There’s something magical about slipping beneath the surface and discovering a whole new world of color and calm. In the Philippines, that feeling hits differently. With crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and marine life straight out of a nature documentary, freediving in the Philippines isn’t just an adventure; it’s an escape.
If you’re a beginner learning to hold your breath a little longer or an experienced diver chasing depth and clarity, the country offers endless places to explore. From the serene reefs of Bohol to the shipwrecks of Coron, here are some of the best freediving spots in the Philippines that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
What’s Inside
- Panglao, Bohol
- Moalboal, Cebu
- Malapascua, Cebu
- Anilao, Batangas
- Coron, Palawan
- El Nido, Palawan
- Anda, Bohol
- Siquijor
- Apo Island, Negros Oriental
- Camiguin
- Best Time to Go Freediving in the Philippines
- Why You Should Try Freediving in the Philippines
1. Panglao, Bohol
@freedivewithbeyonce And I was like this in Bohol Panglao🤭 🎥@Poy? @Bohol_freediving_guide on IG 🎨 @freedivewithbeyonce 🤿 @Sanghinga 🩰 @amphitrite.official @_amphitrite.ph #freedivewithbeyonce #freediver #mermaid #sabrinacarpenter #fyp ♬ original sound – Beyonce Just Sacmar Pacia
Video Source: @freedivewithbeyonce on TikTok
If there’s one place every freediver should visit, it’s Panglao, Bohol. Often called the freediving capital of the Philippines, this island paradise is also one of the top places to visit in Bohol. It offers ideal conditions for diving, with calm seas, visibility reaching up to 30 meters, and convenient shore access for quick entry into the water.
You’ll find plenty of freediving schools in Panglao offering beginner to advanced courses, as well as daily training sessions for serious divers. Popular dive spots include Napaling Reef, where you can glide along massive sardine runs, and Balicasag Island, home to colorful corals and sea turtles.
Why dive here: Clear waters, vibrant marine life, and one of the most supportive freediving communities in Asia.
Best for: Beginners, pros, and anyone who wants to train seriously or just enjoy the ocean’s peace.
2. Moalboal, Cebu
Another must-visit is Moalboal in Cebu, one of the most accessible and affordable freediving spots in the Philippines. Its main attraction? The Sardine Run, where millions of sardines swirl together near the shore—a mesmerizing sight even without a tank.
Related: Cebu Adventures: 23 Things to Do and Places to Visit in Cebu
Just a few meters away from the beach, you can also encounter sea turtles gracefully gliding through the reefs. The currents are mild, making it a great place for beginner freedivers to practice and gain confidence.
Why dive here: Incredible marine life, affordable accommodations, and an easygoing vibe.
Best for: First-time freedivers or backpackers on a budget.
3. Malapascua, Cebu
If you’re looking for something more thrilling, head up north to Malapascua, Cebu, one of the few places in the world and the best spot in the Philippines where you can regularly see thresher sharks while freediving. These graceful predators are often spotted at Monad Shoal, a well-known cleaning station where they rise from the deep early in the morning for an unforgettable underwater encounter.
While scuba divers usually dominate the area, skilled freedivers can also experience this unforgettable encounter—no tanks required. Beyond sharks, Malapascua also offers coral gardens, walls, and shallow reefs teeming with marine life.
Why dive here: Unique chance to see thresher sharks up close, plus calm conditions ideal for both training and exploration.
Best for: Intermediate and advanced freedivers seeking rare marine encounters.
4. Anilao, Batangas
If you’re based in Metro Manila and craving a quick ocean escape, Anilao, Batangas is your best bet. It’s only a few hours away, and yet it’s packed with beautiful coral gardens and thriving marine sanctuaries.
Anilao is popular among freediving schools in the Philippines because of its proximity and calm waters. It’s also an ideal weekend training ground if you want to improve your depth or breath-hold skills.
Why dive here: Convenient location, clear visibility, and diverse underwater terrain.
Best for: Beginners, weekend warriors, and freedivers looking for a quick trip from the city.
5. Coron, Palawan
When it comes to adventure, freediving in Coron is hard to beat. The area is known for its World War II shipwrecks, many of which are shallow enough for freedivers to explore.
Imagine descending into the calm, clear waters of Coron Bay and spotting the ghostly outline of a sunken ship—an experience that’s both thrilling and peaceful. There are also freshwater lagoons like Barracuda Lake, where you can dive between layers of warm and cold water (a strange but amazing sensation!).
Why dive here: Unique mix of wrecks, reefs, and lagoons.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced freedivers looking for variety and adventure.
6. El Nido, Palawan
@ayeitsmichh This structure is MASSIVE and kinda in the middle of nowhere. 🤣 Diving through it gave me the creeps! It was floating and part of it is above water. 😂🫠 BUT, it was so beautiful!!! 🥹 One of the most fun dives we’ve ever done! 🧜🏼♀️ Wearing @Wear Skivvy Co. @La Penderie Clothing Co. Nippie Pasties ✨ 📍El Nido, Palawan #Elnido #Freediving #Palawan #Philippines #travel ♬ Skyfall ldr – ★
Video Source: @ayeitsmichh on TikTok
El Nido might be famous for island hopping, but its underwater world deserves just as much attention. Beneath its towering limestone cliffs are calm lagoons, tunnels, and coral gardens perfect for freediving.
Diving around Bacuit Bay reveals schools of fish, rays, and vibrant reefs, while nearby Cadlao Lagoon offers shallow, crystal-clear conditions ideal for beginners.
