Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary

Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary is a 250-hectare marine protected area located off the coast of Masbate City in Masbate Province, Bicol Region, Philippines. Centered on a coral reef and an elongated sandbar that emerges at low tide, it was established in 2000 to rehabilitate degraded reef habitat. The sanctuary is notable for clear shallow waters, diverse corals and fish, and its community-managed conservation model that supports eco-tourism and sustainable fisheries.

Visitors reach the sanctuary by motorized banca from Buntod Wharf or Rendezvous Point in Masbate City, about 30-45 minutes boat ride. At low tide, a long white sandbar emerges surrounded by shallow turquoise water and reef flats. Visitors can wade, swim and snorkel over coral areas, observe tropical fish and occasional migratory birds, and use floating cottages for resting. There are no permanent hotels on the reef; the setting is open, exposed, and natural with minimal structures.