Tubbataha Reef
A pristine atoll reef system in the Sulu Sea hosting extraordinary marine and avian life, recognized internationally as a World Heritage Site and sanctuary of global biodiversity importance.
At a glance
Tubbataha Reef is a protected marine and bird sanctuary covering 97,030 hectares in the middle of the Sulu Sea. Two massive atolls and Jessie Beazley Reef form a pristine ecosystem with a dramatic 100-metre perpendicular wall, extensive lagoons, and two coral islands. The site lies 150 kilometres southeast of Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
History
In December 1993, UNESCO designated Tubbataha Reefs National Park as a World Heritage Site, recognizing it as a unique example of an atoll reef with exceptionally high marine species density. The North Islet serves as a critical nesting site for seabirds and marine turtles. Ramsar Convention listed the reef in 1999 as a wetland of international importance. In 2008, Tubbataha was nominated as one of the New7Wonders of Nature.
What you see
The reef comprises two major atolls—North and South—plus the smaller Jessie Beazley Reef. A spectacular perpendicular coral wall drops 100 metres into the sea. Extensive lagoons frame two coral islands where seabirds and marine turtles nest. The structure represents a pristine example of atoll reef formation.
Cultural significance
Tubbataha Reef anchors the Coral Triangle, a centre of marine biodiversity containing 75 per cent of the world’s described coral species and 40 per cent of reef fish. Scientists have documented at least 600 fish species, 360 coral species, 11 shark species, 13 cetacean species, and 100 bird species within the park. Hawksbill and Green sea turtles breed here. The reefs face grave threats from overfishing and destructive fishing practices.
Key facts
- Country: Philippines
- Coordinates: 8.95°N, 119.87°E
- Area: 97,030 hectares (239,800 acres)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: designated 1993
- Ramsar Wetland: listed 1999
Practical information & getting there
Tubbataha Reef lies in open water 150 kilometres southeast of Puerto Princesa. Access is restricted; the site is uninhabited and administered as part of Cagayancillo municipality. Visits require permits and are typically arranged through authorized tour operators or research institutions. The remote location and protected status limit casual tourism.
Sources & resources
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