Are you looking for a perfect place to dive in the Philippines? You might want to consider visiting Apo Island. It’s famous for its incredible marine biodiversity and boasts one of the world’s best-known community-organized marine sanctuaries. With over 650 documented species of fish and an estimated 400 species of corals, it’s a paradise for divers and nature lovers alike.
And if that’s not enough, the island is also home to a thriving population of sea turtles, making it a must-visit destination for underwater enthusiasts. Beyond its underwater activities, Apo Island offers plenty to explore, from scenic hikes to relaxing on beaches. To make the most of your trip, it’s important to be well-prepared and know a few key details before you go.
Facts About Apo Island
Just off the coast of Negros near Dumaguete City, you’ll find Apo Island, a gorgeous volcanic spot that’s a hit with divers, snorkelers, and anyone looking to check out one of the Philippines’ prettiest places. Here’s some facts on what you need to know:
- First off, make sure you don’t mix up Apo Island with Apo Reef. While they sound similar, Apo Reef is the biggest coral reef in the Philippines, located off Mindoro.
- Apo Island isn’t big on infrastructure. There aren’t any cars around, and barely any motorbikes either. Everyone just walks everywhere, which adds to the island’s laid-back, natural vibe. The roads are just dirt tracks, and the whole place is all about preserving its natural beauty and supporting its small local community.
- Accommodation options are pretty limited—there are just three places to stay. But many people just pop over for the day from nearby Dauin or Dumaguete.
- The island has been a marine protected area since 1982, and it’s one of the longest-running community-led conservation projects in the Philippines. Thanks to all the protection efforts, the coral and sea life here are amazing! Seriously, I’ve never seen so many turtles in one place before!
- Getting to the island is easy. You can catch a public boat from Malatapay Port, hire a private boat, or even snag a spot on an organized Apo Island tour package.
Best Time to Visit
Apo Island is great to visit any time of the year, so feel free to drop by whenever you fancy. But if you’re looking for the ideal time, try to come during the dry and summer seasons from December to May. The waters are super calm then, and the views? It’s stunning. Plus, the weather’s usually perfect for all sorts of outdoor fun, and the visibility underwater is just top-notch for diving and snorkeling.
How To Get To Apo Island From Manila?
To reach Apo Island from Manila, start with a direct flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 to Sibulan Airport, also known as Dumaguete Airport. The flight takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, catch a tricycle to Dumaguete city center, a quick 10-minute ride.
Once in Dumaguete City, you have a few travel options to Apo Island, including buses, habal-habal (motorcycle taxis), or car rentals. We opted for a car rental for more flexibility with our schedule and convenience. From Dumaguete to Apo Island, it’s a 30-minute drive to Malatapay Market. At the market, head to the shore where you’ll find the boat terminal. From there, it’s a 30-minute boat ride to Apo Island.
Where to Stay on Apo Island?
While a few small guesthouses have sprung up recently, Apo Island primarily offers two main places to stay: Liberty Lodge and Apo Island Beach Resort. Unfortunately, you can’t book these places online. Your best bet is to show up and hope there’s availability.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in local life and ensure a spot, Elnor’s Homestay is a popular choice among backpackers. Alternatively, consider staying in Dauin at places like Liquid or Atlantis Resort, and make a day trip to Apo Island. You can also base yourself in Dumaguete and take a day trip to the island from there!
What to Pack for a Trip to Apo Island?
Here are some things you need to pack when going to Apo Island:
- Snorkeling gear
- Action camera
- Snacks/Food
- Tumbler and plenty of water
- Cash
- Dry bag
- Sun protection
- Extra clothes
Apo Island Travel Budget and Itinerary
The estimated cost for a half-day tour to Apo Island is around Php 1,500 per person. You can reduce expenses by opting for a bus or a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to Malapatay Market. Another budget-friendly option is taking a public boat to Apo Island, though you’ll have to work around the boat schedules. Below is a breakdown of the potential costs:
- Rent-a-car with driver: Php 1,000 – 2,000 per day
- Private boat roundtrip: Php 2,000 – 3,000
- Apo Island entrance fee: Php 100 per person
- Turtle Experience Guide: Php 300 per person
Note: The rates mentioned above may vary.
Things to Do in Apo Island
Get a day trip planned or thinking about hanging out for a couple of days? Either way, you’re in for some fun! Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect and some cool things you can do while you’re here.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a must-do when you’re on Apo Island! The marine park here is simply out of this world. No matter where you dive in, you’re going to find yourself in the middle of some amazing sea life.
