From the colorful coral reefs in Komodo, Indonesia, to the mesmerizing macro life in Anilao, Philippines, the Asian Pacific waters are home to some of the world’s most exceptional underwater experiences. With a diverse mix of thriving marine ecosystems, iconic shipwrecks, and crystal-clear, current-free sites, freediving in Asia Pacific provides freedivers of all levels with unparalleled access to adventure.
Whether you’re new to freediving, a seasoned pro, or even a mermaid (or merman), keep scrolling to discover our selection of Asia’s best freediving destinations.
Practical Tips for Planning a Freediving Trip
Before we dive into the best freediving destinations in Asia, let’s go over some key considerations for planning a successful trip.
- Check the Weather and Water Conditions
One of the most important factors when planning a trip is the seasonal weather and water conditions. This is especially important if you’re just getting into the sport, as calmer waters are better suited to learning and refining essential freediving skills. - Check Marine Life Seasons
Beyond the weather, be sure to research whether marine life activity is high during your visit. Seasonal migrations, breeding cycles, and lunar phases can all influence what you’re likely to encounter beneath the surface. - Pack the Right Gear
Once you’ve chosen your destination and dates, make sure you have the right freediving gear. Alongside a freediving mask, fins and snorkel, be sure your wetsuit is appropriate for local water temperatures. Also, pack outerwear for your time topside — whether that means extra layers for cooler climates or sun protection for tropical locations. - Ask the Experts for Help
There are plenty of ways to connect with people who can help you organize your trip. You can reach out to a PADI Dive Shop that offers freediving courses or connect with PADI Travel via email, chat or by phone for more information about freediving destinations around the world.
Now that you know how to plan your freediving trip, let’s explore the best destinations for freediving in Asia Pacific!
1. The Philippines
The Philippines has everything an underwater enthusiast could wish for. This freediving paradise is home to incredible sites featuring both large and small marine life, stunning coral reefs, and numerous wrecks. Whether you’re just starting out or comfortable diving to more challenging depths, this island nation offers something for every level of freediver.
Destination Highlights
- Moalboal – Moalboal is well-known among both scuba divers and freedivers thanks to its large school of sardines that can be encountered year-round. The area also boasts a variety of sites suited to different skill levels, from the beginner-friendly Mermaid Point, where you can find a mermaid statue at 6 meters (20 feet), to the deeper, more challenging sites surrounding Pescador Island.
- Anilao/Batangas – Anilao competes for the title of the best muck diving destination in the world. Secret Bay, Twin Rocks and Anilao Pier are all great sites to discover the area’s unique marine life, such as blue-ringed octopus, mimic octopus, warty frogfish and numerous species of nudibranch. Larger marine life, including turtles, sharks and other predatory fish, is also regularly spotted during dives, too.
- Dauin – With its numerous, easily accessible marine life-filled sites, Dauin is a convenient place to freedive, and a notable diving destination for muck diving. From flamboyant cuttlefish to hairy frogfish, freediving from shore around Dauin won’t disappoint. In addition, the stunning coral reefs of Apo Island are only a 30-minute boat ride away.
- Bohol – Bohol is as beautiful above the water as it is below. The tropical island has plenty to explore and boasts numerous easy-to-access freediving sites, including Plane Wreck, Napaling, and Balicasag Island.
2. Thailand
If you’re looking for the perfect place to begin your freediving journey, look no further than Thailand. With its wealth of beginner-friendly freediving sites, clear waters, and well-established operators, Thailand is a top choice for both first-time scuba divers and freedivers alike.
Destination Highlights
- Koh Lanta – The island of Koh Lanta boasts sandy beaches, verdant rainforest and an appealing laid-back atmosphere. For freedivers, the nearby islands of Koh Haa and Koh Bida make outstanding spots to learn, practice and refine your freediving skills, as you take in the surrounding rock formations and coral reefs. Plus, these waters are known for occasional shark encounters, adding an extra thrill to your experience.
- Krabi – Mangrove forests, rugged limestone cliffs and idyllic offshore islands make the area around Krabi and Ao Nang a visual treat for visitors. Below the surface, the crystal-clear, tropical waters around the local islands make ideal grounds for freediving.
