Diving in Anilao

Loggerhead Turtle

General species description, not specific to this destination

The Loggerhead Turtle is the largest hard-shelled sea turtle, named for its massive head. While less common than Green and Hawksbill turtles on Caribbean reefs, they can be spotted at deeper reef sites.

Bull Shark

General species description, not specific to this destination

Bull sharks are one of the most impressive predators divers can encounter in warm coastal waters. These robust sharks are easily recognized by their broad, blunt snout, stocky build, and grey coloration with a white underside. Growing up to 11 feet long, they have a powerful, muscular appearance that commands respect underwater. Bull sharks are known for their curious nature and may approach divers, maintaining a confident but generally non-aggressive demeanor. They're often seen cruising along reef walls or in open water, sometimes in small groups. Their ability to tolerate both saltwater and freshwater makes them unique among sharks, and they're excellent hunters with a varied diet including fish, rays, and other marine life.

Great Hammerhead

General species description, not specific to this destination

The Great Hammerhead is the largest of all hammerhead species, instantly recognizable by its massive, flattened head extension called a cephalofoil. This prehistoric-looking predator can reach lengths of up to 20 feet, with a distinctive tall, sickle-shaped dorsal fin. Their unique head shape houses electroreceptors that help them hunt stingrays buried in sand. Great Hammerheads are solitary hunters, often seen cruising along reef walls and sandy bottoms. Despite their intimidating size, they're generally shy around divers and will often move away when approached. Their powerful swimming style and graceful movements make encounters truly memorable for fortunate divers.

Hawksbill Turtle

Destination note

Anilao's resident hawksbill turtles are a highlight at Twin Rocks, Cathedral Rock, and Sombrero Island. One particularly famous individual patrols Twin Rocks daily. Present year-round with peak sightings when visibility is highest.

Green Sea Turtle

Destination note

Green sea turtles are frequently encountered at reef sites throughout Anilao, particularly at Cathedral Rock, Twin Rocks, and the seagrass beds near Caban Island. Present year-round with highest sightings when waters are calmest.

Spotted Eagle Ray

Destination note

Spotted eagle rays are occasional visitors to Anilao's reef sites, most commonly seen gliding over Cathedral Rock and Twin Rocks during the dry season. Sightings increase from February to May when waters are calmest.

Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin

Destination note

Common bottlenose dolphins are frequently sighted in the Verde Island Passage off Anilao, often in pods of 5-20 individuals. Boat crossings to offshore sites like Sombrero Island and Caban Island offer regular dolphin encounters. Most active during the calm dry season when seas are flattest.

Leaf Sheep Sea Slug

General species description, not specific to this destination

A marine species with typical characteristics for its taxonomic group. Found in various marine habitats.

Pom-Pom Crab

General species description, not specific to this destination

The pom-pom crab is a small squat lobster-like crustacean with a hairy body and long, delicate legs. It is often found tucked among sponges, crinoids, or coral branches, where its reddish and white markings break up its outline. Its cryptic appearance makes it a favorite macro subject for careful divers and photographers.

Common Lionfish

General species description, not specific to this destination

The stunning Common Lionfish is immediately recognizable by its dramatic fan-like pectoral fins and bold red, white, and brown stripes. These graceful predators glide slowly through the water with their venomous spines spread wide like a feathered headdress. Despite their beauty, lionfish are aggressive hunters that use their large mouths to vacuum up small fish and crustaceans. Originally from the Indo-Pacific, they've become established invaders in Caribbean waters. Divers often spot them hovering near coral formations or rocky overhangs during the day, moving with deliberate, almost theatrical movements. Their confidence underwater is striking – they rarely flee from approaching divers, making them excellent photography subjects when observed from a respectful distance.

Great Barracuda

Destination note

Great barracudas are commonly seen patrolling the walls and drop-offs of Anilao, particularly at Sepoc Wall, Cathedral Rock, and Kirby's Rock. Often observed in small groups or solitary, hovering in the water column above the reef. Present year-round with highest density during the calm dry season.

Filamentous Flasher Wrasse

General species description, not specific to this destination

A marine species with typical characteristics for its taxonomic group. Found in various marine habitats.