8 eco-dive resorts in the Philippines: Sustainable scuba vacation
Planning a sustainable scuba vacation in Southeast Asia? Discover 8 of the best eco-dive resorts in the Philippines to help keep your environmental footprint to a minimum.
Situated at the very heart of the Coral Triangle, the Philippines boasts some of the best diving in Southeast Asia. It’s home to fascinating wrecks, healthy coral reefs and exceptional macro life, not to mention unique pelagic encounters.
The Philippines is a dive destination we absolutely love! Not only are the underwater landscapes sublime but the above-water scenery is out-of-this-world! From diving with thresher sharks in Malapascua to surfing the waves of Siargao, we’ve had some incredible experiences in this island nation.
If you’re planning a dive trip to this spectacular corner of the globe, there are plenty of options for a sustainable stay.
In this article, we’ll highlight 8 of the best eco-friendly dive resorts in the Philippines, all of which are doing their bit to preserve their surrounding ecosystems.
Still deciding where to dive in the Philippines? Discover all of the best places to dive in the Philippines in our detailed article here.
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Sangat Island Dive Resort, Coron
Sangat Island Dive Resort is a tropical paradise that offers eco-friendly accommodations and world-class scuba diving opportunities.
Located on the southwestern tip of Sangat Island, this sustainable Philippines dive resort opened in 1994. Today, it features 22 bungalows and villas designed in a locally inspired architectural style. All feature thatched roofs and woven bamboo walls that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings.
Accommodation options range from cosy beachfront cottages to the luxurious Lambingan Villa, which sits directly on its own private beach.
Beyond aesthetics, the resort has made an admirable commitment to sustainable practices. It operates completely off the grid, relying on solar panels to generate enough power to run its facilities, including a freshwater desalination system. Even the backup diesel generators are rarely needed.
This allows guests to enjoy guilt-free relaxation at one of the Philippines’ best eco-friendly dive resorts.
If you’re craving underwater adventure, you can take advantage of the resort’s prime location near 11 WWII-era shipwrecks. Many were sunk during the legendary Battle of Coron Bay.
Other amenities include a restaurant and bar where you can refuel in between dive trips.
“A magic place.” – Owca (read more reviews here)
Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort, Puerto Galera
Tucked away on an isolated strip of Puerto Galera’s coastline is Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort. It lures divers wanting to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in tropical tranquility.
Casalay features a range of beautifully appointed one and two-bedroom villas designed for solo travellers, couples and dive buddies, as well as families with kids in tow.
The utter seclusion of this eco-friendly Philippines dive resort fosters deep relaxation. Here, you can unwind from the stresses of daily life and find peace.
That’s when you’re not out exploring the underwater paradise of Puerto Galera. As you descend into the crystal clear waters, you’ll be greeted by flashy yellow snappers, elegant angelfish and quick-darting triggerfish, as well as groupers and barracuda.
Non-diving family members can spend their days lounging in a hammock strung between coconut trees, snorkelling the coral gardens or paddling a kayak across the bay’s glassy waters.
This eco-friendly Philippines dive resort strives to preserve the island’s fragile ecosystems through a range of sustainable practices. Solar panels minimise energy use while policies are in place to reduce plastic waste.
Additionally, Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort partners with local marine conservation groups to promote responsible diving and reef restoration.
“Absolutely stunning!” – Rachel (read more reviews here)
Atlantis Dive Resort, Puerto Galera
Situated on the shores of Sabang Beach lies Atlantis Puerto Galera, which offers the ultimate island getaway for scuba enthusiasts. Built into the hills, this sustainable Philippines dive resort blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings.
Each of the 40 accommodations features a spacious bedroom designed for tranquility. Climate-controlled air conditioning and adjustable ceiling fans keep the temperature pleasant in every season.
Declared a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1973, Puerto Galera Bay’s crystal clear waters shelter some of the healthiest coral reefs in the Coral Triangle. With dozens of dive sites located minutes away by boat, there’s something for divers of all levels.
