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.
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, discover 8 of the best eco-friendly dive resorts in the Philippines, all of which are doing their bit to preserve their surrounding ecosystems.
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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, with 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 the facilities, including the 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.
Those seeking adventure can take advantage of the resort's prime location near 11 WWII-era shipwrecks, sunk during the legendary Battle of Coron Bay. With most wrecks just minutes away by boat, the diving experiences here are world-class. 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 pristine coastline, Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort lures divers wanting to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in tropical tranquility. It 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.
Casalay's utter seclusion fosters deep relaxation; here, you can unwind from the stresses of daily life and find inner 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)
Eco-friendly dive resorts in the Philippines
Atlantis Dive Resort Puerto Galera, Puerto Galera
Nestled on the shores of Sabang Beach lies Atlantis Puerto Galera, a sustainable Philippines dive resort that offers the ultimate island getaway for scuba enthusiasts. Built into the picturesque hills overlooking the shimmering blue waters, the resort has been designed to blend 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 while the ensuite bathroom facilities ensure privacy.
Declared a UNESCO 'Man and Biosphere Reserve' in 1973, Puerto Galera Bay’s crystal clear waters shelter some of the most diverse and vibrant coral reefs in the Coral Triangle. With dozens of notable dive sites located mere minutes away by boat, divers of all levels will be enchanted. 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’ top 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, Dumaguete
Operating with the same ethos as its Puerto Galera counterpart is the Atlantis Dive Resort Dumaguete, which lies on the southeast coast of Negros Island. The area is characterised by stretches of volcanic black sand and swaying coconut palms, as well as providing a habitat for a bevy of underwater critters.
Minutes away from over 20 remarkable dive sites (most protected by marine sanctuaries), Atlantis Dumaguete places you in the heart of all the action. Peer into the crevices of the reef in search of psychedelic frogfish (endemic to Philippine waters), glide alongside sea turtles and schools of jacks, and marvel at Dauin's legendary macro life. When 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 lush gardens and ponds, complemented by a waterfront restaurant and bar. Guided boat dives operate up to five times daily, while the expansive camera room caters to photographers. 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)
Eco-friendly dive resorts in the Philippines
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, allowing you to 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. While the island is famed for daily sightings of thresher sharks, who gather at Monad Shoal, 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 resort attracts passionate divers from around the world.
Yet Evolution offers more than world-class diving. This sustainable Philippines dive resort is staunchly committed to eco-friendly practices, having been named one of the Top 10 Green Fins members worldwide for three consecutive years. This translates into sustainable operations that minimise environmental impact through renewable energy, responsible waste management and promotion of conservation.
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 offers scuba enthusiasts an unparalleled experience, with gorgeous coral reefs and dazzling marine life found just off the coast.
From the moment you step into Quo Vadis Dive Resort’s breezy open-air lobby, you’ll be embraced by its laidback tropical vibe. All of the rooms and suites are decorated in vibrant Batik fabrics and locally sourced wooden furnishings, without overlooking modern conveniences like air-conditioning, safes and complimentary Wi-Fi.
After suiting up for the day's dive, guests gather in the spacious dive centre where experienced PADI instructors provide thorough safety briefings before each underwater excursion. Novices can take introductory Discover Scuba courses while seasoned divers explore famous sites like the Sardine Run, where a swirling vortex of over seven million sardines performs a spectacular underwater ballet.
Back on shore, divers 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 dazzling ecosystems that divers travel far and wide to experience.
With world-class service, stunning scenery (both above and below the sea) and a passionate commitment to sustainability, Quo Vadis Dive Resort offers the ultimate island getaway for eco-conscious scuba enthusiasts of all levels.
"Beautiful sunsets and awesome scuba diving.” - Arjan (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly dive resorts in the Philippines
Liquid Dive Resort, Dumaguete
Overlooking a picturesque stretch of beach in the coastal town of Dauin, Liquid Dive Resort is an idyllic hideaway and one of the best eco-dive resorts in the Philippines. With just 14 cosy bamboo cottages dotted along the shore, the resort has an intimate, peaceful ambiance where guests can unwind in total seclusion.
As a PADI 5-Star CDC resort, Liquid Dive offers diving experiences for all levels, from beginner courses to professional certifications, as well as 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, soothing 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, as well as 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, including 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)
Located on the lush northwestern coast of Camiguin island, Volcan Beach Eco Dive Resort is a tropical oasis 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 refreshing shade.
This sustainable Philippines dive resort features a variety of eco-friendly accommodations, from beachfront villas to cosy cottages, each with its own private terrace overlooking the sea. Guests can enjoy delicious, locally-sourced cuisine at the on-site restaurant or partake in a variety of activities like snorkelling the pristine house reef just off the resort's private beach.
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, where coral-encrusted grave crosses lie beneath the waves. The resort provides top-quality gear rental and expert dive guides to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
After a day of adventure, guests 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 visitors an authentic connection to the island's natural beauty and community.
"Kudos to the friendliest and helpful staff.” - Carmel (read more reviews here)