Turtle Encounters in Bohol: A Diver’s Guide to Sea Turtle Species and Behavior
Few things match the quiet joy of drifting alongside a sea turtle. Graceful, ancient, and seemingly unbothered by human presence, turtles have a calm that’s contagious—especially underwater. In Bohol, turtle encounters are not only possible—they’re likely. Divers visiting this lush island province often find themselves face to face with these charismatic reptiles, especially in marine sanctuaries like Balicasag Island and Pamilacan.
In this guide, we’ll explore the species of turtles you can see in Bohol, where to find them, and how to dive responsibly to ensure you’re protecting these ocean icons while enjoying every magical moment.
Why Bohol is a Turtle Hotspot
Bohol’s waters are part of the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine areas on Earth. With its healthy coral reefs, abundant seagrass beds, and protected marine areas, it offers sea turtles ideal conditions for both feeding and resting.
The most common places to encounter turtles while diving in Bohol are:
- Balicasag Island – A marine protected area famous for its deep walls, coral gardens, and high turtle population.
- Pamilacan Island – Known for turtle sightings during reef and drift dives.
- Doljo Point and Napaling – Occasional sightings in coral and sandy patches.
- House Reef sites near Panglao – Juvenile turtles sometimes seen in shallow coral areas.
Species of Sea Turtles Found in Bohol
Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
This is the most commonly encountered species in Bohol. Despite the name, they aren’t green on the outside—instead, the name comes from the greenish color of their fat, a result of their herbivorous diet.
Key Traits:
- Smooth, oval shell (carapace)
- Olive to dark brown coloration
- Grows up to 1.5 meters long
Behavior:
- Often seen grazing on seagrass or resting under coral overhangs
- Peaceful and calm, making them ideal subjects for underwater photography
Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Less common but often spotted on reef dives, the hawksbill is easily recognized by its narrow, pointed beak and overlapping shell scales that resemble the pattern of a mosaic.
Key Traits:
- Smaller than green turtles
- Vibrant shell patterns
- Slightly more elusive
Behavior:
- Feeds primarily on sponges and invertebrates, often seen foraging in reef crevices
- Can be curious but tends to swim off quickly if startled
When and Where to Dive with Turtles in Bohol
While turtle sightings can happen year-round, certain conditions improve your chances:
Best Months for Turtle Encounters:
- November to May – Dry season brings better visibility and calmer seas
- Early morning dives – Turtles are often more active or found resting during these times
Top Dive Sites for Turtles:
Balicasag Island
- Dive Sites: Black Forest, Turtle Point
- Sightings: Green turtles are abundant, often in the shallows and mid-water
Pamilacan Island
- Dive Sites: Pamilacan Sanctuary
- Sightings: Both green and hawksbill turtles spotted on reef edges and coral slopes
House Reef / Local Sites
- Less predictable, but juvenile turtles occasionally seen at Kalipayan, Doljo Point, and Napaling
How to Approach Turtles Responsibly
Turtles may seem relaxed, but like all wild animals, they need space and respect. Here are key rules for ethical turtle encounters:
- Keep your distance – At least 3–5 meters is ideal. Don’t chase or corner turtles.
- Never touch a turtle – Their shells are sensitive, and touching disrupts their natural behavior.
- Avoid blocking their path to the surface – Turtles must surface to breathe.
- Stay calm and steady – Avoid rapid movements, loud noises, or kicking up sediment.
- Use natural light or minimal flash – Bright lights can stress turtles.
At Sierra Madre Divers, we always brief divers on respectful behavior toward marine life, including turtles, and our guides help ensure every encounter is safe for both the diver and the animal.
Turtle Photography Tips for Divers
If you’re hoping to capture that perfect turtle shot, here are a few tips:
- Approach slowly and at an angle to avoid startling them
- Focus on the eyes for a more engaging photo
- Get low—shooting upward with natural light often produces a beautiful silhouette
- Be patient—let the turtle come to you if it’s curious
- Use wide-angle lenses for close-up shots without crowding the animal
Some of the best photo opportunities are during resting behavior, when turtles are nestled into coral or napping under ledges.
Turtle Conservation in Bohol
Sea turtles are endangered or threatened species, and while they are protected by Philippine law, they still face risks from:
- Plastic pollution and discarded fishing nets
- Habitat degradation and coastal development
- Irresponsible tourism practices
Thankfully, areas like Balicasag and Pamilacan have been declared marine protected areas (MPAs) with rules in place to safeguard turtle habitats.
By diving with operators like Sierra Madre Divers, who follow sustainable and responsible diving practices, you’re helping support the long-term protection of these magnificent animals.
Why Turtle Encounters Are So Memorable
It’s not just about the species or the setting—it’s something deeper. Diving with turtles offers a rare sense of peace. They move slowly and deliberately, reminding us to do the same. There’s a calmness to their rhythm, a timeless grace that inspires awe in even the most experienced divers.
For many visitors to Bohol, a turtle encounter becomes the highlight of their trip—often the moment they realize they’re hooked on diving for life.
Dive with Us and Meet the Turtles of Bohol
At Sierra Madre Divers, we run regular fun dives to the best turtle hotspots around Panglao, Balicasag, and Pamilacan. Whether you’re a first-time fun diver or a seasoned underwater photographer, we’ll help you get close (ethically) to these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
We provide:
- Knowledgeable local guides
- Briefings on respectful marine life interaction
- Dive and stay packages for every budget
- Morning and afternoon trips based on ideal turtle activity times
Book your dive today with Sierra Madre Divers and experience the quiet magic of swimming alongside a sea turtle in the warm, clear waters of Bohol.
