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CORON PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE | Itinerary + Budget + Map [UPDATED 2020]

Coron , a town in the province of Palawan, is one of the most sought after destinations in the Philippines. And you can easily understand why. It has pristine white sand beaches, unbelievably turquoise waters, rich marine life, World War II shipwrecks, and karsts-dotted landscapes that can rival the best that the world has to offer. Often referred to as the country’s Last Frontier , it is located on the upper region of Palawan, 595 kilometers from Metro Manila. Coron is the perfect destination for casual vacationers, hardcore backpackers, beach lovers, and adventurous divers. Once you’ve visited, coming back for a second time is really something you won’t need to decide on—Coron would automatically make that decision for you.

UNDERSTAND CORON

Coron is located on the northernmost region of Palawan. It’s not part of mainland Palawan, and is actually on Busuanga Island—which is divided into two towns, Busuanga on the north and Coron down south. Included in the municipality of Coron is Coron Island—where most of the island hopping destinations are—and a few more islands and islets. Coron is where it’s happening. It’s where most hotels, restaurants, and tourist spots are. Granted, Busuanga has also its share of island hopping destinations. Note that there is actually no beach in Coron Town, to get to the beaches, you’d have to avail of island hopping tours. Culion, which is also toured by most people going to Coron, is not actually part of Coron or Busuanga. It’s a separate island municipality all its own. The best time to visit Coron is during the dry months of the year, which is December to May—which is also the Amihan season in the Philippines.

HOW TO GET TO CORON

The easiest way to get to Coron is by taking a plane from Metro Manila. There is also an option of taking a ferry, but it would take an overnight ride before you arrive. Once you reach Busuanga Airport, there are vans that carry passengers to town for ₱150.00 per head—or ₱1,500.00, should you want to rent the whole vehicle. The ride to town takes about 45 minutes. Contrary to popular notions, there are no easy ways for tourists to hop from El Nido and Puerto Princesa, two of Palawan’s tourist hubs, to Coron.   I just found that there are now numerous ferries than sail back and forth from Puerto Princesa and El Nido to Coron.

SPEAK CORON

HOW TO GET AROUND CORON

Tricycles are the main mode of transportation in Coron. The ones in town are larger than usual and can easily seat up to eight persons for a minimum fare of ₱10.00 per head. During my visits, I noticed how honest the tricycle drivers are in Coron, always giving my change up to the last centavo. Habal-habal or single motorbikes are also available for rent for those wanting to explore Coron on their own.

CORON TOURS AND GUIDES

Exploring the town of Coron won’t really require a guide since it is quite small and limited when it comes to places to visit. But once you go out and explore the numerous islands and beaches that dot the area, a tour guide/boatman is a must. During my visits to Coron, I have always relied on the first boatman/guide I hired when I was new to the place. He was recommended by a staff at a local restaurant and has proven to be quite reliable, accommodating, and easy to deal with. Alternatively, you can also book your tours thru the hotel you’re staying in, but at probably a higher price. Or you may also visit the Calamian Tourist Boat Association near Lualhati Park to get a boatman to tour you around the islands. Note that the island hopping fees include only the boat rental, guide fee, and tour pass. Entrance fees to the islands and beaches are not included.

STANDARD TOUR BOAT FEES IN CORON

BOOK DISCOUNTED CORON TOURS ONLINE

CORON ISLAND ESCAPADE TOUR DURATION: 10 HOURS | HOTEL PICK-UP | GROUP & PRIVATE TOURS

CORON ISLAND & LAKES TOUR DURATION: 10 HOURS | HOTEL PICK-UP | GROUP & PRIVATE TOURS

CORON TOWN HALF-DAY TOUR DURATION: 4.5 HOURS | HOTEL PICK-UP | GROUP & PRIVATE TOURS

CORON SUPER ULTIMATE DAY TOUR DURATION: 10 HOURS | HOTEL PICK-UP | GROUP & PRIVATE TOURS

ULTIMATE CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR DURATION: 10 HOURS | HOTEL PICK-UP | GROUP & PRIVATE TOURS

MALCAPUYA ISLAND TOUR DURATION: 8-9 HOURS | HOTEL PICK-UP | GROUP & PRIVATE TOURS

WHERE TO STAY IN CORON

Accommodation is really not a problem in Coron except during summer time. The town is host to numerous inns, lodges, hotels, and island resorts. These range from backpacker-friendly to flashpacker kingdom-come rates. The main town has no beach area, so lodgings are limited to sea-view rooms. One, however, can opt to stay on island resort types, but be warned, it does come with a hefty price tag. Alternatively, one can also stay at the town of Busuanga where a handful of mid-range to luxury resorts are located. The area has its own set of island hopping tours.

