Diving in Bohol, Philippines offers stunning underwater landscapes, with its,vibrant coral gardens, and diverse marine life, it is perfect for both beginners and advanced divers. Top sites include Balicasag Island, known for dramatic walls, jackfish schools, sea turtles, and macro life, making it ideal for underwater photography. Panglao Island provides easy access to rich reefs, reef sharks, rays, and night diving options. Pamilacan Island adds a chance to spot pelagics like whale sharks and manta rays near untouched coral formations. With warm waters year-round and convenient dive resorts, Bohol combines marine biodiversity, scenic beauty, and relaxed island vibes for an unforgettable underwater experience.
Plan your Bohol dive trip between December and April for the best underwater conditions. These dry months offer clear visibility (15–30m), calm waters, and increased marine life activity. March to June is great for spotting dolphins, while hammerhead sharks are often seen near Cabilao Island from December to June. Though diving is available all year, the June to October rainy season can reduce visibility to 10–20m and bring occasional swells. Water temps stay between 26–29°C, ideal for divers of all levels. Note: Triggerfish can be territorial during May to July. Choose dry season diving in Bohol for vibrant reefs and optimal conditions.
Getting to Bohol, Philippines is easy and well-connected, making it a great base for divers. The most convenient way is to fly into Tagbilaran Airport or Bohol-Panglao International Airport, both accessible via direct domestic flights from Manila, Cebu, or Davao. Airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia offer frequent services. For international travelers, fly into Mactan-Cebu International Airport and then take a quick 25-minute flight to Bohol or a 2-hour fast ferry from Cebu City to Tagbilaran or Panglao.
If you’re already in the Visayas, ferries from Dumaguete, Cagayan de Oro, or Leyte also reach Bohol. Once on the island, getting to dive hubs like Panglao or Anda is simple via van, tricycle, or taxi. With multiple transport options, Bohol is a convenient and popular choice for divers seeking vibrant reefs, whale sharks, and pelagic encounters.
This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Ming Li (PADI pro), Skylodge Dive Shop, Big Blue Divers. Disclaimer
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