Scuba diving in Cebu is one of the province’s main tourist activities. What with its warm waters just teeming with diverse marine life, temperate weather and beautiful islands, scuba diving is possible all year round! 

It’s not a surprise that many tourists, both foreign and local alike, flock to Cebu for a few days out into the open sea for the fantastic experience of scuba diving.

Among the many popular spots for scuba diving in Cebu is the sleepy fishing village of Oslob. Located on the southwest coast of the Province of Cebu, it looms magnificently on the horizon like a mountainous body expelled from the sea. It is actually this geological formation that makes Oslob the ideal site to catch a glimpse or even dive with the magnificent Whale Shark, known as the gentle giants of the deep.

For decades, the Whale Shark’s migratory path has taken it near the southern tip of Cebu. It was only a few years ago that the fishermen of Tan-awan, a small barrio located 10 km. away from the center town of Oslob, had gotten into the habit of hand-feeding the Whale Sharks with krill and this very action attracted the attention of tourists. 

Since then, tourists practically came in droves to Oslob as snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving with the Whale Sharks became popular activities. 

But let’s pause for a minute here. Let’s get to know these wonderful creatures first. Whale Sharks are large, slow-moving, filter-feeding sharks and hold many records in the animal kingdom just for its sheer size. The largest Whale Shark ever reported was 46 ft. long and weighed 66,000 lbs. Massive right? But don’t be fooled by its gigantic size and its very large mouth (you can find up to 500 teeth in there) as Whale Sharks are filter feeders and feed mostly on plankton and other small fish. Whale Sharks inhabit warm, temperate waters and unlike some species of sharks, it doesn't like the deeper depths of the ocean, instead, it prefers to live out in open water.  

The best thing about Whale Sharks is that they are very friendly towards divers and have not displayed any behavior that makes them a threat towards humans, in general. They are, in essence, very, very large and very, very gentle. Wouldn't it be awesome to swim or dive with them?

Oslob’s local government has also taken measures in order to protect Whale Sharks and there is a team of marine biologists residing in Oslob to ensure safe and sustainable eco-tourism.

Aside from the Whale Sharks, Oslob has retained its sleepy, “un-touristy” atmosphere.  Budget travelers find that it is pleasant and affordable, with old churches, white sand beaches and great food.  So, next on your check-list for scuba diving in Cebu? Oslob. Yes. Definitely, Oslob.