Southeast Corner - Apo Reef

The Southeast Corner at Apo Reef, for us, is where things really get interesting. We’ve drifted this corner countless times and it always delivers a proper shot of big-fish energy. It’s not about intricate macro here, though you’ll always spot a Bugeye Dottyback tucked into a crevice if you look. This site is all about the pelagics that sweep in from the blue. We love settling in and watching the schools of Mimic Surgeonfish and Saddled Parrotfish cruise by, sometimes in such numbers they seem to stretch forever. Keep an eye on the deeper blue; we’ve seen Dorado flash past like silver torpedoes more than once. The sheer density of fish life here is what makes it a standout. You’ll find walls of Horned Bannerfish, their long fins swaying with the current, and just as many Small-eyed Squirrelfish darting into every overhang. It’s a site for those who appreciate the wider ocean story unfolding before them. We’d suggest hitting it early in the morning for the best light and less boat traffic. It can have a decent current, so be prepared for a drift.

Location
Apo Reef, Philippines, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
12.655473, 120.418190

Marine Protected Area: Apo Reef Natural Park

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 Southeast Corner

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 Southeast Corner

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