Apo Island
Explore the GuideWhy Visit
A World-Class Marine Sanctuary
Apo Island is a tiny volcanic island located off the coast of Dauin in Negros Oriental. Despite its small size, it is legendary in the global diving and snorkeling community. It is a premier example of a community-led marine sanctuary that has successfully preserved its underwater treasures for decades.
If you are a lover of the ocean, Apo Island is often the highlight of any trip to the Central Visayas.
1. Swim with Resident Sea Turtles
The most famous residents of Apo Island are the Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles.
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The Experience: Unlike other places where turtles are shy, the turtles at Apo Island are incredibly used to humans. You can watch them graze on seagrass in shallow water, often just a few meters from the shore.
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Conservation First: Strict “no-touch” policies are enforced by local “Bantay Dagat” (Sea Wardens) to ensure the turtles remain healthy and wild.
2. Incredible Coral Biodiversity
Apo Island is home to over 400 species of coral—that is two-thirds of all the coral species known in the world.
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The “Clownfish” Capital: The island’s reef is famously vibrant and healthy. You can find “Nemo” (clownfish) in almost every anemone, along with massive schools of jacks, groupers, and even the occasional sea snake (Manait).
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Visibility: The waters are remarkably clear, often offering visibility of up to 30 meters, making it a paradise for underwater photographers.
3. A Masterclass in Community Conservation
Visiting Apo Island is an educational experience. The island is world-renowned for its Marine Protected Area (MPA) model, which started in the 1980s.
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Local Empowerment: The island is managed by the local community. Your entrance fees go directly toward the protection of the reef and the livelihood of the Ivatan-like fishing families who live there.
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Sustainable Vibe: There are no large resorts or massive developments. The island relies heavily on solar power and rainwater collection, offering a raw, eco-friendly travel experience.
4. Dramatic Volcanic Landscapes
Beyond the water, the island itself is a rugged volcanic beauty.
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Rock Formations: The iconic Apo Island Rock Arch is a must-see landmark accessible during low tide.
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The Lighthouse Trek: A short, steep hike leads you to the island’s lighthouse, offering a panoramic view of the Mindanao Sea and the distant silhouette of Mt. Talinis on the mainland.
Signature stops
Planning your visit
Where to Stay
Apo Island Beach Resort (₱3,000-5,000/night)
Tucked away in a private cove (called Kan-uran) right next to the main village, this resort is accessible via a short walk through a rock tunnel or over the hill.
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The Vibe: The most private and quiet option on the island. It is built directly into the limestone cliffs and has its own small beach area.
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Key Features: Private cottages, a very quiet atmosphere away from the village noise, and direct access to excellent snorkeling spots right in front of the resort.
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Best For: Couples seeking privacy and travelers who want a more “resort” feel while maintaining the island’s raw charm.
Liberty’s Community Lodge
This is the most established lodge on the island, perched on the cliffs overlooking the main beach and the turtle sanctuary.
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The Vibe: Rustic, tiered wooden buildings with a “treehouse” feel. It offers the best views of the ocean from its dining balcony.
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Key Features: It has an on-site dive center (Paul’s Diving), comfortable rooms with private balconies, and a restaurant known for serving the best “pancit” and fresh fish on the island.
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Best For: Divers and travelers who want a central location with a great view.
Mario’s Homestay
Located just a few meters inland from the beach, Mario’s is a favorite among backpackers and long-stay travelers.
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The Vibe: A true Filipino home experience. You’ll be staying with a local family who treat you like one of their own. It’s simple, clean, and very social.
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Key Features: Common dining area where you can share stories with other travelers, home-cooked meals (don’t miss their banana pancakes!), and fan-cooled rooms.
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Best For: Budget-conscious solo travelers and those seeking a cultural immersion.
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Estimated Rate: ₱800 – ₱1,500 per night.
When to Visit
Best Time to Visit Apo Island
Best Time to Visit & Daily Budget for Apo Island
To wrap up your guide, here is the essential data on timing and costs to help you plan the perfect trip to this marine sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit
Apo Island is accessible year-round, but because it involves a boat crossing in open water, the weather plays a huge role in your experience.
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Dry Season (November – May): This is the ideal time. The waters are generally calmer, and underwater visibility is at its peak (reaching up to 30 meters).
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Note: March to May are the hottest months, perfect for spending all day in the water.
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Amihan Season (December – February): The “cool” dry season. The weather is pleasant, but the northeast monsoon can sometimes make the boat crossing to the island a bit “bumpy” or splashy.
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Wet Season (June – October): This is the southwest monsoon (Habagat) season. While snorkeling is still possible, boat trips are more frequently cancelled by the Coast Guard if the waves are too high.
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Pro Tip: If visiting during these months, try to go as early as 7:00 AM, as the sea is usually calmer in the morning.
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Getting There
How to Get to Apo Island
Apo Island is located off the coast of Southern Negros. The gateway to the island is Dumaguete City, the capital of Negros Oriental. From there, it is a combination of a short land trip and a scenic boat ride.
Step 1: Get to Dumaguete City
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By Air: Fly into Sibulan Airport (DGT). Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have daily flights from Manila and Cebu.
