

Best for beginner divers, 8-30m, boat entry, mild current.
Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary, the first marine protected area in the Philippines, offers a diverse underwater landscape of reefs, walls, and drop-offs. Divers and snorkellers can explore hard coral gardens and a shifting white sandbar. Depths range from 8 to 30 metres, with an average of 20 metres. The site is accessible by boat, with visibility typically between 10 and 30 metres and mild currents. Marine life includes wrasses, whitetip reef sharks, Indian lionfish, regal angelfish, and various triggerfish species. Hazards include boat traffic, sharks, and sharp coral. The site is suitable for beginners, with typical dives lasting 50 minutes.
9.42960, 123.38783
The island features an extending sandbar and is the first marine protected area in the Philippines, established in 1974.
Day trips depart from Moalboal by van to Oslob pier, followed by a 20-minute ride on a traditional Filipino outrigger boat or banka.
Recorded at this site
Depth
8-30m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
28-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Dec
Divers and snorkellers can encounter wrasses, whitetip reef sharks, Indian lionfish, regal angelfish, titan triggerfish, and various butterflyfish species.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, featuring mild currents and depths ranging from 8 to 30 metres.
The depth ranges from 8 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
This is a boat-only site located 10,000 metres from the shore, requiring a boat charter to access.
Yes, the site is highly rated for snorkelling, allowing visitors to view the coral gardens and marine life from the surface.
Diving at Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary in Oslob requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary in Oslob. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary in Oslob. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C.
The best months to visit Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary in Oslob are January, February, March, April, May, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary in Oslob should be aware of sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary in Oslob typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Sumilon Island Marine Sanctuary in Oslob typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.