Dive Log: 05/03/2025
Dive Site Name: Crocodile Island
Dive Depth: 18 meters
Dive Duration: 52 mins
About The Dive: Fantastic diving in Crocodile Island this morning.
This site is about 20 min boat ride from our shop in Boracay.
It has a beautiful shallow reef and loads of different types of Marine life.
We saw nudibranchs laying eggs, Frogfish, a small Green Turtle and Pygmy Seahorses.
Inside the shallow caves there was a lot of small schooling fish.
Just a short boat ride from the powdery sands of White Beach lies one of Boracay’s hidden diving gems: Crocodile Island. Named for its crocodile-like silhouette when viewed from afar, this dive site offers an immersive experience that blends top-notch coral health, dramatic underwater terrain, and an impressive array of marine life. Divers from around the world journey here to explore its vibrant slopes, catch glimpses of elusive critters, and enjoy the thriving ecosystem just beneath the surface.
The topography of Crocodile Island features a gently sloping reef that transitions into deeper walls, with scattered boulders, small caverns, and rich coral gardens along the descent. This makes it an ideal site for both beginner and advanced divers, as well as certified divers looking to enjoy a fun dive with vibrant scenery and fascinating encounters.
The reef’s health at Crocodile Island supports a dynamic population of reef dwellers and pelagic visitors. Expect to see dense clouds of anthias dancing above coral outcrops, schools of yellowtail fusiliers moving in unison, and occasional larger species like jacks cruising the edges of the reef.
Macro enthusiasts are particularly fond of this site for its abundance of nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, frogfish, and pipefish—all known for their superb camouflage. Look closely into crinoids or feather stars and you might spot a tiny squat lobster or shrimp hiding in plain sight.
Every dive at Crocodile Island is a reminder of the extraordinary biodiversity the Philippine archipelago is known for. Some of the coral bommies are home to massive sponges and sea fans, while smaller crevices shelter shy species such as cardinalfish and squirrelfish. More observant divers might also spot reeftop pipefish gliding along the sand patches or juvenile boxfish tucked beneath ledges.
Larger pelagics occasionally cruise through the site. Divers have reported sightings of eagle rays and large trevallies patrolling the drop-off zone. With the right timing and a bit of luck, it’s not uncommon to catch glimpses of hunting barracudas or even a passing white-tip reef shark.
Crocodile Island also supports a healthy community of crustaceans and invertebrates. Boxer shrimp, porcelain crabs, and decorator crabs all contribute to the site’s rich ecological tapestry. At night, the reef comes alive in an entirely different way, with nocturnal critters emerging from their hiding places.
Crocodile Island is diveable year-round, but the period between November and May generally offers the most consistent conditions. During this time, the seas are calmer, currents are predictable, and visibility is often at its best.
April in particular is an excellent month for spotting a variety of marine life due to water clarity and comfortable temperatures averaging 27–29°C (80–84°F). Whether you’re logging your first open water dives or adding to a photography portfolio, conditions this time of year are ideal.
At New Wave Divers Boracay, we pride ourselves on offering safe, memorable, and expertly guided dive trips to Crocodile Island. Our team of experienced instructors and local dive professionals knows the site intimately, from the quiet coral alcoves where frogfish lurk to the cleaning stations frequented by larger fish.
If you’re planning to pursue dive certification, Crocodile Island also serves as an excellent training site for buoyancy control, navigation, and marine life identification. The relatively shallow depth and clear visibility make it perfect for honing new skills in a stunning environment.
As one of Boracay’s most experienced and trusted dive centers, New Wave Divers offers more than just guided dives—we deliver fully immersive, personalized underwater experiences. Our team doesn’t just lead dives; we share knowledge about reef ecology, point out hard-to-spot species, and tailor each dive to match your skills and interests.
We keep our groups small to maximize safety and enjoyment. Whether you’re joining us for a fun dive, working through your next certification, or just exploring what Boracay diving has to offer, we ensure that every experience is personal and memorable. Crocodile Island is one of our most requested sites—and for good reason.
If you’re curious about diving in Boracay or need help planning your trip, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’ll help you build the perfect dive itinerary that fits your schedule, skill level, and underwater wishlist.
Crocodile Island may not be the most talked-about dive site on the map, but those who explore its reefs quickly understand why it remains a favorite among seasoned divers and new adventurers alike. From technicolor coral heads to fascinating marine encounters, it’s a site that offers something new every time you descend.
