The 7,107 islands of the Philippines are spread over 115,000 square miles (300,000km²). This area is home to an astounding 1200 species of marine life. Many of these are macro species, but the Philippines is also known as a pelagic destination. Thresher sharks can be seen at Malapascua; Tubbataha Reef is home to a variety of shark species; and Donsol is the destination for whale shark lovers. Several scuba hotspots, including Apo Island and Tubbataha, are only reachable by liveaboard. Because of this, liveaboards are the most convenient way to dive the Philippines. Typical dive safaris last from 4 to 10 nights, and the best time to dive in the Philippines is from November to April.