[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":464},["ShallowReactive",2],{"footerItems":3,"$fiS0hSyPq_BTQAas5XG89i6PVu6vRV113663TSEor1nw":158},{"footerCta":4,"footerSocialNetwork":9,"footerNavigation":13,"footerAboutZublu":146,"footerLeadingText":147,"footerBottomLinks":148},{"primaryText":5,"primaryCtaText":6,"secondaryText":7,"secondaryCtaText":8},"Contact a dive travel expert:","Chat with us","Find your perfect dive destination:","Find a destination",{"facebookLink":10,"instagramLink":11,"twitterLink":12},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002FZuBluDiving\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Fzublu_diving\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Ftwitter.com\u002Fzubludiving",[14,64,90,107,138],{"setMenuTitle":15,"setMenuList":16},"Top Destinations",[17,28,34,40,46,52,58],{"menuItemLocation":18,"menuItemType":21,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":26,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":19,"url":20},"Maldives","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmaldives",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"Entries","entries",true,false,"Diving in the Maldives","",{"menuItemLocation":29,"menuItemType":32,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":33,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":30,"url":31},"Indonesia","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"Diving in Indonesia",{"menuItemLocation":35,"menuItemType":38,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":39,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":36,"url":37},"Philippines","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fphilippines",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"Diving in the Philippines",{"menuItemLocation":41,"menuItemType":44,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":45,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":42,"url":43},"Red Sea","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fred-sea",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"Diving in the Red Sea",{"menuItemLocation":47,"menuItemType":50,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":51,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":48,"url":49},"Galapagos Islands","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fecuador\u002Fgalapagos\u002Fgalapagos-islands",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"Diving in Galapagos",{"menuItemLocation":53,"menuItemType":56,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":57,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":54,"url":55},"Mexico","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmexico",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"Diving in Mexico",{"menuItemLocation":59,"menuItemType":62,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":63,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":60,"url":61},"Thailand","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fthailand",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"Diving in Thailand",{"setMenuTitle":65,"setMenuList":66},"Guides & Insights",[67,74,78,82,86],{"menuItemLocation":68,"menuItemType":69,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":72,"menuItemUrl":73},null,{"label":70,"value":71,"selected":24},"Static URL","staticUrl","Travel guides","\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights?opt=category&value=zublu-digital-portal",{"menuItemLocation":68,"menuItemType":75,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":76,"menuItemUrl":77},{"label":70,"value":71,"selected":24},"Liveaboard guide","\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fliveaboard-diving",{"menuItemLocation":68,"menuItemType":79,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":80,"menuItemUrl":81},{"label":70,"value":71,"selected":24},"Destination inspiration","\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights?opt=category&value=destination-inspiration",{"menuItemLocation":68,"menuItemType":83,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":84,"menuItemUrl":85},{"label":70,"value":71,"selected":24},"Marine life","\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights?opt=category&value=marine-wonders",{"menuItemLocation":68,"menuItemType":87,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":88,"menuItemUrl":89},{"label":70,"value":71,"selected":24},"News","\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights?opt=category&value=news-opinion",{"setMenuTitle":91,"setMenuList":92},"Sustainability",[93,97,102],{"menuItemLocation":68,"menuItemType":94,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":95,"menuItemUrl":96},{"label":70,"value":71,"selected":24},"Ecoventures","\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fexplore-and-restore-with-ecoventures",{"menuItemLocation":98,"menuItemType":101,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":99,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":99,"url":100},"Conservation","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fconservation",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},{"menuItemLocation":103,"menuItemType":106,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":104,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":104,"url":105},"Green