The Reef
norkeling is a new activity to me. My first effort to snorkel was when Escape Outdoor Club went to Bolinao and Bani in Pangasinan. I was able to explore its forest like seascape but was able to view only a little number of fishes. Apo Reef vastly differs to this. Just a few meters from the shore you'll see small blue fishes all scampering around in different directions. And as you go further, the number of fishes increases in various sizes, shapes and colors. I have never seen so many kind of marine life like this. And further, more than 50 meters from the shore, showcases a spectacle of colorful coral formations. And a little further on was a 50 feet drop where some of our best swimmer and divers were frolicking around. They were lucky enough to spot three large Pawikans below 30feet, and one of which seems to be used to human presence as it didn't mind them being around as it was eating. Even one of the guys was lucky enough to ride on the pawikan's back.
Me at shore.
I went back to shore earlier and joined the others who were content enough to wander the shallower waters. It was almost mid day and the sun was scorching, so we decided to stay in shade. We saw a flock of birds, a species unknown to me flying around. Just staying there under the shade, at the shore of the beach, watching the waves was truly relaxing.
The Lagoon
The lagoon was our next stop after our lunch. It was only a short walk from the camp. The trail towards the lagoon was both scary and beautiful at the same time. It requires you to cross a series of connected bamboo bridges to reach the lagoon port. Along the way you'll see an unusual garden of tree roots all perfectly arced. There's a slight distinct odor of a forest. At the port, a serene view of the lagoon awaits. There is a raft there and a rope tied on both ends of the lagoon for navigation.
It was after 2 when we sailed back, and despite the strong waves we managed to reach Sablayan safe and sound by dark. We stayed at Emily's inn, located near the port. The place was cheap and accommodations are nice. We had a nice dinner with Halo-Halo on a Kubo restaurant a few blocks away from the Inn. And after, we were treated on a night of music and dance in a nearby Karaoke Bar.
