Apo Island

About this place

Apo Island is a small volcanic island of 74 hectares, 7 km off the south-eastern tip of Negros. Its name means elder or respected ancestor in the Visayan languages. A famous marine reserve surrounds it, making it one of the best diving and snorkelling sites in the Philippines, known for its sea turtles. Its story began when the marine scientist Angel Alcala of Silliman University persuaded local fishermen, after three years of dialogue, to create a protected area. In 1982 the fishermen chose 450 metres of shoreline reaching 500 metres out to sea. That experiment led to hundreds of other marine sanctuaries in the country. The island has over 650 documented species of fish and about 400 of coral. A traditional boat lands you on a small white beach among dark rocks, and you then swim over coral gardens near the shore, where green turtles may be grazing quietly. The island has a small village, two resorts with dive centres, a ranger station and a lighthouse. A path climbs toward the highest point at 120 metres. The island is 25.5 km in a straight line south of Dumaguete, about 30 minutes by boat from Malatapay. Do not touch or chase the turtles, do not stand on coral, and use reef-safe sunscreen if you can. Follow your guide, as some areas are closed or restricted. Conditions change, and trips can be cancelled in rough seas. Dress modestly in the village.