Apo Reef is a coral reef system in the Philippines situated in the western waters of Occidental Mindoro province in the Mindoro Strait. Encompassing 34 square kilometres, it is considered the world's second-largest contiguous coral reef system, and is the largest in the country.
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This destination is truly one of the best for unwinding, spending quality time with friends, disconnecting from technology (as there's no signal at all), and indulging in diving and freediving. I've visited this place three times in the past six months, and I'm still eager to return!
The marine life is exceptional. I always encounter dolphins, and during my last visit, we were fortunate enough to witness turtle hatchlings. It was an incredible and heartwarming experience. 🥰
EXPLORE travel and tours consistently hosted our group during our visits. You have the option to rent a tent or bring your own hammock, but be sure to bring your camping essentials. There's no source of 100% fresh water on the island except for drinking water. Additionally, the island lacks electricity, so it's important to have your phone, cameras, and power banks fully charged for the trip. 😉
The food are already provided and the arrangements are fantastic! Everything is prepared for us, including breakfast, snacks, lunch, another snack, and dinner, along with unlimited water and brewed coffee (kapeng barako). I'm definitely planning to return to this place! See...
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Apo Reef is the largest contiguous coral reef in the Philippines and second largest in the world. It is located in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro. The reef has several dive and snorkel spots. The water was very clear and calm.
To get to the island, you need to take a 2 hour boat ride from Sablayan town proper. You may opt to do the overnight trip (best for divers) or a day trip. Both will include the snorkel/dive and the island tour.
On the island, you can visit the lake and climb the lighthouse. Ince you reach the top of the light house, you get to see an amazing vuew of the reef. You can also walk along the shore and stay on the white sand beach.
There is no fresh water and cellular signal available. No shops on the island, too. The tours usually come with food and beverage. There is no cellular signal and electericity on the island, best to bring battery packs.
(We booked the tour from Gustav's Resort in Sablayan. There are several agencies, but Gustav's was the most responsive and...
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North Pandan Island is the major gateway to Apo Island. Located on this island is the Apo Reef National Park, acclaimed as one of the best dive sites in the Philippines. Apo itself is less than 1 km long, but the extensive reef holds enough underwater interest to keep divers busy for a week. Some 400-500 coral species are present in the waters around the island, and Shark Ridge presents the best underwater adventure on the reef. The best time to visit Apo is March to early June, between the monsoons and when the seas are calmer. Between dives, one can also birdwatch on the islands of Binangaan and...
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