We visited Magic Oceans as part of a large dive group. From the moment we arrived we knew we were somewhere special. All the staff are so welcoming. The resort is really well set up with an excellent dive centre close to the pier and the resort's three very comfortable boats. The dive staff and crew are fabulous - perfect balance of giving divers responsibility for their gear while managing all the heavy lifting - much appreciated on days with four dives! Our excellent dive guide Marlon showed us the amazing critters of Anda and shared his extensive knowledge of the marine biology of the region. The dive sites are many and varied - macro heaven combined with spectacular coral and walls. The house reef is a must during the day and as a night dive. Photographers are well catered for with camera tables in the dive centre and plenty of storage on the boats. There are day trip options organised by the resort - and some of our group took these up. But the diving was too good to tempt us away from the ocean.

The resort itself is lovely - individual rooms with comfortable beds and warm showers all set around a very pretty pool area. The bar is a great place to share stories and photos. And the food is tasty and plentiful. All dietary needs are catered for brilliantly. It's impossible to go hungry!

All up, if you're looking to do some seriously good diving and some serious relaxation this is an excellent choice. This was our first visit but definitely won't be our last.

This is a first-class facility. Just thinking about our time there makes me smile!
Getting there:- We travelled through Tagbilaran (aka Panglao) airport. The resort driver was there waiting with a nameplate and a smile even though our flight arrived late. As others will have said, it's over 2 hours to the resort, but gives time to get used to the Philippine countryside and sights, and as you might expect the van has aircon. My wife gave me a worried look as we drove down a dirt track on the last part of the voyage, but soon I saw her break into a smile as we came through the doors.
The resort:- Fantastic layout of bungalows around a pool, and as it's well away from the road there's absolutely no noise (to be fair the road isn't busy). The team were waiting for us as we arrived and made us so welcome. We felt as if we belonged there within hours!
They have also put some thought into mosquito avoidance, as I only ever saw 2 mossies in the week. Food was always varied, mouthwatering and hard to resist after a dive.
The diving:- You won't see big stuff so go elsewhere if you're looking for pelagics. This is macro central. Don't do what I did by bringing a GoPro...
Water temp during our time was 26 deg C, I had a 5mm full suit and was fine, others were cold with similar (but mainly older) suits. The resort does have hire suits.
The local guides knew their stuff, picking out critters so small I wonder how they find them buried in the sand (thanks Larry). I have to say my favourite were the frogfish! The resort boats are excellent, and have a great idea with straps hanging from the outriggers for divers to grab on surfacing (imagine bus or train loops hanging down). Plenty of potable water and food on the boats too.
The staff:- Peter oversaw everything like a zen master. He anticipated everything (including birthdays!) and we soon realised everything had been anticipated and we would be fully looked after. We can't thank all the staff enough for their support, from the kitchen staff to the drivers and dive staff who gave us smiles everyday.
Would we go back? Well, my wife is a non-diver but given the trips around the island which the staff can arrange, there's more than enough if we ever get bored with the peace and serenity of this great place. We do intend to go back!

Had an amazing stay here with 5 friends - the diving was superb (even the house reef!) the bungalows were beautiful (hot showers!!!), the boats were in great shape, and the staff were super friendly.

THANK YOU Marlon for taking us diving and finding not one but TWO flamboyant cuttlefish!

Also a special thank you to Ester for the friendly conversations :)

I''ll be back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!