Reyes Reef

Reyes Reef extends through the waters off Busuanga Island in the Calamian Group, an intermediate dive site reaching thirty meters where a substantial reef formation supports diverse marine communities in the nutrient-rich waters of northern Palawan. The reef's position along the coast provides consistent conditions that make it a reliable choice for divers exploring the Coron area's natural sites between wreck dives. The reef structure spans a considerable area, with a combination of reef slopes, coral gardens, and sandy channels creating varied terrain that keeps the dive interesting from start to finish. The upper reef is characterized by dense hard coral coverage where table, branching, and massive coral formations create a three-dimensional habitat of remarkable complexity. Fish activity in these shallower zones is constant, with clouds of anthias, territorial damselfish, and grazing parrotfish providing a colorful backdrop to the dive. The mid-depth sections of Reyes Reef transition into a landscape where soft corals become increasingly prominent. Gorgonian fans extend from rocky outcrops, their latticed branches angled perpendicular to the prevailing current. Sea whips reach upward from the substrate, and leather corals spread their lobed surfaces across any stable platform. This zone supports specialized communities of fish and invertebrates adapted to the reduced light and increased current exposure. Schooling fish are a consistent feature at Reyes Reef. The reef's substantial size means it supports resident populations of fusiliers, surgeonfish, and snapper that can be encountered on virtually every dive. Jacks patrol the reef edges, and barracuda occasionally appear in the blue water beyond the reef crest, particularly when current flow brings nutrient-rich water across the formation. The reef's sandy channels and rubble zones provide habitat for creatures that prefer these transitional environments. Gobies and their shrimp partners maintain cooperative burrows in the sand, while small rays rest camouflaged on the bottom between reef patches. Cuttlefish are regularly encountered hunting along the reef edges, their remarkable color-changing ability on full display as they stalk prey among the coral. Turtle encounters add to the reef's appeal, with green sea turtles commonly seen resting on coral formations or cruising along the reef slope. The healthy state of the reef and its abundant algal growth provide excellent feeding conditions for these herbivorous reptiles. Reyes Reef's intermediate depth and generally moderate conditions make it accessible to a wide range of certified divers. The site's natural beauty provides a compelling contrast to the historical interest of Coron's wreck sites, demonstrating that the Calamian Islands offer world-class reef diving alongside their famous sunken fleet. Visibility is typically excellent in these waters, often exceeding twenty meters, and the reef rewards both wide-angle appreciation and close-up investigation of its rich communities.