

Best for beginner divers, 3-60m, boat entry, moderate current.
Cabilao Island, located near Panglao, provides diverse underwater topography including reefs, walls, and muck environments. Accessible only by boat, the site features depths ranging from 3 to 60 metres with visibility between 12 and 40 metres. Divers encounter moderate currents and water temperatures of 27 to 30C. Marine life includes the Giant Frogfish, Ornate Ghostpipefish, and Chromodoris Nudibranch, alongside various crabs, shrimp, and snails. Beginners should remain in shallower reef sections between 3 and 18 metres. Hazards include boat traffic, sharp coral, and stonefish; protective footwear is recommended. Night diving is available, and the site is supported by an on-site dive shop offering equipment rental and cafe facilities.
9.87855, 123.77163
May and December bring the most settled conditions, making them the best months to visit. The site also offers night diving, which is worth booking in advance through the on-site dive shop.
Fly into Bohol-Panglao International Airport, travel overland to Mocpoc Pier, then take a bangka boat crossing.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-60m
Visibility
12-40m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
May, Dec
Divers regularly encounter Chromodoris Nudibranchs, Flamingo Tongues, and various snails. Uncommon sightings include Giant Frogfish, Ornate Ghostpipefish, Varicose Wart Slugs, wrasses, sea stars, crabs, shrimp, and sea squirts.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, though it is recommended to stay within the shallower reef sections between 3 and 18 metres until comfortable with the moderate currents.
The site offers a wide depth range from 3 metres down to 60 metres.
Yes, boat access is required to reach this dive site.
May and December offer the most settled conditions for diving.
Yes, night diving is available and should be booked in advance through the on-site dive shop.
Diving at Cabilao Island in Loon requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Cabilao Island in Loon. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Cabilao Island in Loon. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
Divers at Cabilao Island in Loon should be aware of stonefish, sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Expect moderate currents at Cabilao Island in Loon. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Cabilao Island in Loon typically ranges from 12 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.