The Best Cliff Diving Spots in the Philippines

Cliff jumping spots for adrenaline junkies!
by Pauline Zamora | May 16, 2016

There’s a famous quote by Ray Bradbury about letting go of your fears: “First you jump off the cliff and build your wings on the way down.” The thing is, cliff diving is all about the fall—there won’t be any wings. In fact, this extreme sport is really just about having a firm heart, a strong will, and some friends to cheer you on (and some safety guidelines, too, just to remain unscathed).

It might seem like an absurd idea at first, but the Philippines’ beautiful limestone and rock formations plus the pristine waters just might encourage you to take that leap of faith. So go ahead and check “jump off a cliff” from your bucket lists in some of the best cliff diving spots in the country:

Ariel’s Point, Buruanga, Aklan

While Boracay is famous for its white sand beach, there are other places near the island you can visit as well. Just 35-45 minutes boat ride away from the island proper lies Ariel’s Point, a popular cliff diving spot for those looking for an exhilarating jump. First timers can head for the 5-meter dive (16 feet), while the bolder ones go for the 8-meter dive (26 feet). And if that isn’t enough to get your blood pumping (or weaken your knees), the adrenaline-inducing 15-meter dive (50 feet) is for you.

For Php2500, Ariel’s Point offers a package that includes unlimited drinks, boat ride, buffet lunch, snacks, cliff diving, kayaking, snorkeling and a bracelet souvenir.

A photo posted by Andrew M (@andrewmoz) on Apr 15, 2016 at 5:12pm PDT

Magic Island, Boracay

If your sole agenda is really to just jump off a cliff, then another place you can visit is Magic Island. Just 15 minutes away from Boat Station 3, this tiny island located in Boracay also features a thrilling cliff diving spot (you’d have to rent a boat to get there). Because of its convenient location, it’s easy to include in your island-hopping itinerary especially if you’re also going to Crystal Grove. With an entrance fee of Php150, you get a jump-all-you-can pass at their 15 feet, 20 feet, 27 feet and 30 feet diving boards.

A photo posted by Brickson Hing (@bricksonhing) on Dec 27, 2015 at 4:12pm PST

Fortune Island, Nasugbu, Batangas

With its Greek-inspired structures, cozy beach and pristine waters, Fortune Island is a beautiful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. This island resort is conveniently situated in Nasugbu, Batangas, just a few hours away from Manila. To get there, you could take a tricycle from Nasugbu terminal and coordinate with the caretaker for the boat rental feel.. The resort entrance fee is Php 400, which will grant you access to this picturesque island where you could set up your own tent for overnight camping.

Many visitors are immediately charmed by the idyllic surroundings, but what really delights the adrenaline junkies are the cliff diving spots of varying heights at the back of the island.

A photo posted by MAYA (@mayaparaguya) on Dec 14, 2015 at 8:19pm PST

Buho Rock Resort, Camotes Island, Cebu

Buho Rock Resort is an abandoned resort, which is now maintained by the local government. Known for its ship-like rock formation, the resort has viewing decks with cottages from which you could enjoy the view of the sea and nature.

The more adventurous ones, however, are more thrilled about climbing up the flight of steep, winding stairs to the cliff diving spot, 20-30 feet high above the seawater. First timers fear not, however, for there’s another jump-off point that’s 10 feet high—still enough for that adrenaline rush!

To get to Camotes Island, travel to Danao Port and ride a Ro-Ro to Consuelo Port in Camotes Island. From there, there are small jeepneys and habal-habals for rent that could take you around the island and to Buho Rock Resort.

A photo posted by Joyce Ann (@joyceannstoppable) on Dec 13, 2015 at 7:07am PST

Canibad Beach Resort, Samal Island

Samal Island is known as an ideal serene getaway, especially with the various beach resorts around the island. One of them is Canibad Beach Resort—a must in your itinerary if cliff diving is on top of your to-do list in Samal. From the Port, you can rent a habal-habal or a tricycle to take you to Canibad. Cottages are available for overnight stay, but you may also bring and pitch your own tent.

Getting to the cliff side can be quite the adventure itself, as the path is composed of limestone and coral formations, making it jagged and rough. Don’t let this deter your spirit though, because from the cliff is a beautiful view of the island, not to mention a good diving spot that is about 35 feet high.

A photo posted by Kevin (@gerardapilo) on Mar 25, 2016 at 10:13pm PDT

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