After working up an appetite, you can dine beachside on fresh local cuisine and share stories of the day’s aquatic encounters.
As one of the Philippines’ best eco-friendly dive resorts, Atlantis recognises that sustainability is the key to preserving the paradise in which it operates. By investing in the education and wellbeing of local youth through impactful programs, Atlantis helps foster an appreciation for the environment amongst the next generation.
Their coral nursery regenerates damaged reef systems, while their staff training empowers employees to become stewards of the sea.
“Will definitely come back.” – Gwyn (read more reviews here)
Atlantis Dive Resort, Dumaguete
Operating with the same ethos as its Puerto Galera counterpart is the Atlantis Dive Resort Dumaguete. It boasts an enviable setting on the southeast coast of Negros Island.
The area is characterised by stretches of volcanic black sand and swaying coconut palms. Additionally, it provides a habitat for a bevy of underwater critters.
Minutes away from over 20 dive sites (most protected by marine sanctuaries), Atlantis Dumaguete places you in the heart of all the action. Guided boat dives operate up to five times daily and there’s an expansive camera room that caters to photographers.
Peer into the crevices of the reef in search of psychedelic frogfish, which are endemic to Philippine waters. You can also glide alongside sea turtles and schools of jacks, and marvel at Dauin’s legendary macro life.
When you’re ready to venture further afield, day trips whisk you off to Apo Island’s majestic coral walls, the mystical isle of Siquijor or even Oslob for a rare chance to snorkel alongside gentle whale sharks.
More than just a launch pad for underwater adventures, Atlantis Dumaguete is a beachfront haven tailor-made for divers. Forty-four breezy rooms encircle its gardens and ponds, complemented by a waterfront restaurant and bar.
And when the day’s diving concludes, you can unwind poolside or indulge in a soothing spa treatment.
“Fantastic dive resort with excellent staff.” – Massimo (read more reviews here)
Evolution Dive & Beach Resort, Malapascua
Positioned on the golden sands of Malapascua Island, this intimate Philippines eco-dive resort oozes tropical charm.
Guests can choose between air-conditioned or fan-cooled rooms, all just steps from the beach. Trust us when we say you’ll wake up to the sound of waves lapping at the shore.
But what really sets Evolution apart is its legendary dive operations. As one of Malapascua’s premier dive centres, Evolution has top-notch equipment for recreational, technical, trimix and CCR rebreather diving.
The island is famed for daily sightings of thresher sharks, which gather at Monad Shoal. But divers can also explore colourful coral reefs, fascinating macro life and historic wrecks like the Dona Marilyn and Mogami Maru.
With such diversity, it’s no wonder this eco-dive resort in the Philippines attracts passionate divers from around the world.
But Evolution offers more than world-class diving. It’s staunchly committed to sustainable practices. In fact, it has been named one of the Top 10 Green Fins members worldwide for three consecutive years.
This reflects its operations that minimise environmental impact through renewable energy, responsible waste management and conservation initiatives.
When you’re not out diving, you can laze in a hammock beneath the swaying palms before enjoying superb dining at the on-site restaurant, The Craic House.
By choosing Evolution, you’ll be supporting an environmentally conscious business leading by example while diving with one of the most experienced teams on Malapascua Island.
“Superb dive trip…highly recommended.” – Jerome (read more reviews here)
Quo Vadis Dive Resort, Moalboal
The award-winning Quo Vadis Dive Resort is widely considered the premier PADI five-star scuba diving destination in Moalboal.
With an unwavering commitment to both adventure and sustainability, this eco-friendly Philippines dive resort is definitely worth a look. It offers scuba enthusiasts incredible experiences, with gorgeous coral reefs and abundant marine life found just off the coast.
From the moment you arrive at Quo Vadis Dive Resort, you’re embraced by its laidback tropical vibe.
All of the rooms and suites are decorated in Batik fabrics and locally sourced wooden furnishings. At the same time, they don’t overlook modern conveniences like air-conditioning, safes and complimentary Wi-Fi.
