Anilao Spring 2026 Trip Report

Text and Images by Dan Bishop

In April 2026, Bluewater conducted two back-to-back macro workshops at Crystal Blue Resort in Anilao. Anilao is a favorite destination for macro photography due to its high density of biodiversity offering an abundance of macro critters to photograph.

The workshop schedule is quite busy. Each day, the group had breakfast from 6-7am, followed by image review at 7:15. We then headed out for our 2 morning dives, often to practice a technique discussed during image review in the morning. Upon returning, guests were treated to a delicious buffet consisting of soup, rice, past, veggies, fish, chicken, and steak/pork. After lunch, a classroom session was conducted to dive into more detail on photography techniques and editing in Lightroom. We then headed out for the afternoon/dusk dives. Dinner was served around 7pm, which again consisted of a generous buffet, followed by another classroom session on various topics: animal behavior, video techniques, lighting, etc.

Each group also had the opportunity to do a few blackwater dives, which were conducted in the nearby bay over 800 ft of water. This was a first for many of the divers that opted to participate.

Over the course of the workshops, we were treated to an abundance of marine life. Oscillating Blue Ring octopus, Flamboyant Cuttlefish laying eggs, many Hairy Frogfish (including a rare Black Hairy Frogfish) were commonly seen. Of course, Anilao is full of Nudibranchs, and we lucky enough to see some rare varieties, including the beautiful Cyerce Elegans and a rare blue Alleni

We also were lucky enough to witness some great animal behaviors, including various critter tending to their eggs.

As usual, Crystal Blue Resort was an exceptional host, and they took great care of the entire group. It is so great to see the same staff and dive guides year after year, which is a testament to the strength of the resort.

On the last night of each workshop, we were treated to a feast of local Philippine fair, followed by a slideshow and announcement of contest winners.

Check out our video recap of the Anilao Spring 2026 Trip!