Betlehem Betlehem, also known as Bethlehem, is a dive site located in Tingloy, Batangas, known for its stunning underwater scenery and diverse marine life. Here's a detailed overview of the Betlehem dive site: Location: Region: Tingloy, Batangas, Philippines Access: Typically reached via a boat ride from Anilao, Mabini, or directly from Tingloy on Maricaban Island. Dive Site Features: Coral Reefs:Betlehem features a rich coral reef system with a mix of hard and soft corals.The site includes a variety of coral species such as table corals, brain corals, and sea fans. Marine Life: Fish: The reef is home to a diverse range of reef fish such as butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, rhinopias and damselfish. Larger Species: Divers may encounter larger marine species like groupers, snappers, and occasionally barracudas and reef sharks. Macro Life: Betlehem is ideal for macro photography with regular sightings of nudibranchs, shrimps, zebra crabs, and other small critters. Other Marine Life: The site also attracts sea turtles, moray eels, big barrel sponges, and octopuses. Topography:The underwater landscape of Betlehem includes coral gardens, sandy patches, and rocky formations.The site has an interesting topography with gentle slopes and small caves and crevices, adding to the dive's intrigue. Depth and Difficulty: Depth Range: Typically ranges from 5 to 20 meters, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. Difficulty Level: Suitable for both beginner and advanced divers. The shallow areas are perfect for novices, while the deeper sections offer more exploration opportunities for experienced divers. Current: Generally mild, but conditions can vary, so divers should be prepared for occasional stronger currents. Visibility: Usually good, ranging from 10 to 30 meters, providing clear views of the marine life and coral formations. Best Time to Dive: Season: The best time to dive at Betlehem is during the dry season, from November to May, when sea conditions are most favorable. Weather Conditions: The site can be dived year-round, but the dry season offers the best visibility and calmest waters. Additional Information: Dive Shops and Resorts: Numerous dive operators in Anilao, Mabini, and Tingloy offer trips to Betlehem. These operators provide necessary diving gear, guides, and boat services. Conservation Efforts: Divers are encouraged to follow responsible diving practices to protect the coral reefs and marine life. This includes not touching or stepping on corals and avoiding disturbing marine creatures. Travel Tips: Accommodation: Various accommodation options are available on Maricaban Island and in nearby Anilao, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to upscale resorts. Getting There: Betlehem can be accessed by traveling to Batangas City from Manila (approximately 2-3 hours by car), then taking a boat from Anilao or Mabini to Tingloy. Summary: Betlehem in Tingloy, Batangas, offers a captivating underwater experience with its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Its varied topography and clear waters make it a favorite among divers of all skill levels. Whether you are a novice looking to explore the shallow reefs or an experienced diver eager to delve into deeper waters, Betlehem provides an excellent and memorable diving adventure.