Anda, Bohol may not be the first place that comes to mind for diving in the Philippines, but it should really be on your travel list! This beautiful spot features a stunning, vibrant reef system bustling with marine life. From lively corals to curious fish, and even the occasional sea turtle, Anda Reef provides an underwater experience that you won’t forget. Unlike crowded tourist areas, Anda offers a more relaxed and personal diving and snorkeling adventure.
Why Anda Reef is Unique
What makes Anda Reef stand out from other diving spots? It’s a combination of factors! For starters, the local community is very dedicated to preserving the reef. Because of this, there is less pollution, and more sustainable methods are in place, which leads to a pristine marine environment. Moreover, Anda’s location on the east side of Bohol means there’s less boat traffic in comparison to the popular Alona Beach. The reef itself is incredibly diverse, showcasing various coral formations, drop-offs, and sandy slopes, which create unique habitats for countless marine creatures.
A colorful section of Anda Reef. Image for illustrative purposes only.
What You Can Experience: A Marine Life Spectacle
Prepare to be amazed! Here’s what you might see while diving or snorkeling in Anda:
- Colorful Coral: The reef is a dazzling array of colors. You’ll find branching corals and large table corals, alongside soft corals swirling gently in the current.
- Diverse Fish Species: Look forward to seeing schools of reef fish like butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, and surgeonfish. If you take a closer look, you might also find smaller, rare species such as nudibranchs and pygmy seahorses.
- Sea Turtles: Anda is a nesting sanctuary for sea turtles. You have a good chance of spotting one, especially during nesting season. Remember to observe them from a distance and never touch them.
- Larger Marine Life: While sightings aren’t guaranteed, you may just be lucky and spot larger marine species like barracudas, trevallies, or even reef sharks further out.
- Unique Creatures: Be observant! You might catch a glimpse of cuttlefish changing colors, moray eels peeking out from their hiding spots, or even a mimic octopus showcasing its talents.
Diving and Snorkeling Options
Whether you’re an experienced diver or you’re trying snorkeling for the first time, Anda has something to offer everyone.
Diving
Anda is home to several fantastic dive sites suitable for all levels of divers. There are many dive shops that provide guided dives tailored to your skill level. Some notable dive sites include:
- Cinderella: A gentle slope adorned with various corals and vibrant fish.
- Lumawag Point: A wall dive famed for its strong currents and larger pelagic fish. This is more suited for experienced divers only!
- Coco White Beach: This is an excellent spot for beginner divers and snorkelers, with a shallow reef located close to shore.
Diving typically costs around PHP 1,500 – 2,500 (or about USD 27-45) per dive, depending on the site and dive shop. This fee usually covers equipment rental and a guided tour of the location.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling provides a wonderful way to explore the shallower sections of the reef. Many resorts offer snorkeling gear rentals, and you can often find impressive snorkeling spots right off the beach. Coco White Beach is especially notable for snorkeling, with calm and clear waters teeming with colorful fish close to the shoreline. Renting snorkeling gear usually costs around PHP 200-300 (approximately USD 3.50-5.50) per day.
Places to Stay and Eat
Anda has a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets. Here’s a recommendation:
If you are looking for comfortable and reputable accommodation, Anda White Beach Resort is an excellent choice. They provide beachfront rooms along with a restaurant, and they can organize diving and snorkeling trips. While it’s not the most affordable option, the quality and service justify the price. Room rates range from PHP 3,000 to 6,000 (around USD 55 to 110) per night, depending on the season and type of room.
For dining, Anda White Beach Resort has a restaurant serving fresh seafood. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly meal, just step outside to find local eatery (carenderia) options, where a meal of rice and a choice of dish costs about PHP 80.00.
Getting to Anda
Reaching Anda involves some travel, but it’s absolutely worth the effort.
- Fly to Tagbilaran Airport (TAG): This is Bohol Island’s main airport.
- Take a Taxi or Van to Anda: You can hire a taxi or van to take you from the airport straight to Anda. The trip lasts approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic. Make sure to negotiate your fare ahead of time. A private van ride typically costs around PHP 2,500 – 3,500 (approximately USD 45-65). For a budget option, you can take a public bus to Jagna for around PHP 100-150 per person, and from there, catch a van to Anda.
Tips for a Sustainable and Respectful Visit
Let’s ensure we enjoy Anda Reef in a responsible manner!
- Don’t touch the coral: Corals are fragile creatures that can be easily damaged. Avoid touching or accidentally kicking them while diving or snorkeling.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen: Many common sunscreens can be harmful to coral reefs. Opt for a sunscreen labeled as reef-safe, which typically contains mineral-based ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
- Don’t feed the fish: Feeding fish can disrupt their natural feeding behaviors and harm the ecosystem.
- Reduce your plastic use: Bring a reusable water bottle with you to minimize single-use plastics.
- Support local businesses: By choosing local restaurants, shops, and tour services, you help create a sustainable local economy.
- Leave no trace: Always take your trash with you and leave the environment in the same conditions you found it.
When is the Ideal Time to Visit?
The best time to visit Anda and experience its remarkable underwater life falls during the dry season, which is usually from March to May. During these months, you can expect:
- Calm seas: This makes boat rides more pleasant and reduces seasickness risk.
- Clear visibility: Optimal conditions for diving and snorkeling, allowing you to appreciate the brilliant colors and diversity of marine species.
- Sunny weather: Ideal conditions for a visit to Anda.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about visiting Anda Reef:
What is the currency used in Anda, Bohol?
The currency in Anda, Bohol, like the rest of the Philippines, is the Philippine Peso (PHP).
Do I need to be a certified diver to dive in Anda Reef?
Typically, yes. You usually need to be a certified diver to participate in most diving excursions at Anda Reef. However, some dive shops provide introductory dives for beginners, allowing you to dive under the supervision of a certified instructor.
Is snorkeling gear available for rent in Anda?
Yes, most resorts and several local shops offer snorkeling gear rentals.
Are there ATMs in Anda?
ATMs may exist, but it’s a good idea to bring enough cash, as ATMs can sometimes be unreliable in remote areas. Ensure you check the status of the ATM before your trip.
Is it necessary to book accommodation and tours in advance?
It is highly advisable to book accommodation and tours ahead of time, especially during the peak season such as Holy Week (the week before Easter Sunday, which typically falls in March or April) to guarantee availability and better rates.
What is the typical water temperature in Anda Reef?
The water in Anda Reef is generally warm year-round, ranging from 27°C to 30°C (80°F to 86°F).
Are there any medical facilities in Anda?
You will find small clinics in Anda. However, for serious medical emergencies, it is advisable to go to Tagbilaran City.
What languages are commonly spoken in Anda?
The primary languages spoken in Anda are Boholano and Filipino (Tagalog). English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
