For a long time, I had nurtured a deep desire to visit Anilao in the Philippines. However, various reasons, including the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, continuously postponed my plans. And finally, the moment I eagerly awaited arrived this year. I could hardly contain my excitement as I embarked on my journey to Anilao, undeterred by the news of an approaching Mawar typhoon or Betty typhoon, as the Filipinos called it.

As I reached Anilao, a sense of awe washed over me. The tranquil atmosphere, lush greenery, beautiful blue sea and the inviting warmth of the people at the dive resort instantly made me feel at home. The typhoon’s imminent arrival seemed to fade into insignificance amidst the beauty and friendliness that surrounded me.

Anilao is a paradise for divers seeking an immersive experience with diverse marine life. Located just three hours’ drive from Manila, the underwater world of Anilao is teeming with vibrant colours, unique creatures, and critter species that will leave you in awe.

When diving in Anilao, known as well as the first diving destination in the country, you can expect to encounter diverse marine species. Here are common species that I came across when diving in Anilao (but of course, I saw even more species, including the sea turtles!):

1. Nudibranch Haven – Anilao is renowned for its abundance of nudibranchs or sea slugs. These colourful creatures come in various unusual shapes, textures, and colours. Nudibranchs are fascinating to observe and will make your dive even more memorable. These colourful creatures come in a wide variety of unusual shapes, textures, and colours. Nudibranchs are fascinating to observe and will make your dive even more memorable.

2. Shrimps – The intricate details of small marine life are captured with close-up shots that will bring us a step closer to the underwater world. The shrimps are varied, from bubble coral shrimps to mantis shrimps.

3. Pygmy Seahorses – Home to the rare pygmy seahorses. The seahorses are found in the Gorgonian corals and can be challenging to spot, but the reward of seeing them up close is worth the effort.

4. Crinoids or Feather Sea Stars – The colourful crinoids of Anilao are so diverse with vibrant colours. They provide the perfect habitat for the ornate ghost pipefish.

5. Frogfish – Frogfish are masters of camouflage, blending in with their surroundings to ambush unsuspecting prey. Anilao offers excellent opportunities to spot different species of these peculiar-looking fish in various colours and patterns.

6. Moray Eels: Anilao’s reefs are inhabited by numerous species of moray eels. These long and serpentine creatures hide within crevices and coral formations, showcasing their sharp teeth when they open their mouths.

7. Octopus Encounter – Anilao is home to many octopus species. With their remarkable intelligence and camouflage abilities, encountering an octopus during your dive will be an experience you won’t forget.

The specific species to encounter in Anilao may vary depending on the season, water conditions, and dive sites, but I was delighted to see them on each dive 😉

PS: I am on travelling to Alor Island when this post is published. Almost completed my diving experience on this list – Top Diving Destinations in Indonesia.