Apo Island
Apo Island is a world-renowned marine sanctuary celebrated for its spectacular coral gardens and staggering marine biodiversity. As a community-managed protected seascape, its reefs are in pristine condition, showcasing over 400 species of coral. The diving here is characterized by vibrant walls, gentle coral slopes, and thrilling drifts. It is most famous for its large, resident population of green and hawksbill sea turtles, which are found on nearly every dive, offering truly unforgettable encounters for divers of all levels.
Diving conditions are generally excellent, with water temperatures ranging from 26-30°C (79-86°F) and visibility often exceeding 25 meters. While some sites feature strong currents suitable for advanced divers, many sheltered spots are perfect for beginners and training. Divers should visit Apo Island to witness firsthand the success of marine conservation. The sheer density of fish life, the health of the corals, and the guaranteed turtle sightings make it a jewel of the Philippines and a must-visit destination on any diver's bucket list.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Apo Island, Philippines?
Coconut Point is the most famous and challenging dive site in Apo Island, Philippines. Known to locals as the 'washing machine,' it's an exhilarating drift dive for advanced divers only. The strong currents attract massive schools of big-eye trevally, jacks, barracuda, and Napoleon wrasse. The adrenaline rush combined with the sheer volume of fish makes it an unforgettable experience.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Apo Island, Philippines?
Well-known sites include Chapel Point for its steep walls and gorgonian fans, and Largahan for its unique volcanic bubbles rising from the sand. For a less crowded but equally thrilling experience, ask your divemaster about Mamsa Point or Cogon. These sites often feature strong currents and large schools of pelagic fish, similar to the more famous Coconut Point, but with fewer divers.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Apo Island, Philippines?
Water temperature in Apo Island, Philippines is warm year-round. From March to October, expect temperatures between 28-30°C (82-86°F). During the cooler months, from November to February, the water can dip slightly to 26-27°C (79-81°F). Thermoclines are possible on deeper dives, but conditions are generally very comfortable for diving throughout the year.
When is the best time to visit Apo Island, Philippines?
The best time to dive in Apo Island, Philippines is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. This period offers the calmest sea conditions, sunniest weather, and typically the best underwater visibility. While diving is possible year-round, the wet season from June to October can bring rain and potentially rougher surface conditions, though diving continues.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Apo Island, Philippines?
Underwater visibility in Apo Island, Philippines is generally very good, typically ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet). Visibility is at its peak during the dry season from November to May. It can occasionally be reduced by tidal movements, weather, or seasonal plankton blooms, which, while lowering visibility, can attract a higher concentration of marine life.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Apo Island, Philippines?
Apo Island, Philippines is not known for large seasonal migrations of manta rays or whale sharks. Its main attraction is the incredible density of its resident marine life, available year-round. The most significant and reliable 'event' is the daily presence of a large population of green and hawksbill sea turtles. Occasional sightings of reef sharks and pelagics are possible, but not guaranteed.
What marine life can I expect to see in Apo Island, Philippines?
Expect to see a massive population of green and hawksbill turtles on almost every dive. The reefs are teeming with huge schools of jacks and trevallies, barracuda, snappers, and fusiliers. Macro life is also abundant, with frogfish, nudibranchs, and scorpionfish. Banded sea kraits are very common, as are bumphead parrotfish. The sheer biomass is one of the key highlights of diving here.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Apo Island, Philippines?
Given the warm water temperatures (26-30°C / 79-86°F), a 3mm shorty or full-suit is sufficient for most divers in Apo Island, Philippines. Some divers may be comfortable with just a rash guard and board shorts during the warmest months. For those who get cold easily or plan multiple dives per day, a 3mm or even a 5mm full-suit is a good option, especially during the slightly cooler season from December to February.
How do I get to Apo Island, Philippines?
To get to Apo Island, Philippines, first fly into Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport (DGT) in Negros Oriental. From the airport or Dumaguete City, take a 30-minute tricycle or bus ride south to Malatapay Port. At the port, you can charter a 'bangka' (outrigger boat) for the 30-minute sea crossing to Apo Island. Most dive resorts on the island can also arrange these transfers for you in advance.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Apo Island, Philippines?
Staying on shore is the most common and recommended way to experience Apo Island, Philippines. The island has several dive resorts and guesthouses, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and support the community directly. While some Visayas liveaboards include Apo Island as a stop on a broader itinerary, there are no liveaboards dedicated solely to the island, making a shore-based trip the ideal choice.