Fins","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fconservation\u002Fgreen-fins",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},{"setMenuTitle":108,"setMenuList":109},"ZuBlu",[110,116,120,126,133],{"menuItemLocation":111,"menuItemType":114,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":115,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":112,"url":113},"ZuBlu Concierge","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fenquiry",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"Plan your trip",{"menuItemLocation":68,"menuItemType":117,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":118,"menuItemUrl":119},{"label":70,"value":71,"selected":24},"Join us","\u002Fenquiry\u002Fcareer",{"menuItemLocation":121,"menuItemType":124,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":125,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":122,"url":123},"About ZuBlu","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fabout-us",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"About us",{"menuItemLocation":127,"menuItemType":130,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":131,"menuItemUrl":132},{"title":128,"url":129},"Guest Reviews","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fguest-reviews",{"label":70,"value":71,"selected":24},"Guest reviews","\u002Fguest-reviews",{"menuItemLocation":134,"menuItemType":137,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":135,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":135,"url":136},"Partners","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fpartners",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},{"setMenuTitle":139,"setMenuList":140},"Support",[141],{"menuItemLocation":142,"menuItemType":145,"menuItemOpenNewTab":25,"menuItemName":143,"menuItemUrl":27},{"title":143,"url":144},"FAQ","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Ffaq",{"label":22,"value":23,"selected":24},"ZuBlu is the leading dive travel agency to search, compare and book scuba diving and underwater adventure travel worldwide. With 800+ exceptional resorts and liveaboards to choose from, you can travel green while exploring the big blue.","Book your next scuba diving holiday",[149,152,155],{"linkUrl":150,"linkText":151},"\u002Fterms-conditions","Terms & Conditions",{"linkUrl":153,"linkText":154},"\u002Fterms-of-website-use","Terms of use",{"linkUrl":156,"linkText":157},"\u002Fprivacy-policy","Privacy Policy",{"title":159,"slug":160,"url":161,"entryType":162,"date":163,"lastUpdated":164,"banner":165,"coverImage":166,"category":167,"author":169,"introduction":175,"tags":176,"articleContent":182,"featuredArticles":361,"flipsnackCode":68,"typeformCode":68,"seomatic":398},"Easy-to-reach dive destinations in Southeast Asia","easy-dive-travel-in-southeast-asia","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Feasy-dive-travel-in-southeast-asia","newArticle","02 Mar 2023","18 Jan 2025","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-normal.jpg",{"title":80,"slug":168},"destination-inspiration",{"firstName":170,"lastName":171,"authorSubtitle":172,"shortHighlight":173,"photo":174},"Adam","Broadbent","Co-founder, dive travel expert","\u003Cp>Adam toured the Philippines for 6 months exploring the top dive destinations from dive resorts and liveaboards, and is our expert at finding the best travel routes through the islands. He loves how welcoming Filipinos are and is passionate about helping guests enjoy the best of the Philippines above and below the waves.\u003C\u002Fp>","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fcpresources\u002Fuserphotos\u002FAdamPI\u002F100\u002FAdam-Team.jpg?d=1718234582","Looking for a world-class dive holiday from Asia without the hassle of a long-haul flight? Well, you’re in luck. Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean are home to some of the planet’s very best underwater experiences, meaning you don’t have to venture far to enjoy the dive trip of your dreams.\r\n\r\nRead on and explore our hand-picked selection of exceptional dive destinations, all within easy reach from major cities and airports in Asia.",[177,178,179,180,181],"indonesia","malaysia","thailand","philippines","maldives",[183,186,191,193,198,203,205,209,213,216,218,222,225,227,232,234,237,239,243,246,248,252,255,257,260,262,266,268,272,275,277,280,282,286,288,292,295,297,301,304,306,310,313,315,319,322,324,328,331,333,336,338,342,344,348,351,353,356,358],{"type":184,"text":185},"paragraph","\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Looking for a world-class dive holiday from Asia without the hassle of a long-haul flight? Well, you’re in luck. Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean are home to some of the planet’s very best underwater experiences, meaning you don’t have to venture far to enjoy the dive trip of your dreams.