- Koh Lipe – The idyllic island of Koh Lipe offers visitors an impressive variety of dive sites to explore. Stunning rock formations and coral-covered reefs provide the chance to encounter a diverse range of marine life, including sea turtles, reef sharks, and even manta rays. Stonehenge and Koh Talang Steps are freediving sites worth checking out.
- Koh Tao – Koh Tao is already renowned as one of the best places to learn to scuba dive, and it’s equally well-suited for learning to freedive. Shallow, current-free sites like Twins, White Rock, and Aow Leuk offer the perfect balance of underwater views and ideal practice conditions.
3. Australia
As home to the world’s largest coral reef, it’s little surprise Australia ranks among the best freediving destinations. Pelagic marine life, including humpback whales, and breathtaking coral formations mean any level of freediver can enjoy memorable moments here.
Destination Highlights
- Sydney (New South Wales) – The Harbour City boasts a wealth of incredible freediving spots, including Lilli Pilly, Bare Island, and Oak Park. Furthermore, freedivers can swim alongside grey nurse sharks just off Maroubra Beach or venture to Martin Island in the Wollongong region, where playful seals offer an unforgettable underwater encounter.
- Melbourne (Victoria) – One of Australia’s top freediving destinations, Melbourne boasts a variety of freediving centers and excellent training sites within Port Phillip Bay. Beyond training, the bay’s diverse marine life provides opportunities to encounter spider crabs, weedy seadragons and breeding squid in their natural habitats.
- Hervey Bay (Queensland) – Just a short journey north of Brisbane, this marine mecca is teeming with life. Its sheltered waters provide an ideal environment for learning and refining freediving skills. For more experienced freedivers, the Ex-HMAS Tobruk wreck offers a unique challenge.
- Perth (Western Australia) – The dive sites surrounding Perth include reefs, caverns, swim-throughs and shipwrecks. In addition, sites around Rottnest Island also give visitors the chance to encounter a fascinating mix of marine life, including barracudas, wobbegongs, and even the elusive leafy sea dragon.
4. Indonesia
With more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia is packed with incredible freedive-worthy destinations. Whether you dream of swimming alongside manta rays or discovering the tiniest marine creatures, there’s a perfect spot in Indonesia to match every preference — and accommodate every level of freediver.
Destination Highlights
- Nusa Lembongan – This Indonesian island is well known for being one of the top places in the world to swim with manta rays — including the rarer black morph. It’s an unforgettable experience suited for both beginner and experienced freedivers. Beyond mantas, Nusa Lembongan offers vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Plus, it features an underwater cave for advanced freedivers seeking a unique challenge.
- Bunaken – This lesser-known island delivers excellent visibility, thriving coral reefs, incredible macro life, and an abundance of schooling fish. Be sure to check out Lekuan and Siladen Timur during your visit.
5. South Korea
South Korea is a fantastic destination for those who want to combine underwater adventures with rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class cuisine. Many of South Korea’s bustling cities, such as Seoul, Incheon and Busan, have accessible coastal water. However, what really makes mainland South Korea a top freediving destination is the number of deep pools for freediving training.
Paradive (35 meters/115 feet) in Incheon, Deep Station (36 meters/118 feet) in Yongin-si, and K-26 (26 meters/85 feet) in Cheongpyeong-myeon are all ideal training pools for any level of freediver, including both newcomers to the sport and experienced freedivers looking to hone their skills.
Both freediving and scuba diving off South Korea’s mainland coast are possible. However, Jeju Island is undoubtedly the best place to freedive in Korea.
Destination Highlights
- Jeju Island – Jeju is truly Korea’s crown jewel when it comes to the underwater world. Don’t miss the sites around Munseom Island off the coast of Seogwipo. Here you can find beautiful soft corals, kelp forests and a variety of fish species.
It’s Time To Discover Freediving in Asia Pacific
Feeling inspired to book your next freediving getaway? Planning your trip couldn’t be easier! Simply click below to find a PADI Dive Center located in your desired destination. And if you’re looking to get PADI certified, you can learn more about the courses available here.
