Mantigue Island is a hidden gem for divers of all levels, located just off the coast of Camiguin, Philippines. Known for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and stunning underwater seascapes, Mantigue offers an unforgettable experience. In this post, I’ll share my personal dive experience with Camiguin Souldivers, tips for beginners, and must-know advice for planning your trip. (Note: This post contains affiliate links that support the site, at no extra cost to you.)
Why Dive in Mantigue Island?
Mantigue Island is beginner-friendly with calm waters and excellent visibility, making it ideal for new divers and seasoned explorers alike. Camiguin’s tropical climate means you can dive here year-round, but the best months for clear visibility are from March to May. We went there August but the visibility was still great. Its surrounding coral gardens and diverse fish species make every dive feel like exploring an underwater paradise.
My Diving Experience
During my time diving in Mantigue Island with Camiguin Souldivers, I had an incredible experience. The visibility was fantastic, allowing us to appreciate the vibrant colors of the corals and marine life in stunning detail. Our group consisted of just six divers, which made for a more intimate and personalized experience.
We completed two day dives, both filled with amazing encounters, including swimming alongside graceful sea turtles. Our dive guide was highly professional, ensuring our safety and provided insightful information about the underwater ecosystem. This small group dynamic allowed for plenty of individual attention, making it an ideal setting for beginners and experienced divers alike.
We also completed a night dive, which will be covered in detail in another post, but it was an unforgettable adventure as we explored the nocturnal underwater world. Overall, diving in Mantigue Island was a magical experience that I would highly recommend.
What to Expect Underwater
Diving around Mantigue opens up a vibrant world teeming with marine life:
Coral Gardens: The island’s coral gardens are thriving, showcasing both soft and hard corals like brain and fan corals, creating ideal habitats for diverse sea life.
Marine Species: You’ll encounter an array of species, from clownfish and angelfish to turtles and barracudas. Macro divers can spot nudibranchs, seahorses, and other fascinating creatures.
Visibility: With visibility ranging from 10 to 30 meters, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for underwater photography—be sure to bring your camera or GoPro to capture it all!
Diving Tips for Beginners
Diving in Mantigue Island is safe and accessible, even for beginners. Here are a few tips to make your experience smooth:
- Choose the Right Dive Shop: For my dive, I went with Camiguin Souldivers, known for their professional instructors and excellent customer service. They also offer equipment rentals and courses.
- Get Certified: If you’re new to diving, get certified or take a refresher course with an instructor.
- Practice Breathing and Buoyancy Control: Breathe slowly and relax as you explore. Good buoyancy helps conserve air and protects the reef.
- Respect Marine Life: Look, don’t touch! Observing marine creatures without disturbing them helps maintain the delicate ecosystem.
Recommended Dive Shops in Camiguin
If you’re planning a dive in Camiguin, here are some reputable dive shops to check out:
- Camiguin Souldivers – This shop offers friendly, experienced guides and a range of courses for all levels. Located close to popular dive spots, they’re a great choice for personalized diving experiences.
- Dive Special Camiguin – Known for guided tours around Mantigue and White Island, Dive Special also has a good selection of dive courses.
- Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Resort & Dive Center – Offering a tranquil setting, this resort has its own dive center with knowledgeable instructors and rental equipment.
Packing Essentials for Your Dive Trip
Ensure you have these essentials to make the most of your diving experience:
- Rash Guard or Wetsuit: Keeps you comfortable during longer dives.
- Underwater Camera or GoPro: Capture the amazing marine life in Mantigue’s crystal-clear waters.
- Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun, especially on boat rides to the island.
Where to Stay in Camiguin
Camiguin has plenty of great accommodation options for all budgets:
- Kalimba de Luna Inn – A charming inn that offers a cozy atmosphere and personalized service, perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing stay after diving. This is where we stayed as this is near town center and affordable
- Balai sa Baibai – A serene beachfront resort with cozy cottages and an infinity pool, ideal for relaxation after a day of diving.
- Paras Beach Resort – Located near White Island, this resort features comfortable rooms, a pool, and easy access to dive shops and tour spots.
- Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Resort – Combining eco-friendly practices with a diving center, this resort provides a relaxing ambiance with garden views and ocean-front villas.
- Kurma Eco Beach Lodge – An affordable, cozy lodge known for its eco-conscious approach. Located by the beach, Kurma is popular with budget travelers and offers a friendly, laid-back vibe.
More to Explore in Camiguin
When you’re not diving, Camiguin has a range of other activities worth exploring. Visit the Sunken Cemetery, the Giant Clam Sanctuary, or Mount Hibok-Hibok for stunning views. You can also relax at Ardent Hot Springs or snorkel around White Island.
Final Thoughts
Diving in Mantigue Island is a magical experience, perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. From colorful coral gardens to curious sea turtles, there’s something to inspire every ocean lover. Ready to start planning? Head over to Klook to book convenient dive packages and boat transfers to Mantigue Island. Dive into the world of Camiguin’s underwater beauty and make memories that will last a lifetime!