Diving atPaliton Wall (Philippines)
Paliton Wall in Siquijor Island, Philippines, presents a vertical coral structure that offers notable visibility for divers. Often exhibiting clear waters, conditions typically allow for views spanning 10-30 m / 30-98 ft. This clarity enhances the appreciation of its diverse marine life and intricate coral formations.
Evening condition tracking at Paliton Wall features an air temperature of 27.6°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.58m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
9.1773, 123.4615
Dive Site Characteristics
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Descending into Paliton Wall reveals a captivating underwater landscape, recognized as a vertical wall dive within the Paliton Marine Sanctuary on Siquijor's western side. This site accommodates a broad range of divers due to its structure, which features a vibrant, sloping wall beginning as shallow as 5 meters and extending well beyond 30 meters.
While its shallower sections are suitable for Open Water divers exploring the reef top and upper wall, the deeper areas, with a reported maximum depth reaching 45 meters, require more experience and advanced training. It's primarily a boat dive, often approached as a drift dive, which adds a dynamic element, allowing divers to effortlessly traverse significant portions of the reef as currents guide them along the impressive coral formations.
This site also stands out as a favored location for macro photography, particularly rewarding during night dives. Under the cover of darkness, different nocturnal species emerge, and the reef's true colors are strikingly illuminated, offering a distinct perspective on the intricate ecosystems here.
The diverse topography ensures that both novice and seasoned adventurers can find engaging exploration at various depths.
Best Time to Dive
Diving at Paliton Wall is possible throughout the entire year. The warmer periods, from March to May, see average air temperatures around 28.6°C / 83°F and calmer surface conditions, with minimal rain averaging 2.9-5.5 mm. Conversely, December through February are generally cooler, with average air temperatures around 26.6-27.0°C / 80°F and slightly higher wind speeds, yet still offer excellent dive scores. Water temperatures consistently range between 27-29°C / 81-84°F, providing comfortable diving conditions regardless of the season. Months with lower wave heights and less wind, such as April, May, and October-December, tend to correlate with 'Excellent' dive scores, while July to September show 'Good' scores with increased wave heights and wind.
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
Experiencing Paliton Wall involves navigating a dynamic reef environment. Water visibility generally stays good, ranging from 10 to 30 m / 30 to 98 ft, allowing for expansive views of the wall's features. The water temperature is consistently warm, typically between 27-29°C / 81-84°F, making for a comfortable dive even during extended bottom times. As a wall and potential drift dive, conditions can include gentle to moderate currents, which add to the exhilaration of traversing the reef. The site is particularly well-regarded for its potential as a night dive, offering a distinct perspective on the marine inhabitants and coral structures. Despite being described as 'OW friendly' in some areas, the site's full depth range appeals to more experienced divers.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching Paliton Wall, divers should be mindful of its varying depths and the possibility of currents inherent to wall and drift diving. While some parts are accessible for Open Water divers, reaching the site's maximum reported depth of 45 meters requires advanced training and experience. Given its designation as a drift dive, maintaining situational awareness and buoyancy control is crucial, especially when traversing along the wall. Though specific hazards are not consistently reported for Paliton Wall itself, the general nature of ocean and wall diving implies potential for changing currents. Carrying a surface marker buoy (SMB) is a practical recommendation for any open water diving in this region, ensuring boat crews can easily spot divers upon surfacing.
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
In these water temperatures, 2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit is a common choice for recreational diving. Consider warmer surface protection (like a boat coat) due to brisk winds. Longer dive profiles can make thermal protection more important than short exploratory dives.
Conditions at Paliton Wall currently place the water temperature near 29°C (83°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 28°C (82°F).
Forecast models indicate that diving conditions should remain largely unchanged.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
Check local Philippines medical facilities.
Entry Requirements
View Philippines Visa Hub
Currency
PHP
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Marine Life at Paliton Wall
Beneath the surface, Paliton Wall showcases rich biodiversity, with vibrant coral formations, including extensive gardens of soft and hard corals, and large barrel sponges. Divers often encounter longspine snipefish, shoals of cinerascens, and schoolmaster snapper traversing the reef. The wall provides a habitat for various macro critters, such as mantis shrimp, offering rewarding observations for those with a keen eye. Turtles are also commonly sighted, adding to the site's allure, along with diverse reef fish species.
Dive Sites Near Paliton Wall
View all dive sites in PhilippinesDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near Paliton Wall
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical maximum depth at Paliton Wall?
The maximum reported depth for Paliton Wall is 45 meters. The wall itself typically slopes from around 5 meters to beyond 30 meters.
Is Paliton Wall suitable for beginner divers?
The shallower sections of Paliton Wall, starting at around 5 meters, are considered Open Water friendly. However, exploring the full depth range and engaging with potential drift diving conditions benefit from advanced training.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Divers frequently observe longspine snipefish, schoolmaster snapper, and shoals of cinerascens. The vibrant coral formations house numerous macro critters like mantis shrimp, and turtles are a common sight.
What are the water temperatures at Paliton Wall?
Water temperatures at Paliton Wall are consistently warm throughout the year, typically ranging between 27-29°C / 81-84°F.
Can I do a night dive at Paliton Wall?
Yes, Paliton Wall is considered a great site for night dives. It offers a different perspective on marine life and is well-suited for macro photography after dark.
Are there strong currents at Paliton Wall?
As a wall and drift dive, currents can be present. Conditions are not consistently reported but divers should be prepared for gentle to moderate currents that can enhance the drift experience.
What is the best time of year to dive Paliton Wall?
Diving is possible all year, but the periods from March to May and October to December often have 'Excellent' dive scores due to calmer conditions, lower rain, and less wind.
Liveaboards Sailing to Paliton Wall
Explore highly rated liveaboards visiting this dive site and discover the best routes in Philippines.
Resorts & Accommodation
Find partner hotels and dive resorts directly accessing the reef.
Around This Area
Explore top-rated restaurants, activities, and attractions near Paliton Wall reviewed by travelers.
Planning to dive Paliton Wall?
Send one inquiry and receive offers directly from the best verified local dive operators.