Book your next dive with New Wave Divers and experience for yourself the underwater treasures waiting at Crocodile Island.
Wish to know more about the diving in Boracay? Our team will be delighted to answer your questions and let us know why we should be your first choice when planning your dive vacation to the Philippines. We hope to hear from you soon!
Dive Log: 05/01/2025
Dive Site Name: Crocodile Island
Dive Depth: 22 meters
Dive Duration: 51 minutes
About The Dive: Our favourite spot with soft corals in Boracay!
We spotted few moray eels, a baby turtle and multiple different nudibranches laying eggs !
A white scorpion fish was hiding over some rock formations and short nose pipe fish just under our boat during the safety stop.
Dive Log: 04/11/2025
Dive Site Name: Crocodile Island
Dive Depth: 17 meters
Dive Duration: 44 minutes
About The Dive: We started in the shallow soft coral garden where we spotted few short nose pipefish and very big violet and white nudibranches.
Over the wall, sitting on a soft coral a white scorpion fish and a black frogfish trying to feed on smaller fish.
Coming towards the end of the dive in the wip coral garden a shy octopus was hiding under a rock.
Going back towards the boat hundreds of glass fish were hiding inside a little cave.
Great dive with great people!
Dive Log: 03/31/2025
Dive Site Name: Crocodile island
Dive Depth: 22 meters
Dive Duration: 47 minutes
About The Dive: An exceptional dive, the reef is well preserved, the reason being is that it's not easy dive site to get too, as we went down to 5 meters we saw a couple of pipe fish, as we swam at the edge of the wall we saw quite a few different colors nudibranch, there where also 2 frog fish, of course the sea snake was very friendly, all in all, was a great dive
Boracay’s coral reefs are home to some of the most vibrant and colorful marine life in the Philippines, but not all creatures in these waters are easy to spot. Hidden among the corals, rocks, and sandy seabeds are some of the ocean’s most skilled masters of disguise—the Scorpionfish and Stonefish. These two species, both part of the Scorpaenidae family, are famous for their near-invisible camouflage and highly venomous spines.
For divers who love discovering elusive marine creatures, encountering a Scorpionfish or Stonefish in Boracay is both thrilling and rewarding. However, due to their venomous nature, it’s important to understand their behavior, how to spot them, and how to safely observe them in their natural habitat.
Both Scorpionfish and Stonefish belong to the Scorpaenidae family, known for their cryptic coloration, venomous spines, and ambush predation techniques. Despite their similarities, they have key differences that set them apart.
Both species are incredible examples of natural adaptation, using their camouflage not just to hunt but also to avoid predators.
Due to their ability to blend into their surroundings, finding Scorpionfish and Stonefish in Boracay requires a keen eye. Experienced dive guides from New Wave Divers Boracay can help spot these elusive creatures on certain dive sites known for their rich biodiversity.
📍 Camia II Wreck
📍 Crocodile Island
📍 Friday’s Rock
📍 Tambisaan Reef
📍 Angol Point
Since these species rely on their camouflage rather than fleeing from divers, patience and careful observation are key to spotting them.
Scorpionfish and Stonefish are both ambush predators, meaning they remain completely still until unsuspecting prey comes too close. Once within striking distance, they attack with lightning-fast reflexes.
✅ Scorpionfish: Use their textured bodies to blend into coral and rocks. When prey approaches, they open their mouths rapidly, creating a vacuum that sucks in small fish and crustaceans.
✅ Stonefish: Stay buried in sand or among coral rubble, nearly undetectable. When prey swims overhead, they lunge upward with incredible speed, capturing their meal in a split second.
Both species are masters of patience, sometimes waiting hours before making a single move. This hunting technique makes them incredibly efficient predators, ensuring their survival in reef environments.
Both species have venomous spines that can deliver painful stings if accidentally stepped on or touched. However, these fish are not aggressive and will only use their venom in self-defense.
✔️ Maintain good buoyancy – Avoid resting hands or knees on the reef where these fish may be hiding.
✔️ Look carefully before touching anything – These fish rely on camouflage, so always inspect ledges and coral formations closely.
✔️ Wear protective footwear in shallow waters – If wading near reefs, use reef-safe shoes to prevent accidental contact with a Stonefish buried in the sand.
