big apple
Why dive here
With 87+ marine species recorded in the area - including clownfish, lionfish and pufferfish - big apple offers some of Anilao's richest diving. Water ranges 27-31°C, warmest May, June, July.
Big Apple is one of those sites we always recommend, especially for photographers, and it’s always a good time. Head towards the sloping reef, maybe 15 metres down, and you’ll immediately notice the sheer density of small stuff. We love hunting for blennies here, particularly the Chestnut and Grammistes, poking their heads out of every crevice. Keep an eye out for the Arenatus wrasse darting between the coral heads, and you’ll often spot Blackstriped Cardinalfish schooling under ledges. The real magic happens when you slow down and comb over the sponges and hydroids. That’s where you’ll find the Bennett’s pufferfish, and if you’re lucky, a Hairy Scorpionfish perfectly camouflaged. We’ve had some cracking encounters with Alligator pipefish here, too, blending in with the rubble. The site isn’t about huge pelagics or dramatic walls; it’s about the intricate details. We’d suggest going early in the morning before other boats arrive, it's quieter and the light can be lovely for photography. It's a great spot for newer macro photographers, offering plenty of subjects without strong currents to contend with.
Nearest Dive Centres to big apple
Dive shops near big apple
MEDUSA DIVING
Capt'n Gregg's
Mermaid Divers
YOU GO
Dive Malic
South Sea Divers
Reviews for big apple
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for big apple
big apple Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for big apple, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (13.6, 120.95) (3km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
30°C
85°F · Range: 28.8–30.6°C
Current Speed
11.66 cm/s
Direction: NE (59°)
Chlorophyll-a
0.055 mg/m³
Very clear (oligotrophic)
Salinity
31.9 PSU
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)
Plan & book
Ways to dive Anilao, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in AnilaoPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Anilao.
Search stays in AnilaoDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near big apple
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
