Discover Sipalay

Discover Sipalay: The Hidden Gem for Diving and Adventure in the Philippines

Sipalay City, nestled in the heart of Negros Occidental, is quickly gaining recognition as one of the Philippines’ top destinations for diving, nature, and tranquility. Known as the “Jewel of the Sugar Island,” this coastal city offers a mix of pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and authentic rural charm — without the crowds of more commercialized tourist spots.

Why Visit Sipalay?

Unlike other heavily visited islands like Cebu or Palawan, Sipalay remains largely untouched, giving travelers the chance to experience natural beauty in its purest form. With crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone formations, and some of the best diving in the Visayas, Sipalay is a paradise for both seasoned adventurers and those seeking a peaceful escape.

Where is Sipalay?

Sipalay is located on the western coast of Negros Island in the Visayas, about 4–5 hours south of Bacolod City by land.

Top Activities in Sipalay City

1. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Sipalay is a diving haven, boasting over 30 dive sites with healthy coral reefs, steep drop-offs, caves, and even sunken wrecks. Marine biodiversity here is stunning — with sightings of turtles, reef sharks, frogfish, and nudibranchs being common.

• One of the most popular dive operators is Easy Diving Resort, which also pioneered diving in the area.
• Amila Dive Beach Resort, a boutique resort with only 8 rooms, offers personalized dive experiences and PADI dive courses right off the beach.

Popular Dive Sites:

• Punta Ballo Reef – great for beginners and night dives
• MS Jojo Shipwreck – an artificial reef teeming with marine life
• Sunken Island – a submerged pinnacle for advanced divers

2. Island Hopping & Kayaking

Explore the nearby Danjugan Island, a marine sanctuary and ecotourism destination just 20 minutes by boat. It’s a protected haven for marine biodiversity and offers guided tours, birdwatching, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Run by the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation.

You can also paddle along the Sugar Beach mangroves or hop to Campomanes Bay, known for its dramatic cliffs and secluded coves.

3. Beach Hopping: Sugar Beach to Hidden Coves

Sipalay is lined with powdery beaches such as:

• Sugar Beach – a quiet stretch of sand ideal for long stays and sunsets
• Punta Ballo Beach – home to multiple resorts and easy water access
• Langub Beach – known for its natural rock formations and caves

Each beach offers its own vibe — from remote, off-grid cottages to boutique resorts with cocktails at sunset.

4. Hiking & Viewpoints

For panoramic views of Sipalay’s limestone karst landscape and turquoise waters, climb up to Perth Paradise Resort Viewpoint or the Tinagong Dagat islets, a scenic spot that resembles Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay.

5. Local Food & Culture

Sipalay is not just about diving — enjoy fresh seafood, Filipino specialties like inasal (grilled chicken), and local treats at beach bars or carinderias. Visit the Sipalay Public Market for an authentic slice of daily life, or time your visit during the Pasaway Festival in March.

Want to cook local? Check Kusina ni Maria for home-style Filipino meals in Sipalay.

How to Get to Sipalay

• From Bacolod: 3–4 hour van/bus ride via Hinoba-an
• From Dumaguete: 4 hours by bus or private transfer
• From Manila or Cebu: Fly to Bacolod (BCD) or Dumaguete (DGT), then transfer overland

For local transportation, tricycles, habal-habal (motorbikes), and resort-arranged transfers are commonly used.

Where to Stay

For a boutique beachfront stay with diving and local charm:

Amila Dive Beach Resort – Boutique, Oceanfront, Unforgettable

Small resort with only 8 rooms, offering personalized diving, beachfront restaurant, and sunset views over Danjugan Island.

Plan Your Trip

If you’re looking for a Philippine dive destination that blends adventure, relaxation, and sustainability, Sipalay should be at the top of your list.

✔️ Fewer tourists

✔️ Excellent diving and snorkeling

✔️ Nature-focused tours and eco activities

✔️ Affordable and locally-owned accommodations

For weather, tides, and dive conditions, check Windy.com – Sipalay

Want Help Planning a Dive Safari?

Discover Visayas or Cagayan Dive Safaris departing from Sipalay – multi-day expeditions to remote reefs with all-inclusive packages.