WHERE TO EAT IN CORON

Coron is paradise for food lovers. There are numerous restaurants along the town streets that deciding where to eat sometimes becomes a problem. The place has burger joints, pizza and pasta restaurants, grill houses, seafood places, bars, and the usual cheap carinderia eateries. There are, however, no fast food restaurants in Coron, which is a good thing really, as it gives the town a very local vibe that’s somehow missing from most of the popular tourist spots in the Philippines.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN CORON | CORON TOURIST SPOTS

Tourist spots in Coron can be divided into five main categories; the town tour, the island hopping adventure, the Culion tour, the safari, and the wreck diving activities. The town tour can be done in half a day. For the island hopping adventure, it would take at least one full day for the Coron Island Loop and another one for the Malcapuya Loop . A trip to the municipality island of Culion would take almost the whole day, similar to the safari tour of Calauit Island (unless you plan on visiting a few more islands right after). For wreck diving, I imagine it would take several days to complete all eleven World War Two Japanese wrecks around Coron (I haven’t tried this out yet). A note on the Coron Island Loop, there are some variations of this tour depending on where you really want to go as a group, but usually the tour consists of five to six locations for the whole day.

WHAT TO BUY & WHERE TO SHOP IN CORON

There are numerous souvenir shops in Coron, most of them offering the usual triad of tourist t-shirts, ref magnets, and key chains. The designs are usually similar in every store but there are a few notable boutique shops selling more unique and creative designs. Besides cashew nuts and cheap seafood, be sure to bring home a few Tagbanua-inspired wood carvings native to the island.

CORON TOURIST SPOTS MAP

CORON SAMPLE ITINERARY & TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDE

I stayed for five days the first time I visited Coron and found it to be the perfect duration for a first time visitor. Four days can cut it, but you’ll have to leave out visiting the Calauit Safari Park or the Culion Island tour. For those with a very tight schedule, the usual three-day weekend tour of Coron can also be possible, but you definitely have to come back again as you really can’t explore most of what Coron has to offer with such a limited time. The last day can usually be adjusted to fit in a half-day tour, depending on the time of your flight (the latest one is at 5:05pm via Philippine Airlines, as of this writing), you just have to leave really early and make sure your guide understands what time you need to be back at the airport. The risk is, of course, all yours. As for the expenses, touring around the town of Coron is fairly inexpensive as most of the tourist spots within town are walking distance of each other. Food is also fairly cheap, with lots of choices from carinderia eateries to restaurants. The cost for your Coron tour, however, starts to pile up once you avail of island tours (especially the Calauit Safari). It gets really expensive if you rent a boat all by yourself, but if you’re willing to share a boat with other travelers, the fees become relatively affordable (check the table for tour fees above). Feel free to customize this itinerary by choosing only the island hopping tours you want to suit your own travel budget.

► DAY ONE | ₱750.00 PER PERSON BASED ON A SHARED TOUR

Late Morning Arrival ₱150.00 - AIRPORT TO CORON TOWN VAN FARE Check in at Hotel Lunch ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES Walk Around Town Buy Souvenirs Climb Mount Tapyas until Sunset ₱0.00 - WALK TO MT. TAPYAS STARTING POINT ₱0.00 - NO ENTRANCE FEE Early Dinner ₱0.00 - WALK TO DINNER PLACE ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES Visit Maquinit Hot Springs ₱100.00 - ROUNDTRIP TRICYCLE FARE TO MAQUINIT HOT SPRINGS, SHARING FOR 3PAX ₱200.00 - MAQUINIT HOT SPRINGS ENTRANCE FEE

► DAY TWO | ₱2,350.00 PER PERSON BASED ON A SHARED TOUR

Breakfast ₱400.00 - LOWEST PRICED HOTEL BASED ON AGODA , GOOD FOR TWO PERSONS   ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES Buy lunch at Market (to be cooked by boatman) ₱250.00 - FOOD & SUPPLIES FOR 1PAX Coron Island Loop Tour ₱750.00 - ISLAND TOUR BOAT FEE PER PAX FOR A GROUP OF FOUR Siete Pecados ₱100.00 - ENTRANCE FEE Skeleton Wreck ₱100.00 - ENTRANCE FEE Banul Beach (Lunch)   ₱150.00 - ENTRANCE FEE Kayangan Lake / Barracuda Lake ₱300.00 - ENTRANCE FEE Twin Lagoon ₱200.00 - ENTRANCE FEE Back to Coron Town Dinner ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES

► DAY THREE | ₱1,987.50 PER PERSON BASED ON A SHARED TOUR

Breakfast ₱400.00 - LOWEST PRICED HOTEL BASED ON AGODA , GOOD FOR TWO PERSONS   ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES Visit Culion Island ₱1,087.50 - ISLAND TOUR BOAT FEE PER PAX FOR A GROUP OF FOUR   Culion Church   Culion Museum and Archives ₱150.00 – ENTRANCE FEE    Get Back to Coron Town and Depart to Airport END OF CORON 3-DAY ITINERARY    Lunch at Culion ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES Visit Coral Garden ₱100.00 - ENTRANCE FEE Visit CYC Beach ₱0.00 - ENTRANCE FEE Back to Coron Town Dinner ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES

