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| Source: Manami Resort. |
Manami Resort in Sipalay, the Philippines, has introduced two newly-discovered offshore dive sites in one of the region’s most intact and least-explored reef systems. The two sites represent a significant addition to Sipalay’s dive offering, particularly for experienced divers seeking less frequented, high-quality reef environments.
Located less than 1 km from the resort and accessible within 10 minutes by boat, the sites sit within a broad offshore reef network west of Manami. Characterised by deep reef structures, coral formations and open blue water, the area remained largely undocumented until early 2026. While signs of past weather events are still visible, the overall ecosystem continues to sustain strong biodiversity and balanced marine populations.
Manami Resort offers exclusive access to Jonel’s Garden and G A P, both of which were identified in March 2026. G A P was first discovered when a shifting current carried divers into an uncharted section of reef. Jonel’s Garden, mapped shortly after, is defined by intricate coral formations and thriving marine life.
“Even in a place like Sipalay, there are still parts of the ocean that remain largely unexplored,” said Cristina Corro, Founder of Manami Resort.
“The discovery of these sites reinforces how much there is still to protect and understand. For us, it is about creating access in a way that remains thoughtful, controlled and respectful of the ecosystem.”
Jonel's Garden
Jonel’s Garden sits at depths of 18 to 25 m and is defined by islet-like coral formations composed of both hard and soft corals. Swim-through spaces and a garden of Montipora corals create a layered underwater landscape, supporting reef species such as snappers, barracuda and resident reef fish.
G A P
G A P, located 25 to 30 m down, features large coral structures separated by wide gaps, along with a striking wave-shaped reef pinnacle. The site is known for encounters with large pelagic species, including schools of giant trevally, as well as groupers, emperors and barracuda.
Across both sites, divers can expect to see large green sea turtles, pygmy seahorses, nudibranchs and an abundance of fusiliers. The presence of larger predatory fish, increasingly rare in many parts of the region, reflects the relative health and low levels of human impact within these reef systems.
Diving conditions vary, with visibility ranging from 5 to 20 metres depending on the season, and optimal conditions typically occurring between April and June. Due to the depth and currents, the sites are suited to Advanced Open Water divers and above, with all dives guided by experienced professionals.
“These sites offer something increasingly difficult to find, which is a sense of true exploration,” said Giro Solatorio, GM, Manami Resort.
“You are not just observing marine life, you are entering a system that feels largely undisturbed. That changes how people experience the ocean.”
Details
Jonel’s Garden and G A P are exclusively accessible to Manami guests as part of the resort’s marine experiences. All dives are conducted with a strict no-touch, no-take approach, with an emphasis on buoyancy control and responsible interaction to preserve the reef’s condition.
The introduction of these sites builds on Manami’s Reef Retreat programme, further strengthening its positioning as a destination for nature-led, conservation-conscious travel.
Manami Resort is the first and only luxury nature resort in Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines. Named after the Hiligaynon word for “beautiful,” Manami features a collection of villas and suites that celebrate local craftsmanship and the art of slow living. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in curated nature and marine experiences, restorative wellness journeys at Linong Spa, and Spanish-Filipino dining infused with local Negrense flavours.
