Anilao Diving

Anilao in Mabini, Batangas, is one of the world's top destinations for macro diving and underwater photography. The Verde Island Passage that runs through here is the 'center of the center' of marine biodiversity — more shore fish species per square kilometer than anywhere else on Earth.

What sets Anilao apart from prettier Philippine dive destinations is the diversity of tiny creatures: nudibranchs (over 200 species recorded), pygmy seahorses, mimic octopuses, frogfish, ghost pipefish, and dozens more.

Dive resorts cluster around Anilao Pier and the road leading to it. Dive cost: PHP 2,000-3,500 per dive (with gear). Many resorts include 2-3 dives per day, dive insurance, and meals in package rates.

Best time: November-May for calmest seas. The famous Anilao Underwater Shootout photo competition happens annually in late October/November.