Aparri, Cagayan is widely recognized in popular culture through the opening line of the theme song of the long-running noontime variety show Eat Bulaga!, “Mula Aparri hanggang Jolo.” This line refers to the geographic span of the Philippines from north to south, with Aparri representing the northern end of Luzon.

Geographically, Aparri is located at the mouth of the Cagayan River where it meets the Babuyan Channel. Its position made it an important river port during the Spanish and American periods, serving as a link between inland areas of the Cagayan Valley and maritime trade routes.

At the coastal edge of the municipality stands the Aparri Lighthouse, described as a white, flared concrete tower located near the mouth of the Cagayan River. It served as a navigational aid for vessels approaching the river entrance, particularly in an area where river currents meet open sea conditions. 

Nearby is a PAGASA weather station, which monitors weather systems affecting northern Luzon, including those entering through the Babuyan Channel, and contributes to national forecasting and warning systems.