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.
But as with many destinations in Southeast Asia, there are concerns around sustainable development in the Philippines.
So what decisions can we, as travelling divers, make to ensure we aren’t contributing to the issue? Being intentional about where you stay in the Philippines is a good start.
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
Located on the southwestern tip of Sangat Island (just a stone’s throw from Coron), this sustainable Philippines dive resort opened in 1994. It’s surrounded by some of the best diving in the Philippines, including several historically significant WWII Japanese wrecks.
Sangat Island Dive Resort 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. If you have the funds to splurge…do it!
Beyond its stunning setting and organic aesthetic, this Coron ecolodge has made an admirable commitment to sustainability.
It operates completely off-grid, relying on solar panels to generate enough power to run its facilities, including a freshwater desalination system. There are backup diesel generators if required, but these are rarely needed.
When it comes to underwater adventures, you can take advantage of the resort’s enviable setting near eleven (yes 11!) WWII-era shipwrecks. Many were sunk during the legendary Battle of Coron Bay.
Protected within a marine reserve, the surrounding reefs are also really healthy and Sangat Island Dive Resort has played its part. It regularly hosts marine health researchers and coral planting initiatives, as well as helping to remove crown-of-thorns starfish.
Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort, Puerto Galera
Tucked away on an peaceful strip of coastline is Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort. We think it’s perfect for divers wanting to combine a bit of R&R with their scuba vacation in Puerto Galera.
Casalay features a range of beautifully appointed one and two-bedroom villas designed for solo travellers, couples and dive buddies. There are also comfortable options for families with kids in tow.
Despite being only a short boat or tricycle ride from Puerto Galera, Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort has a secluded feel. It’s the perfect place to unwind from the stresses of daily life and watch the world go by from a poolside lounger.
That’s when you’re not out exploring the underwater paradise of Puerto Galera – a UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve on the Verde Island Passage.
The reefs here are home to flashy yellow snappers, elegant angelfish and quick-darting triggerfish, as well as groupers and barracuda. Macro diving here is also really good!
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.
What we really love about this eco-friendly Philippines dive resort is its 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.
Want to be a responsible scuba diver? Discover 7 easy ways to be an ocean advocate here.
Atlantis Dive Resort, Puerto Galera
Situated on the shores of Sabang Beach (just around the corner from Casalay) lies Atlantis Puerto Galera. It’s built into the hills and features adobe-style accommodations, which we found slightly reminiscent of Santorini.
There are 40 rooms and suites in total, including doubles, twins and family options with bunk beds. Climate-controlled air conditioning and adjustable ceiling fans keep the temperature pleasant while the minibars, safes and TVs ensure you have all the creature comforts you need.
Declared a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1973, Puerto Galera Bay shelters healthy coral reefs and there’s something for all divers. And you don’t have to venture far to get in on all the action. In fact, there are dozens of dive sites less than 10 minutes away by boat.
As one of the Philippines’ leading eco-dive resorts, Atlantis recognises that sustainability is the key to preserving the paradise in which it operates. It supports a coral nursery that regenerates damaged reef systems and has trained its staff to become stewards of the sea.
By investing in the education and well-being of local youth through impactful programs, Atlantis is also helping to foster an appreciation for the environment amongst the next generation.
Want to learn more about what makes a dive resort eco-friendly? Check out our top tips for finding a sustainable scuba stay.
Atlantis Dive Resort, Dumaguete
Operating with the same ethos as its Puerto Galera counterpart is the Atlantis Dive Resort Dumaguete. The only difference? It’s located around 800 kilometres away on the southeast coast of Negros Island – a short drive from Damaguete City.
The area is characterised by stretches of volcanic black sand backed by swaying coconut palms. It’s renowned for its macro diving, home to a bevy of underwater critters, and is the self-declared “Frogfish Capital of the Philippines.”
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.
When you’re ready to venture further afield, day trips are offered to Apo Island (known for its majestic coral walls), the mystical isle of Siquijor or even Oslob for a rare chance to snorkel alongside whale sharks.
More than just a launch pad for underwater adventures, Atlantis Dumaguete is a beachfront haven that’s tailor-made for divers. Forty-four breezy rooms encircle its gardens and ponds, complemented by a waterfront restaurant, a swimming pool and a spa.
