Bikanayos Rock - Apo Reef

Bikanayos Rock, tucked into Apo Reef, is a fascinating little spot. We've spent time here just watching the smaller stuff flit about. The real stars are the gobies: you'll likely spot the Pale Dwarfgoby, Sparse Eviota, and even the tiny Blackbelly Pygmygoby if you have a keen eye. Look a bit closer and you might also find the odd Rosy Frogfish camouflaged against the reef. It’s a site for the patient observer, less about big pelagics and more about the intricate, often overlooked creatures that make the reef truly special.

Location
Apo Reef, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
11.143991, 119.278160

Marine Protected Area: El Nido Managed Resource Protected Area

Best Time to Dive in Apo Reef

The warmest water temperatures in Apo Reef occur in June, averaging 30.3°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 27.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C
  • February: 27.8°C
  • March: 28.2°C
  • April: 29.1°C
  • May: 30.1°C
  • June: 30.3°C
  • July: 29.9°C
  • August: 29.6°C
  • September: 29.7°C
  • October: 29.8°C
  • November: 29.5°C
  • December: 29.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Apo Reef

Nearest Dive Centres to Bikanayos Rock

Marine Life in Apo Reef

Home to 181 recorded species including 171 reef fish, 5 seagrass & algae, 2 other, 1 whales & dolphins, 1 hard corals, 1 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Bikanayos Rock

Based on average water temperature of 29.3°C, currents 8 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories