Bikanayos Rock - Apo Reef

Bikanayos Rock, tucked within Apo Reef, is one of those spots that really rewards a careful eye. We’ve found ourselves spending entire dives poking around the cracks and crevices here, specifically looking for the smaller stuff. Duncker’s pipefish often hang out in the softer corals, and the pygmy gobies, especially the Stobbs' and Yellow-red varieties, are nearly always present if you slow down and look for them. It’s not about big pelagics here; it's a macro paradise. This site is perfect for photographers or anyone who enjoys a detailed search over a drift.

Location
Apo Reef, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
11.144311, 119.276710

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