Diving at Toscana Reef (Philippines)

Toscana Reef offers divers a dramatic underwater topography, characterized by a distinct drop-off that begins around 15 m (50 ft) and extends to a maximum depth of 28 m (91 ft). This Sipalay dive site in the Philippines forms part of the region's diverse reef systems. Its structure provides a substantial wall and slope experience for those exploring its depths.

As evening covers Toscana Reef, the local air temperature is measured at 25.5°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.9 m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.

Dive Site Location & Key Facts

Coordinates9.6981, 122.3883

Max Depth28m / 92ft

Entry Typeboat

Water Typesalt

Dive Types

Reef

Dive Site Overview

Diving Toscana Reef immerses you in a dynamic ecosystem where a vibrant shallow reef plateau gives way to a pronounced vertical wall. This boat dive immediately presents divers with flourishing hard and soft coral growth, starting from the upper sections and extending deep along the face.

Exploring the site, you'll find the terrain initially composed of a gentle sandy bottom leading towards the dramatic drop-off. As the main wall descends, it offers various nooks and ledges that house an array of smaller marine life. It's a particularly engaging recreational dive suitable for a broad range of certifications; Open Water divers can comfortably explore the shallower reef crest and upper slope, while Advanced Open Water divers find ample exploration opportunities across the deeper sections.

Descending further, the sheer scale of the wall becomes more apparent, showcasing a diverse benthic environment. Many divers remark on the clarity and rich texture of the reef, making it a rewarding experience for underwater photographers and general exploration alike.

Such varied topography ensures each descent offers new details, keeping every experience fresh and interesting.

Toscana Reef

Conditions are Moderate

6/10

Confidence: 7/10

Indicates meteorological model agreement and data availability.

Best Dive Window

Optimal conditions expected

06:12

18:45

H: 10:45

L: 16:20

Air / Sea Temp

26° / 30°

Wave Height

N/A

Wind Speed

24 km/h SSW

Rain Chance

100%

Current conditions near Toscana Reef show 26° air, 30° sea temperature, N/A waves, and 24 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.

Radius: ~12km

Updated: Aug 5, 2026, 02:33 local time

MARINE: OPEN-METEOWEATHER: YR.NO

Best Time to Dive

Optimizing visibility at Toscana Reef is often achieved between April and May, months consistently rated as 'Excellent' for diving. During this period, wave heights are typically lower, averaging around 0.3-0.4 meters, with milder winds. The air temperatures range from 28°C to 28.5°C (82-83°F), indicating pleasant surface conditions. Good diving conditions also extend from November through March, and into June, with 'Good' dive scores. While water temperatures aren't specifically reported, the tropical climate suggests consistently warm waters. Expect increased rainfall during July through October, which can affect localized visibility, though diving is generally still possible.

PEAK SEASON SCORE

92/100

Excellent

Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.

BEST MONTHS TO DIVE

MAR

APR

MAY

DIVE SCORE (0–100)	86 JAN	86 FEB	89 MAR	96 APR	90 MAY	75 JUN	75 JUL	75 AUG	75 SEP	75 OCT	87 NOV	88 DEC
AIR TEMP (°C)	27	27	28	28	28	27	27	27	27	27	27	27
WATER TEMP (°C)	29	28	28	30	31	30	30	30	30	30	30	30
WAVES (M)	0.9	0.8	0.7	0.3	0.3	0.4	0.9	0.6	0.8	0.5	0.8	0.7
WIND (KM/H)	17	18	16	13	12	13	17	15	16	14	15	14
RAIN (MM)	3.3	4.7	3.7	3.3	8.5	13.3	15.1	11.9	13.3	12.3	7.0	6.7

DIVE SCORE GUIDE (0–100)

Excellent (90–100)

Very Good (80–89)

Good (70–79)

Moderate (50–69)

Poor (30–49)

Not Recommended (0–29)

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

The descent at Toscana Reef quickly leads divers to its primary feature: a significant drop-off, with its upper edge found around 15 meters. This wall continues down to the site's maximum depth, providing ample opportunity to explore a vertical reef face. Throughout the dive, a sloped reef section is rich with various coral formations. Conditions typically feature calm to moderate currents, depending on tidal movements, allowing for comfortable navigation. Divers will find the water to be saltwater and generally warm, contributing to extended bottom times and relaxed exploration of the coral areas and occasional canal-like channels.

Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines

Approaching Toscana Reef requires mindful dive planning, particularly given the site's significant drop-off to its deepest point. Open Water Diver certification is a minimum requirement, but those venturing to explore the maximum depth should possess an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. Maintaining good buoyancy control is essential to protect the fragile coral structures and navigate the sloped sections effectively.

Always dive with a reliable dive computer, and carrying a Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) is a standard safety recommendation for boat dives in these waters. Local dive guides are invaluable for navigating the site's unique features and understanding prevailing conditions.

Recommended Equipment

Dive Computer
DSMB

This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Toscana Reef, Philippines. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.

Recommended Dive Suit

Forecast trends indicate similar diving conditions over the next few days.

Many experienced divers would consider dive skin or rash guard an appropriate choice here. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.

Recent environmental data from Toscana Reef indicates water temperatures near 30°C (86°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 26°C (78°F).

Toscana Reef conditions last reviewed: 02:33 local time (UTC+8), Aug 5, 2026

Emergency & Medical Support

Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Toscana Reef.

Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.

Before diving, it's recommended to:

confirm nearest medical facilities
check emergency procedures with local dive operators
ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required

24/7 Available

Divers Alert Network

Diving emergency assistance available through DAN World.

+1-919-684-9111

24/7 emergency hotline
Diving medical assistance
Evacuation coordination

View official DAN emergency contacts

Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.

Marine Life at Toscana Reef

What you first notice at Toscana Reef is the density of life across its coral structures. On a recent dive, a turtle was observed resting comfortably on the corals, seemingly unfazed by divers.

Jackfish have been noted to curiously follow divers, exploring alongside them. Closer inspection reveals numerous clams, delicate hydroids, and sponges integrated into the reef, alongside a variety of soft corals that sway gently with the subtle currents.

Smaller critters like nudibranchs, sea cucumbers, and anemones are often seen adorning the vibrant reef, showcasing a diverse macro environment.