With the surge of breathtaking images on Instagram and the captivating underwater scenes showcased in recent freediving documentaries like the Deepest Breath and Freediver, this once-niche sport has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity, inspiring people from all walks of life to take the plunge and pushing it to the cusp of mainstream. 

If you’ve been infected by the freedive bug and wondering where you can take a course, Asia is arguably the best continent to learn freediving. Not only are there an abundance of schools to take your first course and thousands of instructors, but also some of the best in the world all set against stunning tropical backdrops and nearly all countries can be easy on the wallet for the budget traveller. 



This blog is based on my personal experience and experience from trusted freedive friends and focuses on beginner-friendly destinations. While advanced freedivers will have different criteria than beginners, these suggestions wouldn’t apply, the countries below stand out for their instructors, accessible necessary depths, ocean conditions and thriving freediving communities.

The Philippines: Endless Freediving Opportunities

Why Learn Here?
Ask anyone where to learn freediving in Asia, and the Philippines is sure to come up. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant reefs, and countless marine species, the country offers diverse training conditions for brand-new divers. Below are just a few of the areas to learn freediving - there are many other spots like Camotes, Cebu and Siargao as just a few that I have no experience with but have heard great things about. 

Top Spots for Beginners:

Panglao: Known for calm conditions and professional freedive centers, Panglao is beginner-friendly and also hosts international competitions. You’ll also have a chance to see Napaling Reef sardine run and the iconic split reef shot. Freedive Superhome and Panglao Freedive Academy are both reputable schools (I personally have trained at Superhome).

• Coron: Coron in the Philippines is hard to beat. I taught at Deep Week in Coron in 2024, and it was a truly unforgettable experience. Barracuda Lake offers one of the most unique dives in the world, with its surreal thermocline layers and crystal-clear waters, while nearby you can explore WWII wrecks, caverns, and stunning reefs. A bit farther out, you can even dive with dugongs, the gentle relatives of manatees, for an unforgettable experience. For those ready to take the plunge, Deep Week’s local partners, Palaone, provide excellent freedive courses to get you started safely and confidently.

• Batangas: This is a popular dive spot for Manila locals and a convenient option for international travelers arriving in Manila, as it’s just a few hours away by car—eliminating the need for an additional flight. Check out my friend Mikey at Deep Dadi who is the chillest as instructors go, but also is the OG in the freediving scene in the Philippines, having certified hundreds of students, dozens of instructors, trained many to national records and among the first batch of instructors for Molchanovs. He also makes a mean lasagna. 

• Boracay is a small but vibrant island that offers year-round freediving, making it ideal for beginners and ocean lovers alike. From October to March, calm front-beach conditions reveal coral reefs between 8–18 meters, while deeper sites and wreck dives are available for those looking to progress. From March to October, the action shifts to the back beach, where shallower reefs (4–20m) showcase soft corals, sea turtles, and macro life. I can highly recommend Tom and Dom at Freedive Boracay, who I’ve had the pleasure of teaching alongside during Deep Week — you’ll be in great hands.

What to Expect:

• Year-Round Warm Waters: Ideal conditions for practicing equalization, breath-holds, and relaxation techniques.
• Post-Course Exploration: After your initial training, you can island-hop, enjoy local culture, and use your newfound skills to explore hidden reefs.

Indonesia: Authentic Charm and Quality Training

Why Learn Here?
Indonesia’s freediving scene, especially in Bali and the Gili Islands, has grown steadily, attracting both aspiring and advanced divers. Beginners find these locations ideal because of their laid-back atmospheres, supportive communities, and relatively calm diving conditions. 

Recommended Areas:

• Amed in North Bali: Unlike the crowded tourist zones in south Bali, Amed retains a traditional fishing-village charm. The local freedive schools deliver high-quality instruction in a tranquil setting—perfect for first-timers. This is where I attended my first Deep Week and fell in love with it instantly and also home to a few reputable freedive schools like Apneista and  Apnea Bali.

