Anilao is the Philippines' freediving capital. A strip of coastline in Mabini, Batangas — about a 2.5–3 hour drive south of Manila — it has calm, sheltered bays, easy shore and boat access, deep water close to shore, and the rich marine life of the Verde Island Passage. That combination makes it one of the best places in the country to learn to freedive and to train, for first-timers and competitive divers alike.
This guide is the hub: it links every Dive Select article you need to plan a trip, learn the sport, and book a vetted local host.
Start here: your first freedive
You don't need any certification to begin. Most Anilao hosts run guided "try freediving" sessions where a qualified instructor stays with you the whole time. If you're brand new, read Try Freediving in Anilao: Your First Session to know what to expect, and Freediving vs Scuba Diving if you're choosing between the two. When you're ready, browse vetted instructors in Anilao.
Get certified
A freediving course teaches you to dive safely and independently. To choose a path, compare the agencies in AIDA vs Molchanovs vs SSI vs PADI, understand the progression in Freediving Course Levels Explained, and — most importantly — learn how to choose and verify an instructor before you book.
Skills, disciplines & safety
Technique is what makes freediving feel effortless. Build the fundamentals with Essential Freediving Skills for Beginners, learn what the competitive freediving disciplines actually mean, and never skip Freediving Safety and the Buddy System — the rules that keep the sport safe.
Plan the trip
Sort the logistics: how to get to Anilao from Manila, the best time to freedive, what it costs, where to stay as a freediver, and the best dive sites. Not sure which area to base yourself in? Compare Bagalangit vs Anilao Proper.
Find a host
When you're ready to book, browse every freediving host in Anilao, or jump straight to schools, instructors, and the dive spots. Dive Select is request-to-book and charges no booking fees — you arrange dates and payment directly with the host.