Diving atBirhen Point (Philippines)
Birhen Point immediately reveals a striking underwater topography. Its reef top begins at 5 meters (16 ft), quickly transitioning into a dramatic wall. A vertical drop descends to 25 meters (82 ft), intricately carved with overhangs. These features combine to create a visually compelling and structurally diverse environment for exploration.
Evening condition tracking at Birhen Point features an air temperature of 28.2°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.66m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
9.7266, 124.5514
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Exploring Birhen Point unfolds a dynamic blend of reef, wall, and ocean diving experiences. A distinct structural progression defines the site, beginning with a vibrant reef top at 5 meters (16 ft) that transitions into a dramatic wall.
Extending to a maximum depth of 30 meters (98 ft), the wall features numerous overhangs, providing complex microhabitats. Conditions often support drift diving, offering an engaging trajectory along the reef's edge. This allows continuous observation of colorful soft corals, sponges, ascidians, and whip corals adorning the wall.
Such a combination cultivates a highly productive environment for both macro life and a wide array of reef fish, appealing to a broad range of certified divers. Birhen Point's relative remoteness in Anda, Bohol, helps maintain its pristine quality and ensures a less crowded experience, promoting focused observation of its rich biodiversity.
Increasingly, the area gains recognition for its abundance of fish and diverse critter populations across its reef and muck sites.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive at Birhen Point often aligns with calmer periods, with May and October typically showing excellent dive scores. These months experience lower average wave heights, contributing to more comfortable conditions. Air temperatures during the prime months range from approximately 27.3°C to 28.3°C (81-83°F). Rain averages are also comparatively low, hovering between 7.4 mm and 9.8 mm. Although specific water temperature data for Birhen Point isn't consistently reported, regional accounts for Anda indicate waters can be around 29°C (84°F). These factors generally support optimal visibility and a pleasant overall diving experience. Even during other months, dive scores are consistently good, suggesting year-round potential with varying conditions.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Upon descending into Birhen Point, divers first encounter a vibrant reef top at 5 meters (16 ft) before observing its characteristic wall. A max depth of 30 meters (98 ft) makes the site accessible to various certification levels. Visibility commonly reaches 20 meters (65 ft), allowing for clear views of the intricate wall topography and its inhabitants. Water temperatures in Anda are generally warm, around 29°C (84°F), creating comfortable diving conditions. Drift diving is common here, with currents guiding explorers along the wall, revealing an abundance of corals and active reef fish. Overhangs along the wall add an exploratory aspect to the dive.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Navigating Birhen Point's structure requires attention to local conditions, particularly during drift dives. It welcomes divers of all skill levels, from PADI Open Water to Advanced Open Water certified individuals. Beginners can partake in Discover Scuba Diving experiences under direct supervision. Due to the wall and potential currents, maintaining good buoyancy control is always important. No consistently reported specific hazards exist for this site; however, standard safe diving practices apply. Divers should brief with local guides familiar with daily variations in current strength and direction to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Environmental conditions are expected to remain consistent in the short-term outlook.
For typical recreational dives, 2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit generally provides comfortable insulation. Consider warmer surface protection (like a boat coat) due to brisk winds.
At Birhen Point, the water is currently sitting around 28°C (83°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 28°C (83°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
PHP
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Marine Life at Birhen Point
Birhen Point's underwater landscape supports a diverse array of life. Along the reef and wall, divers can often spot a variety of reef fish, including angelfish, parrotfish, and trumpetfish. Keep an eye out for smaller inhabitants like different kinds of shrimps, nudibranchs, and the impressive mantis shrimp tucked into crevices. Specifically, the site is known for sightings of garden eels swaying in currents and pygmy seahorses camouflaged on seafans. Pipefish are also part of the resident population, adding to macro photography opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical depth range at Birhen Point?
Birhen Point features a reef top starting at 5 meters (16 ft). The wall then descends to a maximum depth of 30 meters (98 ft).
What kind of dive experience can I expect?
Divers can expect a dynamic experience combining reef, wall, and ocean diving. Drift diving is common, allowing currents to guide you along the vibrant wall and reef structure.
Is Birhen Point suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, Birhen Point is suitable for all levels, from beginners undergoing Discover Scuba Diving to experienced PADI Open Water and Advanced Open Water divers. Local guides are available to assist.
What marine life is commonly seen here?
You can frequently encounter various reef fish like angelfish and parrotfish, along with critters such as shrimps, nudibranchs, and mantis shrimps. Garden eels, pygmy seahorses, and pipefish are also notable sightings.
What are the water temperatures like?
Water temperatures in the Anda region, where Birhen Point is located, are generally warm. They are often around 29°C (84°F), providing comfortable diving conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive at Birhen Point?
May and October generally offer excellent dive scores with milder conditions and lower wave heights. The site typically provides good diving conditions year-round, but these months are often preferred.
Are there currents at Birhen Point?
Yes, Birhen Point is known for drift diving, indicating the presence of currents. These currents contribute to an engaging dive as they carry you along the wall and reef.
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