Dive Site - Anilao

Dive Site" might be the most generic name going, but trust us, the diving here is anything but. This is one of those spots in Anilao where we really hit the jackpot with macro. Forget the big stuff – though a Dorado streaking past isn't unheard of – what we’re really looking for here are the Lubbock's and Black wrasse darting around, plus those ridiculously camouflaged ghost pipefish. You’ll probably spot more species of butterflyfish than you knew existed, like the Blue-dash and Latticed. The reef itself is a tapestry of smaller corals and sponges, perfect for hiding tiny critters. We love working slowly along the reef slope, often finding curious Clark’s anemonefish and their more famous clown cousins tucked into their homes. Keep an eye out for the Black-headed Leatherjacket – they blend in surprisingly well. It’s a photographer’s dream, honestly. Go slow, bring a good torch, and be prepared to spend a solid hour in one small area, just scanning. This spot really shines mid-morning when the light is good but the dive boats haven't quite swarmed yet.

Location
Anilao, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
13.794793, 120.914350

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 Dive Site

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 Dive Site

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