► DAY FOUR | ₱2,700.00 PER PERSON BASED ON A SHARED TOUR

Breakfast ₱400.00 - LOWEST PRICED HOTEL BASED ON AGODA , GOOD FOR TWO PERSONS   ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES Buy Lunch at Market (to be cooked by boatman)  ₱250.00 - FOOD & SUPPLIES FOR 1PAX Malcapuya Island Loop Tour ₱1,300.00 - ISLAND TOUR BOAT FEE PER PAX FOR A GROUP OF FOUR   Malcapuya Island (Lunch) ₱250.00 - ENTRANCE FEE   Banana Island ₱200.00 - ENTRANCE FEE   Bulog Dos Island ₱200.00 - ENTRANCE FEE Back to Coron Town Dinner ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES

► DAY FIVE | ₱3,450.00 PER PERSON BASED ON A SHARED TOUR

Early Check Out ₱400.00 - LOWEST PRICED HOTEL BASED ON AGODA , GOOD FOR TWO PERSONS   Early Breakfast ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES Calauit Safari Park Tour ₱2,450.00 - TOUR BOAT FEE PER PAX FOR A GROUP OF FOUR ₱300.00 - ENTRANCE FEE    Lunch ₱150.00 - AVERAGE MEAL COST ON EATERIES Depart to Airport ALTERNATE LAST DAY FOR 3-DAY OR 4-DAY CORON ITINERARY

► ► TOTAL BUDGET | ₱11,237.50 per person       BASED ON TWO PERSONS TRAVELING TOGETHER FOR FIVE DAYS & FOUR NIGHTS IN CORON WITH SHARED TOURS

EXTEND YOUR CORON TRIP

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99 comments.

Ang galing ng PP ng first photo, jaw dropping Ü

Thanks Kath, medyo konting PP lang yan, sakto ang ilaw pagdating namin sa Twin Lagoon eh :)

Note that another good way to get to Coron is by multiday boat tour from El Nido, such as with http://www.islandhoppinginthephilippines.com/. This way you'll get to see the many jewels between: tons of paradise beach islands, mostly deserted, excellent snorkeling in the clearest waters in the world, caves to explore and so much more.

Thanks for that, Karel! :)

grabe very comprehensive! ang galing mo talaga sir. idol!

Haha salamat Atty. Balik tayo ng Coron!

Ang gandaaaa ng post na to! Thank you sir!

Thanks Patrick, I hope my Coron guide proves helpful :)

Grabe ang galing ng travel guide na to Christian! Will definitely use this when I go to Coron in December. Super thanks! ^__^

No problem Milet, you definitely won't get disappointed with Coron :)

Thanks for sharing this itinerary. Very helpful for my a future trip!

No problem Ian, always glad to help out. Enjoy Coron!

Hello! Meron po ba na budget hotels/accommodation na may beach na po? Tnx

Hi RRAR, yes there are accommodations on beach areas, although they are on the islands and not in town. And they're a bit on the expensive side. :)

Hi Christian! I know its been almost a year since this post but i just wanted to ask how long it took you to travel from Coron Town to the Malcapuya island loop tour? This has been the most detailed itinerary i've found online so far!

Hi, from the town of Coron, it takes about an hour and a half to travel to the Malcapuya tour. Hope this helps :)

Hi Christian ..i just wanted to know ..how much will be the budget for your 5 days itinerary? thank you!!

Hi, there are actually so many variables to consider, like how many are you in the group, where you're staying, where you plan to eat, etc. But you can actually guess the total cost of your trip by reading the linked articles I posted along with the rates for the hotels you plan to stay in. :)

Hello Christian, is your boatman still in business?

Yes, Avel is still touring people around Coron island :)

This comment has been removed by the author.

Galing ng pagkakagawa ng blog. Kudos to the author :)

Salamat Itsicy! Have you visited Coron's tourist spots yet? :)

This is very informative. Really useful. Next time you visit Coron, you might want to check our place as well: One Averee Bay Hotel. It's just right in the middle of town :)

Hi, will try and contact you if ever I go back to Coron :)

You have beautiful photos! I love Coron! The beaches, the lakes, the very hospitable locals especially the very helpful boatmen. I make sure to go back to Coron at least once a year. I always book with Ultimate Coron Experience 0918-465-9010 for the boat rental because of their excellent service and kind staff. Highly recommended!

very reliable blog. Kudos!

Thank you! Hope you found it useful in planning your Coron trip :)

How much did everything cost?

