If you decide NOT to do a liveaboard this is a great alternative, and especially good for new divers because the depths are not too deep and there is little current.
We went to Puerta Gallera in the Phillipines last summer, and liked it so much we are going again in summer 2026. The summer months are best because there are smaller crowds, (and the prices go down) the water is warmer and the seas are flat. The resorts offer up to 5 dives a day; each dive is separate, that is, the boat does the dive, returns to shore, does the 2nd dive, returns to shore, etc. for all 5 dives. If you want to skip a dive go ahead; sleep in one day and miss the 8am dive but do the 10am dive,, etc. It is great. And if you or your daughter are not feeling great you have the flexibility of not being stuck on a boat all day long. The diving is exceptional, TONS of different corals and TONS of fish. Most dives 50-60 ft. Most end up with you at 15-20 feet for the last 10 minutes or so, great for newbies. Most dives are 45-60 minutes long. The most know resort is Atlantis, but I would not use it - it is too expensive compared to El Galleon Dive Resort which is next door. You see both their boats on the water right next to eachother, so they do the exact same dive sites. Despite El Galleon being less expensive the rooms are fine, the food excellent, the staff friendly, the diving exactly the same. No reason to pay more. Check out both their websites, but I'm telling you, IMO it makes no sense to pay more for Atlantis. The prices on their website are often negotiable; especially if you book with them directly (no travel agent fees) and if you're willing to wire-transfer them a deposit and only pay the balance with a credit card when you checkout. Send them an email to arrange your stay, I wouldn't book it directly from the website. Also, there is a nearby town via a 5 minute walk. Perfect for choosing dozens of restaurants if you want something different from the resort, lots of shops, supermarkets (to fill up the mini fridge with snacks and beverages) etc.
Puerta Gallera is about a 3 hour drive from the Manila airport. The resorts can offer you a van to take you to and from. You pay for the van, and it holds 5-6 people. So if you're traveling with a group you can all split the cost of the van. If there are 3+ more of you the van cost is not too high per person.
I strongly recommend it!
