Cebu is one of the top destinations in the Philippines for scuba diving, thanks to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and diverse dive sites. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned diver, Cebu offers options that suit every level. We’re particularly fond of the beach entry experience in Mactan, which makes diving accessible even for complete beginners—and with the added bonus of free underwater photos and videos, it’s hard to beat for value.
For those wanting to get certified quickly, the Scuba Diver Course (PADI) provides a compact, two-day option that lets you explore deeper waters with more confidence. And for a taste of the island’s famous sardine run, the scuba and snorkel tour at Pescador Island combines spectacle and marine encounters in a single day. Each experience offers a different flavor of Cebu’s underwater world, so keep reading to find your best fit.
1. Cebu: Scuba Diving Experience beach entry in Mactan
Explore the underwater world with a beach entry diving experience in Mactan, designed with beginners in mind. This tour is perfect for first-timers or those who want a shallow, safe introduction to diving. Just a 10-second walk from the beach, you’ll meet your instructor and begin your underwater adventure. The waters are teeming with schools of sardines, sea turtles, and colorful fishes, making it an ideal spot to observe marine life close to shore.
What sets this tour apart is the personal touch—free underwater photos and videos allow you to relive the experience without extra cost. The operator provides free transportation within Mactan, which makes it convenient and budget-friendly. With a 5.0/5 rating based on 33 reviews, this is by far one of the most highly-rated beginner dives in Cebu. Reviewers praise Kenji and his team for their professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile, with comments like, “Kenji will go out his way to help and it’s cheaper than any other place.”
Bottom line: If you’ve never dived before but want a memorable, hassle-free introduction in a safe, friendly setting, this beach entry experience is a top pick.
2. Scuba Diver Course (PADI)
For those who want to go beyond just snorkeling or shallow water, the Scuba Diver Course offers a quick, two-day certification that allows you to dive up to 12 meters/40 feet under supervision. This course is ideal if you’re short on time but eager to earn an official certification. It covers essential skills—like equalizing, buoyancy, and safety procedures—and includes classroom learning, confined water training, and your first open water dives.
What makes this course stand out is the quality of instruction. Many reviews highlight Bernie’s patience and expertise, with one person stating, “Bernie was my instructor and he was amazing, knowledgeable, and patient.” The certification gained from this course is recognized worldwide, allowing you to dive independently with a buddy in the future.
Value-wise, at $270, it’s a solid investment for anyone serious about diving. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick, comprehensive intro while staying flexible with their schedule.
Bottom line: If you’re planning a diving trip and want a quick certification, this PADI course offers excellent value with professional guidance.
3. Cebu: boat diving two dive tour in Olango island
This two-dive boat tour in Olango Island makes for a relaxing yet exciting day on the water. In just about 10 minutes by speedboat, you’ll reach Olango’s rich dive sites, where colorful fish and clear waters await. It’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced divers, thanks to the shallow, well-protected reefs and professional guides.
The tour runs twice daily, at 9:00 and 13:00, making it flexible for your schedule. Reviews highlight the great gear and marine life, with one reviewer describing their experience as “epic” and praising the team for their friendliness. The tour’s short transfer time, combined with the chance to see coral gardens and schooling fish, makes it ideal for a day trip centered around underwater exploration.
This tour offers excellent value at $94 per person for two dives, including gear and boat transport. It’s suitable for first-time divers or those who want to explore Cebu’s underwater scenery without a lengthy commitment.
Bottom line: For a quick, accessible, and well-organized diving trip, this Olango Island tour hits the mark.
4. Try and Discover scuba diving
If you’re curious about what scuba diving is like but don’t want to commit to a full course right away, the Discover Scuba Diving program is perfect. In just about three hours, you’ll learn the basics, watch a short instructional video, and then don your gear to explore Cebu’s vibrant corals and tropical fish.
This experience is designed to build your confidence underwater with a PADI dive professional by your side. During your shallow-water session, you’ll practice essential skills and then take a 40-minute guided dive—a fantastic way to see if you want to continue with full certification.
Many reviewers comment positively on how safe and enjoyable it is to try scuba in such a supportive environment. The package includes all necessary equipment, plus access to a shower and towel after your adventure. The price of $112 makes it accessible for travelers who want a serious taste of the underwater world without a long-term commitment.
Bottom line: For an introductory experience that combines learning with fun, this Discover Scuba session offers a memorable splash into the sea.
5. Cebu: Scuba Diving with Sardines and Pescador Island Snorkel
This full-day tour provides a chance to see the famous sardine run in Moalboal and explore Pescador Island’s rich marine life. Starting early, you’ll spend about 11 hours on a boat diving and snorkeling around some of Cebu’s most iconic sites. The highlight is swimming alongside thousands of sardines, a truly breathtaking spectacle.
The tour is suitable for both certified divers and beginners, making it versatile for families or first-timers eager to get close to nature. You’ll also have the opportunity to swim with sea turtles, adding to the unforgettable experience. Full gear is provided, ensuring everyone is comfortable and well-prepared.
Reviewers mention the “epic” marine life encounters and appreciate the full-day adventure that combines snorkeling with diving. The tour is priced at $165, which includes equipment, boat transfer, and professional guides. It’s a longer, more immersive experience for those seeking a deeper connection with Cebu’s underwater environment.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive day of marine exploration with awe-inspiring wildlife, this sardines and Pescador Island tour is hard to beat.
How to Choose Your Cebu Scuba Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, time, and interest level. For beginners, the beach entry experience offers a safe, enjoyable start with minimal fuss. If you’re eager to become certified quickly, the PADI Scuba Diver Course provides a structured, professional introduction. Those wanting a full-day adventure can opt for the Moalboal sardine tour, ideal for marine life enthusiasts.
For flexible, short trips, the Olango Island two-dive tour offers quick access to beautiful reefs, while the Discover Scuba Diving is perfect for those just starting out. Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and whether you want a certificate or just a memorable experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season from December to April, when Cebu’s underwater visibility and marine activity are at their best.
Final Thoughts
Cebu presents a fantastic array of scuba diving experiences for all levels. For absolute beginners, the beach entry in Mactan is hard to beat for its convenience and friendly service. For those wanting to dive deeper, the PADI certification offers a quick and reliable way to expand your underwater adventures. And if you’re looking for an immersive day trip filled with breathtaking sights, the Moalboal sardine run and Pescador Island tour will not disappoint.
No matter your skill level or interest, Cebu is ready to introduce you to its vibrant underwater world. Book your preferred tour early, and get ready for a truly unforgettable experience beneath the waves.