Hi Kristine, I don't usually put in a budget as every traveler has his or her own way of spending their money. Everything would depend on where you're gonna stay, where you're gonna eat, how many times, what kind of meals and where you would plan to go. You can actually compute your Coron budget yourself using the guide as the hotels, the tours and the restaurants (if you click the link) have prices on them. :)

Wow, this blog is very helpful. I'm happy I found this blog.

You're welcome Ena! Enjoy your trip to Coron :)

How can we contact Avel? :)

Here's his number: (0939) 815-0044 | (0932) 363-7207 :)

Hi Christian, would you know kung ilan and capacity ng bangka ni Avel? We are a group of 7. Thanks.

Hi Anna, they have a boat for a Coron island hopping tour that can accommodate 10 persons :)

Hi Christian, about Linapacan, meron bang public boat ferrying the place. Tsaka ano ang best month to go there na less waves.

Hi Edwin, I'm not sure about a public ferry to Linapacan, but there are tours going there from Coron (check the table I posted above) :)

Thanks Christian, would you know how much he charges to rent his boat? Does he goes with the standard rates?

Hi Anna, yes, standard Coron boat rates :)

Hi Christian, Thanks for this post. It's my first time to be the one making an itinerary. So I need all the help I can get. With the Coron Island tour, do I just contact the cell phone numbers of the boatmen? So I'll pay them through them right or do I have to go to an office first or something? How do I meet with them too? Do the tricycles reach their meeting area?

Hi, yes you pay them directly. I have not dealt with the Coron boat tours association yet, but Avel is reliable enough for me.

Hi Mr. Christian, thank you for this very informative blog. I would like to ask a few questions and contact you personally..although posting it here will also help others, especially for a first-timer like me. I am DIY-ing our tour next week. Yes, i know, i'm sorry it landed in a holiday (it was supposedly a multi-day hike at the mountains in Palawan but I became pregnant so here I am). You think it's feasible to have PPS-EL NIDO-CORON or vice versa for 9days? I have read some other blogs but (not to pat yourself on the back) yours is the most informative so please please please help me, sir Christian. They dint mention Atienza Lines but this one ferry that charges different rates for Fil.citizen and foreigners 1500 & 1800'repectively to and fro EL NIDO-CORON/ CORON-EL NIDO? Thank you!

I think it is feasible, but would be totally hectic. My advice, do the PPS-El Nido tour for nine days and plan the Coron trip separately. That way, you get to enjoy the place more. As for the foreigner rates for Atienza Lines, I believe they do charge the same rate for both locals and foreigners. :)

One of the best itinerary posts Ive ever seen. Comprehensive and organized. Thank. You.

Thank you, hope you have a grand time in Coron :)

hi po I would like to ask kung magkano yung naging expenses nyo for this tour? Thank u so much

Hi, will post a budget update for Coron soon :)

Kumpleto at informative! Salamat and pls update if possible

Yes, will update the Coron Guide soon!

Wow very informative blog. Just want to ask ur suggestion if san pde pmnta while waiting for my friend? He will arrive at 1:00am in airport but im already at the airport by 7:30am. upon his arrival dun plng kc kmi mgcheck in s Busuanga Seadive Resort. Thank you.

i mean 1:00pm

I advise that you go straight to Coron town after arriving at the airport. Wala kasi makikita near the airport. Once at the town, you can climb Mt. Tapyas. Leave your things at the hotel muna. :)

slamat s reply... gusto nia kc umakyat kmi sabay dun s hapon pra s sunset.. heheeh.. hndi pko pde mgcheck in ng maaga s hotel pra mgpahinga nlng sana mna ko.. heheh

Hello = Do you know if there are lepers on Culion?

Hi, there are no more lepers in Culion.

Hi. Where can we book our coron tour at the cheapest price?

Hi, you may check the boat operator / tour guide I posted above

May I know po kung anong name ng President ng Calamian Tourist Boat Association (complete address)? And his/her exact position in the association.Thanks.

Hi, sorry I don't have the name of the Calamian Tourist Boat Association president

Sir christian, saan makakapag book ng tour? calauit at coron island tour? mag diy lang kasi ako ng tour christmas gift ko sa kanya, pero january pa ang travel date.

Sir christian, saan makakapag book ng tour? calauit at coron island tour? mag diy lang kasi ako ng tour christmas gift ko sa gf, pero january pa ang travel date.

Hi, you may book the tours either via your hotel or the tour guide and boatman I recommended above. :)

Very helpful for budget travelers! THANKS Christian!

No problem, enjoy Coron!

Hello, sir. How long is the travel time from town to the safari park and vice versa? Is it by land or sea?

Hi, you can do it by land or by sea. About two to three hours one way, if I remember correctly.

I love your blog sir.. Very informative specially for budget planning. I am looking into celebrating our anniv. There.. thanks a lot and god bless.

Hi Mailyn, Coron can be very romantic!

Hello Sir Christian! ask ko lng po same rate entrance fee sa mga island sa kids? 10 and 4y.o? Thank you!

