5 Lesser-Known Diving Spots in the PH Perfect for Secret Getaways

Home to spectacular beaches and incredible islands, the Philippines is one of the most popular diving destinations in the world.

Due to the islands’ increasing popularity, commercialism slowly spreads to nature, leading to overtourism. If you’re an intrepid traveler but hate crowded places, we'll help you discover some of the underrated diving spots in the country, so keep on reading.

Dalutan Island

Located in the municipality of Almeria in Biliran of Eastern Visayas, Dalutan Island, is one of the lesser-known diving spots in the Philippines. Its thin strip of white sand beach covered with trees and nearby islands makes it a perfect destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Other activities you can explore on the island are kayaking, caving, wall scaling, and spearfishing. According to locals, it is best to travel in groups to cut expenses and visit at 5 AM to experience the beauty of the sunrise. Moreover, tourists are encouraged to bring their own food, drinks, and other essentials for camping equipment. Don’t miss out and visit Dalutan Island.

Sambawan Island Dive Site

Another hidden paradise of Biliran, Sambawan Island is a marine sanctuary and an underrated diving spot in the country.

Aside from being a great diving spot, the island is an ideal place to escape the hustle of busy city life. Similar to Dalutan Island, Sambawan Island boasts pristine white sand, a semi-curved beach, a flourishing ocean, and warm blue waters.

Tourists will swoon in delight with the island’s amazing rock formations, bountiful coastline, and the aesthetically-pleasing view of sunrise.

If you’re looking for more activities except diving, you can try fishing, camping, trekking, and landscape photography. To get there, check this out.

Sabang Daguitan Surf Camp

The province of Leyte is known for its alluring white powdery beaches and rich historical culture and landmarks. Located on the Eastern coast of Leyte, Sabang Daguitan Surf Camp of barangay Dulag is one of the lesser-known diving and surfing spots in the Philippines.

The camp is complete with food and accommodation facilities and offers surfing and skimboarding lessons for beginners. You can also visit a nearby attraction called Da-o Balay Kawilan where various activities are available including fishing, kayaking, and the traditional massage or “hilot” in floating cottages. Wondering where to stay at Sabang Daguitan Surf Camp? Go here.

Sogod Bay Dive Sites

Consisting of five world-class dive sites, Sogod Bay’s dive sites range from 15 to 40 meters featuring 20 marine areas, and are home to more than 500 coral species.

Compared to its main rivals, Tubbataha Reefs and Moalboal in Cebu, Sogod Bay is a lesser-known diving spot in the Philippines but is hailed as the “rising star” among other diving destinations in the country because of its breathtaking underwater paradise. To know more about the Sogod Bay resort, read here.

Tagbak Marine Park

Offering a wide range of marine flora and fauna, Tagbak Marine Park is a tourist attraction located in Liloan, Southern Leyte.

Make your diving experience extraordinary as you plunge into the natural gorgeousness of the marine park’s crystal-clear water and thriving marine life. Other fun physical activities you can have in the marine sanctuary are snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, wild duck watching, boating, and sea turtle watching. Explore Tagbak Marine Park here.