Sipalay City, located in Southern Negros Occidental where it faces Sulu Sea and has one of the richest marine life in the country. Sipalay City’s 44 dive sites composed of coral reefs and sunken ships make it one of the top diving destinations in the Philippines. This is one of the main reasons why some of the best diving resorts in the county are located in Sipalay City.
Artistic Diving Resort at Punta Ballo Beach founded in 1998 by Swiss Diving Instructor Arthur Mueller and his Filipina wife Evalyn Mueller, is a favorite getaway both of local and international tourists. The resort is around 6km from Sipalay City proper and very accessible through a concrete road.
The resort has 16 air-conditioned bungalows and villas you can chose from depending on your preference. There are bungalows located just a few meters from the beach. If you prefer a magnificent view of the sea especially during sunset, you may opt for the villas located at an elevated hill.
However, it can be a little difficult to go up the villas and down to the beach for those who have knee problems so select the beachfront bungalows if you have this problem. Rooms are equipped with hot and cold shower, TV and refrigerator. Though the rooms may not be as luxurious as the ones found in Boracay, they are nonetheless comfortable.
Artistic Diving Resort has a restaurant serving local and international cuisine. The rate is affordable at an average of P150-250 per person per meal, depending on your order. Serving size for dishes (i.e adobo, pork chop) is just right for foreigners but more than enough for a local. So if you’re a budget traveler in a group, you can share among your companions.
You can also hang out at the beach bar or take a dip at the swimming pool. There’s a library and billiard table should you wish to take a break from beach-related activities. Internet access is available at the lobby.
Since Artistic Diving Resort is near the excellent dive sites in Sipalay City, the resort offers diving lessons and diving tours. PADI accredited dive instructors will take you to an underwater adventure that will surely make your vacation very memorable. They can also facilitate a trip to Danjugan Island in Cauayan, Negros Occidental.
The appeal of Sipalay beaches resorts lie in the fact that the beaches are not overcrowded, allowing you to enjoy your privacy. The next time you plan your vacation, consider booking at Artistic Diving Resort. The rates are reasonable and the staff are friendly and accommodating both to local and international tourists.
For more inquiries, contact 09194095594 or visit their website at www.artisticdiving.com
Can you still remember the dive / snorkel / island hopping rates and what were they inclusive of?
We went there last year. The place was nice, but the problem is the parking area which is located above the beach houses, far from the bungalows and cottages. Our Revo had a scratch after 2 days when we checked out and went back home. The place was also very far from Bacolod, although distance is relative. If you are from Kabankalan City, the place is near.
Yes, it’s quite far from Bacolod but I think it’s worth it. Nataasan has a good parking but you have to go down also to go to the beach.