Hi, as far as I know kids are paid in full for the Coron Island entrance fees. However, I think you can haggle with the ticket collectors to lower the fees for them.

Hello Christian, Thanks po sa blog nyo, nakapa detailed at super helpful for us first timers to go in Coron. Two thumbs up! Yung boat po ba ni Avel can accomodate at most 10 people and same rate po ba? Thank you. :)

Yes, Avel does have boats that can accommodate ten persons. Check the table above for the boat rates :)

We will celebrate my son's birthday at Coron, Palawan. My husband and I are still deciding whether we will avail the package offered by UltimateCoronExperience.com/ 09184659010. For 12, 843, we'll get hotel accommodation, round trip airport transfers, private boat service, boatman and tour guide fees, Coron town tour, island hopping tour, island entrance fees and permits, breakfast, picnic lunch and snacks, as well as life vests, mask and snorkel. We will in Sunz En Coron since they have their own pool. Do you think the price is good?

It is a bit expensive, but I guess it is much hassle free than doing and organizing everything on your own :)

Thanks for your useful guide. I'm gonna visit Coron in the next few days, but I still wonder staying at hotel located in Conception, is it convenient to take a island tour in Coron due to long distance away. Can you give me advice about transportation?

Concepcion is indeed quite far from Coron Town. It's actually in Busuanga and not Coron. Anyways, they also have island hopping tours coming from that area. What you can do is coordinate your tour with your lodging owner.

You've got one of the greatest travel blogs. Thanks for your very useful guides. Any, which would you suggest for big group customized tours, contacting directly a local boatmen or arranging it with the calamian tourist boat association?

Hi, thanks so much. For big group tours in Coron, contacting the boat operator I recommended above or the Calamian TBA, are both okay. I guess what you xan do is contact both, then compare their fees. :)

Hi. Are the boat tariff rates is as of June 2017? Heard there was an increase po. Thank you so much.

Hi there, updated the Coron tour boat rates :)

Thanks for updating your Coron travel guide! :D Big help sir! :)

Salamat Mujee! More updates about Coron soon :)

Iba talaga 'to si master! Bookmarked!

Salamat, ma'am Celine! Have you been to Coron yet? You should go!!! :)

Thank you for the update. Just a question, if you will which side to get a window seat to get a good view of Coron up there, is it left side or right side? Thank you

I mean if you will choose... Thanks

Hi, you mean the best view of Coron from a plane window, right? As far as I can recall, both sides of the plane has good view of Coron from above. My tip, get the seat that's won't be against the light of the sun, easier for taking photos :)

Great article! If you're going to Coron Sep 15 - Dec 15, 2017, you should take advantage of Sunlight Guest Hotel's promo! Check it out at https://www.unitop.com.ph/site/article_detail/id/21! :D

This is such an awesome and comprehensive article regarding Coron's best spots! I've been planning to visit Coron since last year but I never really had the chance to complete the saving and planning process. At first, I want to do a DIY trip but when I see Ultimate Coron Experience's tour package (http://www.ultimatecoronexperience.com/ultimate-coron-tour-packages-2/) it made me want to go for a tour package instead. Do you think it's better to go on a DIY trip or just book a tour package?

Tour packages are much more convenient, but if you're looking to save some money, do it DIY :)

Thanks for the detailed guide! I intend to use my 5-day off to travel in the Philippines, but now I don't know to choose between Palawan and Coron. Which one is more beautiful and convenient to reach?

It depends what you want, you may check this link for a comparison of Coron and El Nido: Coron Vs El Nido

wow, this is such a detailed article on what looks like an absolute dream of a destination! I keep coming across this region of the Philippines as a go-to destination, especially for diving wrecks such as the Tangat Wreck (https://dive.site/explore/site/tangat-wreck-46Kg). your tips on the budget are really helpful, thank you for putting this together!

Thanks! Enjoy Coron!

Hello! I'm planning to go to Coron next month and I stumbled upon Ultimate Coron Experience's tour packages (http://www.ultimatecoronexperience.com/ultimate-coron-tour-packages-2/). I just want to know your input if the 3D2N Ultimate Coron Sulit Tour is good enough considering the inclusions of the package? Any inputs will do :)

Sorry for the really late reply

An extremely useful and in-depth article! Thanks!

Thanks! Hope you find my Coron itinerary useful!

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20 Best CORON PALAWAN TOURIST SPOTS & Things to Do

When we think of Coron, the first thing that comes to mind are the towering karst cliffs that cloister pristine lagoons and lakes. These limestone walls have become iconic, but they’re not really unique to the area. Several other destinations in the Philippines have the same wonders to brag about — from El Nido just across the sea to Caramoan all the way to the other side of the country — but what sets Coron apart is the sheer diversity of what it has to offer.

