Tubbataha Reef

Discover the Beauty of Tubbataha Reef: A Guide for Travelers

Located in the Sulu Sea, between Palawan and Panay Islands in the Philippines, Tubbataha Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. As one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, this reef is a must-visit destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Where to Visit

Tubbataha Reef is located in the middle of the Sulu Sea, about 98 kilometers (61 miles) off the coast of Palawan. The nearest airport is in Puerto Princesa City, which offers flights to Manila or other major cities in the Philippines.

Getting There

To get to Tubbataha Reef, you’ll need to take a ferry from Puerto Princesa City or Cagayan de Oro City on Mindanao Island. The journey takes about 12 hours, depending on sea conditions. Once you arrive at the island of Malamaya, you’ll be transferred to a smaller boat that will take you to the reef.

Where to Stay

There are no permanent residents on Tubbataha Reef, but there are several liveaboard boats and resorts in nearby islands that offer accommodations for visitors. Some popular options include:

  • Tubbataha Reef Liveaboard: This is a luxury liveaboard boat that offers comfortable accommodations and delicious meals.
  • Sangat Island Dive Resort: Located on Sangat Island, this resort offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly rooms to luxurious villas.
  • Malapascua Island Dive Resort: Another popular option for scuba diving enthusiasts, this resort is located on Malapascua Island and offers comfortable rooms and delicious meals.

Where to Eat

There are several restaurants in nearby islands that offer a range of cuisines from Filipino comfort food to international dishes. Some popular options include:

  • Lampukan Restaurant: Located in Puerto Princesa City, this restaurant offers a range of Filipino and international dishes.
  • Sangat Island Dive Resort Restaurant: This resort restaurant serves delicious meals and has a great selection of cocktails.
  • Malapascua Island Dive Resort Restaurant: Another popular option for scuba diving enthusiasts, this resort restaurant serves a range of cuisines from Filipino to international dishes.

Things to Do

Tubbataha Reef is a world-class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The reef is home to an incredible array of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, rays, and colorful fish. Some popular activities include:

  • Scuba Diving: Explore the stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life.
  • Snorkeling: Get up close and personal with the reef’s incredible marine life.
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Sulu Sea.

Tips and Essentials

Here are some additional tips and essentials to keep in mind:

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tubbataha Reef is from March to May, when the weather is calm and clear.
  • Responsible Tourism: Remember to respect the reef’s fragile ecosystem and not touch or damage any marine life.
  • Safety First: Always prioritize your safety and follow local guides’ instructions.

Tubbataha Reef is a true natural wonder that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and world-class scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, it’s an unforgettable experience waiting to happen!