Diving in Malapascua

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.

Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin

Destination note

Frequently sighted during boat crossings. Pods of 5-15 individuals common year-round, more active during calm season (Dec-May).

Bowmouth Guitarfish

General species description, not specific to this destination

The bowmouth guitarfish, also known as the shark ray, is a species of ray and a member of the family Rhinidae. It has a wide, flat head and a body that resembles a shark. It inhabits tropical coastal waters of the western Indo-Pacific.

Green Sea Turtle

Destination note

Common year-round. Frequently sighted at Chocolate Island, Eastern Malapascua, House Reef, and Kalanggaman Island.

Hawksbill Turtle

Destination note

Common year-round. Most frequently seen at Gato Island, Kalanggaman Island, and inshore reef sites.

Spotted Eagle Ray

Destination note

Common year-round at multiple sites. Frequently seen at Chocolate Island, Lapus Lapus, and Kalanggaman Island.

Common Lionfish

Destination note

Common year-round at Dakit Dakit, Gato Island, Dona Marilyn wreck, and Lighthouse. Often seen hovering under overhangs and in crevices during the day.

Longhorn Cowfish

General species description, not specific to this destination

A boxfish species known for its long horns protruding from its head. It has a hard, box-like body and is found in reef environments. It can release toxins when stressed.

Honeycomb Stingray

General species description, not specific to this destination

A large whipray with a flattened diamond-shaped disc, long whip-like tail, and a honeycomb or reticulated pattern of dark lines and pale spots. Its pattern becomes more obvious on larger individuals and helps distinguish it from plain stingrays. It is a bottom-dwelling predator of mollusks, crustaceans, and small fishes.

Annulated Sea Snake

General species description, not specific to this destination

A banded sea snake with a cylindrical body, small head, and paddle-shaped tail. Dark crossbands encircle a pale bluish, gray, or yellowish body, giving it the annulated pattern reflected in its common name. It is adapted to hunting fish in shallow marine and estuarine habitats.