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Home to over 650 species of fish and 400 species of coral, Apo Island’s tiny 0.74-square-kilometer sanctuary represents one of the Philippines’ most successful marine conservation stories. What began as a small community-led initiative in the 1980s has transformed into a world-renowned diving and snorkeling destination where visitors can swim alongside ancient sea turtles in crystal clear waters. This tiny volcanic island off Negros Oriental offers an intimate glimpse into marine conservation success that few destinations can match.
Getting to Apo Island
Reaching this marine paradise requires some planning, but the journey is absolutely worth the effort. The island sits approximately 7km off the southeastern coast of Negros Oriental and is accessible only by boat.
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Step 1: Fly to Dumaguete City
Your journey begins with a flight to Dumaguete City (Sibulan Airport). Direct flights are available from Manila, Cebu, and other major Philippine cities. The flight from Manila takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step 2: Travel to Malatapay Market
From Dumaguete City, you’ll need to travel south to Malatapay Market in Zamboanguita. You have several options:
- By Bus: Take a Ceres Liner bus heading to Bayawan and ask to be dropped at Malatapay Market. The journey takes about 45 minutes and costs around ₱50 ($1).
- By Jeepney: Jeepneys bound for Zamboanguita leave regularly from Dumaguete and cost approximately ₱30 ($0.60).
- By Tricycle or Taxi: For more convenience, hire a tricycle or taxi for around ₱500-700 ($10-14) for the one-way trip.
Step 3: Boat to Apo Island
From Malatapay Market, you’ll take a boat to Apo Island. Boats typically depart between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM, with return trips from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The boat ride takes 30-45 minutes depending on sea conditions.
Important: Boat schedules are weather-dependent. During the rainy season (June to November), crossings may be canceled due to rough seas. Always check weather conditions before planning your trip.
Public Boat Options:
Public boats cost around ₱300-400 ($6-8) per person one way. These boats only depart when they have enough passengers (usually 6-8 people).
Private Boat Options:
Private boats cost approximately ₱2,000-3,000 ($40-60) for a round trip. This is a good option for groups or if you’re on a tight schedule.
Best Time to Visit Apo Island
Timing your visit right can make a significant difference to your Apo Island experience. The island is accessible year-round, but certain seasons offer better conditions for diving and snorkeling.
Dry Season (December to May)
This is the ideal time to visit Apo Island. The weather is sunny, seas are calm, and underwater visibility is excellent (often 20+ meters). Peak tourist season runs from February to April when you’ll encounter more visitors but also enjoy the best weather conditions.
Rainy Season (June to November)
While you can still visit during these months, be prepared for occasional rain showers and rougher seas. Boat crossings may be canceled during storms or typhoons. The advantage is fewer tourists and potentially lower prices for accommodation.
“The best time for turtle sightings is early morning (7-9 AM) when they’re most active and feeding in the shallow areas. Plan your snorkeling trip accordingly for the best chance to swim with these gentle creatures.”
Top Things to Do in Apo Island
Despite its small size, Apo Island offers several unforgettable experiences centered around its rich marine ecosystem and laid-back island atmosphere.
1. Swim with Sea Turtles
The highlight of any visit to Apo Island is the opportunity to swim alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat. The island is home to numerous green and hawksbill turtles that graze on seagrass in the shallow waters.
Experience the Magic of Swimming with Turtles
Book a guided snorkeling tour with a marine sanctuary guide for the best experience.
Turtle Sanctuary Guidelines: To protect these endangered creatures, visitors must follow strict guidelines. You must maintain a distance of at least 3 meters from the turtles, never touch them, and always be accompanied by a guide when in the designated sanctuary areas. The sanctuary fee is ₱300 ($6) per person.
2. Snorkeling the Coral Gardens
Apo Island’s coral reefs are among the most diverse and well-preserved in the Philippines. The shallow areas around the island feature spectacular coral gardens teeming with marine life.
- Chapel Point: Located on the western side of the island, this is one of the most accessible snorkeling spots with abundant fish and coral just a few meters from shore.
- Katipanan: This area on the southern side features large table corals and schools of colorful reef fish.
- Rock Point West: Known for its diverse coral formations and the chance to spot sea snakes.
3. Scuba Diving
For certified divers, Apo Island offers world-class dive sites with dramatic drop-offs, underwater caves, and rich marine biodiversity.
Popular Dive Sites:
- Coconut Point: Famous for its strong currents and schools of jacks and barracuda.
- Chapel Point: A gentle dive with beautiful coral gardens and numerous turtles.
- Mamsa Point: Known for large pelagic fish and occasional sightings of reef sharks.
Diving Practicalities:
Several dive shops on the island and in Dauin offer day trips and equipment rental. A single dive costs approximately ₱1,500-2,000 ($30-40), with discounts for multiple dives. Visibility ranges from 10-30 meters depending on the season.
4. Hike to the Lighthouse
For a break from water activities, take the 45-minute hike to the lighthouse at the highest point of the island (120m). The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding Tanon Strait and neighboring islands.
5. Visit the Apo Island Community
Take time to explore the small village and interact with the friendly locals. The community of approximately 800 residents has been instrumental in the conservation success of the marine sanctuary.
