Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

The Crown Jewel of Philippine Marine Biodiversity!

The Crown Jewel - In the heart of the Sulu Sea lies a remote marine sanctuary that has captivated divers, scientists, and conservationists from around the world—Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Often hailed as the crown jewel of Philippine marine biodiversity, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only a diver’s paradise but also a globally significant ecological treasure.

Spanning nearly 97,000 hectares, Tubbataha is a sanctuary of life beneath the waves. With towering coral walls, crystal-clear waters, and an astonishing array of marine species, it is one of the few remaining places on Earth where ocean life flourishes with minimal human impact. From schools of barracuda and reef sharks to endangered sea turtles and vibrant coral gardens, the diversity here is simply staggering.

Accessible only by liveaboard boats for a few months each year, Tubbataha offers a rare opportunity to witness the ocean in its raw, untouched form. But it’s not just the underwater scenery that draws visitors—it’s the story of protection, resilience, and the ongoing efforts to preserve one of the planet’s most vital marine ecosystems.

Whether you're a seasoned diver or an advocate for conservation, Tubbataha invites you to explore, experience, and help protect a living testament to the richness of the Philippine seas.

Location and Geography

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is situated in the Sulu Sea, approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa City in the province of Palawan, Philippines. Nestled in the geographic center of the Coral Triangle—the world’s most biologically diverse marine region—Tubbataha is made up of two main atolls, the North Atoll and South Atoll, along with the isolated Jessie Beazley Reef to the north.

Covering roughly 96,828 hectares, the park includes extensive reef flats, vertical walls, lagoons, and deep-sea environments. These features provide ideal habitats for an extraordinary range of marine life. The atolls themselves are the summits of extinct underwater volcanoes, now carpeted with living corals and surrounded by nutrient-rich waters that support complex marine food webs.

What makes Tubbataha particularly unique is its isolation—there are no settlements, no permanent infrastructure, and no nearby shorelines. This remoteness has helped protect the reefs from the pressures of coastal development, overfishing, and pollution that have affected many other reef systems in Southeast Asia.

Accessible only by liveaboard boats during the calm season from mid-March to mid-June, this marine park is not just a diver’s dream but also a model of effective marine conservation. Its remote geography and tight access controls have allowed Tubbataha to remain one of the last truly wild reef systems in the world.

Biodiversity and Marine Life

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park sits at the apex of the Coral Triangle, the most biologically diverse marine region on Earth. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts an ecosystem so rich and vibrant that it supports thousands of species, many of which are rare, endemic, or endangered.

Corals and Reef Systems

With over 360 species of corals, Tubbataha accounts for nearly 90% of all coral species found in the Philippines. These reefs form vast underwater walls and terraces that teem with marine life, providing critical shelter, feeding grounds, and nursery areas.

Fish and Pelagic Species

The park is home to more than 600 species of fish, including trevallies, snappers, groupers, butterflyfish, and wrasses. Divers frequently encounter schools of barracuda, tuna, and jacks, as well as whale sharks, manta rays, and hammerhead sharks in deeper waters.

Sharks, Turtles, and Marine Mammals

Tubbataha supports at least 11 species of sharks, such as grey reef sharks, whitetip reef sharks, and tiger sharks. It also serves as a nesting site for endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. Dolphins and whales occasionally pass through the park’s deeper channels.

Birdlife and Other Species

Above water, the park's islets are breeding grounds for seabirds like boobies, terns, and frigatebirds, making it important not just for marine conservation, but also for avian biodiversity.

Tubbataha’s ecological integrity is a product of both nature and strict protection. Its reefs are not just beautiful—they are vital to the health of regional fisheries, coastal resilience, and global biodiversity.

Diving in Tubbataha

For divers, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is the epitome of underwater adventure. Regarded as one of the world’s top diving destinations, it offers an unrivaled blend of marine biodiversity, dramatic reef walls, and pristine visibility.

Dive Season and Accessibility

Tubbataha is accessible only from mid-March to mid-June, when the sea conditions are calm enough for liveaboard boats to operate safely. All trips depart from Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, and usually last between 5 to 7 days at sea.

Top Dive Sites

• Amos Rock (Southwest Wall) – Known for strong currents, vibrant soft corals, and reef sharks.

