About this spot
Hillary's Reef sits near Danjugan Island in the Philippines, a destination known for its intact ecosystems and thriving coral gardens. The reef supports a variety of marine species and remains in good health with no signs of bleaching stress. The site is accessible year-round, making it flexible for divers planning a Philippines trip. The reef environment features multiple habitat types that reflect the broader ecological diversity of Danjugan Island. This variety attracts different species throughout the year and creates different experiences depending on when you visit and where you explore. The area is well-documented by local dive communities, with video content and species observations available to help you plan your dive. While specific depth and visibility data aren't published, the reef's year-round accessibility and coral health make it a solid choice for divers looking to explore the Philippines. The documented species observations provide insight into what you're likely to encounter. The reef sits outside a Marine Protected Area, so check local regulations before your dive.
📖 Guide: Diving in the Philippines: 119 Sites, Wrecks & Walls Worth the Flight
Best months
Marine life
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
›When is the best time to dive Hillary's Reef?
Hillary's Reef is diveable year-round, so you can plan your Philippines trip based on your schedule rather than seasonal windows. Check local weather forecasts closer to your travel dates for the best conditions on your specific dive days.
›What depth and difficulty level is Hillary's Reef?
Specific depth and difficulty ratings for Hillary's Reef are not published. Contact local dive operators in the area before your trip to confirm conditions, required experience levels, and what gear you'll need.
›What marine life will I see?
Hillary's Reef supports at least 12 documented species. The reef's multiple ecosystem types attract varied marine life. Community videos of dives at the site show what divers have encountered, so check those before your visit.
›Do I need permits or certifications to dive here?
Hillary's Reef is not inside a Marine Protected Area, but always check current Philippines diving regulations and any local requirements before your trip. Verify with your dive operator that you have the right certification level for the site.