In the spacious dive centre, experienced PADI instructors provide thorough safety briefings before each underwater excursion. Novices can take introductory Discover Scuba courses while seasoned divers can experience the Sardine Run. Here, a swirling vortex of over seven million sardines perform a spectacular underwater ballet.
Back on shore, you can recount the day’s adventures over fresh seafood at the Palapa Restaurant or unwind with an Asian-inspired massage at the beachfront spa.
For those looking to give back, Quo Vadis proudly partners with local marine conservation groups to protect the surrounding ecosystems.
With world-class service, stunning scenery (both above and below the sea) and a passionate commitment to sustainability, we think Quo Vadis Dive Resort offers the ultimate island getaway for eco-conscious scuba enthusiasts.
“Beautiful sunsets and awesome scuba diving.” – Arjan (read more reviews here)
Liquid Dive Resort, Dumaguete
Overlooking a picturesque stretch of beach in the coastal town of Dauin, Liquid Dive Resort is one of the best eco-dive resorts in the Philippines. It features just 14 bamboo cottages dotted along the shore, creating a peaceful ambiance where you can unwind in total seclusion.
As a PADI 5-Star CDC resort, Liquid Dive offers diving experiences for all levels. This includes everything from beginner courses to professional certifications. Additionally, there’s secure on-site gear storage and nitrox fills.
Divers can embark on boat trips to prime sites around Apo, Siquijor and Sumilon Islands or explore the house reef right off the beach. On land, indulge in beachfront yoga sessions, massages and dips in the open-air hot spring bath.
Above all, Liquid Dive aims to preserve the magnificent underwater environment that it calls home. As a pioneering eco-friendly resort in the Philippines, Liquid has eliminated all single-use plastics, provides reusable water bottles for guests and uses only biodegradable materials. It also runs weekly beach and reef cleanups.
They are the first Green Fins member in Dauin and have earned the prestigious PADI Green Star Award for their sustainability initiatives. These include solar-powered lighting, water conservation and eco-conscious construction.
By instilling environmental awareness and taking action to protect the oceans, Liquid Dive hopes to give back to the natural world that has given them so much.
“Worth every penny!” – Maya (read more reviews here)
Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Retreat & Dive Resort, Camiguin
Located on the northwestern coast of Camiguin island, Volcan Beach Eco Dive Resort is set against a dramatic backdrop of volcanoes and rainforests.
Constructed by local craftsmen using native materials, the resort blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Palm groves sway in the ocean breeze while a century-old mango tree provides welcome shade.
This sustainable Philippines dive resort features a variety of eco-friendly accommodations, from beachfront villas to cosy cottages. Each comes with its own private terrace overlooking the sea.
For divers, the opportunities are world-class, from exhilarating wall dives to critter-hunting in coral gardens. Local excursions bring guests to top dive sites like the famous Mantigue Nature Park or the ethereal Sunken Cemetery. Here, coral-encrusted grave crosses lie beneath the water’s surface.
The resort provides top-quality gear rental and expert dive guides to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
While staying at Volcan Beach Eco Dive Resort, you’ll enjoy delicious, locally-sourced cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Additionally, you can participate in a variety of activities, including snorkelling the house reef just off the resort’s private beach. After a day of adventure, you can unwind with a beachside massage at the spa while the sun sinks into the sea.
From its sustainable construction to its immersion in local culture, Volcan Beach Resort offers an authentic connection to the island’s natural beauty and community.
“Kudos to the friendliest and helpful staff.” – Carmel (read more reviews here)
Planning a sustainable scuba vacation in the Philippines
When it comes to diving, the Philippines is an underwater paradise, boasting some of the most captivating scuba experiences in Southeast Asia. From historic shipwrecks to healthy coral reefs, this island nation is a mecca for aquatic adventurers.
For divers looking to discover these gems while minimising their environmental impact, a wealth of eco-friendly Philippines dive resorts are available. Each is dedicated to preserving the marine ecosystems that surround them and supporting local conservation initiatives.
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About the authors
We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.
Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.
Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans.
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