Welcome to Monkey Beach in Puerto Galera, Philippines! Get ready to dive into an underwater paradise filled with fascinating marine life and stunning coral reefs. In this blog post, I will take you on a virtual tour of this hidden gem and share all the details you need to know for an unforgettable budget-friendly adventure. So grab your snorkel or scuba gear and let's dive right in!
Introduction
Dive Operator: Dive You Go
When it comes to exploring the wonders beneath the surface at Monkey Beach, there's no better partner than Dive You Go. This reputable dive operator offers excellent services at affordable prices, making it perfect for budget travelers seeking thrilling underwater experiences.
With Dive You Go, each dive at Monkey Beach costs only 1200 pesos. This includes professional guidance from experienced instructors who are passionate about showcasing the beauty of this remarkable dive site.
The Dive Site at Monkey Beach
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating underwater journey as we delve into the depths of Monkey Beach's captivating dive site. As you descend into the crystal-clear waters, you'll be greeted by a gradual slope that reaches up to 20 meters deep with a sandy bottom.
One of the highlights here is a magnificent 6-meter long shipwreck resting on its side. This intriguing sight adds an element of mystery and serves as a haven for various marine species seeking shelter amidst its rusted hull.
As you explore further, keep your eyes peeled for vibrant schools of Anthias, Damselfish, Snapper, Batfish, Moorish Idol, Gobies and Basslets darting through colorful corals. The diversity of fish species is truly astounding – from Wrasses and Triggers to Pufferfish and Lionfish – each one adding its own unique charm to this underwater wonderland.
If you're lucky enough to visit when there is a current, you may witness the mesmerizing spectacle of Sweetlips, common Jacks, and Emperor Fish gracefully patrolling the area in search of their next meal. The dynamic nature of this dive site ensures that every visit offers new surprises and encounters.
Don't forget to look up from time to time! In mid-water, you'll spot schools of Fusiliers and Long Jawed Mackerel swimming randomly, injecting even more life into this already bustling ecosystem. It's a sight that will leave you in awe of Mother Nature's creations.
For those who are passionate about underwater photography, Monkey Beach provides ample opportunities to capture stunning shots. From close-ups of intricate corals to snapshots of curious marine creatures, every corner reveals a potential masterpiece waiting to be framed through your lens.
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of Monkey Beach's dive site in Puerto Galera, Philippines, it's clear that this destination holds endless wonders for budget travelers and photography enthusiasts alike. Dive You Go offers an affordable way to experience the magic beneath the waves while ensuring your safety and enjoyment throughout your adventure.
Marine Life Encounters
Prepare to be amazed as we dive deeper into the incredible marine life encounters that await you at Monkey Beach. This underwater paradise is home to a diverse array of fascinating creatures, making every dive an unforgettable experience.
One of the most thrilling encounters you may have is with the Banded Sea snake. These venomous yet mesmerizing creatures gracefully navigate through the water, showcasing their striking black and yellow bands. Don't worry, though – they are generally non-aggressive and pose no threat if left undisturbed.
Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Moray Eels lurking in crevices and coral formations. With their sharp teeth and serpentine appearance, these creatures exude an aura of mystery. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of one opening its mouth wide to reveal its hidden wonders.
And let's not forget about the majestic Green Sea Turtles that frequent these waters. These gentle giants glide effortlessly through the sea, their shells adorned with intricate patterns. Observing them in their natural habitat is truly a privilege that will leave you in awe of their gracefulness.
As you explore Monkey Beach's vibrant coral reefs, don't be surprised if you come across colorful Nudibranchs – small but captivating sea slugs that display an astonishing variety of shapes and hues. These tiny creatures are like living works of art!
With each dive at Monkey Beach, new discoveries await around every corner. From schools of playful Clownfish darting in and out of anemones to camouflaged Scorpion Fish blending seamlessly with their surroundings – there's never a dull moment beneath these turquoise waters.
Underwater Camera Setup
For all photography enthusiasts out there, capturing the beauty of Monkey Beach's underwater world is an absolute delight! Let me share with you my recommended camera setup for capturing those breathtaking shots:
I used an Ikelite Housing paired with an 8" Dome Port to protect my camera and lens from the water. Inside, I had a Canon 5D MIV, a powerful full-frame camera that allowed me to capture stunning details and vibrant colors.
To achieve wide-angle shots and capture the vastness of the underwater landscape, I used a Canon 10-22mm EF-S f3.5-4.5 wide-angle lens modified to fit the full-frame camera. This combination provided me with excellent image quality and minimized any cropping when shooting in 4K.
To enhance color accuracy and reduce color distortion underwater, I utilized a Magic Filter along with a Sea&Sea Internal Correction optical filter attached to my lens. These filters helped bring out the true beauty of the marine life and corals in their natural hues once colour graded.
Remember, when capturing underwater moments, it's essential to respect marine life and their habitats. Always maintain a safe distance from creatures, be mindful of your movements around delicate coral formations, and never touch or disturb any marine organisms.
Final Thoughts
As we come to the end of our journey through Monkey Beach in Puerto Galera, Philippines, it's clear that this destination is an absolute gem for budget travelers seeking unforgettable underwater adventures.
From diving alongside shipwrecks to encountering an abundance of marine life species like Anthias, Damselfish, Snapper, Batfish – Monkey Beach offers something magical for everyone.
So why wait? Start planning your own adventure at Monkey Beach today! Whether you're an experienced diver or just starting out on your underwater exploration journey – this hidden paradise will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
Grab your snorkel or scuba gear; Dive You Go awaits you with open arms. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world beneath the waves as you discover captivating dive sites teeming with marine wonders at affordable prices.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Book your trip now and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Monkey Beach in Puerto Galera, Philippines. Happy diving!
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