Snorkeling with Sea Turtles in Apo Island: An Unforgettable Day Trip from Dumaguete
‘You can swim with turtles there.’ That single sentence was enough to reroute my Philippines island-hopping itinerary for a detour to Apo Island. After chatting with a traveler from Canada who'd just returned from an incredible snorkeling trip there, I couldn't resist—especially since it was only a 45-minute boat ride from Dumaguete. While whale shark encounters eluded me this time, snorkeling with turtles was an irresistible opportunity right nearby.
She also suggested Harold’s Mansion hostel, where I checked in two days later and immediately booked the next day’s Apo Island tour. For 1,000 PHP (about US$22), the package included snorkeling at three prime spots, plus onboard refreshments: fruit, coffee, water, and a lunch sandwich.
We departed at 7:30 a.m. from Harold’s dive base in Dauin, a renowned beachside dive spot just outside Dumaguete. Our group split: divers stayed in Dauin, while we snorkelers headed to Apo. Spotting the island's shoreline, I regretted not overnighting—a cluster of fishing huts and a pristine sand beach with inviting bungalows at Apo Beach Resort looked idyllic for combining snorkeling with sunset relaxation.
This was my first outing with a new underwater camera, purchased specifically for potential whale shark swims. Note on whale sharks: Oslob's tours near Dumaguete involve feeding, disrupting natural migration—Lonely Planet wisely avoids endorsing them. Donsol offers ethical encounters, but time constraints kept me away; it's motivation for a return trip.
The sea turtles exceeded expectations, allowing incredibly close approaches—reminiscent of Costa Rica's turtle arribada, but in the water with them.
Watching them graze and surface for air was magical—a pinch-yourself moment of pure luck.
Thankfully, I'd grabbed the Nikon Coolpix
at the last minute after regretting the lack during Red Sea snorkeling. As an affordable entry-level option, its results impressed me—what do you think?
As the sole snorkeler (others dived), I had the guide to myself. He pointed out hidden fish and corals, letting me immerse fully without straying concerns.
Though diving intimidates me, snorkeling's glide over vibrant reefs captivates. Apo's protected waters host over 650 fish species and 400 corals, ranking among the world's top 100 dive sites.
The underwater wonderland—canyons, sponges, algae—could entertain for hours.
Our final stop featured underwater volcanic rocks bubbling hundreds of tiny streams to the surface—a surreal, skin-tingling spectacle I'd never witnessed.
Mesmerized, I returned to Dumaguete tempted to repeat the tour, but Palawan—freshly named the world's most beautiful island by Condé Nast Traveler—awaited.
Tips for Visiting Apo Island
- The simplest access is from Dumaguete via Harold’s Mansion & Dive Shop's daily boat service (details here). Resorts can arrange transfers for overnights.
- For island stays, store valuables (like laptops) in Dumaguete. A Maritime Sanctuary kayak transfer awaits; use wet bags for gear.
- Accommodations: Apo Island Resort, Liberty Resort, or Mario’s (inland).
- Electricity runs afternoons/evenings only; pack a flashlight (off at 10 p.m.).
- Rent snorkel gear locally; two dive shops available.
- Harold’s Mansion: Budget-friendly dorms (PHP 250/US$5.58), doubles (PHP 800/US$17.85), suites (PHP 1,300/US$29). Great roof terrace for Wi-Fi, food, shakes, and socializing.
- Non-guests can book tours at the adjacent dive shop; luggage storage offered.