\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Read on and explore our selection of exceptional dive destinations - chosen by the Zublu travel team who've all dived and traveled extensively in SE Asia - all within easy reach from major cities and airports in Asia.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":30,"headingType":188,"text":27},"heading",["Reactive",189],{"label":190,"value":190,"selected":24},"h2",{"type":184,"text":192},"\u003Cp>Straddling hemispheres and home to a seemingly infinite blend of islands and cultures, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Indonesia\u003C\u002Fa> is a country bursting with diversity. Its location at the heart of the Coral Triangle – the global epicentre of marine biodiversity – means the surrounding waters are just as vibrant as the country itself and offer some of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fthe-best-dive-sites-in-the-world\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the world’s most incredible diving\u003C\u002Fa>. Although Indonesia’s thousands of islands are scattered across a vast expanse of ocean, there are several truly unmissable dive sites that are very convenient to visit.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":194,"headingType":195,"text":27},"Bali",["Reactive",196],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},"h3",{"type":199,"image":200,"description":201,"size":202,"text":27},"image","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Bali.jpg","Beautiful coastline in northeast Bali","large",{"type":184,"text":204},"\u003Cp>As a hugely popular tourist destination, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\u002Fbali\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bali\u003C\u002Fa>’s international airport in Denpasar receives direct flights from throughout Asia, and the diving here is among the best Indonesia has to offer. Divers can explore the colourful coral gardens of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\u002Fbali\u002Fpemuteran-menjangan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Menjangan Island\u003C\u002Fa> in the north, the reefs and muck diving of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\u002Fbali\u002Fpadangbai-candidasa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Padangbai\u003C\u002Fa> in the east, and current-swept manta cleaning stations around \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\u002Fbali\u002Flembongan-nusa-penida\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida\u003C\u002Fa> in the south. Bali is also home to one of the world’s most famous wrecks, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fdiving-tulambens-usat-liberty-wreck\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the USAT Liberty\u003C\u002Fa>, which lies just metres from the beach. Plus, this island is probably the best place on the entire planet to spot the highly elusive \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Focean-sunfish\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ocean sunfish\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":206,"heading":207,"text":208},"enquiry","Ready to book your SE Asia dive getaway?","Our resident dive travel experts can put together the ideal dive itinerary for you\r\n",{"type":187,"heading":210,"headingType":211,"text":27},"North Sulawesi",["Reactive",212],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":214,"description":215,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Sulawesi.jpg","Exploring Bunaken's fringing reefs",{"type":184,"text":217},"\u003Cp>North Sulawesi’s capital, Manado, has direct flights from Singapore, China and Japan. The coast north and south of Manado offers some fantastic diving with beautiful black sand slopes, but the real attraction is the number of quality dive destinations within easy reach of one another. From Manado, divers can easily head to the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\u002Fsulawesi\u002Fbunaken-manado\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bunaken National Park\u003C\u002Fa>, the islands of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\u002Fsulawesi\u002Fbangka-gangga\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bangka and Gangga\u003C\u002Fa>, as well as the legendary \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\u002Fsulawesi\u002Flembeh-strait\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lembeh Strait\u003C\u002Fa> – all within a couple of hours. North Sulawesi is a prime example of Indonesia’s incredible diversity, with everything from exhilarating wall diving with large pelagics, to critter hunting in the muck and spotting dugongs in seagrass all on offer. