With over 1,000 marine species and 300 coral species, Mindanao offers an unmatched diving experience. Expect to see barracuda, emperor fish, moray eels, tuna, and trevally. Unusual creatures like pygmy seahorses, lionfish, mantis shrimp, and octopus add excitement. Pelagic lovers will enjoy manta rays, eagle rays, devil rays, and sharks including hammerheads and reef sharks, especially in the southwest. Whether exploring reefs or pelagic hotspots, Mindanao’s rich biodiversity guarantees your dive log will fill fast.
Thanks to its tropical climate, Mindanao is a year-round diving destination. Water temperatures hover between 80–86°F (26–30°C). The ideal diving season runs from March to September, when seas are calm and dry. Between December and February, diving is still feasible, though weather can be cooler and more unpredictable. For clear waters and smooth sailing, plan your dive trip during the dry season to fully experience Mindanao’s rich marine biodiversity.
March to September are the best months for diving. During this season, seas are calm and the weather is mostly dry. From December until February, diving is still possible, but the weather is cooler and more unpredictable.