Dive Diaries

Buena Vida Resort & Spa

Malapascua Island Barangay Road Daanbantayan, Cebu Philippines View in Map

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Boutique Island Living in Malapascua Island Buena Vida Resort and Spa offers a charming tropical escape just a short walk from Malapascua’s beautiful white sand beaches. Blending island comfort with a more intimate and stylish atmosphere, the resort creates the perfect setting for travelers looking to enjoy both adventure and relaxation. Cozy Comfort with Tropical Style Surrounded by lush gardens and native-inspired architecture, Buena Vida’s rooms and villas feel warm, inviting, and peaceful. The resort combines natural island charm with modern comforts, giving guests a relaxing space to recharge after a day of exploring. Its quiet garden setting adds to the laid-back atmosphere, making it easy to slow down and enjoy the calmer side of Malapascua. Adventure Around Every Corner From diving trips to island hopping adventures, Buena Vida places guests close to many of Malapascua’s top experiences. Divers can explore famous nearby sites known for thresher shark encounters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, while non-divers can enjoy snorkeling, beach walks, and boat tours around the island. The resort’s location also makes it easy to explore local restaurants, beachfront spots, and the island’s relaxed coastal community. Time to Relax and Recharge One of Buena Vida’s standout features is its spa experience. After a full day outdoors, guests can enjoy soothing massages and wellness treatments designed to help them fully unwind and recharge island-style. Combined with the resort’s peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect balance to days filled with adventure. A Different Kind of Island Escape Buena Vida Resort and Spa offers more than just a place to stay—it creates a calm and comfortable island experience with a personal touch. With its mix of tropical charm, relaxing spaces, and access to Malapascua’s best adventures, it’s an easy place to settle in and enjoy island life at a slower pace.

ARTHUR’S PLACE DIVE RESORT

Bagalangit,Mabini Batangas, Mabini, Philippines, 420 View in Map

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A Resort Built on Passion Arthur’s Place was named after its founder, Arturo Abrigonda — fondly known as “Arthur” — a proud Batangas local and diving enthusiast. What began as a humble dream grew into one of Anilao’s beloved dive destinations after Arthur met a German friend who helped him establish the resort. Starting with just two rooms, the resort steadily expanded as more travelers discovered the magic of Anilao. From four rooms, it eventually grew into a cozy 12-room retreat, fully furnished to provide comfort after exciting days beneath the sea. A Pioneer in Anilao Diving Long before Anilao became internationally recognized as a premier dive destination, Arthur’s Place was already introducing guests to the incredible marine life and underwater wonders of the region. Over the decades, the resort has remained a favorite among divers seeking authentic experiences, warm hospitality, and easy access to some of the country’s best dive sites. Whether guests are experienced divers chasing vibrant reefs and macro photography opportunities or beginners eager to explore the ocean for the first time, the resort offers unforgettable underwater adventures for everyone. Family-Owned Warmth & Hospitality Today, Arthur’s Place continues its legacy as a family-operated resort managed by Lita Abrigonda, the wife of the late Arthur. The resort maintains its welcoming and laid-back atmosphere, making every guest feel right at home. Beyond diving, visitors can simply relax by the sea, soak in the tropical surroundings, and enjoy the peaceful charm that has made the resort special for generations. Dive Into Adventure From colorful coral gardens to thrilling underwater encounters, Arthur’s Place Dive Resort invites guests to experience the beauty and excitement of Anilao firsthand. With decades of diving history, heartfelt hospitality, and a deep love for the ocean, it remains a timeless destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in Batangas.

