Kokay’s Maldito Dive Resort, Kokay’s Diving Shop

Located in Daanbantayan on Malapascua Island, Kokay’s Maldito Dive Resort serves as a central hub for divers seeking the unique marine life of the Philippines. The resort combines a professional diving operation with diverse accommodation options, making it a practical choice for those looking to stay on the island while exploring the surrounding waters.

The area is globally recognised for its ability to host significant pelagic species, most notably the thresher sharks that frequent the local waters. Whether you are here to complete your initial certifications or to hunt for hammerhead sharks during the peak season, the centre is positioned to provide access to the region's most iconic underwater landscapes.

As an SSI Diamond dive centre, the operation maintains high standards of instruction and service. The team is equipped to handle a full spectrum of divers, from those taking their very first breaths underwater via Try Scuba to professional candidates working towards their Dive Master qualification.

The resort operates with a focus on a stress-free experience, offering a range of services that extend beyond the dive boat. With a staff described as friendly and helpful, the centre manages everything from dive logistics to on-site relaxation at the Garra Ruffa Day Spa.

The centre provides a complete range of SSI training programmes. Beginners can start with Try Scuba, Scuba Diver, or Open Water Diver courses. For those looking to progress, the curriculum includes Advanced Adventurer, Deep Diver, and specialty courses such as Night Diver and Perfect Buoyancy.

Professional development is also a core part of the offering, with pathways available for Dive Guide and Dive Master certifications. The centre also provides specialised training in skills such as Stress & Rescue, Emergency First Response (EFR), and even niche skills like Underwater Photographer and Waves, Tides & Current Diver.

The dive shop offers a comprehensive rental selection for those not travelling with their own kit. You can hire complete sets including masks, snorkels, fins, wetsuits, regulators, BCDs, and dive computers. For those interested in underwater photography or night diving, digital cameras and torches are also available for rent.

Nitrox is available on-site, providing an essential option for divers looking to extend their bottom time at sites like Monad Shoal. The facility is designed to be accessible, with wheelchair-friendly access available throughout the resort.

The waters around Malapascua are famous for large pelagics. You can regularly observe thresher sharks, whitetip sharks, and bamboo sharks. During the season from December to May, hammerhead sharks can also be seen at Kemud Shoal.

In the blue, you will encounter manta rays, eagle rays, and various species of tuna and barracuda. The reefs are also home to diverse reef sharks, including blacktip reef sharks, and larger predators like groupers and jacks.

For macro enthusiasts, the area is a treasure trove. You can find a vast array of nudibranchs, seahorses, frogfish, and various species of shrimp and crabs. Look closely on the reef flats and walls for octopus, cuttlefish, and even the rare pink and yellow pygmy seahorses.

The underwater scenery is defined by healthy coral gardens. Expect to see abundant hard corals, colourful soft corals, gorgonians, and sea fans, alongside anemones, garden eels, and various species of sea urchins.

Diving conditions in the area vary significantly depending on the chosen site. Some locations, such as Dakit-Dakit and Gato Island, are known for having strong currents, which can create a dynamic environment for experienced divers.

Other sites, like Bugtong Bato and the Lighthouse, offer much calmer conditions with little to no current, making them suitable for training and those preferring a more relaxed dive. Navigation and planning are essential, as currents can change direction depending on the site and tide.