Masaplod Sur
Two areas split by a muddy gorge: a protected coral slope to the north, and a macro-rich south side with Halgerda batangas and spindle cowries.
Masaplod Sur is really two dive sites in one, separated by a muddy gorge. The north side lies inside a marine protected area: a slope covered in small soft and hard corals, busy with reef fish and macro life. The south side is different in character, a mix of muck and reef that ranks among the best macro diving on the Dauin coast.
The dive
The maximum depth is around 22 metres. We highly recommend the south side, where the macro life is at its richest. If you enjoy reef and sand on the same dive, try its neighbour Masaplod Norte as well.
What you might see
- Halgerda batangas, a striking nudibranch named after Batangas in the Philippines, along with many other nudibranch species
- Spindle cowries, small snails that live on black coral, their shells covered by a mantle that matches their host
- Sawblade shrimps, tiny and almost transparent, also living on black and whip coral
- Schools of yellow snappers over the reef
- Soft and hard corals across the protected north side
When to dive Masaplod Sur
Good all year. Nudibranchs, the main attraction on the south side, are at their most varied from January to March, and the water stays between about 25 and 29°C. See when to dive Dauin.
Who it suits
Masaplod Sur is a site for divers who enjoy slowing down. Many of its best subjects are tiny and live on black coral, so good buoyancy matters, both for finding them and for protecting their home. It is a favourite with macro photographers.
Our tip
Bring a macro lens, and ask your guide to point out the black coral: that is where the spindle cowries and sawblade shrimps live.
Good to know
- The north side is part of a marine sanctuary. The standard sanctuary fee is included in our dive price; with a camera, add PHP 50 per dive.
- Black coral is fragile and slow-growing. Please keep fins and hands clear, and let your guide position you for photos.
Dive Masaplod Sur 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.