Shark Airport

Tubbataha Reef, Sulu Sea, Philippines

A signature Tubbataha dive built around a wide, coral-covered plateau at about 15 m that steps down to a shelf near 25 m. The name comes from the whitetip reef sharks that rest on the sandy bottom like planes parked on a runway, with grey reef sharks often cruising the reef in groups. Other regulars include dogtooth tuna, schooling trevally, marble and eagle rays, nurse sharks, Napoleon wrasse, and groupers. Currents run moderate to strong and drive the action. Liveaboard access only; Advanced Open Water certification required.