Evolution Dive & Beach Resort, Malapascua
Positioned on the golden sands of Malapascua Island (at its southeastern tip) is this beloved Philippines eco-dive resort. We wouldn’t call it “secluded”, but it is centrally located and within easy walking distance of restaurants and bars.
When staying at Evolution, you 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.
What really sets Evolution apart is its legendary dive operations. As one of Malapascua’s leading dive centres, Evolution has high-quality equipment for recreational, technical, trimix and CCR rebreather diving.
If you want to advance your tech diving skills or train to become a scuba instructor, this is the place to do it.
But that’s not to say you have to be an advanced diver to stay or dive here. Evolution also offers entry-level courses and fun dives to explore Malapascua’s reefs.
The island is particularly famed for daily sightings of thresher sharks, which gather at Monad Shoal. You have to get up really early for the experience, but we think it’s most definitely worth it!
Diving in Malapascua also means exploring colourful coral reefs, fascinating macro life and historic wrecks like the Dona Marilyn and Mogami Maru.
For us, Evolution offers more than access to 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 energies, responsible waste management and conservation initiatives.
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.
Quo Vadis Dive Resort, Moalboal
From the moment you arrive at Quo Vadis Dive Resort, it’s hard not to be embraced by its laidback tropical vibe. This award-winning Philippines dive resort is widely considered the premier PADI five-star scuba destination in Moalboal.
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 for those who want to stay connected.
When it comes to diving, novices can take introductory Discover Scuba courses (there’s a spacious classroom), while seasoned divers can experience the Sardine Run. This legendary wildlife encounter sees 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.
Liquid Dive Resort, Dumaguete
Overlooking a picturesque stretch of sand in the coastal town of Dauin, Liquid Dive Resort is a leading eco-dive resort in the Philippines. It features just 14 bamboo cottages dotted along the shore, creating a peaceful ambiance away from the main road.
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.
Daily boat trips will take you to dive sites around Apo, Siquijor and Sumilon Islands or you can opt to explore the house reef. On land, you can participate in beachfront yoga sessions, massages and dips in the open-air hot spring bath. Such a treat!
Above all, Liquid Dive aims to preserve the magnificent underwater environment that it calls “home”. As a pioneering eco-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.
Liquid Dive Resort was the first Green Fins member in Dauin and it has earned the prestigious PADI Green Star Award for its sustainability initiatives. These include solar-powered lighting, water conservation and eco-conscious construction.
Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Retreat & Dive Resort, Camiguin
Located on the northwest coast of Camiguin island, Volcan Beach Eco Dive Resort is set against a dramatic backdrop of volcanoes and rainforests. Its jungle setting will be a big appeal for some and a deterrent for others, particularly if you’re not comfortable being surrounded by the “calls of the wild”.
But for us, this is what makes Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Retreat to so special.
Constructed by local craftsmen using locally-sourced materials, this Philippines eco-resort blends effortlessly into its natural surroundings. It features a variety of sustainable accommodations, from beachfront villas to cosy cottages, each with a private terrace overlooking the sea.
For divers, the opportunities are world-class, from exhilarating wall dives to critter-hunting in coral gardens. Highlights include the famous Mantigue Nature Park and the ethereal Sunken Cemetery with its coral-encrusted grave crosses.
When you’re not out diving, you can snorkel the house reef (located just off the resort’s private beach) or relax with a massage at the spa. Delicious, locally-sourced dishes are served at the onsite restaurant, so you don’t have to venture far to eat.
Planning a sustainable scuba vacation in the Philippines
When it comes to diving, the Philippines offers no shortage of adventures, boasting some of the most exhilarating scuba experiences in Southeast Asia. With everything from WWII shipwrecks to healthy coral reefs, we think this island nation should be on every scuba diver’s bucket list!
If you’re someone who wants to discover this corner of the world while minimising your environmental impact, we’d encourage you to stay at an eco-friendly Philippines dive resort. Many are dedicated to preserving the marine ecosystems that surround them, all while supporting local conservation initiatives.
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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 sustainable surf camps, eco-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.
