Apo Island
World-renowned marine sanctuary famous for sea turtle encounters, pristine coral walls, and exceptional snorkeling and diving in protected waters.
Highlights
Swim alongside green sea turtles in shallow seagrass beds—one of the most reliable turtle encounters in the Philippines.
Community-managed sanctuary since 1982 with thriving coral reefs, diverse marine life, and strict conservation rules.
Dramatic coral walls, swim-throughs, and abundant fish life including schools of jacks, barracuda, and reef sharks.
Top Attractions & Dive Sites
Apo Island Marine Sanctuary
Marine Protected AreaThe entire island is surrounded by a protected marine sanctuary with designated snorkeling and diving zones. The sanctuary features healthy hard and soft corals, sea turtles, and abundant reef fish.
Tip: Arrive early morning for best visibility and fewer crowds. Sanctuary fees (₱200-300) and mandatory guide fees apply. Respect no-touch policies and maintain proper distance from turtles.
Coconut Point (Kan-uran)
Dive SiteThe island's most famous dive site featuring a dramatic wall dropping to 60+ meters, swim-throughs, and large pelagics.
Tip: Advanced dive site with strong currents. Best dived with experienced guides. Watch for turtles, white-tip sharks, and schooling jacks.
Chapel (Barangay)
Snorkel/Dive SiteShallow reef perfect for snorkeling with guaranteed turtle sightings in the seagrass beds. Also excellent for beginner divers.
Tip: Most popular snorkel spot—can get crowded midday. Turtles are feeding in the grass, maintain 3+ meter distance.
Largahan Point
Dive SiteSloping reef with excellent coral coverage, schools of surgeonfish, and frequent turtle encounters.
Tip: Good for all levels. Often less crowded than Chapel. Great for underwater photography.
Rock Point West
Dive SiteWall dive with overhangs, soft corals, and macro life. Good chance of seeing reef sharks and rays.
Tip: Intermediate to advanced site. Check currents before diving. Excellent for wide-angle photography.
Where to Stay
Simple beachfront accommodations on the island itself. Basic facilities but unbeatable access to sunrise/sunset dives and night snorkeling.
Ideal for: Dedicated divers, Multiple dives per day, Sunrise/sunset access
₱800–2,500/night
Liberty's Lodge
Popular beachfront lodge with restaurant. Book well in advance during peak season.
Mario's Homestay
Basic rooms, family-run, good local food. Very affordable.
Full-service dive resorts in Dauin offering daily boat trips to Apo Island plus house reef diving.
Ideal for: Comfort, Multiple dive sites, Photography
₱3,500–15,000+/night
Atlantis Dive Resort Dumaguete
Premium resort with excellent dive operation and Apo trips.
Liquid Dive Resort
Good value, friendly staff, regular Apo trips.
Closest mainland base to Apo Island boat landing. Simpler accommodations but quick access.
Ideal for: Budget travelers, Quick boat access, Local experience
₱1,500–4,000/night
Thalatta Resort
Beachfront with dive shop, can arrange Apo trips.
- Best conditions November–May with calm seas, excellent visibility (20-30m+), and minimal rain.
- Peak season December–April brings more visitors but best weather and sea conditions.
- June–October monsoon season can bring rough seas and boat cancellations—build buffer days.
- Turtles are present year-round, but visibility is best during dry season.
- Fly to Dumaguete (DGT) airport, then 30-45 min drive south to Dauin or Malatapay boat landing.
- From Dauin: Arrange boat transfer through dive resorts (30-45 min, ₱1,500-3,000 depending on group size).
- From Malatapay: Public boats available (cheaper but less frequent, confirm schedules and weather).
- From Siquijor: Ferry to Dumaguete, then road transfer to boat landing (allow 2-3 hours total).
- Day trips are most common, but overnight stays on the island are possible for sunrise/sunset dives.
- Sanctuary entrance fee: ₱200-300 per person per visit (cash only).
- Mandatory guide fee: ₱500-800 per group (snorkeling) or per dive (diving).
- Boat transfers from Dauin: ₱1,500-3,000 depending on group size and resort.
- Snorkeling day trip packages: ₱1,200-2,000+ per person (includes boat, guide, fees).
- Diving: ₱1,800-3,000 per dive depending on resort and package.
- Accommodation on island: ₱800-2,500/night for basic lodges.
- Weather-dependent: Boats may be canceled for rough seas, especially June-October. Build buffer days.
- Turtle etiquette: NO touching, chasing, or blocking turtles. Maintain 3+ meter distance. Violators may be fined.
- Reef-safe sunscreen only—chemical sunscreens are harmful to corals and may be prohibited.
- Bring cash—no ATMs on the island. Sanctuary and guide fees must be paid in cash.
- Book accommodation in advance during peak season (December-April), especially on the island itself.
- Respect local community rules—this is a community-managed sanctuary with strict conservation policies.
- No gloves allowed while diving (except for safety stops on lines)—no-touch policy strictly enforced.
- Snorkeling gear can be rented, but bring your own if possible for better fit and hygiene.