Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a remote marine protected area in the Sulu Sea and a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for exceptional coral diversity and large pelagic populations. The park comprises two major atolls and surrounding reefs that form one of the Philippines’ most important marine reserves.

The park is primarily visited by liveaboard dive vessels during the official season, usually open from mid-March to mid-June, and offers steep walls, coral gardens and frequent sightings of sharks, manta rays and large schooling fish. Scientific assessments record exceptionally high coral cover and species richness across the reef systems.

Tubbataha was designated a national marine park and later inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in recognition of its intact reef systems and biodiversity. The site is managed with strict protection measures to prevent fishing and other damaging activities.

The reefs lie in the central Sulu Sea, isolated from major islands and administered from Palawan province; they are reached only by sea and are many hours by boat from the nearest main ports on Palawan.

• Season and access: The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with strict access controls; the dive season normally runs from mid-March to mid-June when liveaboard trips operate.
• Regulations: Park regulations require permits, briefing and an authorised guide for all visits; commercial fishing is prohibited within the protected boundaries.

What to See #

• North Atoll: A crescent-shaped atoll to the north of the park with extensive coral gardens and drop-offs favoured by large pelagic species and schooling fish.
• South Atoll: A larger atoll to the south with channels, walls and shallow lagoons that provide a wide range of dive sites for different experience levels.
• Jessie Beazley Reef: A standalone reef feature within the park known for steep walls and strong currents; a regular site for pelagic sightings.