A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Apo is the largest atoll like reef in the Philippines, marked geographically by three islands; Apo, Apo Menor and Cayos del Bajo.
The shallow lagoons surrounded by mangroves serve as a source of food, a nursery and aspawning ground for many coastal and marine species. The 34 square kilometres of reef also feature magnificent drop-offs and overhangs with resident turtles, barracuda and snapper. Apo Island is also highly rated amongst divers for its schooling pelagics, enormous groupers, Napoleon wrasse, and pristine hard coral gardens.
Visibility of up to 50 metres is common in season (Nov-Feb) and divers should keep an eye out for white-tip and grey reef sharks cruising by.
This remote marine reserve should not be confused with Apo Island in the Visayas region, which can be enjoyed from any resort in Dumaguete or from a liveaboard on a Visayas itinerary.