Once a sleepy town in the Philippines, Oslob has developed a global reputation as a center for whale shark encounters.
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Beasts of the deep —
The whale shark's tail alone is the length of a person. One swipe could do some serious damage, but the sea creatures are typically relaxed around humans.
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Feeding fears —
Alistair Dove, director of research and conservation at Georgia Aquarium is concerned that feeding the whale sharks to encourage them to congregate in Oslob could make them vulnerable.
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Tourism influx —
Local officials say whale shark tourism has brought in an alternative and much-needed source of income for the local community. In 2014, whale sharks attracted over 110,000 tourists to Oslob.
Marisa Cannon/CNN
Rules —
Swimmers must stay four feet away from whale sharks. Touching one could result in a $56 fine. Swimmers must wash off sunscreen before entering the water to keep it pollutant-free.
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Tumalog waterfalls —
Aside from the whale sharks, the Tumalog waterfalls, which cascade into a serene turquoise pool, are another natural local attraction.
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Oslob's origins —
Oslob is on the southern tip of Cebu. Farming and fishing were once the only industries in the area.
