Apo Island - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Apo Island

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Apo Island, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Apo Island and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Apo Island, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Apo Island for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Apo Island

Apo Island is a small, volcanic island located in the province of Negros Oriental in the Philippines. It is approximately 7 kilometers off the southeastern tip of Negros Island and is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. It is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling, as it is home to a rich variety of marine species, including over 650 species of fish and over 400 species of coral. The island is also known for its efforts in marine conservation, with a sanctuary established to protect its marine ecosystem. The island is accessible by boat from the nearby town of Zamboanguita or from nearby Dumaguete.

What to visit in Apo Island

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Apo Island, Philippines: 1. Apo Island Marine Sanctuary - Apo Island is known for its stunning marine sanctuary. The sanctuary has an abundant variety of marine life, including over 650 species of fish and 400 species of coral. Visitors can go snorkeling or diving to explore the beautiful underwater world.
2. Apo Island Lighthouse - The Apo Island Lighthouse provides a great view of the surrounding area. Visitors can trek up to the lighthouse, which is located on a hill and takes about 30 minutes to climb.
3. Apo Island Beach - The beach on Apo Island is a great spot to relax and take in the beautiful scenery. Visitors can swim in the clear waters, sunbathe on the sandy shores, and enjoy a picnic.
4. Apo Island Sea Turtles - Apo Island is a famous spot for sea turtle watching. Visitors can watch as sea turtles come up to shore to lay their eggs.
5. Apo Island Volcano - Visitors can explore the Apo Island Volcano, which is an active volcano. The volcano is about 630 meters high and is covered in forests.
6. Apo Island Cliff Jumping - For the more adventurous visitors, cliff jumping is a popular activity on Apo Island. Visitors can jump off cliffs into the clear waters below.
7. Apo Island Coves - Apo Island has several beautiful coves that visitors can visit, including Boluarte Cove and Largahan Cave.
These are just some of the attractions in Apo Island. There are many more places to explore and activities to enjoy on the island!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Apo Island

The best time to go on holiday to Apo Island in the Philippines is during the dry season, which lasts from December to May. During this time, the weather is sunny and the sea is generally calm, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving. The months of March to May are particularly good as they offer the warmest water temperatures for diving and snorkeling. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, it may be better to visit outside of peak season in June to November, though you may experience some rainfall during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Apo Island

To get to Apo Island, you need to first travel to Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental, which is the nearest city to the island. Once you arrive in Dumaguete City, you can take a tricycle or taxi to the Ceres Bus Terminal. From there, you can take a Ceres Bus bound for Bayawan or Hinoba-an and tell the driver to drop you off at the Malatapay Market, which usually takes around 30-45 minutes. Once you're at Malatapay Market, you can take a 30-min tricycle ride to the Apo Island jump-off point in Barangay Maluay, Dauin.
Alternatively, you can also arrange a private boat transfer from Dumaguete City directly to Apo Island. There are various boat rental operators available at the Dumaguete Port, or you can ask your hotel or resort to arrange a transfer for you. This option is more expensive than taking a public bus and tricycle, but it's also faster and more convenient.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Apo Island, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Apo Island

Here are some typical foods of Apo Island (Philippines) along with a short description for each of them: 1. Seafood - Apo Island is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes, which include grilled fish, squid, crabs, and shrimps.
2. Kinilaw - Kinilaw is a popular dish in the Philippines made of raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices. This dish is a must-try in Apo Island, as it is made with the freshest catch of the day.
3. Adobo - Adobo is a dish made with pork or chicken marinated in vinegar and soy sauce, and cooked with garlic and bay leaves. It is a staple dish in Filipino cuisine and is served in most restaurants in Apo Island.
4. Pancit bihon - Pancit bihon is a dish made with thin noodles, meat, vegetables, and soy sauce. It is a popular dish in the Philippines and is often served during special occasions.
5. Lechon - Lechon is a whole roasted pig that is stuffed with garlic and spices. It is a popular dish in the Philippines and is often served during festivals and special occasions.
6. Halo-halo - Halo-halo is a popular dessert in the Philippines made with shaved ice, sweetened beans and fruits, evaporated milk, and topped with ube (purple yam) ice cream. It is a refreshing treat to beat the heat in Apo Island.
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Apo Island an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines, Apo Island can be considered a bit more expensive due to its remoteness and limited infrastructure. However, it's worth noting that the island is relatively small and can be explored on foot, so visitors can save money on transportation costs. The main expenses for visitors to Apo Island would be accommodation and meals, which may be slightly pricier than what is normally found in other parts of the country. Overall, expenses can also vary depending on the type of traveler - whether one is traveling on a budget or looking for more upscale options.

Where to find accomodation in Apo Island

It is best to find accommodation in the areas of Dauin, Zamboanguita or Malatapay if you want to visit Apo Island in the Philippines. These areas are close to the jump-off point to Apo Island and have many options for resorts, hotels, and homestays. Additionally, staying in these areas gives you easy access to other attractions in the region, such as dolphin watching and snorkeling.
You can check hotel prices at Apo Island here:
Booking.com

Is Apo Island a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, generally Apo Island in the Philippines is a safe place for tourists to visit. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, great snorkeling and diving, and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it is important to take normal safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your belongings. It is also a good idea to check with your accommodation or local authorities for any safety advisories or warnings. Overall, Apo Island is a popular and safe tourist destination in the Philippines.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Apo Island.

What type of travelers will enjoy Apo Island the most?

Apo Island in the Philippines is a perfect destination for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure. However, it is especially suitable for couples, families, and travelers who enjoy outdoor activities such as diving and snorkeling. Couples would enjoy the romantic ambiance of the island, its secluded beaches, and sunset views. Families can have a great time exploring the island's lush green forests, abundant marine life, and relaxed vibe. Young people looking for fun can engage in adventurous activities such as cliff diving, hiking, and exploring the surrounding mountains. Overall, Apo Island is an excellent destination for anyone looking to unwind, enjoy nature, and create unforgettable memories.

How to get around Apo Island

The most common way to move around Apo Island is by foot. However, there are also tricycles available for hire that can take you around the island. Snorkeling and diving tours are typically done by boat, which can be rented through local tour operators.

What to see around Apo Island

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Apo Island: 1. Dumaguete City: A bustling city that is famous for its delicious local food and historic landmarks.
2. Casaroro Falls: A stunning waterfall that is located in Valencia, Negros Oriental. The walk to the falls is quite tiring, but absolutely worth it.
3. Twin Lakes: A must-visit spot for nature lovers. The lakes are surrounded by lush greenery and offer fantastic views.
4. Oslob Whale Shark Watching: An amazing opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants of the sea. Oslob is approximately 3 hours away from Apo Island.
5. Siquijor Island: Known for its mysterious charm and enchanting beauty, Siquijor Island is just a ferry ride away from Apo Island.
Hope this helps!
For every travel information about Philippines you can click here.

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