5-25m
    Siargao, Philippines
    Columbus Fish Sanctuary

    San Ricardo Whale Sharks

    Best months: Dec–Apr

    Protected Area

    Columbus Fish Sanctuary

    Why dive here

    With 82+ marine species recorded in the area - including manta rays, mobula rays (devil rays), whale sharks and pufferfish - San Ricardo Whale Sharks offers some of Siargao's richest reef diving. Water ranges 27-30°C, warmest June, August, September.

    Best timeDec–Apr
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeManta Rays, Mobula Rays (Devil Rays), Whale Sharks and Pufferfish · 82+ species recorded
    Water27-30°C · warmest June, August, September
    CharacterReef dive · max 5-25m
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    San Ricardo offers a rare chance to encounter whale sharks in Siargao. While not a typical reef dive, the focus here is purely on these gentle giants as they feed close to the surface. It's a seasonal interaction, best suited for divers who prioritize big animal encounters over coral formations. Expect a unique experience, often involving snorkeling rather than full scuba.

    Typical San Ricardo Whale Sharks Dive Profile

    5mSafety Stop0m5m max~60 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Today05:2817:2511h 57m daylightGolden hour 16:57

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for San Ricardo Whale Sharks

    San Ricardo Whale Sharks Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for San Ricardo Whale Sharks, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (8.91, 125.03) (20km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    30°C

    86°F · Range: 29.2–31.2°C

    Current Speed

    1 cm/s

    Direction: S (180°)

    Chlorophyll-a

    0.333 mg/m³

    Moderate productivity

    Salinity

    32.39 PSU

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

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