Malapascua, Philippines
    Mabini, Higatangan Marine Sanctuary

    Marine Protected Area

    Best months: Jul–Sep

    Protected Area

    Mabini, Higatangan Marine Sanctuary

    Why dive here

    With 87+ marine species recorded in the area - including sea turtles, thresher sharks, lionfish and pufferfish - Marine Protected Area offers some of Malapascua's richest diving. Water ranges 28-31°C, warmest May, June, July.

    Best timeJul–Sep
    WetsuitNo wetsuit needed, or a rash guard
    Marine lifeSea Turtles, Thresher Sharks, Lionfish and Pufferfish · 87+ species recorded
    Water28-31°C · warmest May, June, July
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    You’ll likely hear the Marine Protected Area called something else by the local dive shops; it’s one of those spots that’s often just lumped in with the general diving around Malapascua. We find it’s a good choice for an afternoon dive, especially if you’ve spent the morning at Monad Shoal. The visibility here can vary, but generally, it’s a comfortable dive, not too deep, maybe 15-20 meters. You’ll spot a decent range of species, we’ve logged amberfish, and it’s a good spot for brittle stars, particularly Savigny’s. Keep an eye out for the different seagrass beds, too – halodule and thalassia are pretty common. It’s a gentle dive, good for stretching out your bottom time and appreciating the smaller things.

    Today05:3317:2911h 56m daylightGolden hour 17:01

    Nearest Dive Centres to Marine Protected Area

    Dive shops near Marine Protected Area

    View all dive centres in Malapascua

    Reviews for Marine Protected Area

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Marine Protected Area

    Marine Protected Area Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Marine Protected Area, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (11.45, 124.02) (6km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    30°C

    86°F · Range: 29.3–31.5°C

    Current Speed

    8.25 cm/s

    Direction: S (194°)

    Salinity

    33.75 PSU

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Malapascua, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Malapascua

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Malapascua.

    Search stays in Malapascua

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near Marine Protected Area

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Malapascua