Discovering dive spots in Cebu is like searching for precious jewelry in a pirate’s treasure chest. Cebu is simply studded with the best dive spots. However, by far, none can compare with the experience of diving in the island of Malapascua.

But why? Well, let’s get on board my “bangka” (small, local motorized boat found in the Philippines) and let’s set sail to Malapascua.

First, let’s talk briefly about the island itself. What makes it such a fantastic dive spot? Malapascua is a small island, located across a shallow strait from the northernmost tip of Cebu, however don’t be fooled by its size. It is home to wide white sand beaches, excellent local dive spots as well as beautiful coral gardens. Islanders rely on tourism as their means of livelihood while most still fish and farm.

Now, let’s go further out into the island. Here we will discover three world-famous dive spots: Gato Island, Monad Shoal, and Kemod Shoal. Even within these three dive spots you can find a variety of dive sites that offer any diver, from beginner to pro, plenty to see: diverse marine life and so much more.

Monad Shoal, in particular, is one of the most well-known diving spots in Cebu. Divers from all over the world have rated this diving spot as some of the best they have ever experienced.

Let’s stop our bangka here at Monad Shoal, the crown jewel of all the diving spots in Malapascua and yes, safe to say, probably the most excellent diving spot in Cebu. Close your eyes and imagine that it is early morning, just right around the time the sun rises and yes, this is just the perfect time to discover why diving in Malapascua is the best way to enjoy diving in Cebu.

You see, Monad Shoal is a sunken island of about 20 meters. At first glance, it’s rather unremarkable. But it’s what lies beneath that is truly worth making this trip. Monad Shoal is a natural cleaning station for Thresher Sharks and known as the only place in the world that you can dive with these mysterious and rare creatures of the deep. If we’re really lucky, we might get up close and personal with giant manta rays, devil rays and eagle rays.

So, stop staring at the computer screen. Get those diving gear packed up and book the first flight out of wherever you are right now and find your way to one of Cebu’s best diving spots. As soon as you arrive, you’ll find that’s it’s truly a slice of diving paradise.