Anilao - Anilao

Anilao holds a special place in the hearts of many Filipino divers. It's the birthplace of the sport in the country, a quick escape from the city, and now, a renowned destination for macro photography. We've spent countless hours sifting through the volcanic sand and silty bottoms here, eyes peeled for the unusual. You’ll find frogfish in every conceivable colour, flamboyant cuttlefish strutting their stuff, and an incredible variety of nudibranchs, often tiny, but always spectacular. It’s a site that rewards patience and a keen eye, perfect for those who love the hunt for the weird and wonderful. We often suggest going with a dedicated macro guide; they know the prime spots and resident critters better than anyone.

Location
Anilao, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
13.750000, 120.890000

Best Time to Dive in Anilao

The warmest water temperatures in Anilao occur in June, averaging 30.9°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 27.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.9°C
  • February: 27.5°C
  • March: 28.1°C
  • April: 29.2°C
  • May: 30.3°C
  • June: 30.9°C
  • July: 30.4°C
  • August: 29.8°C
  • September: 29.6°C
  • October: 29.4°C
  • November: 29.3°C
  • December: 28.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Anilao

Nearest Dive Centres to Anilao

Marine Life in Anilao

Home to 88 recorded species including 83 reef fish, 2 crabs & lobsters, 1 sharks & rays, 1 sea urchins, 1 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Anilao

Based on average water temperature of 29.3°C, currents 15 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths in Anilao, and are there sites suitable for deeper dives?
The typical diving depths for Anilao are not specified in our current data. Therefore, we cannot confirm if there are sites specifically suitable for deeper dives based on the information provided.
What kind of marine life and underwater creatures can divers expect to see in Anilao?
Anilao is renowned as a muck diving paradise, making it an exceptional destination for macro photography enthusiasts. Divers can anticipate encountering a diverse array of small, unique, and often rare critters that thrive in these environments. To explore more about specific species, visit our wildlife database.
How challenging are the dive sites in Anilao, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The dive sites in Anilao are generally rated as intermediate difficulty. While it is considered the birthplace of scuba diving in the Philippines, beginner divers might find some sites challenging. It is advisable for beginners to have some prior experience or dive with an instructor.
When is the best time of year to go diving in Anilao for optimal conditions?
Our current data does not specify the best time of year to go diving in Anilao for optimal conditions. For general information on dive seasons, you may consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are generally required to dive in Anilao?
The specific scuba diving certifications generally required to dive in Anilao are not detailed in the provided data. It is always recommended to hold at least an Open Water Diver certification for recreational diving.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like at Anilao dive sites?
Information regarding the typical water conditions and currents at Anilao dive sites is not available in our current dataset. Divers should always consult with local dive operators for up-to-date conditions before diving.