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":219,"headingType":220,"text":27},"Komodo",["Reactive",221],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":223,"description":224,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Komodo.jpg","North Komodo is a haven for scuba divers",{"type":184,"text":226},"\u003Cp>In the not-so-distant past, travelling to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Findonesia\u002Fnusa-tenggara\u002Fkomodo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Komodo\u003C\u002Fa> would have seemed like an adventure, but today, this popular tourist attraction is surprisingly accessible. A short onward flight from Bali is all it takes to get to this world-famous dive destination where giant lizards stalk the beaches and manta rays soar beneath the waves. Some liveaboards also operate routes between Bali and Komodo, either embarking or disembarking near the international airport in Bali.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":228,"headingType":229,"text":27},"When to visit",["Reactive",230],{"label":231,"value":231,"selected":24},"h4",{"type":184,"text":233},"\u003Cp>With so many exceptional destinations to choose from, Indonesia is a true year-round dive destination. In general, the dry season runs roughly from April through October, providing the most reliable beach weather. But if you’re here for the diving, there’s always sites worth seeing, no matter what the season.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":60,"headingType":235,"text":27},["Reactive",236],{"label":190,"value":190,"selected":24},{"type":184,"text":238},"\u003Cp>Famed for its remarkable culture, intricately embellished temples, stunning scenery, and celebrated cuisine, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fthailand\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Thailand\u003C\u002Fa> is a firm favourite among tourists the world over. It is also a staple destination among divers who enjoy the country’s accessible dive sites, beautiful coral reefs, and plentiful marine life – year after year. And with regular two-hour flights from Singapore, it would be hard to find a reason not to visit.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":240,"headingType":241,"text":27},"Phuket",["Reactive",242],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":244,"description":245,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Phuket.jpg","Longtail boats used for dive transfers",{"type":184,"text":247},"\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fthailand\u002Fandaman-sea\u002Fphuket-phi-phi-krabi-and-koh-lanta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Phuket\u003C\u002Fa> is a globally connected island, receiving flights from all over the world, including across Asia. Aside from its beautiful beaches and bustling nightlife, Phuket also offers a selection of nearby dives. While there are a few worthwhile local reefs, many visitors choose to explore the Racha Islands, where a handful of great reefs can be found. Dive operators normally offer three-tank trips to the popular trio of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fscuba-diving-phuket-phi-phi-krabi-lanta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the King Cruiser Wreck, Shark Point and Anemone Reef\u003C\u002Fa>, which are around two hours away by boat.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":249,"headingType":250,"text":27},"Similans, Surins & Richelieu Rock",["Reactive",251],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":253,"description":254,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Similans.jpg","Marine life in the Similan Islands Marine Park",{"type":184,"text":256},"\u003Cp>From Phuket, it is just a one-hour drive to Khao Lak – the gateway to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fthailand\u002Fandaman-sea\u002Fsimilan-surin-islands\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the Similan and Surin Islands\u003C\u002Fa>. These island chains are iconic of Thailand’s astounding scenery, with tranquil beaches fronted by crystal-clear water and dramatic hillsides dense with tropical foliage. As established marine parks, the Similan and Surin Islands also offer plenty of beauty beneath the surface, including striking seascapes such as swim-throughs and towering pinnacles, as well as frequent encounters with manta rays and whale sharks. Liveaboards depart from Khao Lak to explore these incredible islands, offering a choice of short trips or extended voyages.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":228,"headingType":258,"text":27},["Reactive",259],{"label":231,"value":231,"selected":24},{"type":184,"text":261},"\u003Cp>The best time to visit Phuket is during the dry season, from November to April. This is also the dive season for the Similan and Surin Islands, though the months of February and March will generally offer fewer crowds and higher chances of a whale shark encounter.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":263,"headingType":264,"text":27},"Malaysia",["Reactive",265],{"label":190,"value":190,"selected":24},{"type":184,"text":267},"\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmalaysia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Malaysia\u003C\u002Fa> has long been enticing travellers with its contrasting scenery and a beautiful blend of cultures. The country’s extensive coastline, spli by the South China Sea, is dotted with world-class dive destinations, ranging from shallow, sheltered reefs to isolated islands patrolled by powerful pelagic species. And, as both a travel hub and popular tourist destination itself, getting around Malaysia is effortless.