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Story and Photos NGUYEN NGOC THIEN
The Philippines’ Balicasag Island is an unbeatable destination for diving enthusiasts and nature lovers.
A 90-minute flight from Manila, the capital of the Philippines, brought us to Panglao Island, Bohol Province. This large island is famous for its beautiful beaches like Alona and Dumaluan; however, we continued for a 45-minute boat ride to Balicasag, an unforgettable diving paradise.
Balicasag island – A marine heaven
The moment we arrived at the pier, we were captivated by the pristine and tranquil beauty of the place. The crystal-clear, emerald-green seawater, reflecting the sunlight, created a dazzling scene when viewed from above. The beach, a long stretch of fine white sand interspersed with coconut palms and lush greenery, was a picture-perfect natural landscape.
Unique diving experiences
Diving takes center stage in Balicasag. Around the island, there are many famous dive sites such as Black Forest, Cathedral Wall, Turtle Point and Marine Sanctuary. Black Forest features abundant soft black corals, forming an underwater landscape, while Cathedral Wall is a towering coral structure adorned with small crevices and caves. This is the habitat of many different species of fish and marine life. I encountered small blacktip reef sharks gracefully gliding along the coral reefs, moray eels peeking out from the rocky crevices and huge schools of sardines moving in unison – an awe-inspiring aquatic tableau.
Coral reef ecosystem & marine life
Balicasag Marine Sanctuary is famous for extensive, vibrant coral reefs where strict conservation measures are implemented to maintain biodiversity. This marine ecosystem is home to everything from small, colorful reef fish to big-eye trevallies to larger species like manta rays, dolphins, sharks and sea turtles. We were able to admire the giant coral formations, schools of fish swimming freely, and even some strange marine creatures I had never seen before.
One of the most memorable moments of my trip was encountering sea turtles at Turtle Point. These friendly turtles showed no fear of humans. Swimming alongside them, I felt their gentle grace as they glided through the ocean in a truly remarkable and emotional experience.
Peaceful island life
Beyond diving, life on Balicasag Island also provides an inviting experience for visitors. The friendly islanders primarily make a living through fishing and tourism and are always eager to share stories about their lives and culture. I had the opportunity to savor delicious fresh seafood prepared right on the spot – grilled fish, crabs and shrimp, which had all the rich flavors of the sea. As evening began to fall, the island’s breathtaking sunsets were truly mesmerizing. The fading daylight reflected on the sea, creating a romantic and serene atmosphere. Sitting on the beach, listening to the waves and enjoying the twilight scenery, I felt a profound sense of tranquility and peace.
End of the journey
My trip to Balicasag left me with many cherished memories and lasting impressions. This is a place that truly anyone who loves diving and exploring nature should visit at least once in their lifetime. The diverse marine ecosystem, combined with the pristine and peaceful beauty of the island, creates an unforgettable experience. Balicasag is not just a tourist destination, but a journey of discovery and appreciation of nature’s beauty, where every moment becomes memorable and meaningful. If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then Balicasag is the perfect destination.
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