The Philippines is a top destination for scuba diving thanks to its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and accessible dive sites. Whether you’re new to diving or eager to earn your certification, these experiences provide a perfect introduction or deep dive into the underwater world. Our favorites include beginner-friendly courses in Boracay, spectacular snorkel and dive trips in Panglao, and guided explorations in Bantayan Island. Many of these tours come highly rated — like the SSI Basic Diver in Boracay and the Open Water Certification — making them reliable choices for those wanting to make the most of their time beneath the waves.
If you’re wondering which adventure suits your style and schedule, we’ve curated a list that covers quick introductory dives, immersive courses, and guided fun dives. Each experience offers a different level of engagement, price, and location, helping you find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Scuba Diving in Boracay: SSI Basic Diver for Beginners
Located in the Visayas, Boracay isn’t just about stunning beaches — it’s also an excellent spot for those wanting to try scuba diving without the commitment of full certification. This SSI Basic Diver course offers a brief, 4-hour introduction that covers the essentials of diving and lets you enjoy the underwater beauty for the first time.
What makes this experience stand out is its perfect balance of safety and fun. You learn the fundamentals of scuba, breathe underwater for the first time, and get a taste of the vibrant marine environment. The tour is ideal for absolute beginners, with no prior certification needed. The low price of $66 per person makes it accessible, and reviews consistently rate it 5/5 based on five reviews, highlighting its quality and the friendly instructor.
The session begins with a safety briefing, followed by shallow water practice, then a guided underwater tour in Boracay’s calm waters. The short duration makes it perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who want a memorable first experience.
Bottom Line: A fantastic way to get your feet wet — literally — in the Philippines’ most famous island. Suitable for first-timers eager to try scuba without a big time or money commitment.
2. Panglao Bohol: Try Scuba Diving at Napaling and Sardines
In the Visayas, Panglao is renowned for its clear waters and rich marine life. This Try Scuba Diving experience offers a 45-minute adventure that includes a trip to Napaling Reef, where you’ll swim alongside schools of sardines. It’s a perfect choice for non-swimmers, non-certified divers, and beginners alike.
The tour begins at the Napaling Adventure Center before heading out for about 30-45 minutes of underwater exploration. Accompanied by an expert guide who also captures photos and videos, you’ll get a chance to really enjoy the sights without worry. During the trip, you’ll explore Napaling Reef, known for its abundance of sardines and beautiful coral formations.
Rated 5/5 from three reviews, this tour is praised for its relaxed pace, friendly guides, and the ability for non-divers to experience the underwater world. The price of $98 reflects its premium guide service, and the tour’s focus on providing an unforgettable snapshot of Bohol’s marine life makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: An excellent intro for those wanting a quick taste of diving with minimal fuss. It’s especially good for non-swimmers or those short on time but eager for marine encounters.
3. Bantayan Island: Discover Scuba Diving
For travelers seeking a more immersive introduction, Bantayan Island’s Discover Scuba Diving offers a full beginner experience. Over about 3 hours, you’ll learn safety procedures, basic skills, and then explore the vibrant coral reefs under the supervision of certified instructors.
This tour is perfect if you want a more in-depth experience without committing to a certification. It provides the chance to see diverse marine life, including colorful coral, tropical fish, and possibly even larger species. The guide’s expertise and attention ensure you feel secure while exploring the underwater world.
Rated 4.7/5, this tour offers good value at $74 per person, giving you plenty of time to get comfortable and enjoy yourself. The starting location, The Hungry Beach Co., is well-regarded for its friendly service. During the tour, you’ll explore the reefs in Bantayan’s calm, shallow waters — an ideal environment for beginners.
Bottom Line: A solid option for those eager to experience real diving in a friendly, relaxed setting. Suitable for beginners wanting more than a quick intro but not yet ready for certification.
$74 per person
4. Bantayan Island: Fundive Scuba Adventure
For those who want to explore Bantayan’s reefs more independently, the Fundive Scuba Adventure offers guided dives led by professional guides, usually lasting around 2 hours. The emphasis here is on secure, personalized exploration of Bantayan’s top dive sites, famous for their stunning coral formations and vibrant marine life.
Rated 4.7/5, this experience is tailored for certified or confident beginner divers who want a relaxed yet comprehensive exploration. The small-group environment, combined with expert guides, makes each dive feel special. At $66 per person, it’s a competitive option that balances quality and price.
The tour begins at The Hungry Beach Co., and the guides focus on safety, marine ecology, and making sure each diver gets the full experience. The reefs’ clarity and diversity make this a memorable outing for anyone wanting to see a wide range of underwater creatures.
Bottom Line: Perfect for divers with some experience or those ready for guided exploration beyond an introductory course.
$66 per person
5. Scuba Diving in Boracay: SSI Open Water Certification
If you’re looking to turn your first experience into a full-fledged qualification, the SSI Open Water Certification in Boracay is the way to go. Over three days, you’ll learn everything from theory to practical skills, culminating in a recognized certification that allows you to dive independently worldwide.
This comprehensive course includes classroom sessions, confined water training, and multiple open water dives. It’s led by experienced instructors who ensure your safety and confidence. The certification process is designed for those serious about continuing their diving journey.
Rated 5/5, this program is a bit of an investment at $609, but it’s well worth it for anyone wanting an official qualification. The convenience of completing it in Boracay, with its stunning backdrop and excellent diving conditions, adds to the appeal. Many past students appreciate the thorough instruction and the memorable experience of earning their first dive license in such a beautiful setting.
Bottom Line: For those committed to a serious diving hobby, this certification is a valuable investment, opening the door to countless underwater adventures.
$609 per person
How to Choose Your Philippines Scuba Experience
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, time availability, and how deep you want to go into the underwater world. For a quick taste, the SSI Basic Diver in Boracay offers a low-cost introduction, perfect for first-timers. If you’re more interested in a longer, guided exploration, the Bantayan Fundive or the Discover Scuba** tours provide a more immersive experience.
For those planning a longer stay or wanting to become certified, the Open Water Certification is the best investment, turning an initial experience into a lifelong skill. Keep in mind that the best time to book is during the dry season from December to May, when the waters are clearest and weather most predictable.
Final Thoughts
The Philippines offers a fantastic range of scuba diving experiences to suit every traveler — from quick introductory dives in Boracay to full certification courses in Boracay or guided reef explorations in Bantayan. For a first-time diver, the SSI Basic Diver in Boracay is a stellar, affordable option, while experienced or eager learners should consider the certification program.
If you’re short on time but want a memorable taste of the underwater world, the Panglao experience with sardines or the Bantayan guided dives are excellent choices. Regardless of which you pick, early booking is advised — the Philippines’ top dive spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. Dive in and enjoy—beneath the waves, the Philippines truly shines.