Kirbys

Kirby’s Rock is one of those rare dive sites that satisfies everyone—from wide-angle shooters to dedicated macro fanatics. The dramatic cliffs, breaking waves, and exposed setting give this site a sense of adventure even before you enter the water.

The Deeper Pinnacle (18–40 m)

Descending along the deeper formation feels like approaching a stone monolith. Its summit sits around 18 meters, dropping steeply to 40+ meters on all sides.

The rock is covered in:

• thousands of Colochirus robustus sea cucumbers
• hydroids and soft corals
• nudibranchs grazing along the walls
• whip corals hosting dragon shrimp

This is also where macro hunters will find a dense concentration of nudibranchs, including uncommon species and seasonal surprises.

The Canyon Between the Pinnacles (20–30 m)

As you swim back toward the shallower pinnacle, a narrow canyon opens up between the two formations. This is prime territory for:

• pygmy seahorses on gorgonian sea fans
• painted frogfish
• soft coral colonies
• copper sweepers in sheltered cracks

Good buoyancy is essential—this area is protected from current and often full of critters.

Most dives begin on the smaller rock breaking the surface, but once you drop in you realise it’s the peak of a huge pinnacled structure rising from deep blue water. A short swim leads you to the larger, deeper pinnacle.

Currents are a defining feature—expect them to shift direction mid-dive or even vary between the two pinnacles.

Nudibranch Alley (18–25 m)

This depth band is one of Anilao’s most reliable zones for high-value nudibranchs, including:

• Dendronotus regius – the yellow, flame-like “dragon nudi”
• Reticulidia halgerda – bright white and orange reticulated pattern
• various Thecacera species
• dragon shrimp on whip corals
• occasional nudibranch feeding clusters

Photographers often spend half the dive here.

The Upper Wall & Ascent (5–15 m)

The shallow terraces are bursting with life and colour. They provide an ideal safety-stop area and a wide-angle playground.

Expect:

• anthias clouds
• wrasse and parrotfish
• moray eels
• boxer crabs
• dendrophyllid corals and dead man’s fingers
• frogfish tucked into sponges
• dense patches of soft coral

Visibility is often excellent, and sunlight makes the coral terraces glow.

45–80 m – The Wall

Beyond the deep rocks, the reef drops away into a vertical wall descending toward 80 meters and beyond. This zone features:

• black corals and wire corals
• deep-water sponges
• occasional pelagic visitors

Below 60 meters, visibility often opens up dramatically, revealing a stark but beautiful deep-reef landscape.

This section is only for experienced technical divers. Trimix is strongly recommended.