✔️ Follow your dive guide’s lead – Experienced dive professionals at New Wave Divers know where these creatures hide and will help point them out.
Despite their venomous nature, Scorpionfish and Stonefish are important to the health of the reef.
🌿 Population Control – They regulate fish populations by preying on smaller species, keeping reef ecosystems balanced.
🌿 Natural Selection – Their ability to avoid predation through camouflage helps maintain biodiversity.
🌿 Reef Stability – Their presence encourages a healthy food chain, supporting other marine species in the ecosystem.
These fish may be feared by some, but they are an essential part of the ocean’s natural order.
Diving in Boracay offers the unique opportunity to witness some of the ocean’s best camouflaged predators in action. Whether spotting a Scorpionfish resting among corals at Camia II Wreck or catching a glimpse of a Stonefish lying motionless in the sand at Friday’s Rock, these encounters are both thrilling and humbling.
At New Wave Divers Boracay, we help divers safely and responsibly observe these incredible creatures. If you’re an underwater photographer or a diver who loves the challenge of spotting well-hidden marine life, let us guide you to Boracay’s best sites for Scorpionfish and Stonefish encounters.
Ready to explore the hidden world of Boracay’s reefs? Book your dive with New Wave Divers today!
Wish to know more about the diving in Boracay? Our team will be delighted to answer your questions and let us know why we should be your first choice when planning your dive vacation to the Philippines. We hope to hear from you soon!
The underwater world of Boracay is full of surprises, from vibrant coral reefs to encounters with some of the ocean’s most unique creatures. Among these, the ghost pipefish stands out as a fascinating and elusive marine species, captivating divers with its delicate appearance and exceptional camouflage.
Known for their ethereal beauty and intricate behaviors, ghost pipefish are a prized find for underwater photographers and marine enthusiasts exploring Boracay’s dive sites. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of ghost pipefish, their fascinating traits, and where to spot them in Boracay.
Ghost pipefish belong to the family Solenostomidae and are closely related to seahorses and pipefish. These small, delicate fish are masters of disguise, blending seamlessly with their surroundings to avoid predators and ambush prey.
Key Features of Ghost Pipefish:
Several species of ghost pipefish can be spotted in Boracay, each with its unique adaptations:
Ornate Ghost Pipefish (Solenostomus paradoxus):
Robust Ghost Pipefish (Solenostomus cyanopterus):
Harlequin Ghost Pipefish (Solenostomus sp.):
Boracay’s rich biodiversity and vibrant reefs make it an ideal location for spotting ghost pipefish. While they can be elusive, dive sites with healthy coral ecosystems and plenty of cover offer the best chances for sightings.
Top Dive Sites to Find Ghost Pipefish:
Camia II:
Crocodile Island:
Angol Point:
Tambisaan Reef:
Ghost pipefish are typically found hovering near coral reefs, seagrass beds, or feather stars, using their unique body shape and coloration to blend in. They are often spotted in pairs, particularly during the breeding season when the females carry eggs in a brood pouch formed by their pelvic fins.
Feeding Habits:
Ghost pipefish are ambush predators, feeding on tiny plankton and crustaceans. Their tubular snouts allow them to suck in prey with precision, making them efficient hunters despite their delicate appearance.
Breeding Behavior:
Females carry fertilized eggs in their brood pouch until they hatch, providing protection and increasing the chances of survival for their young. This fascinating behavior further highlights their similarities to seahorses.
Finding ghost pipefish requires patience, attention to detail, and often the guidance of a knowledgeable dive professional. Here are some tips to increase your chances:
Ghost pipefish are a testament to the wonders of marine evolution, showcasing incredible adaptations that make them both beautiful and functional in their underwater habitats. For divers and underwater photographers, these enigmatic creatures are a joy to observe and capture on camera.
Their rarity and unique appearance make every sighting special, adding an element of discovery to dives in Boracay’s waters.
Ghost pipefish play an important role in maintaining the balance of Boracay’s reef ecosystems. As predators of small plankton and crustaceans, they help regulate these populations, contributing to the overall health of the reef.
Their reliance on specific habitats, such as coral reefs and seagrass beds, also underscores the importance of protecting these ecosystems. By preserving Boracay’s reefs, we ensure a thriving environment for ghost pipefish and countless other marine species.
