Diving in the Philippines in March

Conditions in March

March is a truly fantastic time to dive the Philippines, marking the tail end of the dry season and offering some of the most stable and enjoyable conditions of the year. You'll find the weather generally sunny and dry, with minimal rainfall across most of the archipelago. This translates to calm seas and light winds, particularly around the central Visayas, making boat transfers and surface intervals a breeze. Air temperatures typically hover around a comfortable 28-32°C (82-90°F), perfect for sunbathing between dives.

Water temperatures are consistently warm, generally ranging from 26-29°C (79-84°F). This means a 3mm shorty or even just board shorts and a rash vest will suffice for most divers, though a full 3mm wetsuit is always a good idea for longer dives or those prone to getting chilly. Visibility is often exceptional during March, frequently exceeding 20-30 meters in popular areas. With less rain runoff and calmer waters, suspended particles are minimized, offering crystal-clear views of the vibrant reefs and marine life. While currents can always be a factor in some of the more exposed dive sites, particularly those known for pelagic action, March generally sees more predictable and manageable conditions compared to other times of the year.

What you will see

March in the Philippines is an absolute treat for marine life enthusiasts. The healthy reef systems are teeming with activity, and the stable conditions often bring out the best in both macro and pelagic encounters. This is still a prime time for chance encounters with thresher sharks at Monad Shoal off Malapascua, though their appearances are not guaranteed. However, the consistent conditions also increase your chances of spotting devil rays and mobula rays cruising the deeper sections of reefs.

For macro lovers, the Philippines never disappoints, and March is no exception. You can expect to find an incredible array of critters, from pygmy seahorses clinging to gorgonian fans, to flamboyant cuttlefish, blue-ringed octopuses, and a myriad of nudibranchs in areas like Anilao and Dauin. Keep your eyes peeled on sandy slopes and muck sites for frogfish, pipefish, and various species of colorful crabs and shrimps. While specific large aggregations are rare in March, the general abundance of fish life, including schooling barracuda, jackfish, and snappers, is truly impressive.

Top dive sites this month

Given the excellent conditions, a few regions truly shine in March. First up is the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. March marks the peak of its short diving season (typically March to June), offering unparalleled pelagic action, pristine reefs, and incredible visibility. Expect to see reef sharks, oceanic manta rays, turtles, and massive schools of fish. Because it's only accessible via liveaboard, booking well in advance is crucial.

Another must-visit is the Visayas region, particularly the triangle formed by Cebu, Negros Oriental (Dauin), and Bohol (Panglao/Balicasag). Malapascua Island, off northern Cebu, remains a strong contender for thresher shark encounters at Monad Shoal. Nearby, Anda in Bohol offers stunning wall dives and incredible macro life. Dauin, on Negros Oriental, is world-renowned for its muck diving and diverse critter population, with easy access to Apo Island for vibrant coral reefs and turtle sightings. The calm waters and excellent visibility in these areas make for incredibly rewarding diving experiences.

Practical tips for your trip

For most divers, a 3mm shorty or full wetsuit will be perfectly adequate for Philippines waters in March, given the consistently warm temperatures. If you're planning multiple dives a day or are prone to getting cold, a 5mm might offer extra comfort, but it's rarely essential. This month is highly suitable for divers of all experience levels. Beginners will appreciate the calm conditions and excellent visibility on most sites, while advanced divers can explore deeper reefs, current-swept pinnacles, and the remote wonders of Tubbataha.

Liveaboard availability for March, especially for popular destinations like Tubbataha, can be tight as it's considered prime season. We highly recommend booking your liveaboard several months in advance to secure your preferred vessel and itinerary. For shore-based diving in areas like Malapascua or Dauin, booking accommodation and dive packages a few weeks to a month ahead is usually sufficient, though earlier is always better for more popular resorts.

Beyond your standard dive gear, remember to pack light, breathable clothing for the warm weather. Sunscreen (reef-safe, please!), a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are essential for sun protection. While most liveaboards and resorts offer great amenities, a good quality reusable water bottle is always a wise addition to reduce plastic waste. Lastly, don't forget your camera gear – the photographic opportunities, both wide-angle and macro, are simply incredible this time of year!