Cover Freediving with the Sardine Run in Moalboal, Cebu (Photo courtesy of Freediving Planet)
Freediving with the Sardine Run in Moalboal, Cebu (Photo courtesy of Freediving Planet)
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Looking to go surfing or diving for the summer? Here’s where to do those best
The ocean has its way of calling to us, and few can resist its charm. Sometimes, however, wading by the shore or relaxing on the beach isn’t enough to satisfy that itch. Sometimes, we need a little more excitement to appreciate what the deep blue has to offer. With summer approaching, it’s time to start thinking about your next big adventure. From the exhilarating rush of surfing barrelling waves to the serenity and quiet of scuba diving and freediving, this guide shows you the best destinations to experience these water sports.
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Surfing
Above Surfing in Cloud 9, Siargao
San Juan, La Union
The ‘Surfing Capital of the North,’ San Juan, La Union features intermediate-level waves befitting beginner and advanced surfers. If you’re looking to learn how to surf, visiting from April to September offers smaller waves but if you want a thrilling experience, October to March produces waves that reach up to three metres high.
Siargao, Surigao del Norte
Best suited for experienced surfers, Cloud 9 in Siargao is globally recognised as one of the best surfing destinations in the world. The waves typically peak from September to March, bringing in hundreds of tourists from all over the globe. It’s typically best to start surfing early in the morning when the tide is high as the sunrise sets the scene for a picturesque view.
Baler, Aurora
Before La Union and Siargao, there was Baler. Officially named the ‘birthplace of Philippine surfing’ under Republic Act 11957, the municipality of Baler in Aurora is home to the oldest surfing community in the country and still exists today. The story starts in 1972 when American surfer Steve Scott visited the then-untouched town of Baler and taught the locals how to ride the waves. The province’s reputation would then get bolstered by the 1978 film Apocalypse Now which featured Baler’s crashing waves—further attracting tourists.
Baler’s waves hit their peak from December to January, making it the best time for experienced surfers looking for a challenge.
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Scuba Diving
Above Marine life beneath Tubbataha Reef's surface (Photo courtesy of Zublu Diving)
Marine life beneath Tubbataha Reef's surface (Photo courtesy of Zublu Diving)
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Tubbataha Reef, Palawan
Situated in the heart of the Coral Triangle, the Tubbataha Reef is a 130,000-hectare Marine Protected Area comprising of two coral atolls. Perfect for when you have your license and can go for deeper dives, the Tubbataha Reef is home to massive vertical walls that go for over 100 metres in depth, vibrant reefs, and the pinnacle of Philippine marine biodiversity.
It’s best to visit from March to June to have the highest chance to see turtles and schools of fish. Tiger sharks, whale sharks, and manta rays—while rare—can also be seen if you’re lucky.
Panglao, Bohol
With 18 dive sites dotted across the island, Panglao boasts clusters of colourful coral reefs, hundreds of marine life species, and a few ship and plane wrecks. Visibility is generally great all year round, but for a consistent experience, it’s best to visit from January to April when it’s the dry season.
Anilao, Batangas
For the best variety, Anilao has over 50 dive sites featuring wrecks, rare critters, and breathtaking reefscapes. Underwater photographers looking to capture the beauty below can revel in its muck and macro destinations, while first-timers can earn their fins.
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Freediving
Above Freediving at Apo Island, Negros Occidental (Photo courtesy of Atmosphere Resorts)
Freediving at Apo Island, Negros Occidental (Photo courtesy of Atmosphere Resorts)
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Moalboal, Cebu
One of the best places to get into freediving, Moalboal has a thriving community and schools that offer certification. The best part? All freedivers, novices and experts, can experience the sought-after sardine run—surrounding yourself with massive schools of silvery sardines making for an otherworldly experience.
Coron, Palawan
With crystal clear lakes and lagoons, expansive caves, and colourful coral gardens, Coron stands to be one of many’s go-to destinations for freediving. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can visit the many WWII-era ship and plane wrecks scattered around the island. You might even have some rare encounters with manta rays and dugongs.
Apo Island, Negros Oriental
Explore the untouched wonders beneath the surface of Apo Island. Just an hour's boat ride from Dauin, the island is a world-class freediving destination—featuring pristine coral reefs and large marine species such as barracudas and sea turtles. If it’s your first time freediving, the local community offers plenty of courses to get you up to speed, starting in a swimming pool.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
Work
A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