Coron is part of the Calamianes, a collection of jagged islands that pepper the waters of Northern Palawan. It is the tourism hub in the area. Its map is dotted with tour operator offices, hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Consequently, this made the town of Coron the major jump-off point to tourist attractions in neighboring islands and municipalities.

Coron offers a wide array of tourist spots and activities — from lustrous lagoons to beautiful beaches to unforgettable dive sites. They even have saltwater hot springs, which is pretty rare, and, believe it or not, an African safari.

Note: Most of these attractions can be accessed as part of an organized tour — either by chartering a private ride or by joining a group tour. You can also pull a D-I-Y if you have the means. In addition, opening hours might change without prior notice, so please check the official websites or Facebook pages before visiting.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Kayangan Lake

This scenic lake can be reached after a 15-minute trek up a hill, a bit challenging but totally worth it. But even before reaching the actual lake, you will be treated to a magnificent view of the clear blue waters halfway. This image from the view deck is what you will usually see when you search Kayangan Lake on the internet.

To reach the actual lake, you need to do a few minutes of trekking, but the sight of Kayangan Lake will make the climb worth it. It is hailed as one of “the cleanest lakes in the Philippines”. It’s also important to note that the area is maintained by the local Tagbanua tribe. Take a dip and appreciate the surrounding rock formations. Go early to avoid the crowd.

Entrance Fee: P300 Tour Guide Fee: P500 If chartering a private boat: Standard rates are P2,700 (2-4 pax) / P3,250 (5-8 pax) / P3,800 (9-15 pax). Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. If joining a group tour: P1,500 – P2,800 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions before booking.

Get discounted rates when you book with Klook! The Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour and Coron Tour A both include Kayangan Lake in their itineraries.

✅ BOOK CORON TOUR A HERE!

✅ BOOK CORON SUPER ULTIMATE DAY TOUR HERE!

2. Barracuda Lake

Barracuda Lake is another popular lake on Coron Island that is open to the public.

Why Barracuda? It’s said to be named after a giant barracuda fish whose skeleton was discovered in the depths of the lake. Like the Kayangan Lake, it has brackish water, a combination of saltwater and freshwater, but what makes it more interesting, especially for divers, is the thermocline — layers of cold, warm, and hot waters.

Be sure to follow the safety regulations when swimming and diving.

Entrance Fee: P250 Tour Guide Fee: P500 If booking a private boat: P2,700 (2-4 pax) / P3,250 (5-8 pax) / P3,800 (9-15 pax) per boat. Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. If joining a group tour: P1,500 – P2,800 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions before booking.

Score a great deal when you book with Klook! Both Coron Tour B and Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour have Barracuda Lake in their itineraries.

✅ BOOK CORON TOUR B HERE!

3. Twin Lagoon

This is a double treat for tourists! This stop features two pieces of paradise separated by a low karst wall.

The first lagoon where the boats are docked can easily get crowded, especially at midday. The second lagoon can be accessed in two ways, depending on the tide — taking the ladder over the rock during high tide or swimming through an opening underneath the rock during low tide. Either way, take utmost care when transiting between the two.

You may feel a combination of warm and cold water as you swim in the lagoons.

Entrance Fee: P200 Tour Guide Fee: P500 If booking a private boat: P2,700 (2-4 pax) / P3,250 (5-8 pax) / P3,800 (9-15 pax). Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. If booking a group tour: P1,500 – P2,800 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary first before booking. Some tour packages don’t have Twin Lagoon in their itinerary.

You can book this tour through Klook! The Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour and Coron Tour B both include Twin Lagoon in their itineraries.

4. Banul Beach

Aside from the lagoons and lakes, Coron is also blessed with beautiful beaches both on the mainland and on the islands. Banul Beach features powdery white sand, limestone walls, and a coral garden.

Banul Beach is the usual lunch stop for the Coron Island Tour, although not always. Some tour operators do their lunch stop somewhere else when the beach has already reached its traffic capacity.

Entrance Fee: P150 Tour Guide Fee: P500 If booking a private boat: P2,700 (2-4 pax) / P3,250 (5-8 pax) / P3,800 (9-15 pax). The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. If booking a join-in tour: P1,500 – P2,800 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions before booking. Some tour packages don’t have Banul Beach in their itinerary.

Score a great deal when you book with Klook! Coron Tour B and Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour’s itineraries have Banul Beach as their lunch stop.

5. CYC Beach

Coron Youth Club (CYC) Beach is usually part of the Coron Island Tour package. The beach has fascinated both local and foreign tourists for its clear waters, fine white sand, and picturesque beachscape embellished with mangrove trees and rock formations.

Entrance Fee: FREE Tour Guide Fee: P500 If booking a private boat: P2,700 (2-4 pax) / P3,250 (5-8 pax) / P3,800 (9-15 pax). Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. If booking a group tour package: P1,500 – P1,800 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions first before booking. Some tour packages don’t have CYC Beach in their itinerary.

