A small volcanic island 30 km south of Dumaguete, surrounded by one of the best-protected coral reefs in the Philippines. The Apo Island Marine Reserve, managed by the local community, has exceptional visibility and fish density. Sea turtles are commonly seen year-round. Snorkelling is possible from the beach; dive operators from Dumaguete run day trips. The island has basic accommodation for those who want to stay overnight and dive across multiple days.
Apo Island
Community-protected reef with exceptional diving and sea turtles
A story
Apo Island's marine sanctuary was established in 1982 by the local fishing community — one of the first community-managed marine reserves in the Philippines. It is now considered one of the best examples of successful local marine conservation in Southeast Asia, with fish biomass several times higher inside the reserve than outside.