Kasai Village Dive Resort

Tuble, Moalboal, Cebu, 6032 Philippines View in Map

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A Peaceful Escape in Moalboal Kasai Village Dive Resort offers a refined island getaway for divers and nature lovers seeking something a little more exclusive. Set along the serene coastline of Moalboal, it’s a place where guests can truly unplug, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of the ocean without the crowds. Built for Serious Divers At the heart of the resort is a fully equipped dive center designed for both recreational and advanced diving. From Trimix gas blending to rebreather diving, Kasai caters to those looking to take their underwater adventures further. Divers can explore vibrant reefs and world-class sites nearby, all while enjoying a smooth, well-supported diving experience. A Haven for Underwater Creators Kasai stands out for its strong focus on underwater photography and videography. With a dedicated camera room for editing, servicing, and storage, plus dive boats built with photographers in mind, every detail is designed to help guests capture stunning shots beneath the surface. Relaxation, Elevated Beyond diving, the resort invites guests to slow down and recharge. The sea view spa offers a range of treatments—from soothing massages to rejuvenating scrubs—perfect after a day in the water. It’s all about restoring both body and mind in a calm, tropical setting. Dining with a View Overlooking the beautiful Tañon Strait, the resort’s restaurant serves a delightful mix of Asian and international cuisine in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. Fresh ingredients sourced locally and from Cebu ensure every dish is flavorful, balanced, and satisfying. Where Adventure Meets Comfort With its blend of high-level diving, thoughtful amenities, and warm hospitality, Kasai Village Dive Resort delivers an experience that feels both exciting and indulgent. It’s the perfect base for exploring Moalboal while enjoying a peaceful slice of paradise.

Haybols Scuba Hub

Mabini Circumferential Rd, Mabini, Batangas View in Map

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Your Gateway to Anilao’s Underwater Wonders Located near some of the country’s best dive sites, Haybols Scuba Hub gives guests easy access to vibrant coral reefs, colorful reef fish, and fascinating macro creatures that make Anilao world-famous among divers and underwater photographers. From shore dives to boat adventures, every underwater trip promises incredible marine encounters and breathtaking scenery beneath the surface. A Relaxed and Friendly Dive Community One of the things that makes the scuba hub stand out is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a casual beachside environment where divers, travelers, and adventure seekers come together to share stories, experiences, and unforgettable moments by the sea. The resort’s chill vibe makes it a perfect destination for weekend barkada trips, solo dive adventures, or peaceful getaways away from the busy city. Adventure Beyond Diving While diving is the main attraction, the fun doesn’t stop underwater. Guests can spend their free time relaxing along the coast, enjoying the ocean breeze, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or simply taking in the stunning tropical scenery that surrounds the area. Sunrise dives, sunset views, and peaceful evenings by the beach all come together to create a memorable island-style escape. Experience the Best of Batangas At Haybols Scuba Hub, every stay is all about adventure, relaxation, and discovering the beauty of the ocean. With its accessible dive locations, friendly atmosphere, and exciting underwater experiences, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the vibrant marine world of Batangas. Whether guests come for the diving, the scenery, or the relaxing beach vibes, one thing is certain — every visit promises an experience worth coming back for.

Sumisid Lodge

Panagsama Beach, Basdiot Moalboal, Island, Cebu, 6015 View in Map

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A Cozy Diver's Hideaway in Moalboal Nestled right along the vibrant shores of Panagsama Beach, Sumisid Lodge offers a laid-back island escape built for divers, ocean lovers, and travelers looking for that authentic tropical vibe. Small, cozy, and full of character, the lodge has been welcoming guests since 1981 and continues to charm visitors with its relaxed atmosphere and unbeatable beachfront location. Dive, Explore, Repeat Connected directly to the dive center, Sumisid makes diving effortless from the moment guests wake up. While breakfast is being served, the dive crew is already preparing gear for another day underwater. From here, divers can easily explore Moalboal’s famous reefs, vibrant marine life, and the legendary Sardine Run just off the coast. Whether it’s a casual fun dive or a full diving adventure, everything is designed to keep things simple, exciting, and stress-free. Relaxed Island Living Built with native materials like bamboo and wood, the lodge embraces a warm, homey atmosphere where guests quickly feel like part of the family. Meals are often shared buffet-style, creating a fun and social environment where stories from the day’s dives are exchanged over delicious local favorites and ocean views. As the sun sets over the Negros Strait, the beachfront patio becomes the perfect place to unwind with a drink and soak in the island magic. Simple, Authentic, and Full of Charm Sumisid Lodge may keep things casual, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s the kind of place where divers come for the incredible underwater experiences and stay for the welcoming atmosphere, friendly faces, and easygoing island lifestyle. For travelers looking to dive more, relax more, and truly experience Moalboal, Sumisid Lodge feels just like home—only better.