- Visit the Apo Island Learning Center to learn about marine conservation efforts
- Support local businesses by dining at small eateries in the village
- Purchase handcrafted souvenirs made by local artisans
Where to Stay in Apo Island
Accommodation options on Apo Island are limited and basic, reflecting the island’s focus on sustainability and its remote location. Electricity is typically available only from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and Wi-Fi is limited or non-existent in most places.
Find Your Perfect Stay
Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (February-April).
Liberty’s Lodge
The most established accommodation on the island, offering basic rooms with shared or private bathrooms. Their restaurant serves good Filipino meals, and they’re one of the few places with Wi-Fi (for guests only). Rates start at around ₱1,000 ($20) per night.
Apo Island Beach Resort
Located right on the beach, this resort offers cottages with private bathrooms. They have a dive center on-site and serve meals in their restaurant. Rates start at approximately ₱1,500 ($30) per night.
Mario’s Homestay
For budget travelers, this family-run homestay offers simple rooms with shared bathrooms. It’s a great way to experience local hospitality. Rates start at around ₱500 ($10) per night.
Alternative: Stay in Dauin
Many visitors choose to stay in Dauin on the mainland and visit Apo Island as a day trip. Dauin offers more accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts, many specializing in diving packages.
Essential Travel Tips for Apo Island
What to Pack
- Snorkeling gear: While rental is available on the island, bringing your own ensures better fit and hygiene.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Regular sunscreen damages coral reefs. Use mineral-based, reef-safe alternatives.
- Cash: There are no ATMs on the island, so bring enough Philippine Pesos for your entire stay.
- Power bank: With limited electricity, a power bank is essential for keeping devices charged.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can be abundant, especially during the rainy season.
- Water bottle: Reduce plastic waste by bringing a reusable water bottle.
Fees and Permits
| Fee Type | Cost (PHP) | Cost (USD) |
| Environmental Fee | ₱100 | $2 |
| Turtle Sanctuary Fee | ₱300 | $6 |
| Snorkeling Guide (required) | ₱300 | $6 |
| Scuba Diving Fee | ₱300 | $6 |
Conservation Guidelines
Apo Island’s success as a marine sanctuary depends on visitors respecting conservation rules:
- Never touch or chase marine life, especially turtles
- Do not stand on or damage coral
- Take all trash with you, including biodegradable items
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times
- Maintain proper buoyancy control when diving
- Do not feed fish or other marine creatures
Safety Note: Currents around Apo Island can be strong. Always assess water conditions before snorkeling or diving, and never swim alone. If you’re not a confident swimmer, wear a life vest (available for rent on the island).
Sample Apo Island Itinerary
Day Trip
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Dumaguete City to Malatapay Market
- 8:30 AM: Boat departure to Apo Island
- 9:15 AM: Arrival, registration, and orientation
- 10:00 AM: Guided snorkeling in the Turtle Sanctuary
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at a local eatery
- 1:30 PM: Snorkeling at Chapel Point
- 3:00 PM: Return boat to Malatapay
Overnight Stay
Day 1
- 8:30 AM: Boat to Apo Island
- 9:30 AM: Check-in and settle at accommodation
- 10:30 AM: Snorkeling at Chapel Point
- 12:30 PM: Lunch
- 2:00 PM: Guided Turtle Sanctuary visit
- 4:00 PM: Hike to the lighthouse
- 5:30 PM: Watch sunset from the beach
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at accommodation
Day 2
- 6:00 AM: Early morning snorkeling (best for turtle sightings)
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast
- 9:30 AM: Snorkeling at Rock Point West
- 11:30 AM: Explore the village
- 1:00 PM: Lunch
- 2:30 PM: Return boat to Malatapay
Food and Dining on Apo Island
Dining options on Apo Island are limited but offer fresh, local cuisine. Most meals feature seafood caught by local fishermen and vegetables grown on the island or brought from the mainland.
Where to Eat
- Liberty’s Lodge Restaurant: The most established eatery on the island, serving Filipino classics and fresh seafood.
- Apo Island Beach Resort Restaurant: Offers a mix of Filipino and Western dishes.
- Local Eateries (Carinderias): Small family-run eateries in the village serve simple, home-cooked meals at budget-friendly prices.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Fresh Grilled Fish: Usually served with rice and vegetables.
- Kinilaw: Filipino ceviche made with fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar and citrus.
- Pancit Canton: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and seafood.
- Buko (Coconut) Juice: Refreshing drink served in a fresh coconut.
Dining Tip: Most accommodations offer full-board meal packages. This is often the most convenient option given the limited dining choices on the island. If you have dietary restrictions, inform your accommodation in advance.
Apo Island Map and Location
Apo Island is located in the Tanon Strait, approximately 7km off the southeastern coast of Negros Oriental in the central Philippines.
Why Apo Island Should Be on Your Bucket List
Apo Island represents the perfect balance of adventure, natural beauty, and sustainable tourism. Swimming alongside gentle sea turtles in crystal clear waters, exploring vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life, and experiencing the warm hospitality of the local community create memories that last a lifetime.
Unlike more developed tourist destinations, Apo Island offers an authentic experience that connects visitors directly with nature and local culture. The island’s commitment to marine conservation serves as an inspiring model for sustainable tourism, showing how communities and ecosystems can thrive together.
Whether you’re an experienced diver, a casual snorkeler, or simply someone seeking a unique island experience away from the crowds, Apo Island delivers an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the ocean and its incredible inhabitants.
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