Gato Island
A marine protected islet northwest of Malapascua, famous for sea snakes, whitetip reef sharks, and diving through a cave tunnel that runs through the island.
Gato Island lies about 15 km northwest of Malapascua. It is a marine protected area and a breeding ground for sea snakes. You can often see banded sea snakes, whitetip reef sharks, seahorses, pygmy seahorses and a variety of soft corals. Its signature dive site is a cave tunnel running through the islet, which must be entered with a dive guide. The boat ride takes about 1 hour, and dive operators usually do two dives per trip. Landing on the island requires a protected-area fee. Currents can be strong at times, so the site suits divers with some experience.
Opening hours
Daytime (depends on dive shop schedule)
Nearby sights
- Carnaza Island
- Guimbitayan Beach
- Malapascua Lighthouse
- Langob Beach
- Chocolate Island
- Logon Village & Beach
- Dakit-Dakit Island
- Bounty Beach