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":269,"headingType":270,"text":27}," Mabul and Sipadan",["Reactive",271],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":273,"description":274,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Sipadan.jpg","Diver and jackfish at Sipadan ",{"type":184,"text":276},"\u003Cp>From Singapore, a direct flight to Tawau takes around two and a half hours. From there, it is just a short drive to Semporna, followed by an hour-long boat ride to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmalaysia\u002Fsabah\u002Fmabul-kapalai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mabul\u003C\u002Fa>, which acts as a gateway to \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmalaysia\u002Fsabah\u002Fsipadan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sipadan\u003C\u002Fa>. To make life easier, resorts in the area typically offer return transfers to and from the airport. Mabul’s scuba diving focuses on muck diving, as the reefs are home to all kinds of interesting critters, including frogfish, flamboyant cuttlefish, seahorses, mimic octopus, and more. Of course, if you’re in the mood for some action, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fscuba-diving-in-sipadan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sipadan’s current-swept dive sites and towering tornadoes of barracuda\u003C\u002Fa> are just a boat trip away.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":228,"headingType":278,"text":27},["Reactive",279],{"label":231,"value":231,"selected":24},{"type":184,"text":281},"\u003Cp>Although Mabul and Sipadan can be dived at any time of year, the best time to visit can be at the end of the wet season, in April and May, or the end of the dry season, in September and October. At these times of year, the weather can be incredible and the crowds are less.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":283,"headingType":284,"text":27},"The Philippines",["Reactive",285],{"label":190,"value":190,"selected":24},{"type":184,"text":287},"\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fphilippines\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Philippines\u003C\u002Fa> has long been celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, idyllic beaches, and friendly communities. What’s more, this island nation has become a favourite among divers, with an all-encompassing dive scene that caters to every interest. Whether you’re dreaming of big animals, craving a critter fix, or would like a bit of everything, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fbest-places-to-dive-philippines\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the Philippines has a dive destination for you\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":289,"headingType":290,"text":27},"Moalboal",["Reactive",291],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":293,"description":294,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Moalboal.jpg","Moalboal's famous sardines",{"type":184,"text":296},"\u003Cp>Travellers looking for the perfect Philippines dive experience will struggle to find a better destination than \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fphilippines\u002Fvisayas\u002Fmoalboal\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Moalboal\u003C\u002Fa>, and it’s easily accessible from the international airport in Cebu. Situated in the heart of the Visayas – and with stunning beaches, exhilarating wall diving, and an incredible diversity of marine life – Moalboal is a firm favourite among many seasoned divers. The peninsula’s reefs are home to schools of barracudas, jackfish and batfish, as well as plenty of turtles, and a vast, shimmering school of silvery sardines that hugs the coast at Panagsama.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":298,"headingType":299,"text":27},"Malapascua",["Reactive",300],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":302,"description":303,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Malapascua.jpg","Malapascua island from the air",{"type":184,"text":305},"\u003Cp>Experienced divers looking for something unique should also consider \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fphilippines\u002Fvisayas\u002Fmalapascua\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Malapascua\u003C\u002Fa>, as most operators on the island can organise return transfers to and from the island from Cebu’s international airport. The island is home to some stunning coral reefs, plenty of weird and wonderful critters and several wrecks – including the well-known Dona Marilyn. However, seasoned divers are drawn to Malapascua to dive the Monad Shoal. Just before dawn, shy thresher sharks make a daily pilgrimage from the depths to visit a series of cleaning stations scattered around the shoal, delivering near guaranteed encounters.