Apo Island is near Dauin in Negros Oriental, Philippines. You can visit Apo Island either via one of the Dive Centres in the southern part of Negros Oriental or by a water taxi from Malatapay Pier which is located about 10 minutes drive south of Dauin. You can catch a bus from Dumaguete to Bayawan and stop at Malatapay with the journey taking about 30 to 40 minutes depending on the traffic.
Apo Island is famous for scuba diving and snorkelling but can also be a nice day trip for families and groups. The taxi from Malatapay costs P300 each way and a boat can be hired for groups which will reduce the price slightly. There is also a fee on the island of P30 for filipinos and P100 for foreign visitors. It is possible to hire snorkelling equipment and a snorkelling guide which costs P300. Prices will vary between dive centres but you will normally remain on the dive boat rather than visit the island.
The water temperature varies between 26C and 29C but can be a little warmer in the shallower areas on sunny days. Most people snorkel near the shore but it is possible to swim further and explore the beautiful soft coral which is abundant. You will need to look out for dive boats if you swim further as they travel to mooring points. Turtles are the main attraction and easy to find close to shore.
During the dry season from December to May, the wind is from the North East and the Western side of the island is flat. The waves can be higher during January and February so take precautions if you suffer from sea sickness. During the rainy season the flat sea is on the eastern side of the island due to the wind switching to the South West. The weather is frequently sunnier on Apo Island than the main island and the island is busier during the high season from December to May.
The beaches are whitish, sandy and soft in places. There are a few huts which can be hired and the beach here is quite rocky with a lot of shells so footwear is recommeded. There are a few resorts and homesteads if you want to stay on the island. For day trips it is possible to buy some simple food and many groups bring their own.
If you feel energetic there are a few trails that you can take to explore the island. These are fairly steep in places but give you great views on the surrounding area. There are sign posts to help you but the locals are friendly if you get lost and will point you in the right direction.
Apo Island is a nice day trip as well as dive destination. The scenery looks better in sunshine and luckily that occurs frequently throughout the year!
JackBelle’s Photography 