Things to see and do Apo Island

The Apo Island marine sanctuary has been closed since Typhoon Pablo ravaged the island and its seabed in 2012, to allow the corals to regenerate - they grow by just 1 cm in 20 months. Rest assured, this won't stop you from diving elsewhere around the island and taking in the sights. From the main beach, just a few meters away, you'll find yourself face to face with giant turtles and coral of impressive beauty and variety.

This beach, nestled in a small cove, can be seen from the island's viewpoint. The turtles lay their eggs there by hundreds, digging a big hole in the sand where they deposit them, and that in total freedom. Here no association or sanctuary of protection, no night visit with tourists, they are totally free. The incubation period is two months, and during the birth season, only the strongest and most resistant babies will reach the sea and one in a thousand will become an adult turtle.

The trailhead is marked with a sign. The round trip takes 45 minutes. You can go by yourself but we recommend to go with a guide (the same as for snorkeling, remember to give a tip, 150-200 PHP at the end). It allows you to ask questions about the island, and to be accompanied because it is quite steep in some places. On the way there are several breathtaking viewpoints, up to the top and the tip of the island where the view of Negros Oriental, the beach and the sea is breathtaking. Remember to take water.