Best Places to Snorkel in the Philippines
One of the most entertaining ways to spend an outing at the beach is through snorkeling. It allows you to enjoy and see a tropical vacation spot and acquire gratefulness for its natural beauty and all of the undersea life. It is an incredible way to spend some time, and it is an easy activity.

The Philippines comprises 7,641 islands and boasts many coral reefs and a thousand marine life species, making it a sure hit for snorkeling aficionados. So, whatever your commitment level is, a snorkeling activity in the Philippines will always be a perfect idea.
With rising awareness of marine conservation and wildlife protection, here is a list consisting of the top 8 snorkeling spots in the Philippines that you can visit on your next trip:
Nalusuan Island – Cordova, Cebu

Nalusuan Island is a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. It has been a well-established destination on the local island circuit for years and has been designated as a Marine Sanctuary for several years.
This spot lets you observe all kinds of big and small fish and claims various soft and hard corals.
Siete Pecados – Coron, Palawan

Siete Pecados in Coron is the most recognized and closest snorkeling destination around Coron. The marine life around the islands is incredible. Snorkeling in Siete Pecados is like swimming in a giant aquarium. You will see countless fish sporadically accompanied by other sea creatures like baby sharks, small squids, and octopuses.
The turquoise water surrounding the area is crystal clear, making it easy for people to see the school of fish swarming together above the numerous hard corals even while seated inside the boat.
Coral Garden – San Antonio Island, Puerto Galera

Coral Garden is a narrow zone in Muelle Bay and is regarded as the top snorkeling site of Puerto Galera. This is one of the best snorkeling places near Metro Manila.
The marine life that rings the Coral Garden is rich and spectacular. The area is covered with an array of coral and colorful fish. This is the perfect destination if you are looking for an excellent snorkeling place near Manila.
Apo Island – Dauin, Negros Oriental

Schools of rainbow-colored fish flit throughout the underwater life of Apo Island. Fascinating sea turtles that have grown accustomed to humans’ attention welcome guests upon arrival.
The underwater visibility on Apo Island is fantastic, and snorkeling around the rock formations was pretty exciting. Apo Island has impressive beaches in its own right — but the snorkeling is equally pleasant.
Matinloc Island – El Nido, Palawan

A thriving mecca of marine life, an escapade in El Nido denotes springing from one island to another, exploring the beach and the underwater sea life. Some islands are mainly set for snorkel exploration, permitting you to get as close as possible to the fish. One of these is Matinloc Island, the longest remote island in El Nido.
The seafloor neighboring the beach slants gradually, and the water deepens only after about 10 meters. This site is one of the best snorkeling spots due to the abundance of marine life in this area.
Anilao in Mabini, Batangas

Snorkeling beginners usually go to Anilao Batangas throughout the year because the location is convenient and affordable. So, if you want easy access and a quick fix for your underwater world cravings, Anilao is for you.
Balicasag Island – Bohol

This is another exceptional snorkeling abode with abundant marine life and few travelers. Balicasag Island highlights many marine life, from angles to parrots to clownfishes.
There are already quite a few resorts in place here, but you will find that the charges are still within the budget because the location is not that widespread yet… savor it.
Tubod Marine Sanctuary, Siquijor

One of the best snorkeling sites in the area, where you can spot corals and a larger school of fish around the waters of Siquijor. Tubod Marine Sanctuary is also very accessible and boasts several starfish.
Moalboal, Cebu

Located in the southwest of the island province of Cebu. The town of Moalboal is getting more and more popular for its “sardines run” experience. The school of sardines usually gathers around Panagsama Beach, close to several dive shops in the area. The area is famous for diving and snorkeling as it has the most exciting reef drops just a few meters from the shore.

Snorkeling is a thrilling activity that anybody, young or old, can appreciate with minimal equipment and little training.
Snorkeling is a terrific year-round activity in the Philippines, no matter where you live. So, grab your chance and start discovering a new and captivating underwater world.
When is the best time to go snorkeling in the Philippines?
As a tropical country, the climate in the Philippines is warm and humid all year round. Snorkeling is always possible; however, avoid the monsoon season from May to October.
The best months are from June to September since it has less rainfall and fewer weather disturbances.
How about you? What are your favorite snorkeling spots in the Philippines?
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Also read:
- 15 Of The Most Beautiful Beaches In The World
- Stoked At Club Paradise Palawan Resort In Coron
- El Nido Island Hopping Tour C
- Ultimate List Of Amazing Islands And Beaches In El Nido Palawan