• Delsan Wreck – A sunken vessel surrounded by massive schools of jackfish, snappers, and barracuda.

• Black Rock – Ideal for spotting larger pelagic species like mantas and tuna.

• Malayan Wreck – Covered in corals and swarming with marine life.

• Jessie Beazley Reef – A shallow reef with brilliant coral gardens, perfect for wide-angle photography.

Dive Conditions

• Depth: 5 to 40+ meters

• Visibility: Typically, 30–45 meters

• Currents: Moderate to strong (ideal for drift diving)

• Experience level: Intermediate to advanced divers recommended

What to Expect Underwater

Expect close encounters with sharks, manta rays, turtles, schooling pelagics, and thriving macro life. The reefs are also home to tiny nudibranchs, leaf scorpionfish, and colorful anthias dancing over coral bommies.

Every dive in Tubbataha feels like an expedition into an untouched marine wilderness—a privilege reserved for those who make the journey during its brief open season.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, photo by Ron Van Oers, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Conservation and Protection

The exceptional biodiversity of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is matched by its reputation as one of the best-managed marine protected areas in the world. Its success in conservation is a result of early protection, strict enforcement, and collaborative management.

Protected Status

• Declared a Marine National Park in 1988 and later designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, Tubbataha is recognized for its global ecological value.

• It is also a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance and part of the ASEAN Heritage Parks network.

Management and Enforcement

• The park is overseen by the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) in partnership with the Philippine Navy, Coast Guard, and local NGOs.

• A permanent ranger station on-site houses marine park rangers year-round to enforce regulations, conduct patrols, and monitor biodiversity.

Conservation Initiatives

• Activities such as reef monitoring, species tagging, and community education are ongoing.

• Entry fees and diving permits directly fund protection, reef restoration, and local livelihood programs.

Success Story

• Despite facing past threats like illegal fishing, Tubbataha has seen strong coral recovery, increased fish biomass, and continued sightings of apex predators—indicators of a healthy ecosystem.

• This model of protection proves that with science-based policies, local stewardship, and global recognition, even fragile ecosystems like coral reefs can thrive.

How to Visit Tubbataha

Reaching Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is an adventure in itself—one that begins with planning well ahead. Given its remote location and brief accessibility window, visits require coordination and preparation.

Fly to Puerto Princesa, Palawan

• The gateway to Tubbataha is Puerto Princesa City, accessible via direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark. It's recommended to arrive at least a day before your scheduled liveaboard departure.

Book a Liveaboard Dive Trip

• Tubbataha can only be reached by liveaboard dive boats that operate from mid-March to mid-June. These boats offer multi-day expeditions—typically 5 to 7 nights—with full-board accommodations, dive guides, and marine park permits included.

Choose a Licensed Operator

• Only DENR-accredited liveaboard operators are allowed to enter the park. Popular choices include MV Stella Maris Explorer, Discovery Fleet, and Philippine Siren. Book well in advance as trips fill up quickly.

Prepare for the Journey

• Expect to be off grid: there is no cell service or internet in the park. Bring personal dive gear (or rent onboard), motion sickness meds, reef-safe sunscreen, and a waterproof camera. Dive certification and medical clearance are often required.

Pay Park Fees

• Marine Park fees are typically bundled into your booking and go directly toward conservation and ranger operations.

Visiting Tubbataha isn’t your average dive holiday—it’s a curated, once-a-year expedition to one of Earth’s most untouched marine treasures.

Ranger Station, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, photo by Dianathegreat2018, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Food, Dining, and Accommodation Options

Due to Tubbataha’s location in the middle of the Sulu Sea, all accommodations and meals are provided aboard liveaboard dive vessels. While you won’t find resorts or restaurants in the park itself, your trip will still be both comfortable and well-catered.

Aboard the Liveaboard: Full-Board Service

• Dive boats operating in Tubbataha are equipped with professional kitchen staff who prepare three full meals a day, along with snacks, fresh fruit, and drinks. Meals are typically served buffet-style and include a mix of Filipino dishes, Asian cuisine, and Western comfort food.

