

Best for beginner divers, 3-60m, boat entry, moderate current.
Balicasag is a circular island in Panglao, Philippines, surrounded by a fringing coral reef featuring walls and drop-offs. Divers and snorkellers can explore depths ranging from 3 to 60 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. The site is accessed by boat and is suitable for beginners, though currents can be moderate. Marine life includes green sea turtles, whitetip reef sharks, and various species such as warty anglerfish, robust ghost pipefish, giant frogfish, and peacock mantis shrimp. Nudibranchs like the trance wrinkle dorid and nembrotha are common. Divers should be aware of boat traffic, deep sections, sharp coral, and triggerfish.
9.51550, 123.68550
Snorkel the western reef instead of the reef close to the landing beach to avoid crowds and see the reef in better condition.
Accessible by boat tours from Alona Beach or by staying at the Balicasag Island Dive Resort.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-60m
Visibility
10-40m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
60 min
Divers and snorkellers can observe green sea turtles, whitetip reef sharks, and various invertebrates including peacock mantis shrimp, candy crabs, and nudibranchs like the trance wrinkle dorid. Fish species include the Indian lionfish, spotfin lionfish, leaf scorpionfish, and regal angelfish.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, though it features moderate currents and depths reaching 60 metres.
The site ranges from 3 to 60 metres in depth, with an average depth of 20 metres.
Balicasag requires a boat for access, located approximately 12 kilometres from the shore.
Yes, Balicasag is suitable for snorkelling and holds a rating of 4 out of 5 for the activity.
Diving at Balicasag in Alona Beach requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Balicasag in Alona Beach. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
Expect moderate currents at Balicasag in Alona Beach. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Balicasag in Alona Beach typically ranges from 10 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.