Turtle Point is an awesome place to snorkel if you want to see turtles. You might even spot a few from the boat before you even get there! Apo Island is like a turtle paradise. Female turtles flock here to munch on the plentiful algae and chill out away from poachers and predators.
Scuba Diving
Honestly, Apo Island is one of the top scuba diving spots in the Philippines. You’re pretty much guaranteed to see schools of large pelagic fish, bannerfish, batfish, turtles, mantas, reef sharks, frogfish, loads of nudibranchs, and yes, even more turtles!
Relax on the Beach
After all the snorkeling and diving, one of the nicest things to do on Apo Island is just chill out on the beach! This island has a few different beaches to check out, including:
- Main Beach (just beside the boat harbor)
- Rock west beach
- Marine Sanctuary beach
Hike Up to the Lighthouse
Looking for the perfect sunset spot or want to catch an incredible view of the crystal-clear waters? Make sure to add a hike up to the Apo Island lighthouse to your itinerary!
The trail starts at the boat harbor and takes you on a bit of a steep climb to the highest point on the island. At the top, not only will you find the lighthouse, but you might also see some cows enjoying the view just as much as you will!
Hike the Habagat Trail to the Apo Island Viewdeck
One of the top hikes you can take here is along the Habagat Trail up to the view deck. This scenic route takes you past charming little villages and leads to a stunning viewpoint. I launched my drone from this spot and got some of the best photos of my entire trip to Apo Island from Dumaguete!
Important Things To Consider When Visiting Apo Island
- If you prefer to arrange things before you arrive, consider asking your hotel assistant for recommendations on renting a car and hiring a private boat at Malatapay Market.
- Remember to follow all the rules, especially when swimming with turtles.
- Accommodation options may vary, with several resorts available for tourists. Dining options are limited, with just a few restaurants on the island offering a limited selection of food.
- Be prepared for rough seas, especially during the monsoon season. You’re likely to get wet on the trips to and from Apo Island and back to Malatapay Port.
- All transactions are cash only.
- Cell phone signals can be weak in some parts of the island.
- ATMs are available in the town proper.
Apo Island Travel Tips
- Make sure to follow all the guidelines, especially while swimming with turtles.
- Try to get to the island early to beat the crowds.
- At Malatapay Market, team up with other tourists to hire a private boat. This not only cuts costs but also frees you from relying on the public boat timetable.
- If you’re using a private boat, coordinate your return time with the boatman.
- You can leave your belongings in the boat, but avoid bringing anything valuable.
- For a better experience with the turtles, I suggest wearing fins.
- Food choices here are limited. For day trips, bring your snacks and plan to have a substantial meal once you’re back in town.
- Always remember to take your trash with you when you leave.
Experience Apo Island Now!
Prepare for an unforgettable experience! Before you head to Apo Island, make sure you’re fully equipped with all the important information. From what to pack and how to get there, to the best activities and local tips, Sam SEO Philippines got you covered. Dive into our comprehensive guide and start planning your perfect trip today. Your adventure awaits!
Final Thoughts
Apo Island is a true hidden gem, with stunning natural beauty and a relaxed, laid-back vibe that’s hard to find anywhere else. Whether you’re just stopping by for the day or planning to stay a little longer, there are plenty of things for you to explore.
Before you go, make sure you’re prepared. We’ve covered some practical tips, like what to pack, how to get there, and a few things to keep in mind while you’re there. Knowing what to expect before visiting this island is important for ensuring a smooth trip, so you can fully enjoy everything the island has to offer, from its natural beauty to its unique experiences.
FAQs
Why Apo Island is the best snorkeling spot in the Philippines?
Snorkeling at Apo Island is a favorite activity, especially in the protected marine sanctuary on the island’s southwest side. The warm, shallow waters are a haven for human-friendly leatherback turtles and endangered green turtles, who feast on the vibrant hard corals.
Why is Dumaguete famous?
Aside from beaches in Dumaguete City, it is also home to four major universities and several colleges, drawing students from the province as well as from across the Visayas and Mindanao. The city is most renowned for Silliman University, the first Protestant and American university in both the Philippines and Asia.
Where is Apo Island located?
It is located in the province of Negros Oriental in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, it lies approximately 30 km (20 miles) south of Dumaguete, the provincial capital. The island is a barangay under the town of Dauin, with a population of around a thousand residents.
What makes Dumaguete Island a must-visit destination in the Philippines?
The top Dumaguete Island tourist spot would have to be the Manjuyod Sandbar. With its stunning blue waters and unique stilted huts, it’s been dubbed the “Maldives of the Philippines.” It’s also one of the country’s longest sandbars, which is why it’s popular among tourists and locals alike.