• Gili Air: Known for its small island vibes and accessible reefs, Gili Air is a fantastic place to practice new techniques without feeling rushed. This is where I got certified as an instructor and holds a special place in my heart. One little caveat though is that open water sessions dive sites are reached by boat, oftentimes, a few kilometers off shore, so if you have any trepidations about that, this may not be your ideal choice. Check out my friend’s school Pacific Freedive Academy.

What to Expect:

• Professional Instruction: Many instructors completed their certifications right here, ensuring skilled and knowledgeable guidance.
• Cultural Immersion: When not diving, explore Bali’s temples, markets, and natural beauty, or soak up the easy island lifestyle in the Gilis.

Thailand: A Perfect Start for Hobbyists

Why Learn Here?
Thailand may not offer the greatest depth opportunities compared to other locations—advanced freedivers would need more depth —but for beginners and intermediate divers, it’s a solid choice. Friendly instructors, convenient travel options, and vibrant tourism infrastructure make Thailand a laid-back place to start your freediving journey.

Popular Training Hubs:

• Koh Tao: Usually a hub for scuba diving, Koh Tao’s Apnea Total and other renowned centers have introduced thousands of travelers to freediving. Warm waters and gentle conditions help build confidence underwater.
• Bangkok & Phuket: Urban centers like Bangkok also have freedive schools that offer pool training and short getaways for open-water sessions. Check out Bangkok Freedivers, who are also Deep Week’s local partners for their events in Phuket. 



What to Expect:

• Comfortable Conditions: Moderate depths (often up to 40-60 meters) are more than sufficient for beginners and intermediates just learning to hold their breath and equalize.
• Community Connections: You’ll meet other travelers starting their freediving journeys, making it a social and supportive experience.

Taiwan: The Freediving Mecca

Why Learn Here?
Taiwan’s freediving scene has exploded in recent years. Described as a “freediving mecca” by publications like National Geographic, the island boasts more than 500 certified instructors. To put it simply, the Taiwanese are absolutely crazy about freediving and its one of the largest markets for freedive equipment brands. This intense competition pushes schools to offer top-notch training, resulting in high-quality courses perfect for beginners. This scene has produced some of the best freedivers in the world including Huang Huayang who was ranked #5 in the world in 2024. 

What to Expect:

• Advanced Booking Needed: Taiwan’s best instructors often fill their schedules weeks and often months in advance, so plan ahead.
• Diverse Teaching Styles: With so many professionals, you’ll find an instructor whose approach aligns perfectly with your learning style.
• Hidden Gem - Many travelers fall in love with Taiwan for its off-the-beaten-path charm and hidden-gem appeal — but it’s the warmth and kindness of the Taiwanese people that truly leave a lasting impression. 

Freediving hot spots include Taichung at  DiveCube (Asia’s first deep pool), Hengchun/Kenting and Xiaoliuqiu. Xiaoliuqiu, where Freedive Nomad is based, has year round diving conditions. Check out my blog here to find English-speaking instructors and if you are in the market for a more personalized course with a holistic approach (and a bit of fun and play), check out our offerings here.

Tips for Choosing the Right Freediving Course in Asia

1. Check Qualifications: Look for schools run by certified instructors who follow standards set by organizations like Molchanovs, AIDA, SSI, or PADI.
2. Book Early: High-demand instructors often have waitlists—particularly in Taiwan. Plan ahead to secure your ideal start date.
3. Consider the Setting: Prefer a bustling vibe and social scene? Head to the Philippines or Thailand. Want tranquility and cultural depth? Indonesia and Taiwan might suit you better.
4. Focus on Safety and Comfort: As a beginner, prioritize instructors who emphasize proper techniques, safety, and relaxation. A well-structured course can boost your confidence and set a positive foundation for future freediving adventures.

Begin Your Freediving Adventure in Asia

From Taiwan’s bustling freedive communities to the Philippines’ underwater wonders, Indonesia’s authentic charm, and Thailand’s welcoming vibe, Asia’s top freediving destinations offer something for everyone. For beginners, these countries strike the perfect balance between guidance, accessibility, and adventure.

Armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to plan your trip, book a course, and dive into the depths of Asia’s warm, crystal-clear waters—where your first breath-hold will be the start of an incredible journey.



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