders, adds to the allure of diving in Negros. The diving environment in Negros is varied, with options ranging from stunning reef dives to intriguing wreck explorations. Sipalay, located in the northwest, features beautiful beaches and reefs, as well as shipwrecks waiting to be explored. For those interested in muck diving, Dauin on the southern coast offers a unique opportunity to observe rare marine species in their natural habitat. Additionally, the marine reserve of Danjugan Island in Negros Occidental is a well-preserved haven for both divers and wildlife enthusiasts. The island provides an intimate glimpse into the vibrant underwater world, ensuring a memorable diving adventure. Negros' diving appeal is enhanced by its accessibility, with two airports and a ferry service connecting visitors to this underwater paradise. Whether it's the thrill of encountering a majestic whale shark or the serenity of drifting over a vibrant reef, Negros stands out as a premier dive destination in the Philippines.
Top Negros Dive Sites
1. Sipalay
Sipalay offers stunning deep wall dives with diverse marine life, including colorful coral reefs and several WWII wrecks. The adventure level ranges from easy for beginners to advanced for deeper dives. Primarily a scuba diving site, it features both reefs and wrecks, providing a varied experience.
2. Dauin
Famous for its fantastic reef diving, Dauin is home to rare macro critters and vibrant coral gardens. It's suitable for both scuba and freediving, with an easy to advanced adventure level. Special features include Mainit Point with its thermal springs and Bahura, where you can witness the daily mating ritual of the rare mandarin fish.
3. Dumaguete Pier
The Pier in Dumaguete is adorned with soft corals and frequented by schools of fish, making it ideal for underwater photography. This scuba diving site ranges from easy to advanced, with its dramatic structures providing a unique backdrop. While not a protected area, its vibrant marine life is a key attraction.
4. Apo Island
Apo Island is a renowned scuba diving spot featuring sites like Coconut Point, with strong drifts attracting giant trevally and barracuda. The adventure level is advanced due to the currents. Baluarte offers "bubble dives" among volcanic bubbles, while Chapel Point showcases impressive coral-lined walls.
5. Tacot
Located near Dumaguete, Tacot is known for its strong currents and nutrient-rich waters, ideal for spotting pelagics like large schools of fish. This site is primarily for advanced scuba divers. The massive corals are a distinct feature, making it a site of ecological importance, though not officially protected.