Sablayan| The underwater Paradise of APO Reef
Sablayan isn't just renowned as the largest municipality in the Philippines; it's also home to the renowned APO Reef Natural Park and the world's longest island-to-Island zipline. A visit to Occidental Mindoro isn't complete without experiencing the wonders of Apo Reef, making it a must-see destination for divers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Thanks to significant improvements in Mindoro's infrastructure, transportation access throughout the province has become more convenient. With this newfound accessibility, there's no doubt that Mindoro Island is poised to become the next tourism hotspot in the Philippines.
Apo Reef is the second-largest contiguous coral reef globally, only surpassed by Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Spanning 34 square kilometers in the South China Sea, it features an atoll-like coral structure separated by deep-water channels.
Teeming with over 350 marine species and 480 coral species, the underwater landscape of Apo Reef is a true marine paradise. Schools of fish, including yellowfin tuna and barracudas, elegantly patrol the depths, while sharks gracefully navigate the waters alongside mackerel scad. Colorful aquarium fish and rays leisurely swim amidst a breathtaking array of coral formations.
Beyond diving and snorkeling, visitors can bask in the island's stunning white sand beaches, offering picturesque ocean views that come alive during sunset. Spending a night camping on the island offers a truly unforgettable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
The following day, catch the sunrise from the beachfront before ascending to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the entire island. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride through the lagoon, surrounded by lush mangroves, to complete your Apo Reef adventure.
Apo Reef is approximately a two to three-hour boat ride from Sablayan's mainland. Reach out to the Sablayan Tourism Office to arrange group diving and snorkeling trips, complete with equipment rental and boat services. The best time to explore the island is during the summer months, from March to May, while the rainy season, from July to December, is less favorable for visits.
To get to Sablayan, travelers can fly to San Jose, the nearest airport, or take a bus from various terminals in Metro Manila. From San Jose, a short bus ride to the Integrated Terminal in Sablayan completes the journey. Alternatively, buses bound for San Jose are available from terminals in Alabang, Pasay, Sampaloc, and Cubao, offering convenient access to Sablayan.
Several dive operators in Manila and Palawan offer day tour packages and live-aboard boats to Apo Reef, making it easier than ever to embark on this unforgettable diving adventure. So pack your bags and dive into the wonders of Apo Reef!
