Bacuit Bay, Marine reserve in El Nido, Philippines.
Bacuit Bay is a protected marine area near El Nido comprising roughly 45 islands ringed by towering limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and extensive coral reefs. The waters form a connected ecosystem supporting abundant marine life.
The bay received official marine reserve status in 1991 when the Philippine government recognized the need to protect its diverse ecosystems and wildlife. This designation changed how the area is managed and used today.
Local fishing communities have shaped life along these waters for generations, and today they balance traditional methods with tourism and marine protection efforts. You can see how the bay remains central to local identity and livelihoods.
Access is easiest through El Nido, where boat tours depart to explore the islands and reefs throughout the bay. Plan for multiple days if you want to visit different areas, and basic swimming ability helps you enjoy the water activities fully.
The bay sits on a separate tectonic plate from most of the Philippines, giving it distinct limestone formations that differ from nearby regions. This geological separation created the dramatic cliff shapes you see today.
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