Malapascua Exotic Island Dive and Beach Resort

We’re leaving, but our hearts will stay here. We had a wonderful time at Exotic Dive Resort on Malapascua and will definitely return. Lots of reviews already mention the delicious food and great diving, so I want to talk about the staff. Every person we met made us feel welcome and cared for, right from the start. Their warmth and genuine hospitality made us feel at home and made the stay unforgettable. With love, Marvin & David

We stayed three nights and had a fantastic time. The rooms were clean and comfortable, and the shower was great. Diving gear was in good shape, we did our Nitrox course there, and the dives were organized well. The boat never felt overcrowded. The staff, both at the hotel and among the dive masters, were friendly, professional, and helpful. The hotel restaurant was a lovely surprise, one of the best we tried on the whole trip. And seeing thresher sharks alone makes the long journey to the island worth it. I highly recommend using the hotel’s airport transfer. Getting from Cebu airport by yourself can be difficult and complicated. A great choice for divers and non-divers alike.

Even when we got stuck on the island because of a typhoon, we had a great stay. Bring more cash than you think you’ll need, since there are basically no working ATMs on the island and card transactions at the hotel have a 3.5% charge. The property is beautiful, with a sand-floor restaurant that makes you feel right on the beach. If you’re after the nicest property on the island, this would certainly be it. Staff were friendly and accommodating, and breakfast was delicious every morning. They packed it to go when we had an early dive. There’s a full dive shop with excellent dive masters. We did our Advanced Open Water course here, and Julius and the whole crew were outstanding. We learned a lot over six dives and would stay here again if we returned.

The room was clean, but it smelled musty. The hot water barely worked, and the AC would randomly shut off during the night, leaving me waking up hot. Transfers to local dive sites used extremely loud boats, so bring earplugs. The restaurant food was hit and miss, though the massages were fairly good. The resort staff and dive guide were exceptional, and the diving operation ran very smoothly. Communication with one coordinator before the trip was difficult at times, while the rest of the experience was okay.