The Cathedral Rock
Underwater Terrain and Coral Formations:
Cathedral Rock is arguably the most iconic dive site in Anilao, and for good reason. This site is named after two large volcanic rock formations that resemble the pillars of a cathedral. Nestled between these imposing structures is a man-made cross that was placed there in the 1980s by former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos. The cross now rests amid vibrant coral growth, and is considered both a spiritual marker and a historical artifact for divers. The twin rocks provide vertical relief and natural framing, making the site ideal for underwater photography.
The surrounding reef terrain includes sloping coral beds and rocky outcroppings covered with a combination of hard corals (such as Acropora, Montipora, and Porites) and flourishing soft corals like Dendronephthya. Encrusting sponges, sea fans, and feather stars add texture and color to the underwater landscape. The natural amphitheater created by the rock formations funnels divers toward the cross, creating a theatrical descent that feels sacred to many returning visitors.
Divers can explore the base of the rock formations and the surrounding sandy slopes, which are rich in biodiversity. The topography allows for easy navigation and is ideal for both novice and advanced divers, offering numerous vantage points to view marine life and coral structures while ensuring adequate space for buoyancy control and skill practice.
Marine Life:
Cathedral Rock is teeming with life and offers both macro and pelagic encounters. Among the most common sightings are schooling batfish that hover gracefully around the cross, often accompanied by sweetlips and angelfish. These mid-sized reef dwellers are accustomed to divers and will often remain still enough to be photographed. Butterflyfish, parrotfish, and wrasses dart in and out of coral heads, while anthias and damselfish add bursts of color to the water column.
The site also offers occasional sightings of sea turtles, usually green turtles (Chelonia mydas), which cruise by to feed on soft corals or simply rest near the rocky ledges. White-tip reef sharks and bamboo sharks have been reported resting near the sandy bottom or under ledges, although sightings are not guaranteed and typically occur early in the morning or during low diver traffic.
Macro life thrives here as well. Nudibranchs, shrimps, and crabs inhabit the crevices of the rocks and coral heads. Seasoned dive guides often point out tiny porcelain crabs or colorful nudibranchs like Chromodoris lochi and Nembrotha kubaryana. The mix of micro and macro ecosystems within a relatively small area makes Cathedral Rock a year-round favorite for underwater photographers.
Depth Range: 5–30 meters – Suitable for both shallow exploration and deeper wall dives.
Recommended Certification: Open Water Diver and above. Advanced Open Water is ideal for those planning to explore the full depth and terrain.
Resort Recommendation: Solitude Acacia Resort – A high-end dive resort with direct access to Cathedral Rock. Offers full scuba services including equipment rental, guided dives, and Nitrox for extended bottom time.
Map: 📍View Cathedral Rock on Google Maps (Coordinates: 13.6894° N, 120.8844° E)
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