Balicasag - Dumaguete

Balicasag is a little sand-fringed island just off Panglao. It’s got a reputation, and for good reason: turtles. We’ve seen them here in numbers that genuinely surprise you, sometimes so many you’re not sure where to look next. The island is ringed by a plateau, mostly 5 to 18 metres deep, before it falls away into the blue. That makes it a comfortable spot for newer divers, though the currents can pick up a bit. Keep an eye out for sardine balls too, they’re a common sight sweeping across the reef.

Location
Dumaguete, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
9.550000, 123.666700

Marine Protected Area: Dauis, Tagbilaran Bohol

Best Time to Dive in Dumaguete

The warmest water temperatures in Dumaguete occur in January, averaging 26.8°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 26.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.8°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • February: 26.8°C (air: 26.6°C)
  • March: 26.8°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • April: 26.8°C (air: 28.1°C)
  • May: 26.8°C (air: 28.5°C)
  • June: 26.8°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • July: 26.8°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • August: 26.8°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • September: 26.8°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • October: 26.8°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • November: 26.8°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • December: 26.8°C (air: 27.0°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Dumaguete

Nearest Dive Centres to Balicasag

Marine Life in Dumaguete

Home to 522 recorded species including 440 reef fish, 18 sharks & rays, 15 sea cucumbers, 12 sea snails & nudibranchs, 9 seagrass & algae, 9 hard corals.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Balicasag

Based on average water temperature of 26.8°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°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 depths for diving at Balicasag Island dive sites?
The dive sites around Balicasag Island are characterized by a surrounding plateau that ranges between 5 to 18 meters in depth. Beyond this plateau, the reefs drop away to much greater depths, offering diverse profiles for various diving experiences. This makes it an excellent destination for exploring both shallower and deeper environments.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at Balicasag Island?
Balicasag Island is a bio-diverse marine sanctuary, celebrated as one of the best places in the Philippines to dive with an abundance of turtles; some divers even report "too many turtles"! Divers can also frequently witness swirling sardine balls sweeping across the reefs and encounter impressive grey reef sharks. For more details on marine species, explore our wildlife database.
How challenging are the dive sites around Balicasag Island, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The dive sites around Balicasag Island are rated as intermediate in difficulty. However, with its extensive plateau ranging from 5 to 18 meters, it is also considered a great destination for less experienced divers. This combination offers suitable conditions for a wide range of skill levels.
When is the best time of year to dive at Balicasag Island for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Balicasag Island for optimal conditions. We recommend consulting our comprehensive When to Dive section for general guidance on diving seasons in the Philippines. This will help you plan your trip for the most favorable weather and water conditions.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Balicasag Island?
The provided data does not specify particular scuba diving certifications required or recommended for Balicasag Island. Given its intermediate difficulty and suitability for less experienced divers, an Open Water Diver certification is typically sufficient for many sites. For exploring deeper sections, an Advanced Open Water certification might be beneficial, but always confirm with local dive operators.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like when diving in Balicasag Island?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or visibility when diving at Balicasag Island. These conditions can vary significantly based on the season and specific dive site. For the most current and accurate reports, it is always best to consult directly with local dive centers in Dumaguete.