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Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is one of the most incredible marine sanctuaries in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the middle of the Sulu Sea, about 150 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, this protected area is a haven for marine biodiversity. It is composed of two huge atolls—the North and South Atolls—and the smaller Jessie Beazley Reef.
This natural park covers around 97,000 hectares of pristine coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and a rich marine ecosystem that supports thousands of species of fish, corals, and other sea life. Tubbataha is recognized as one of the best diving destinations in the world, attracting divers from across the globe who come to witness its vibrant underwater beauty, diverse marine life, and unspoiled natural environment.
Reaching Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park requires some planning since it is located in the open sea and is accessible only by liveaboard dive boats. The journey typically starts in Puerto Princesa City, the capital of Palawan.
From Puerto Princesa, travelers board a liveaboard dive vessel that sails overnight to the reefs. The voyage takes approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on sea conditions. There are no commercial ferry services to the park—only authorized dive operators with government-approved permits are allowed to bring visitors to Tubbataha.
The liveaboard boats are fully equipped with diving facilities, accommodation, and meals, providing visitors with a comfortable and exciting adventure on the sea. These trips usually last between 5 to 7 days, giving divers ample time to explore different dive sites within the park.
The Tubbataha Reefs are located in a region with a tropical climate. The best time to visit is from mid-March to mid-June, when the sea is calm, visibility is at its best (up to 40 meters), and weather conditions are ideal for diving. During these months, the northeast monsoon has ended, and the southwest monsoon has not yet begun, creating a perfect window for safe and enjoyable travel to the reefs.
Outside this period, the seas are often rough and unpredictable due to monsoon winds, making it unsafe for boats to travel to the area. The park is closed to tourists from mid-June until mid-March every year to protect the marine environment and allow wildlife to thrive undisturbed.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is open to visitors only during its diving season—from mid-March to mid-June. Within this period, diving expeditions operate daily, with each liveaboard trip lasting several days. There are no fixed operating hours since the park is in open waters, but most dives are conducted during daylight hours, with occasional night dives allowed in specific zones.
All tours are managed under the supervision of the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to ensure sustainable practices and environmental protection.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is world-famous for its incredible marine biodiversity and breathtaking underwater landscapes. It is home to nearly 600 species of fish, 360 species of corals (about half of all coral species found globally), 11 species of sharks, 13 dolphin and whale species, and numerous seabirds and sea turtles.
The park’s reefs are among the most well-preserved in the Philippines due to its isolation and strict conservation measures. It has been declared both a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1993) and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance (1999).
Divers and nature lovers consider Tubbataha a “living aquarium,” offering unforgettable underwater encounters with manta rays, whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, and vibrant schools of tropical fish. Its pristine condition and ecological importance make it a symbol of successful marine conservation.
Visitors to Tubbataha must join authorized liveaboard tours that have government permits. Independent travel is not allowed to protect the park’s delicate ecosystem. Tour prices vary depending on the operator, boat type, and duration, but typically range from USD 1,000 to 2,500 for a 5- to 7-day trip, including accommodation, meals, and multiple dives per day.
An environmental fee (usually around PHP 3,000 per person) is collected from each visitor to support park management and conservation. All visitors are required to follow strict diving regulations to avoid damaging corals or disturbing marine life.
Tubbataha was first discovered by fishermen who used the reefs as a rest stop during their sea journeys. In the 1970s, divers began to explore its underwater beauty, bringing global attention to its ecological significance.
In 1988, the Philippine government declared the area as the Tubbataha Reefs National Marine Park, recognizing the need to protect it from destructive fishing and illegal poaching. Later, it was renamed the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and placed under the protection of UNESCO. Since then, it has become a model for marine conservation, supported by local communities and environmental organizations.
• Scuba Diving: Explore some of the world’s best dive sites featuring colorful corals, sharks, manta rays, and turtles.
• Underwater Photography: Capture stunning photos of coral gardens and marine species in crystal-clear visibility.
• Bird Watching: Visit the small islets that serve as nesting grounds for seabirds like boobies and terns.
• Marine Education: Learn about coral ecosystems, marine biodiversity, and conservation efforts through dive briefings and lectures onboard.
• Stargazing: Enjoy breathtaking night skies from the liveaboard vessel, far from city lights.
• Tubbataha covers about 97,030 hectares of protected marine area.
• It consists of two main atolls: the North and South Atolls, plus the Jessie Beazley Reef.
• It hosts around 600 fish species and 360 coral species—almost half of all coral species on Earth.
• Whale sharks and hammerhead sharks are often sighted during the diving season.
• The park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
• Fishing, anchoring, and coral collection are strictly prohibited.
• Book liveaboard trips at least six months in advance as slots are limited.
• Ensure you have sufficient diving experience (advanced open water certification is recommended).
• Bring underwater cameras and eco-friendly sunscreen.
• Respect park regulations and avoid touching corals or marine animals.
• Pack light and include seasickness medication, as the voyage can be long.
• Stay hydrated and enjoy every dive responsibly.
Philippines - The Heart Of History - Culture 9 Days 8 Nights Tour
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