As captivating as ghost pipefish are, they are also vulnerable to habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Divers can help protect these delicate creatures by practicing sustainable diving practices:
Ghost pipefish are among the many treasures waiting to be discovered beneath Boracay’s waves. Their delicate beauty, fascinating behaviors, and role in the marine ecosystem make them a must-see for divers exploring the island’s vibrant reefs.
If you’re planning a dive trip to Boracay, make sure to include sites like Camia II, Crocodile Island, and Angol Point in your itinerary. With patience, a keen eye, and perhaps the help of an experienced guide, you’ll have the chance to encounter these mesmerizing marine marvels.
Dive in, explore, and uncover the magic of ghost pipefish in Boracay’s underwater paradise!
Wish to know more about the diving in Boracay? Our team will be delighted to answer your questions and let us know why we should be your first choice when planning your dive vacation to the Philippines. We hope to hear from you soon!
Boracay’s underwater world is a haven for marine biodiversity, attracting divers from around the globe to its vibrant reefs and thriving ecosystems. While the island is famous for its colorful corals and large pelagic species, macro enthusiasts know it also hides some of the ocean’s most elusive and fascinating creatures: frogfish.
Known for their exceptional camouflage and unique behaviors, frogfish are a dream find for divers and underwater photographers. In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of frogfish, their intriguing characteristics, and where you can find them while diving in Boracay.
Frogfish belong to the anglerfish family and are masters of disguise, blending seamlessly with their surroundings. Their ability to mimic coral, sponges, or rocks makes them nearly invisible to predators and prey alike.
Key Characteristics of Frogfish:
Their fascinating adaptations make them one of the most sought-after species for divers exploring Boracay’s reefs.
Frogfish are ambush predators, relying on stealth and their unique lure to catch prey. They remain motionless for long periods, waiting for unsuspecting prey to venture close. When the time is right, they strike with lightning speed, using their large mouths to create a vacuum that sucks in their meal.
What They Eat:
Frogfish primarily feed on small fish, crustaceans, and other reef-dwelling organisms.
Unique Behavior:
Unlike most fish, frogfish use their pectoral fins to “walk” along the ocean floor, a behavior that adds to their peculiar charm.
Boracay is home to several dive sites where frogfish are commonly found, thanks to its diverse underwater terrain and healthy reefs. Here are some of the top spots to look for these camouflaged wonders:
Angol Point:
Crocodile Island:
Balinghai:
Friday’s Rock:
Exploring these dive sites with an experienced guide can significantly improve your chances of spotting frogfish, as their camouflage makes them incredibly difficult to locate.
Frogfish play a vital role in Boracay’s marine environment by maintaining the balance of reef ecosystems.
Predatory Role:
As ambush predators, frogfish help control populations of smaller fish and crustaceans, preventing overpopulation and maintaining ecological balance.
Indicator Species:
The presence of frogfish often indicates a healthy reef ecosystem, as they rely on abundant prey and undisturbed habitats to thrive.
By protecting Boracay’s reefs, we ensure a safe haven for frogfish and the many other species that call these waters home.
For divers, spotting a frogfish is a thrilling experience. Their unique appearance and behaviors make them a favorite subject for underwater photographers.
Photographic Challenges:
Many photographers return to sites like Crocodile Island and Angol Point specifically for the chance to photograph these fascinating fish.
Frogfish, like many marine species, face threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and human activity. Divers can play a crucial role in protecting these creatures by practicing responsible diving.
How to Help:
By taking these steps, divers can help preserve Boracay’s rich marine biodiversity for future generations.
Boracay’s frogfish are a testament to the incredible diversity and adaptability of marine life. Their unique traits, fascinating behaviors, and importance to the ecosystem make them a highlight for divers exploring the island’s reefs. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a curious beginner, encountering a frogfish is an unforgettable experience that deepens your appreciation for Boracay’s underwater world.
Diving in Boracay offers a world of wonder, and discovering frogfish adds an extra layer of magic to the experience. These masters of disguise challenge divers to look closer, teaching us to appreciate the hidden details of the reef and the remarkable adaptations of marine life.
So, next time you gear up to explore Boracay’s vibrant dive sites, keep your eyes peeled for the elusive frogfish. With patience, a keen eye, and perhaps the guidance of a local dive expert, you might just uncover one of the ocean’s best-kept secrets.
Wish to know more about the diving in Boracay? Our team will be delighted to answer your questions and let us know why we should be your first choice when planning your dive vacation to the Philippines. We hope to hear from you soon!