Apo Island, a picturesque paradise situated in the Visayas region of the Philippines, is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. With pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and friendly locals, it’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Apo Island is located just south of Bohol Island and is one of the many beautiful places we can take you to on one of our luxury live-aboard scuba diving cruise ships. Just send us a note and we’d be happy to arrange something for you.
Things to Do and See
Snorkeling and Diving
Apo Island is world-famous for its snorkeling and diving opportunities, particularly for its marine sanctuary. Home to numerous sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and impressive coral gardens, it provides an unforgettable underwater experience. Popular dive sites include Coconut Point, Chapel’s Point, and Rock Point West.
Turtle Watching
A highlight of visiting Apo Island is swimming with the gentle sea turtles. These peaceful creatures frequent the shallow waters around the island, making it easy even for novice snorkelers to encounter them.
Trekking and Island Exploration
Apo Island’s landscape offers more than just underwater adventures. Trek to the island’s lighthouse or hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views. Trails are well-marked and suitable for varying fitness levels.
Dining Options
Apo Island has several charming dining establishments:
- Liberty’s Lodge and Restaurant: Offers delicious Filipino and international cuisine, including fresh seafood dishes.
- Mario’s Scuba Diving and Homestay: Serves home-cooked Filipino meals, perfect after a long day of activities.
- Local eateries: For authentic local experiences, explore small eateries that serve budget-friendly traditional dishes.
Accommodation
Travelers have several lodging options to suit different preferences:
- Apo Island Beach Resort: Comfortable accommodations right by the sea, ideal for families and couples.
- Liberty’s Lodge: Popular among divers for its proximity to dive sites and excellent facilities.
- Mario’s Scuba Diving and Homestay: Affordable homestay experience that offers a taste of local life.
Historical and Cultural Insights
Apo Island’s history is deeply tied to marine conservation. Declared a marine reserve in 1982, Apo Island became a model of community-driven environmental protection efforts. Today, it is globally recognized for its successful coral reef management and sustainability initiatives.
The islanders are proud of their heritage and warmly welcome visitors interested in learning about their sustainable living practices.
Practical Travel Tips
- How to get there: The island is accessible via a short boat ride from Malatapay Market, south of Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.
- Best time to visit: Dry season (December to May – check out our weather forecast) provides optimal diving conditions, clear visibility, and calm seas.
- Environmental guidelines: Strict rules are enforced to protect marine life; touching corals or marine animals is prohibited.
Interesting Facts
- Apo Island boasts over 650 documented species of fish and over 400 species of coral.
- It is one of the world’s first community-organized marine sanctuaries, often studied by marine conservationists worldwide.
Booking and Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters teeming with life, explore scenic island trails, or simply relax by the seaside, Apo Island is a must-visit destination. Its natural beauty, community spirit, and commitment to conservation offer travelers a genuinely enriching experience.
Send us a note and we’d be happy to help you plan your trip to experience the magic of Apo Island firsthand!
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We are a family operation managing private custom boat tours in the beautiful Palawan area, and are happy to help travelers with their plans through the country, having traveled a lot of it ourselves and planning to visit it all.