O

ne of the most interesting dive
areas in Palawan, and at times
overlooked due to the fame of the
Coronshipwrecks, is the Calamian
Group. These islands have a variety
of formations that include powder
white sandy beaches, rocky
outcrops and towering trees full of
fruit bats. They are found along the
northern shores of Busuanga Island
and out into the north and eastern
reef systems of the Mindoro Straits.
The outer banks include the famous
Apo Reef Natural Park and sites
around the Tara Islands.
Scenic and diverse, this is a main
habitat area for the rare and
endangered dugong, a sea cow
that looks somewhat like a
manatee but has a forked tail like a
whale or dolphin. They graze on
the sea grasses that grow on the
slopes and up into the shallows of
many of these islands. Sea turtles,
especially green sea turtles, also
nest in the islands and munch the

same grasses.

Many of these islands are

incredibly photogenic and

uninhabited and romantics can

arrange for a day with a special

someone on a desert isle, getting a

taste of Robinson Crusoe existence

(albeit with a well-packed cooler,

liquid refreshment and adult

beverages). Snorkeling is generally

good with minimal currents at most

beaches.

Busuanga is served by frequent

flights. Get a window seat as on a

sunny day, the flight over the islands

is like a special tour with stunning

tropical colors.

Most hotels and spas have

package deals that can include

diving. Instruction, daily dives and

special charters can all be arranged.

The island group holds great fish

diversity, an array of coral life and

one of the war wrecks. The water

here is generally quite clear and the

presence of the resorts and their

group of Coast Guard reserve

Calamian Islands

Dimakya flying

foxes at sunset

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Coron Bay

Busuanga

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