Why dive here: Stunning limestone scenery above and below water.
Best for: Beginners and travel enthusiasts who want freediving with postcard views.
7. Anda, Bohol
@marrrsolomon My favourite place to be #freediving #fyp #freediveph #andabohol #bohol #anda ♬ love nwantiti (feat. Dj Yo! & AX'EL) [Remix] – CKay
Video Source: @marrrsolomon on TikTok
If you love Panglao but prefer something quieter, Anda, Bohol is a fantastic alternative. This lesser-known spot has equally stunning reefs, deep drop-offs, and almost no crowds.
Many freedivers visit Anda for its laid-back vibe and untouched underwater scenery. It’s also a great place to connect with the local freediving community or simply enjoy long, meditative dives without distractions.
Why dive here: Serene atmosphere and stunning coral walls.
Best for: Intermediate freedivers or anyone seeking solitude and silence under the sea.
8. Siquijor
@ayeitsmichh Not just an island… Siquijor is a whole other world underwater. 🧜🏼♀️✨ #Siquijor #freediving #Paradise ♬ original sound – CaliGrwn
Video Source: @ayeitsmichh on TikTok
Known as the “Island of Fire,” Siquijor is more than its mystical reputation, it’s an underrated freediving paradise. Its waters are clear, peaceful, and full of healthy reefs, making it one of the best freediving spots in the Visayas for quiet, soulful dives.
Spots like Tubod Marine Sanctuary and Paliton Beach are perfect for beginners, while deeper reefs and wall dives await experienced freedivers.
Why dive here: Quiet, uncrowded waters and beautiful coral formations.
Best for: Freedivers seeking peaceful, low-key dives with postcard-perfect visibility.
9. Apo Island, Negros Oriental
Tiny but teeming with life, Apo Island is one of the country’s top marine sanctuaries and a dream for freedivers. The waters here are exceptionally clear, with huge coral gardens and resident sea turtles that casually swim beside you.
It’s also a protected marine reserve, so expect pristine conditions and minimal crowds. Apo’s steep drop-offs make it perfect for both exploration and training dives.
Why dive here: World-class coral reefs, sea turtles, and strong community conservation efforts.
Best for: Beginners to advanced freedivers who love marine diversity and eco-friendly destinations.
10. Camiguin
@detouristahq Freedive goals in Mantigue Island, Camiguin achieved ✨ This protected marine sanctuary is one of the best freediving spots I’ve visited in The Philippines. Colorful corals, schools of fish & the huge nonchalant sea turtles just chilling on the reef ❤ Getting here was pretty easy. Just get a tricycle to take you to San Roque (near Benoni Port). There, you can get a boat to cross to Mantigue Island (they’re pretty organized). At San Roque, you can also find @divergent_freediving_camiguin who can arrange the whole trip for you and take amazing shots during the fun dive. Save this for later ⬇️ ✅ use my klook code: 𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 for discounts on hotels, attractions, tickets, transport & more 🔎 Detourista travel blog Where to next? Mention beautiful destinations you know in the 💬 #camiguin #philippines #travelph ♬ original sound – Detourista | travel creator
Video Source: @detouristahq on TikTok
Camiguin is a volcanic island known for its unique dive spots shaped by nature’s raw power. From sunken cemeteries to coral gardens teeming with life, it’s a hidden gem among freediving destinations in the Philippines.
Just off its coast lies Mantigue Island, a small marine sanctuary with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs perfect for freediving. Its calm conditions make it great for both beginners and experienced divers who want to explore colorful marine life or enjoy easy, relaxed dives.
Why dive here: Volcanic landscapes, quiet dive sites, and a strong sense of adventure.
Best for: Freedivers who love exploring offbeat, untouched locations.
Best Time to Go Freediving in the Philippines
The Philippines is a year-round diving destination, but the best time to go freediving is from November to May, during the dry season. The seas are calmer, visibility is crystal clear, and the weather is perfect for long boat rides and training sessions.
That said, each freediving destination in the Philippines has its own best months depending on location and water conditions. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan your trip:
● Cebu (Moalboal & Malapascua)
Best time: January to May – Ideal for clear waters, calm currents, and spotting marine life like sardines and thresher sharks.
● Bohol (Panglao & Anda)
Best time: December to May – Great visibility, perfect for reef exploration and training dives.
● Negros Oriental (Apo Island)
Best time: November to May – The seas are calm and teeming with marine life; this is the best time for turtle sightings.
● Siquijor
Best time: November to May – Dry, sunny days and calm waters make it perfect for beginners and casual freedivers.
● Palawan (Coron & El Nido)
Best time: November to May – Great for wreck dives, lagoons, and coral gardens with consistently warm, clear water.
● Batangas (Anilao)
Best time: December to May – Excellent visibility and calm seas—ideal for weekend dives close to Manila.
● Camiguin
Best time: March to May – Warm weather and minimal rainfall make for smooth dives and clear underwater conditions.
If you’re planning a freediving trip that combines several islands, aim for March to May—that’s when most of the country enjoys peak diving conditions, with sunshine, calm waters, and vibrant marine life on full display.
Why You Should Try Freediving in the Philippines
Freediving in the Philippines isn’t just about learning to hold your breath; it’s about finding calm beneath the waves and discovering the country’s breathtaking underwater world. From the sardine runs of Moalboal to the thresher sharks of Malapascua, the vibrant coral reefs of Apo Island, and the peaceful lagoons of El Nido, every dive reveals something new and unforgettable.
