Mainit
A volcanic site of warm black sand and lively currents, great for drift diving, with barracudas, Moorish idols, bannerfish and ghost pipefish.
Mainit means “hot” in the local language, and the name suits it: this is a volcanic dive site with warm patches of seabed and black sand, a reminder that Negros is a volcanic island. Its currents can be strong, which makes it a natural drift dive and one of the liveliest sites on the Dauin coast.
The dive
The maximum depth is around 22 metres. You let the current carry you along the black sand and coral, so there is little finning and a lot to watch. Mainit is usually a fairly short dive, because the current sets the pace.
What you might see
- Barracudas, which like the moving water
- Moorish idols and bannerfish over the coral patches
- Ghost pipefish, drifting like loose leaves close to the bottom
- Flabellina nudibranchs, small and colourful, on the hydroids
- Warm patches of sand where volcanic heat reaches the seabed
When to dive Mainit
Mainit can be dived all year, but conditions depend on the current on the day. Our team checks before every dive and will choose another site if it is too strong. The water stays between about 25 and 29°C. See when to dive Dauin.
Who it suits
Mainit is for divers who are comfortable in current and enjoy something more energetic than a slow muck dive. If drift diving is new to you, tell us and we will plan it with you.
Our tip
Expect a strong current. Mainit is a lively drift dive, though usually a fairly short one. Stay close to your guide and keep your camera settings ready before you descend.
Good to know
- Mainit is not a marine sanctuary.
- Nitrox is available for certified divers.
- For a calmer dive with similar macro life, try San Miguel or Talisay.
Dive Mainit with us
We dive the Dauin coast every day, with full rental equipment included in our dive rates. See our Dauin diving and prices, or build your dive trip and tell us which sites you would like to see.