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":307,"headingType":308,"text":27},"Dumaguete",["Reactive",309],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":311,"description":312,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Dumaguete.jpg","Blue ringed octopus, Dumaguete",{"type":184,"text":314},"\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fphilippines\u002Fvisayas\u002Fdumaguete\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dumaguete\u003C\u002Fa> is home to some of the Philippines’ best muck diving and is just a half-hour ferry ride from the island of Cebu, or accessible by plane from Manila. From frogfish and Rhinopias to flatworms, nudibranchs and seahorses, the list of sought-after subjects to be found here is simply phenomenal. Not to mention the local cephalopods season, which sees octopuses and cuttlefish of all shapes and sizes descend on these black sandy slopes to flex their muscles and flash their mesmerising colours.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":316,"headingType":317,"text":27},"Anilao",["Reactive",318],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":320,"description":321,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Anilao.jpg","Coleman shrimp from Anilao",{"type":184,"text":323},"\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fphilippines\u002Fluzon\u002Fanilao\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Anilao\u003C\u002Fa> is a low-key tourist destination providing a peaceful escape from city life, with a string of resorts nestled between the coastal jungle and the rugged shoreline. Easily reached via a straightforward drive south from Manila’s international airport, Anilao was the Philippines’ first scuba diving destination and is still regarded as one of the best in Southeast Asia. In particular, Anilao has developed a well-deserved reputation for its world-class muck diving – offering almost every critter encounter a diver could dream of. \u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":325,"headingType":326,"text":27},"Puerto Galera",["Reactive",327],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":329,"description":330,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Puerto-Galera.jpg","Diver and frogfish, Puerto Galera",{"type":184,"text":332},"\u003Cp>Just a stone’s throw from Anilao across the Verde Island Passage, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fphilippines\u002Fluzon\u002Fpuerto-galera\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Puerto Galera\u003C\u002Fa> requires a little extra effort to get to but is home to some exceptional scuba diving. The area is considered one of the Philippines’ most diverse diving destinations, and over 300 different types of coral and nearly 60 percent of the world’s known reef fish species have been recorded from Puerto Galera’s reefs. Divers of all kinds will find something to enjoy here, with critters galore, alongside current-swept canyons and carpets of soft, colourful coral.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":228,"headingType":334,"text":27},["Reactive",335],{"label":231,"value":231,"selected":24},{"type":184,"text":337},"\u003Cp>The best time to visit is during the later half of the dry season, around February, March and April. At this time, the weather will be pleasant on land and the water conditions are optimal for diving.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":339,"headingType":340,"text":27},"The Maldives",["Reactive",341],{"label":190,"value":190,"selected":24},{"type":184,"text":343},"\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmaldives\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Maldives\u003C\u002Fa> is an iconic tropical island getaway, complete with inviting azure lagoons and secluded sandbanks. But, while it may seem like a distant paradise, the Maldives is surprisingly accessible, thanks to direct flights from Asian travel hubs such as Singapore. And, while the journey may take a little longer, a holiday in one of the world’s most in-demand dive destinations has got to be worth it, right?\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":345,"headingType":346,"text":27},"Central Atolls",["Reactive",347],{"label":197,"value":197,"selected":24},{"type":199,"image":349,"description":350,"size":202,"text":27},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia\u002FEasy-Dive-Travel-SE-Asia-Maldives.jpg","Mantas and schooling fish in Male Atoll",{"type":184,"text":352},"\u003Cp>Thankfully, some of the Maldives most iconic experiences lie within the central atolls, with just an easy transfer from the airport. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmaldives\u002Fcentral-atolls\u002Fnorth-male-atoll\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">North Male Atoll\u003C\u002Fa>, where the airport is located, offers year-round manta ray encounters, while neighbouring \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmaldives\u002Fcentral-atolls\u002Fsouth-male-atoll\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Male Atoll\u003C\u002Fa> is home to some of the country’s most famous dive sites. And, just across the water, on the archipelago’s west side, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fdestination\u002Fmaldives\u002Fcentral-atolls\u002Fsouth-ari-atoll\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Ari Atoll\u003C\u002Fa> delivers year round whale shark encounters. If you’d like to enjoy the maximum number of dives during your trip, a liveaboard is the perfect option.