Honest review
If diving is the point of the trip, Plantation Bay speaks for itself: a dive centre with PADI 5-Star Gold Palm Resort accreditation, and dive sites ranging from reefs just offshore to drift walls and underwater caves — all within 15 minutes by boat, some right off the beach. There is a place for a beginner and for an experienced diver alike.
For a day without tanks, snorkel the Hilutungan Marine Sanctuary: batfish, trevallies, parrotfish and the friendly clownfish you can feed with breadcrumbs.
About the resort itself, know this in advance: the sea here is replaced by a vast private lagoon, and the beaches are artificial. A minus for some; for families with children, more of a plus — the water is calm, and most rooms open straight onto the shore.
For recovery, head to the Japanese-style spa: pools of hot, cold and sea water, a needle shower, a waterfall, a sauna and a steam bath.
In the evening, choose between Spanish tapas, Italian pasta and a charcoal-grilled steak. A resort for divers and families; committed devotees of a natural beachfront should look at other options.
