A Diver’s Guide to Boracay’s Underwater Seasons
Boracay is a diver’s paradise no matter when you visit. With its vibrant marine life, clear waters, and diverse dive sites, the island offers incredible diving experiences year-round. The seasonal shifts brought by the Amihan (northeast) and Habagat (southwest) winds create distinct underwater conditions, but each season has its own charm and unique opportunities.
At New Wave Divers, we’re passionate about ensuring every dive is memorable, whether you’re exploring the calm waters of the Amihan season or uncovering hidden treasures during the Habagat season. Here’s your guide to diving in Boracay across the year and why you can always expect something extraordinary underwater.
The Seasons in Boracay: What to Expect
Boracay’s seasons are defined by two major weather patterns:
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Amihan Season (November to May): Dry weather and calm seas dominate this season, making it the peak time for visitors. The northeastern winds create excellent diving conditions along Boracay’s western coast, including White Beach and its surrounding dive sites.
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Habagat Season (June to October): Characterized by occasional rain and southwest winds, this season shifts the focus to the eastern coast of the island. While it’s quieter above the water, the marine life remains as vibrant as ever, and uncrowded dive sites provide a serene experience.
Why Boracay is a Year-Round Diving Destination
No matter when you visit, Boracay offers incredible underwater experiences. Each season highlights different aspects of the island’s beauty, ensuring there’s always something exciting to discover:
- Amihan Season: Exceptional visibility, calm seas, and thriving pelagic species.
- Habagat Season: Unique macro life, quieter dive sites, and lush green landscapes.
At New Wave Divers, we tailor our dives to match the conditions, ensuring you experience the best of what Boracay has to offer in every season.
Diving Conditions by Season
November to February: Calm Waters and Crystal Visibility
- Water Temperature: 26-28°C (79-82°F)
- Visibility: 20-30 meters (65-100 feet)
- Marine Life Highlights: Sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful coral gardens
The start of the Amihan season brings calm seas and incredible visibility, making this period ideal for underwater photography and exploring Boracay’s reefs. Sites like Crocodile Island and Laurel Island are at their best, with vibrant coral formations and an abundance of marine life.
Why Dive Now?
This is the perfect time for beginners to enjoy easy, stress-free dives. Advanced divers will appreciate the excellent visibility for exploring deeper sites. Expect to encounter graceful sea turtles and possibly even reef sharks gliding through the clear waters.
Why Choose New Wave Divers?
Our experienced team ensures you make the most of the ideal conditions, whether you’re taking your first dive or venturing into deeper waters.
March to May: Thriving Marine Life and Sunny Skies
- Water Temperature: 28-30°C (82-86°F)
- Visibility: 15-25 meters (50-82 feet)
- Marine Life Highlights: Schooling jacks, barracudas, and reef fish
Summer brings warmer waters and heightened marine activity. Dive sites like Yapak offer thrilling encounters with schools of jacks and barracudas, while the Tribird Wreck becomes a hub for curious reef fish.
Why Dive Now?
This is peak marine life season, making every dive an adventure. The calm waters are also perfect for drift dives along channels near Laurel Island, offering the chance to glide alongside schooling fish.
Why Choose New Wave Divers?
We’ll guide you to the most active dive sites and help you make the most of this vibrant season, whether you’re a recreational diver or seeking new challenges.
June to October: Serene Sites and Macro Treasures
- Water Temperature: 27-29°C (81-84°F)
- Visibility: 10-20 meters (33-65 feet)
- Marine Life Highlights: Nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, and bamboo sharks
The Habagat season may bring occasional rain, but it also offers a unique charm. The eastern coast of Boracay, including dive sites near Ilig-Iligan Beach, provides shelter and a quieter experience. Reduced crowds make for serene underwater exploration, and macro diving enthusiasts will find plenty to love.
Why Dive Now?
Macro life thrives during this season, with incredible sightings of nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and other small critters. Night diving is particularly rewarding, revealing nocturnal marine species like hunting lionfish and sleeping parrotfish.
Why Choose New Wave Divers?
Our dive experts are skilled at navigating seasonal conditions to uncover hidden underwater treasures. You’ll enjoy an intimate and rewarding diving experience even during the quieter months.
Marine Life Highlights Throughout the Year
- Year-Round Residents: Sea turtles, clownfish, parrotfish, and groupers
- Amihan Season (November-May): Schooling jacks, reef sharks, and vibrant coral reefs
- Habagat Season (June-October): Nudibranchs, macro critters, and nocturnal species
Plan Your Dive with New Wave Divers
Whether you’re visiting Boracay for the first time or returning to explore its underwater world again, New Wave Divers is here to make your diving experience unforgettable. Here’s why divers choose us:
- Expert Local Knowledge: Our team knows the best dive sites for every season, ensuring you get the most out of your trip.
- Tailored Dive Experiences: We adjust our itineraries based on weather and seasonal conditions to provide safe, enjoyable dives year-round.
- Commitment to Conservation: We prioritize eco-friendly diving practices, helping protect Boracay’s marine ecosystems for future generations.
Final Thoughts
Boracay’s underwater seasons offer unique opportunities to experience the island’s diverse marine environment. From the crystal-clear waters of the Amihan season to the macro life treasures of the Habagat season, there’s truly no bad time to dive in Boracay.
At New Wave Divers, we’re passionate about helping you explore the underwater wonders of this tropical paradise. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver, we’ll ensure every dive is tailored to your experience level and the season’s best conditions.
Plan your next dive adventure with us and discover why Boracay is a year-round diving destination like no other!