Get discounted rates when you book with Klook! Both the Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour and Coron Tour A’s itineraries include CYC Beach.

6. Siete Pecados

If you are curious about what Coron has to offer beneath the surface, Siete Pecados Marine Park flaunts a diverse and vibrant underwater ecosystem.

Aside from various marine species, it also features a colorful coral garden that delights divers and snorkelers alike.

Entrance Fee: P100 Tour Guide Fee: P500 Standard Boat Rates: P2,700 (2-4 pax) / P3,250 (5-8 pax) / P3,800 (9-15 pax). Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. Coron Island Tour Rates: P1,500 – P2,800 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions first before booking.

Book with Klook! The Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour and Coron Tour A both include Siete Pecados in their itineraries.

7. Mount Tapyas

At 210 meters, Mount Tapyas offers a panoramic view of its surroundings. At its summit stands a giant cross. At sunset or sunrise, you can also witness the sky’s colorful gradient.

But to get to the top, you need to conquer around 700 concrete steps. But fret not, rest stops with chairs have been installed along the way. For those who are not really into hiking, you can stop and take a breather in one of these rest decks.

To reach Mount Tapyas, you can march to the base of the hill independently (DIY-style) or charter a tricycle. If you want a hassle-free trip, you can book a Coron Town Tour . Whatever you choose, make sure to bring enough water and sun protection for this activity.

Entrance Fee: FREE Coron Town Tour: P700 – P1,600 per person. Check the itinerary and inclusions first before booking.

You can get promo rates when you book with Klook!

✅ BOOK CORON TOWN TOUR HERE!

8. Maquinit Hot Springs

After your island-hopping escapade or your Mount Tapyas hike, Maquinit Hot Spring is a perfect place to cap off your day. The hot spring bath draws dozens of tourists — locals and foreigners — despite the considerable distance from the town center.

You can book a tour or just charter a tricycle to go there. The roundtrip tricycle fare is around P350. The travel time is around 30 minutes from the town center.

Entrance Fee: P200 Coron Town Tour: P700 – P1,600 per person. Check the itinerary and inclusions first before booking.

Maquinit Hot Spring is often included in the Coron Town Tour package. If you decide to take this tour instead, get promo rates when you book with Klook!

9. Calauit Safari

A piece of Africa in the Philippines? Yes!

Although not really an African safari, the Calauit Safari Park still entices you with an experience that is different from the usual island destination activities in the Philippines. The island provides a habitat for animals that are not native in the Philippines like giraffes and zebras.

Calauit is located in the municipality of Busuanga, on the other side of the island, so it can take a lot of time to reach. To get to the Calauit Safari, you travel by sea or travel by land.

If you want to visit Black Island too, then the recommended mode is by boat. Here are the other stops when you travel by boat: Lusong Coral Garden and Gun Boat Wreck and Pamilacan Island. Other packages might include these stops: North Cay and South Cay.

If you choose to go by land, the itinerary will depend on the operator. Choose the one that suits your preferences. The trip by land usually consists of 2-4 of these attractions (aside from Calauit Safari): Conception Falls, Malbato Chapel, North/South Cay, Pamilacan Island, and Lusong Coral Garden and Gun Boat Wreck.

Entrance Fee: P250 (Filipinos) / P400 (Regular) Tour Guide Fee: P500 Standard Boat Rates: P9,300 (2-4 pax) / P10,400 (5-8 pax) / P17,000 (9-15 pax). Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. Calauit Safari Tour Rates: P2,500 – P3,000 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions first before booking.

You can get discounted rate when you book Klook’s Coron Calauit Safari and Beach Tour!

✅ BOOK CORON CALAUIT SAFARI & BEACH TOUR HERE!

10. Black Island

Situated northwest of Busuanga Island is Malajon Island , popularly called Black Island by the locals and tourists.

It looks intimidating from afar because of its distinct feature — the dark colossal karst cliffs that largely define the island’s landscape. These peaks rise from a huge bed of white sand that slopes steeply and slides under the waves. It’s a wide and happy playground for the beach lover.

Aside from snorkeling, diving, or beach-bumming, you can also go cave hunting as the island have caves that are open to the public. The biggest can be easily accessed by climbing a short ladder. Its floor is cracked open, allowing a glimpse of the cold crystal water that filled its miniature lakes. Stalactites adorn its ceiling and rocks covered in sparkling white silica make up its walls.

Black Island is usually part of the Calauit Safari Tour by sea.

Entrance Fee: P200 Tour Guide Fee: P500 Standard Boat Rates: P9,300 (2-4 pax) / P10,400 (5-8 pax) / P17,000 (9-15 pax). Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. Calauit Safari Tour Rates: P2,500 – P3,000 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions first before booking.

You can book Klook’s Coron Calauit Safari and Beach Tour and get a discounted rate!