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Many liveaboard operators also conduct circular trips around these central atolls, allowing divers to experience many of the Maldives’ underwater highlights. Embarking and disembarking out of North Male Atoll, just a stone’s throw from the airport, these trips are a great way to maximise your time while keeping travel arrangements simple.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":187,"heading":228,"headingType":354,"text":27},["Reactive",355],{"label":231,"value":231,"selected":24},{"type":184,"text":357},"\u003Cp>The Maldives’ many islands and atolls deliver world-class diving holidays at any time of year. January to April mark the dry season, when the weather is at its  best, but the rest of the year can be every bit as good, and guests will experience fewer crowds and take advantage of lower rates.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"type":206,"heading":359,"text":360},"Not found what you are looking for?","Contact one of our travel team today",[362,371,380,389],{"title":363,"slug":364,"url":365,"entryType":162,"date":366,"lastUpdated":367,"banner":368,"coverImage":369,"category":80,"introduction":370},"The best liveaboard itineraries in Indonesia - recommended by our dive travel experts","best-liveaboard-itineraries-in-indonesia","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fbest-liveaboard-itineraries-in-indonesia","18 Apr 2022","13 Sep 2024","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FIndonesia\u002FNTT\u002FAlor\u002FAlor-Pantar-Nusa-Tenggara-Indonesia-Banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FIndonesia\u002FGeneral\u002FRaya-Ampat-Indonesia.jpg","Having dived extensively throughout Indonesia, the ZuBlu team have learned a great deal about the seas and straits that connect this vast archipelago, as well as the many liveaboard routes that endeavour to explore them. And we don’t believe in keeping knowledge to ourselves. \r\n\r\nSo, to help you pick the perfect trip, we’ve identified a selection of the very best liveaboard itineraries throughout Indonesia – starting with several iconic routes, and ending with a few you may never heard of.",{"title":372,"slug":373,"url":374,"entryType":162,"date":375,"lastUpdated":376,"banner":377,"coverImage":378,"category":80,"introduction":379},"Indonesia’s best reef diving","indonesias-best-reef-diving","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Findonesias-best-reef-diving","10 Nov 2021","15 May 2025","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FIndonesia\u002FNTT\u002FAlami-Alor\u002FAlami-Alor-14.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FIndonesia\u002FWest-Papua\u002FRaja-Ampat\u002FRaja-Ampat-Indonesia-Diving.jpg","With over 17,000 islands spread across the Coral Triangle – a region famed for its biodiversity – Indonesia can easily claim some of the world’s very best coral reef diving. Thanks to its range of dive sites and incredible geographic expanse, you could dive for months and not see all that Indonesia has to offer. In fact, even the most committed scuba divers barely scratch the surface of this country, with its innumerable islands, straits and seas to explore, all with exceptional reef diving.\r\n\r\nHaving dived from Banda Aceh to West Papua, and enabling thousands of guests to do the same, the ZuBlu travel team know the reefs of Indonesia better than most. So read on for our expert advice on exploring Indonesia’s amazing reef ecosystems and where to dive for the most breathtaking corals.",{"title":381,"slug":382,"url":383,"entryType":162,"date":384,"lastUpdated":385,"banner":386,"coverImage":387,"category":80,"introduction":388},"Discover Sipadan Island – Malaysia's best scuba diving","scuba-diving-in-sipadan","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fscuba-diving-in-sipadan","11 May 2021","01 May 2025","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FScuba-diving-in-Sipadan\u002FMalaysia_sipadan_diver_and_barracuda-zublu-banner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FScuba-diving-in-Sipadan\u002FMalaysia_sipadan_diver_and_barracuda.jpg","If you’re hoping to dive the spectacular and highly celebrated island os Sipadan, this is the article for you! Keep reading for our top tips on how to get there, scoring a coveted dive permit, making the most of your time in Sabah, and enjoying every minute underwater. ",{"title":390,"slug":391,"url":392,"entryType":162,"date":393,"lastUpdated":394,"banner":395,"coverImage":396,"category":80,"introduction":397},"Where is the best place to dive in the Philippines?","best-places-to-dive-philippines","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Farticles\u002Fzublu-insights\u002Fbest-places-to-dive-philippines","01 Feb 2019","22 Apr 2025","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FArticles\u002FBest-Places-Philippines\u002FPalawanBanner.