Apo Island is a volcanic island located off the southeastern tip of Negros Island, 30 km south of Negros Oriental. It's known for its marine habitat protected by the National Integrated Protected Area Act (NIPA) and under the jurisdiction of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB). A popular dive site and snorkeling destination among tourists, Apo Island has been documented by the global science community, thanks to the Siliman University Marine Laboratory who's responsible for establishing and taking care of the marine sanctuary.

Getting There

Taking a bus from the Ceres Lines Bus terminal or hiring a private vehicle to Malatapay can both get you to Apo Island. If you choose a diving/snorkeling tour, you don't have to worry about the transpo as this is usually included in the package.

You can also take the public bus from Dumaguete to Bayawan. Tell the driver to get you off the bus at Malatapay Market. When you get to the market in Malatapay, you need to take a walk to the shore where a little coast guard outpost  is located. Here, you will find boats men who are ready to take you to Apo Island.
The ride over to Apo Island from Zamboanguita is around 45 minutes and it is usually a bit wet, so make sure you have your gadgets wrapped up to protect it from the sea water.

How Much it Costs

P15-P30 a head for the bus fare from Dumaguete to Malatapay. Renting a multicab / van for the day can cost you around P1500-P3000.

P1500 for a boat to Apo Island that can accommodate 6 people while P2500 for a boat that can seat up to 12 people.

Bigger boats are highly advised for safety and comfort reasons. Waves can get rough and choppy even if the weather's fine.

Staying on the Island
You can opt for a one-day adventure or stay nights at nearby hotels and beach resorts (Liberty’s Lodge or Apo Island Beach Resort on the island itself or Coco Grove, Kan-Upi Beach Resort or the Wellness Beach Resort in Zamboangita, which is the drop-off point to Apo Island.)

Electricity in the island isn't available 24 hours a day. Power is switched off at night and this goes for both hotels.

If you choose a day-trip, make sure you are back by the boat taking you back to Negros so you can leave the island at 4pm. Boats taking passengers back and forth are not allowed to leave Apo later than 4pm. For safety concerns, they make sure they get back to Zamboanguita or Dauin before the sunset.

What to Bring
Snorkel and Mask
Sun Tan Lotion
Underwater Camera
Trash bag

Bringing drinks / food is not recommended since you can buy all you need on the island and that way you support the locals in the process.

If you are going diving in Apo Island, then you might wanna bring your own gear as well, the 2 dive centers here has gear for rent though.

Other Activities 
Apart from snorkeling and diving, there are other things you can do on the island like walking up to the Lighthouse or bike ride.