This dive site, Pantaw-pantaw, is a newly discovered gem located near Malapascua Island in the Philippines. Divers typically access the site by boat, jumping directly onto a vibrant platform situated at a depth of 8 to 10 meters. From this colorful soft coral garden, a gentle wall descends to approximately 21 meters, leading to a sandy bottom. There is no specific history or story provided for this new site beyond its recent discovery.
The platform is teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful soft corals, small shrimps, and intriguing flatworms. Along the wall, divers can delight in spotting elusive pygmy seahorses and the vibrant Spanish dancers. The sandy bottom below hosts various crabs and cuttlefish, contributing to a rich array of macro subjects.
The best time to visit Pantaw-pantaw is likely during the dry season in the Philippines (roughly November to May) for optimal conditions, though diving is generally possible year-round. This site is particularly excellent for macro photography due to its abundance of small, interesting creatures. Both snorkelers and freedivers will find the shallow platform at 8-10 meters highly appealing, while scuba divers can explore the wall and sandy bottom for a comprehensive experience.