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FPhilippines\u002FVisayas\u002FDumaguete-Apo-Island\u002FDumaguete_thumbnail_anemonefish_diver.jpg","Renowned for its glorious beaches, bountiful marine life, unique cultural heritage, and arguably the world’s friendliest people, the Philippines has become the destination of choice for scuba divers, sun worshippers, and adventurous travellers alike.\r\n\r\nOur team of dive travel experts have been fortunate enough to explore much of the Philippines – from Luzon in the north to Davao in the south, and everywhere in between – and have used this personal experience to identify the very best dive destinations in the country. \r\n\r\nWhether you are dreaming of big animals, craving a critter fix, want to escape the crowds, or would like a bit of everything, this selection of Philippines dive destinations has something to inspire everyone.",{"seomaticMeta":399,"seomaticHelper":418,"seomaticSiteMeta":423,"seomaticSocial":429,"seomaticIdentity":433,"seomaticCreator":439,"seomaticMainEntityOfPage":441,"seomaticTemplatePath":27},{"seoTitle":159,"seoDescription":400,"seoKeywords":401,"seoImage":165,"robots":27,"canonicalUrl":161,"twitter":402,"og":406,"breadcrumbs":416},"Discover breathtaking dive destinations in Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean – all within easy reach of Asia's major cities and airports.","scuba, diving, asia, destinations, travel",{"card":403,"site":404,"creator":27,"title":159,"description":400,"image":405,"url":161},"summary","@zubludiving","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com\u002Fimages\u002FPhilippines\u002FVisayas\u002FMoalboal\u002FMoalboal_Sampaguita-turtle.jpg",{"type":407,"locale":408,"url":161,"title":159,"description":400,"image":405,"image:type":409,"image:width":410,"image:height":411,"site_name":108,"see_also":412},"website","en_us","image\u002Fjpeg","2000","1331",[12,413,414,415],"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fzubludiving","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Fzublu_diving","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.pinterest.com\u002Fzubludiving",{"Book your next scuba diving holiday":417},"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.zubludiving.com",{"twitterUrl":12,"facebookUrl":413,"googlePlusUrl":27,"linkedInUrl":27,"youtubeUrl":27,"youtubeChannelUrl":27,"instagramUrl":414,"pinterestUrl":415,"githubUrl":27,"vimeoUrl":27,"wikipediaUrl":27,"ownerGoogleSiteVerification":27,"ownerBingSiteVerification":27,"ownerGoogleAnalyticsUID":27,"ownerGoogleTagManagerID":27,"googleAnalyticsSendPageview":419,"googleAnalyticsAdvertising":420,"googleAnalyticsEcommerce":420,"googleAnalyticsEEcommerce":420,"googleAnalyticsLinkAttribution":420,"googleAnalyticsLinker":420,"googleAnalyticsAnonymizeIp":420,"ownerCopyrightNotice":421,"ownerAddressString":27,"ownerAddressHtml":27,"ownerMapUrl":27,"creatorCopyrightNotice":422,"creatorAddressString":27,"creatorAddressHtml":27,"creatorMapUrl":27},"1","0","Copyright ©2026 ZuBlu.","Copyright ©2026 .",{"locale":408,"siteSeoName":108,"siteSeoTitle":147,"siteSeoTitleSeparator":424,"siteSeoTitlePlacement":425,"siteDevModeTitle":426,"siteSeoDescription":427,"siteSeoKeywords":401,"siteRobots":27,"siteLinksSearchTargets":428,"siteLinksQueryInput":27,"siteSeoImage":405},"|","after","[devMode]","ZuBlu is the leading dive travel company to search, compare and book scuba diving travel worldwide. 600+ resorts and liveaboards to choose from.",[],{"locale":408,"twitterHandle":430,"facebookHandle":430,"facebookProfileId":431,"facebookAppId":27,"linkedInHandle":27,"googlePlusHandle":27,"youtubeHandle":27,"youtubeChannelHandle":27,"instagramHandle":432,"pinterestHandle":430,"githubHandle":27,"vimeoHandle":27,"wikipediaUrl":27},"zubludiving","1843817699193883","zublu_diving",{"type":434,"name":108,"url":417,"sameAs":435,"location":436},"Corporation",[12,413,414,415],{"type":437,"name":108,"url":417,"sameAs":438},"Place",[12,413,414,415],{"type":440},"Organization",{"type":442,"name":147,"description":427,"image":443,"url":161,"mainEntityOfPage":161,"inLanguage":408,"headline":147,"keywords":401,"author":445,"copyrightHolder":449,"publisher":453,"breadcrumb":457},"WebPage",{"type":444,"url":405,"width":410,"height":411},"ImageObject",{"type":434,"name":108,"url":417,"sameAs":446,"location":447},[12,413,414,415],{"type":437,"name":108,"url":417,"sameAs":448},[12,413,414,415],{"type":434,"name":108,"url":417,"sameAs":450,"location":451},[12,413,414,415],{"type":437,"name":108,"url":417,"sameAs":452},[12,413,414,415],{"type":440,"name":108,"url":417,"sameAs":454,"location":455},[12,413,414,415],{"type":437,"name":108,"url":417,"sameAs":456},[12,413,414,415],{"type":458,"itemListElement":459},"BreadcrumbList",[460],{"type":461,"position":462,"item":463},"ListItem",1,{"@id":417,"name":147},1780648578613]