In Dumaguete, Negros Oriental
Apo Island
World-class diving and turtle snorkeling.
Apo Island (not to be confused with Mt. Apo) is a small volcanic island 30 minutes by boat from Malatapay port south of Dumaguete. It's been a marine sanctuary since 1985 — one of the oldest community-managed reserves in the world.
The shallow waters around Apo are home to a famous population of green sea turtles. Snorkelers regularly swim alongside 6-8 turtles in a single session. The reef itself is dense with coral, anemones, schools of fish, and reef sharks if you go deeper.
Day trips from Dumaguete or Dauin cost PHP 2,500-4,500 per person including transport, boat, gear, and lunch. For divers, expect PHP 3,500-5,500 for a 2-tank dive day.
You can also stay overnight on Apo Island itself — there are a handful of simple homestays and one mid-range resort.
Stay near Apo Island
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