Dietary Preferences and Special Requests

• Most liveaboards are happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-sensitive diets if informed in advance. With proper notice, guests can enjoy customized meals without sacrificing quality or variety.

Pre- and Post-Dive Stays in Puerto Princesa

• Before or after your trip, spend a night in Puerto Princesa City. Recommended options include:

  • Canvas Boutique Hotel – Modern and centrally located.

  • Princesa Garden Island Resort – Ideal for luxury travelers.

  • Hibiscus Garden Inn – A quiet, charming mid-range stay.

Where to Eat in Puerto Princesa

• Dine at local favorites such as:

  • KaLui Restaurant – Fresh seafood and tropical interiors.

  • Kinabuch’s Grill and Bar – A casual spot for grilled meats and local beer.

  
  

Though Tubbataha is remote, the experience on board ensures you’re well-fed and well-rested throughout your dive adventure.

Responsible Travel Tips

Visiting Tubbataha is a privilege—and with that comes the responsibility to help preserve this fragile marine sanctuary. Here’s how to make your trip environmentally conscious and conservation-friendly:

Follow Park Rules and Briefings

• Before every dive, listen to your guide’s orientation. Avoid touching corals, chasing marine life, or disturbing seabeds. Anchoring is prohibited—liveaboards use mooring buoys.

Use Reef-Safe Products

• Choose reef-safe sunscreen and biodegradable toiletries to reduce chemical runoff. Even small residues can damage delicate coral systems.

Minimize Waste

• Bring a refillable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics. Most liveaboards already practice waste reduction—support this by packing reusable items.

Respect Wildlife and Other Divers

• Maintain proper buoyancy, give marine life space, and never feed animals. Avoid flash photography that could startle sensitive species.

Support Conservation Efforts

• Your park fees directly help fund reef monitoring, ranger patrols, and local community programs. You can also donate to the Tubbataha Reefs Foundation to further support its long-term protection.

By traveling responsibly, you not only enjoy the best of Tubbataha—you also become part of its legacy as one of the world’s most successful marine protected areas.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, photo by Ron Van Oers, CC, via Wikimedia Commons

Alternatives and Nearby Attractions

While Tubbataha is an exclusive diving destination open only a few months each year, there are other incredible places nearby that offer stunning natural beauty, accessibility, and rich marine life for those who want to extend their trip or explore more of Palawan.

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this underground river system flows through karst caves and is accessible via boat tours. Located just a few hours from the city center, it’s ideal for a pre- or post-dive land-based excursion.

Honda Bay Island Hopping

Closer to Puerto Princesa, Honda Bay offers day tours to nearby islands with white-sand beaches, snorkeling spots, and vibrant coral gardens. Popular stops include Cowrie Island, Pandan Island, and Starfish Island.

El Nido and Bacuit Archipelago

A short flight or van ride north, El Nido features dramatic limestone cliffs, lagoons, and hidden beaches. It’s a top destination for kayaking, snorkeling, and scenic island tours.

Apo Reef Natural Park (Occidental Mindoro)

Often compared to Tubbataha, Apo Reef is the second-largest contiguous coral reef system in the world. It’s a great option for divers seeking similar biodiversity in a more accessible setting.

Whether you're extending your dive holiday or planning for future trips, these nearby attractions complement the Tubbataha experience with land adventures, island escapes, and more underwater thrills.

Takeaway

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is more than a dive destination—it’s a symbol of what marine conservation can achieve when communities, governments, and travelers work together. Isolated in the heart of the Sulu Sea, its pristine reefs, flourishing marine life, and protected ecosystems represent one of the last true wildernesses of the underwater world.

For divers, it’s a pilgrimage site. For scientists, a living laboratory. For conservationists, a success story. And for responsible travelers, Tubbataha offers a rare and humbling encounter with nature at its most untouched.

Accessible only for a few short months each year and only to those who venture by liveaboard, visiting Tubbataha is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—one that reminds us how vital it is to protect what remains of our planet’s most delicate and beautiful ecosystems.

Whether you're drifting along coral-covered walls, spotting sharks in the blue, or simply soaking in the silence of the open sea, your journey to Tubbataha is more than a trip—it’s a contribution to the continued survival of one of Earth’s greatest marine treasures.