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By Sea: Fastcrafts (like OceanJet) arrive daily at the Dumaguete Pier from Cebu (via Tagbilaran) or Siquijor.
Step 2: Land Travel to Malatapay Port
Once in Dumaguete, you need to head south to Malatapay Port in the town of Zamboanguita.
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By Jeepney: Go to the jeepney terminal near the Dumaguete Public Market. Look for jeepneys bound for Zamboanguita or Siaton. Tell the driver you are going to Malatapay (₱25–₱40, approx. 45 mins).
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By Bus: Take a Ceres Bus bound for Bayawan or Siaton from the South Terminal (₱50–₱70).
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By Private Car/Trike: A private tricycle from the city center costs around ₱300–₱500.
Step 3: The Boat Crossing to Apo Island
At Malatapay Port, head to the tourist office to register and rent a boat.
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Public/Chartered Boats: Boats are traditional outriggers (bangka).
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Small Boat (up to 4 pax): ₱2,500 – ₱3,500 (Round trip).
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Large Boat (up to 8-10 pax): ₱5,000 – ₱8,000 (Round trip).
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The Crossing: It takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Be prepared to get wet, as the swells in the Mindanao Sea can be splashy!
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Important: Most boats return to the mainland by 3:30 PM due to changing sea conditions.
Costs & Budget
Estimated Daily Budget for Apo Island
Since most people visit Apo Island as a day trip from Dumaguete or Dauin, here is a breakdown for both day-trippers and overnight guests.
1. Day Trip (Per Person, in a group of 4)
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Transport (Jeepney + Boat share): ₱900
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Fees (Environmental + Sanctuary): ₱200
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Mandatory Guide (Shared): ₱75
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Gear Rental (Mask/Snorkel/Fins): ₱300
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Lunch (Island Eatery): ₱350
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Total: ₱1,825 per day
2. Overnight Stay (Per Person)
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Accommodation (Mid-range): ₱1,500 – ₱2,500 (per person, twin sharing)
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Food (3 Meals + Drinks): ₱1,000
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Diving (2 Tank Boat Dive): ₱3,500 – ₱4,500
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Misc/Tips: ₱300
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Total: ₱6,300 – ₱8,300 per day (including diving)
3 Final Tips for Your Budget
The “Group Joiner” Strategy The biggest expense for a day trip is the boat (₱2,500–₱3,500). If you are a solo traveler or a couple, stand near the registration desk at Malatapay Port and ask others if you can share a boat. Most travelers are happy to split the cost, which can save you over ₱1,000 instantly.
The “Dauin Stay” Alternative Famous for its breathtaking muck diving. If Apo Island’s basic accommodation (limited electricity/water) isn’t for you, stay in Dauin on the mainland. You get luxury resorts and 24/7 power, and you can simply take a 20-minute speedboat ride to Apo Island every morning.
The “Plastic-Free” Savings There are no convenience stores on the island. A bottle of water that costs ₱20 on the mainland can cost ₱50 on the island. Bring a large insulated reusable bottle filled with water. Most lodges provide free refills for overnight guests, helping you save money and reduce plastic waste in the sanctuary.
Essential Travel Tips
Essential Travel Tips for Apo Island
Traveling to Apo Island is a unique experience because it is a protected sanctuary with very specific local rules. To ensure your trip is smooth and respectful of the environment, keep these essential tips in mind.
1. Environmental Rules & Etiquette
Apo Island is a world-class example of marine conservation. The rules are strictly enforced by the “Bantay Dagat” (Sea Wardens).
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The Golden “No-Touch” Rule: Never touch, chase, or feed the sea turtles. Keep a distance of at least 2 meters. Touching a turtle can lead to a fine or immediate removal from the water.
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Fins are for Professionals: While fins are great for diving, many guides at the shallow “Turtle Point” discourage them for beginners to prevent accidental kicking or breaking of the fragile corals.
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Sunscreen Safety: Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals (like oxybenzone) that bleach coral. Only use Reef-Safe sunscreen, or better yet, wear a long-sleeved rash guard to minimize the need for lotions.
2. Logistics and Cash
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Cash is Essential: There are no ATMs on Apo Island. All fees (boat, environmental, guide, and food) must be paid in Philippine Pesos. While some resorts in Dauin take cards, on the island itself, “Cash is King.”
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The “Malatapay” Wednesday: If you are traveling on a Wednesday, the path to the port is a massive open-air market. It is a fantastic cultural experience, but it will be crowded. Arrive 1 hour earlier than planned if traveling on a Wednesday.
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Boat Safety: The crossing can be very rough. Change into your swimwear before boarding the boat at the mainland. You will get wet from the sea spray.
3. Packing Essentials
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Dry Bags: A high-quality dry bag is non-negotiable. It will protect your phone and camera from the salt spray during the boat crossing.
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Power Banks: For overnight stayers, remember that electricity is often only available from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Bring a high-capacity power bank to keep your devices charged during the day.
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Water Shoes: The beach at Apo Island is not fine sand; it is made of crushed coral and volcanic rocks. Water shoes make getting in and out of the boat much more comfortable.
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Reusable Water Bottle: The island is striving to be plastic-free. Most lodges offer free or cheap water refills—bring your own insulated flask to stay hydrated and reduce waste.