Halo Anilao Dive Resort

We got there around 2 in the afternoon and found a dirty staircase leading down to a construction site. There was no working electricity, and we learned we were the only guests. The whole area looked like it had been under construction for a long, long time. The pictures showed a swimming pool, kitchen, breakfast, and a sunroof area, but none of those were there. We had to cancel quickly. Stay away.

There are lots of trees, it’s right by the beach, and breakfast is free. The staff are very accommodating. The deluxe room is spacious. Bring your own food; they’ll lend you plates and utensils, and there’s free drinking water. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and freediving, with plenty of fish and coral, but you’ll need your own gear. I’ll definitely come back.

It’s a peaceful beachfront hotel, and the morning coffee was excellent. Everything else was disappointing. Staff hospitality was poor, with the people available busy eating or sleeping. The facilities were in bad shape: the pool was damaged and unusable, outdoor showers didn’t work, safety jackets were too old to be safe, and there were no boats. Our room had mosquitoes and the washroom wasn’t clean. Breakfast is free, but I’m sure you won’t be able to eat it.

The pool was green and closed, and the shower pressure was so low it made showering difficult. There’s no Wi-Fi, and cell data barely works in the rooms. They don’t have a restaurant, so bring food or go next door. Breakfast is the same every day.