The Marine Life of Bohol: A Month-by-Month Guide for Divers
Bohol is a diver’s paradise all year long, but each month brings its own highlights beneath the surface. From stunning coral reefs and playful turtles to the thrill of rare encounters with migrating whale sharks or massive bait balls of sardines, Bohol offers something unique in every season. Whether you’re planning your trip around marine life sightings or simply want the best conditions for learning to dive, this month-by-month guide will help you decide when to plan your dream diving vacation in the Philippines.
January
Water Temperature: 26–27°C
Visibility: 15–25 meters
Conditions: Calm seas, cooler air temps
Marine Highlights: This is one of the best times for pelagic sightings like whale sharks and manta rays, especially in deeper sites around Pamilacan Island. Turtles, nudibranchs, and schools of snapper are common. Ideal conditions for all levels of divers.
February
Water Temperature: 26–27°C
Visibility: 15–25 meters
Conditions: Calm seas, cooler air temps
Marine Highlights: This is one of the best times for pelagic sightings like whale sharks and manta rays, especially in deeper sites around Pamilacan Island. Turtles, nudibranchs, and schools of snapper are common. Ideal conditions for all levels of divers.
March
Water Temperature: 27–28°C
Visibility: 15–20 meters
Conditions: Hotter days begin, seas remain calm
Marine Highlights: The tail end of the whale shark season. Reef fish activity is high as mating season begins for many species. Great month for encountering juvenile reef life, making it ideal for macro photography.
April
Water Temperature: 28–29°C
Visibility: 15–20 meters
Conditions: Start of warmer season, stable seas
Marine Highlights: Coral spawning events may occur. Sardine run action continues, and turtle sightings increase. Divers can enjoy balanced conditions with both macro and wide-angle opportunities.
May
Water Temperature: 29°C
Visibility: 10–20 meters
Conditions: Warmer and more humid, pre-summer
Marine Highlights: A great time to see schools of jacks and barracuda in deeper sites. Macro lovers will enjoy sightings of frogfish, pipefish, and rare nudibranchs in protected areas.
June
Water Temperature: 29–30°C
Visibility: 10–18 meters
Conditions: Start of the southwest monsoon (Habagat); more frequent rain showers
Marine Highlights: Still excellent diving, especially in protected bays and calm morning hours. Octopuses, cuttlefish, and squid are more commonly seen. Turtles remain active.
July
Water Temperature: 29°C
Visibility: 10–15 meters
Conditions: Rainier season; occasional rougher seas
Marine Highlights: Rich in macro life, and the sardine run remains strong at Napaling. Look for juvenile reef fish, seahorses, and mantis shrimp. Mornings usually offer the best diving.
August
Water Temperature: 28–29°C
Visibility: 10–15 meters
Conditions: Wet season; short rain showers and humid days
Marine Highlights: Great month for crustacean sightings—including ornate shrimps and squat lobsters. Reef fish are abundant, and Napaling’s sardines continue to impress.
September
Water Temperature: 28–29°C
Visibility: 10–18 meters
Conditions: Still rainy but tapering off toward the end of the month
Marine Highlights: Reef life thrives under nutrient-rich conditions. Expect to see ghost pipefish, batfish, and cuttlefish. Also a quieter time underwater, with fewer divers.
October
Water Temperature: 28°C
Visibility: 15–20 meters
Conditions: Transition month with improving weather
Marine Highlights: Ideal time for nudibranch spotting and reef fish activity. Sardine runs become more condensed and dynamic. Great month for dive training and exploration dives.
November
Water Temperature: 27–28°C
Visibility: 15–25 meters
Conditions: Beginning of dry season; calm seas return
Marine Highlights: Return of pelagic life, including the first possible whale shark sightings of the season. Perfect mix of big and small marine life. Reef is vibrant after the rainy season.
December
Water Temperature: 27°C
Visibility: 15–25 meters
Conditions: Cool breeze, clear skies, calm waters
Marine Highlights: Peak visibility and comfort for all divers. Ideal for both macro and wide-angle shooting. Watch for passing rays, schooling trevally, and sea turtles at most sites.
Plan Your Dive Adventure with Sierra Madre Divers
No matter what month you visit, Bohol’s underwater world delivers unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re chasing sardines, searching for a shy seahorse, or looking to spot a whale shark in the blue, Sierra Madre Divers is here to help you get the most out of every season.
Contact us today to plan your dive trip around the marine life that inspires you most!
