Apo Island
Visayas Region
Apo Island is a small volcanic island located off the southeastern tip of Negros Island in the Philippines, covering 74 hectares. It rises to 120 meters above sea level and is situated approximately 7 kilometers from the town of Zamboanguita and 30 kilometers south of Dumaguete. The island is famous for its community-organized marine sanctuary, established in the early 1980s through the efforts of marine scientist Dr. Angel Alcala and the local fishermen. This sanctuary protects over 650 species of fish and more than 400 species of corals, making it one of the most biodiverse marine habitats in the Philippines. Apo Island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, with facilities including two resorts and dive centers. The island also hosts a ranger station and a lighthouse. Its marine sanctuary fees support conservation efforts, helping maintain the pristine condition of the reefs and protect endangered sea turtles. Despite some damage caused by typhoon Sendong in 2011, the sanctuary remains a critical site for marine biodiversity and ecotourism. Apo Island's reefs inspired the creation of a Wild Reef exhibit at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium and have been recognized as one of the top 100 diving spots worldwide.
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Tip: The best time to visit Apo Island is during the dry season from November to May for optimal diving and snorkeling conditions. It is recommended to book accommodations and dive tours in advance due to the island's popularity. Visitors should purchase marine sanctuary entrance fees upon arrival to support conservation efforts. Be mindful of local regulations, including fishing restrictions, to help preserve the marine ecosystem. Access is by a 30-minute motorized boat ride from Malatapay, Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental.
Interesting facts
- •Apo Island hosts over 650 species of fish and more than 400 species of corals, representing most of the Philippines' 450 coral species.
- •The island's marine sanctuary was one of the first community-organized marine protected areas in the Philippines, established in 1982.
- •The Wild Reef exhibit at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium is based on Apo Island's reef ecosystem.
- •Sport Diver Magazine listed Apo Island among the top 100 diving spots in the world in 2008.
- •More than 60 sea turtles have been recorded around Apo Island, highlighting its importance for marine wildlife conservation.
History
Apo Island's marine sanctuary was established in 1982 after a three-year dialogue led by Dr.
Angel Alcala, who convinced local fishermen of the benefits of marine conservation.
This pioneering community-managed sanctuary became a model for hundreds of similar projects across the Philippines.
Over the decades, Apo Island has grown as a center for marine biodiversity and ecotourism, contributing to both local livelihoods and global scientific research.
The island's sanctuary was temporarily closed in 2011 due to damage from typhoon Sendong but remains a vital protected area today.
Place Guide
Marine Sanctuary1982
A protected area covering 450 meters of shoreline and extending 500 meters from shore, home to diverse coral species and abundant marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Apo Island Beach Resort and Liberty's Lodge
Two main resorts on the island offering accommodations, dive centers with tanks and compressors, and access to diving and snorkeling activities.
Ranger Station and Lighthouse
Facilities on the island supporting marine conservation efforts and navigation safety.
