About this spot
Secret Bay sits within Anilao, one of the Philippines' most accessible dive destinations near Manila. The site spans 8 to 25 meters, making it suitable for intermediate divers who want to explore beyond beginner limits without extreme depth. The bay's sheltered geography keeps conditions relatively stable throughout the year, which is why local operators favor it as a go-to spot even during monsoon transitions. Marine life includes reef fish, nudibranchs, and small crustaceans typical of the Anilao ecosystem. The site benefits from being outside a marine protected area, meaning commercial diving operations run regular trips here. Visibility varies with season and recent weather, so checking local conditions before booking is wise. Access is straightforward from Anilao's main barangay. Most operators in the area include Secret Bay on their dive schedules, either as a warm-up dive or part of a two-tank morning. The site works well for photographers interested in macro subjects and reef exploration. Divers new to intermediate depths will find the 8–25m range forgiving compared to deeper blue-water alternatives in the region.
📖 Guide: Diving in the Philippines: 119 Sites, Wrecks & Walls Worth the Flight
Best months
Dive types
Trip essentials
Everything you need before you pack — checklist, sun, logistics.
Trip checklist
- 🛂 Visa-free or visa-on-arrival
- 📜 C-card + dive insurance (DAN)
- 📔 Dive logbook
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- 🔌 Plug type A/B/C · 220V adapter
- 💊 Seasickness meds + ear drops
- 📱 Offline maps + emergency contact
Quick facts
- 🌓 Moon First quarter · 47%
- GPS
› Sustainability disclosures
From your departure country
- Visa: Visa on arrival · 30 days max
- Flight: 12h · direct
- Jet-lag: 11h east · 8 days recovery
FAQ
›Is Secret Bay good year-round?
Yes. Anilao's location in Batangas means water remains divable throughout the year. Dry season (November–May) typically offers calmer seas, but Secret Bay's sheltered position lets you dive safely during monsoon months too.
›What depth and difficulty level suits Secret Bay?
Intermediate divers handle this site best. The 8–25m range goes deeper than beginner training but stays above the technical threshold. Comfort with neutral buoyancy and basic navigation is assumed.
›What marine life will I see?
Expect reef fish, nudibranchs, shrimp, crabs, and small eels. Life isn't as dense as some Anilao muck sites, but the reef holds steady interest for macro and wide-angle photography.
›How do I get there and do I need permits?
Book through an Anilao dive operator; they handle logistics. No special permits are required. Most shops offer transport from their base or nearby resorts. Confirm pickup and boat schedules the day before.
