Gato Island (“Cat Island”) is a rocky islet in the Visayan Sea, about 15 km northwest of Malapascua Island, under the municipality of Daanbantayan, Cebu. Its name comes from its curled shape resembling a sleeping cat from afar. In 1933, sea snake breeding grounds were discovered here by Japanese fishermen, who shared safe handling techniques with locals. In response, Gato was designated as a sea snake and fish sanctuary in 1997, and in 2001, the protected zone was expanded to include a 2-nautical-mile radius managed by the municipal government. The island’s geography is defined by dramatic caves, strong currents, and “Swiss-cheese” limestone formations. Beneath the surface, divers explore glowingly illuminated underwater caves and encounter venomous yellow‑lipped sea kraits, reef fish, and resting sharks.
If you would like to check out this beautiful island and experience its fantastic scuba diving, read below to organize local tours or you can join one of our luxury live-aboard cruises to see this and many other beautiful diving locations.
Getting There
- From Malapascua Island: Gato is accessible via a ~50-minute motorized boat ride The Very Hungry Mermaid.
- Base Location: Most travelers stay on Malapascua and take day trips to Gato.
- Direct docking is challenging due to undercut rock faces and troubled handling in strong currents, so diving expeditions are usually launched via outrigger or carefully managed boats.
Dive Operators & Tours to Gato Island
- Malapascua Exotic Island Dive Resort
A PADI 5-Star resort offering full-day dive packages around Malapascua, including Gato Island and Monad Shoal, with skilled instructors and quality gear.
Book directly via PADI’s trip page. - Devocean Divers Malapascua
Offers dedicated 7-hour Gato Island day trips with three dives, capped at 4 divers per guide, early departure, instant confirmation, and flexible cancellation.
Book here.
What Divers Have Seen at Gato Island
A dive enthusiast shared vivid highlights:
“We saw Cat Shark, Scorpionfish, Golden Mantis, Black‑saddled Toby… resident Whitetip Reef Shark, Broadclub Cuttlefish, Yellow‑lipped Sea Krait, tiny Frogfish… Spanish Dancer with eggs.”
However, exercising caution is wise—another traveler recounted strong currents and safety concerns:
“On our second dive at Gato island… the current was super strong… Another group lost a diver in the current…”
These insights reinforce that Gato is best visited with experienced guides and solid diving skills.
Where to Stay in Malapascua Island
Top Hotels & Resorts
According to recent listings:
- Ocean Vida Beach and Dive Resort – Highly rated with oceanfront dining and dive services.
- Blanco Beach Resort – Stylish and quiet with a rooftop terrace & restaurant.
- Buena Vida Resort & Spa – Full spa services and breakfast included.
- Tepanee Beach Resort – Direct beach access and spa; consistently recommended.
- Malapascua Exotic Island Dive Resort – Combines comfort and dive services.
Budget & Mid-Budget Options
- Malapascua Budget Inn – Dorms from ~$12 USD, central location, and organized dive trips.
- Thresher Cove Dive Resort – Dorms from ~$8 USD, private rooms ~$17 USD, private beach & pool.
- Lionfish Backpackers – Budget dorm setting near the beach.
Additional Favorites (Booking.com picks)
JPH Resort (rating 9.3), Mandurah’s Inn (8.9), SLAM’S Garden Dive Resort (8.1), Hippocampus Beach Resort (8.1), Moonlight Resort (8.1), Elen Inn (8.7), Celtis Resort (7.9) and more—all centrally located on Malapascua Island.
What to Do
- Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Discover five main dive sites around Gato — Cathedral, Guardhouse, Nudibranch City, Cave, and Whitetip Alley — teeming with marine life.
- Wildlife & Dive Highlights: Watch for banded sea kraits, reef sharks, vibrant fish species, seahorses, nudibranchs, and mesmerizing rock formations.
- Above Water: Gato Island also serves as habitat for seabirds and bats. Its unique geology makes it as fascinating to observe from a boat as it is underwater.
