Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park stands as the crown jewel of Philippine diving and one of the most pristine marine ecosystems on the planet. Located in the heart of the Sulu Sea, approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, this remote atoll system has remained largely untouched by human development, preserving an underwater paradise that attracts serious divers from across the globe.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, Tubbataha encompasses nearly 97,030 hectares of marine and terrestrial habitats. The park includes two coral atolls separated by an 8-kilometer channel, along with the Jessie Beazley Reef to the north. These pristine reefs support an extraordinary concentration of marine biodiversity that has earned recognition as one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth.

Coral reef ecosystem at Tubbataha
The vibrant coral ecosystems of Tubbataha support exceptional marine biodiversity

Marine Biodiversity

The reefs of Tubbataha harbor an astounding diversity of marine life. Scientific surveys have documented over 600 species of fish, 360 species of coral (representing nearly half of all coral species found worldwide), 11 species of sharks, 13 species of dolphins and whales, and 100 species of birds. The park serves as a critical breeding ground for hawksbill and green sea turtles and provides important habitat for several endangered species.

During a typical dive at Tubbataha, encounters with large pelagic species are common. Whitetip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, and nurse sharks patrol the walls and channels. Schools of barracuda, jacks, and tuna sweep past in silvery clouds. Manta rays glide gracefully through the water column, while sea turtles rest on coral outcroppings or cruise along the reef slopes.

Diving Conditions and Sites

Tubbataha offers diving conditions that rank among the best in the world. Visibility typically ranges from 30 to 45 meters, allowing divers to appreciate the full scale of the dramatic underwater topography. Water temperatures remain a comfortable 27-30 degrees Celsius, and currents vary from gentle to moderate, occasionally becoming strong in certain channels.

The park features numerous world-class dive sites across both atolls:

  • Amos Rock - A submerged pinnacle on the North Atoll known for schooling fish and shark encounters
  • Shark Airport - Named for the whitetip reef sharks that rest on its sandy bottom like parked aircraft
  • Wall Street - A dramatic vertical wall on the South Atoll with exceptional coral coverage
  • Black Rock - Features stunning hard coral gardens and frequent manta ray sightings
  • Delsan Wreck - A cargo vessel that ran aground, now encrusted with marine life
Sea turtle at coral reef
Green sea turtles are commonly encountered throughout Tubbataha

Planning Your Trip

Accessing Tubbataha requires careful planning due to its remote location. The park can only be reached by liveaboard vessels departing from Puerto Princesa, with journeys taking approximately 10-12 hours overnight. The diving season is strictly limited to mid-March through mid-June, when weather conditions permit safe passage and optimal diving conditions.

All visitors must obtain permits from the Tubbataha Management Office, with fees contributing directly to park conservation efforts. Liveaboard operators typically arrange permits as part of their packages, but early booking is essential as vessels fill quickly during the short season.

What to Bring

  • Valid dive certification (Advanced Open Water recommended)
  • Dive computer and safety equipment
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness
  • Underwater camera for documenting encounters

Conservation and Protection

Tubbataha exemplifies successful marine conservation in the Philippines. The park is protected by strict regulations enforced by the Tubbataha Management Office and the Philippine Navy, which maintains a permanent ranger station on the North Atoll. Commercial fishing is prohibited within park boundaries, and all vessels must follow designated routes to minimize impact.

As a visitor, you play a crucial role in preserving this natural wonder. Practice responsible diving by maintaining neutral buoyancy, never touching or standing on coral, and keeping a respectful distance from marine life. The conservation fees you pay directly support ongoing protection efforts, research programs, and community engagement initiatives.

Useful Resources

For more information about Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and planning your visit, consult these authoritative sources:

UNESCO World Heritage Centre - Tubbataha Tubbataha Management Office