Final Take and Booking
For divers and nature lovers, Gato Island is an extraordinary—and accessible—marine sanctuary that delivers glimmers of Philippine marine wonders such as sea kraits, vibrant macro life, and dramatic underwater caves. Pair your excursions with a stay at one of Malapascua’s many dive-friendly resorts or budget-friendly inns, and you have a travel plan that balances adventure, convenience, and comfort.
Whether you’re a photographer chasing nudibranchs, a diver seeking cave sharks, or a nature lover awed by sea snakes and rugged geology, Gato Island offers a rare blend of thrills. Dive into its caves and rich marine tapestry, and discover why this “Cat Island” remains one of Cebu’s most unforgettable escapes.
Gato Island, a small yet enchanting island off the coast of Malapascua in Cebu, Philippines, is a treasure trove for adventurous travelers and diving enthusiasts. Known for its stunning underwater landscapes, rich marine biodiversity, and unique rock formations, Gato Island offers an unparalleled experience both above and below the water. Whether you’re an avid diver, a nature lover, or someone seeking a tranquil escape, Gato Island promises an unforgettable adventure. Here’s what you can do when you visit this hidden gem.
You can book local tours yourself through the links above, or you can book luxury island hopping live-aboard cruises through us and which can take you to numerous such 5-star diving spots.
More info following.
Dive into a Marine Wonderland
Gato Island is a premier diving destination, renowned for its vibrant marine life and underwater wonders. The island is home to several dive sites, each offering a unique and captivating experience:
- Gato Island Tunnel: One of the most famous dive sites around the island, the Gato Island Tunnel is a thrilling underwater passage that cuts through the island. Divers can swim through the tunnel, which is filled with fascinating marine life such as whitetip reef sharks, lobsters, and colorful nudibranchs. The experience of emerging from the dark tunnel into the vibrant underwater world is both exhilarating and surreal.
- Cathedral: This dive site is known for its dramatic rock formations and large caverns, which create a cathedral-like ambiance underwater. The area is teeming with marine life, including schools of fish, moray eels, and even the occasional sea snake. The play of light filtering through the water adds to the mystical atmosphere of this dive.
- Shark Point: As the name suggests, Shark Point is a hotspot for encountering whitetip reef sharks. These graceful predators can often be seen resting on the sandy seabed or swimming around the coral reefs. The site also features beautiful coral gardens and a variety of other marine species.
Snorkeling Adventures
For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, Gato Island offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. The shallow reefs around the island are easily accessible and provide a stunning display of marine biodiversity. Snorkelers can observe colorful coral formations, schools of tropical fish, and an array of other marine creatures. The clear waters and calm conditions make snorkeling at Gato Island a relaxing and enjoyable activity for all ages.
Explore the Island’s Unique Landscape
Gato Island is not just about underwater adventures; its above-water landscapes are equally captivating. The island features striking limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and hidden caves waiting to be explored. Take a boat tour around the island to admire its rugged beauty and discover secluded spots perfect for picnicking or simply soaking in the serene surroundings.
Bird Watching and Wildlife
The island is also a haven for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Gato Island is home to various bird species, including sea eagles, kingfishers, and herons. The island’s lush environment provides a sanctuary for these birds, making it an ideal spot for bird watching. Additionally, the island’s caves and rocky shores are home to a variety of other wildlife, including bats and monitor lizards.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Getting There: Gato Island is accessible by boat from Malapascua Island. The journey takes about an hour and can be arranged through local dive shops and tour operators. Malapascua Island itself is reachable from Cebu City via a 3-4 hour drive to Maya Port, followed by a 30-minute boat ride.
Accommodation: While there are no accommodations on Gato Island itself, Malapascua Island offers a range of options, from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range resorts. Staying on Malapascua allows easy access to Gato Island and other nearby attractions.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Gato Island is during the dry season, from November to May, when the weather is most favorable for diving and outdoor activities. However, the island’s underwater beauty can be enjoyed year-round.
Diving Considerations: Gato Island is suitable for divers of all levels, but some dive sites, like the Gato Island Tunnel, may be better suited for advanced divers due to depth and conditions. Ensure you dive with a reputable dive operator who can provide guidance and safety measures.
Booking
You can check out the tours we offer in the Cebu area, or send us a note here and we’ll get back to you asap.
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