11. Pamalican Island

There are two Pamalican Islands in Palawan: the popular one is in Cuyo, which is exclusively owned by Amanpulo; the other can be found in Busuanga, easily accessible from Coron.

Lying west of Busuanga, this 50-hectare island is fringed by a wide expanse of light-colored sand and is covered by a dense forest. This is the best place for beach lovers to laze around and swim.

Pamalican Island is usually included in the Calauit Safari Tour itinerary.

Entrance Fee: P100 Tour Guide Fee: P500 Standard Boat Rates: P9,300 (2-4 pax) / P10,400 (5-8 pax) / P17,000 (9-15 pax). Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. Calauit Safari Tour Rates: P2,500 – P3,000 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions first before booking.

12. Lusong Coral Garden & Gun Boat

Lusong Coral Garden is another usual stop in the Calauit Safari Tour itinerary. This activity is amazing and enjoyable not only for those who know how to dive but also for those who are content just snorkeling.

The vast coral garden is a sight to behold — various colorful marine creatures frolicking in and out of the various formations of vibrant corals.

Lusong also has a shipwreck of a World War II gunboat.

Klook’s Coron Reefs and Wreck Day Tour includes Lusong Coral Garden at Gun Boat in the itinerary.

✅ BOOK CORON REEFS & WRECK DAY TOUR HERE!

13. Malcapuya Island, Bulog Dos & Banana Island

These island destinations are tailor-fit for those who are interested in beach bumming and swimming. These three share the same feature — powdery white sand beaches, cerulean waters, and rock formations — but each of them still offers something different and will make you appreciate the natural beauty of Coron.

All three are usually included in Malcapuya Island Tour , sometimes called Island Escapade Tour or Beaches Tour . Some packages also have Malaroyroy Island in the itinerary.

Entrance Fee: P250 (Malcapuya Island) / P250 (Bulog Dos) / P250 (Banana Island) Tour Guide Fee: P500 Standard Boat Rates: P4,350 (4 pax) / P5,450 (8 pax) / P7,100 (15 pax). Please book with the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The rates above do not include entrance fees, guide fee, and food. Island Escapade Tour Rates: P1,500 – P2,800 per person (ALL IN). Check the itinerary and inclusions first before booking.

Klook’s Coron Tour C and Coron Island Escapade Day Tour have Malcapuya Island in their itineraries. Check the other inclusions.

✅ BOOK CORON TOUR C HERE!

✅ BOOK CORON ISLAND ESCAPADE DAY TOUR HERE!

14. Fireflies and Plankton Tour

It’s something that we highly recommend! This tour is an enchanting experience that you will never forget! In Coron, fireflies come out and fly around the mangroves at night, creating a luminous show.

But it doesn’t stop there. The natural illumination continues when you look down and dip your hand in the water, creating a magical trail brought about by the bioluminescent plankton.

You can avail of this through Calamian Islands Travel and Tours. The tour is inclusive of buffet dinner, transfers, and kayak fees. Note that they don’t do private tours, only group tours.

We tried taking photos and videos but it’s just too dark. But it is similar to what’s happening in this video. Not the same, but close to it.

Joiner Tour: P950 per person Tour Duration: Pick-up at 6:00 PM. The end of the tour and return to the hotel is at 9:30 PM.

15. Parasailing

This is a thrilling way to see and experience Coron. If you want to see panoramic views of the natural riches of the area from above but don’t want to sweat it out by hiking up a mountain, you can opt to strap yourself up and parasail. Feel the wind embracing you as you appreciate the breathtaking scenery up in the air.

There are many parasailing packages offered in Coron. You can go solo or experience with your friends or family by booking the double flyer or the triple flyer. You can also check Klook’s All-In Watersports Experience if you want to try other watersports aside from parasailing.

✅ BOOK PARASAILING EXPERIENCE HERE!

✅ CHECK ALL-IN WATERSPORTS OPTIONS HERE!

16. Water Sports

Aside from the island-hopping tours, there are lots of water sports activities in Coron. Each operator offers different packages with varying inclusions and/or combines them with other tours or activities. Choose the best that suits your preference, budget, and itinerary. Some of the options are:

• Banana Boat

Score a discounted rate when you book with Klook! If you want to check the rates and inclusions, here are some of the water sports activities offered. Note that most tours are bundled with a “Clear Kayaking” activity.

✅ Check BANANA BOAT Details Here!

✅ Check FLYFISH Details Here!

✅ BOOK JETSKI Details Here!

17. Culion Island

Also part of the Calamianes, Culion Island is another day trip destination from Coron. Isolated from the rest of the world for almost a century, Culion has endured the stigma associated with being the biggest leper colony in the world.

Finally declared a leprosy-free area in 2006 by the World Health Organization (WHO), the island town is slowly rising as a tourist destination. Getting there is quite challenging as that route is yet to be developed, so the crowd volume is way fewer than the neighboring Coron and Busuanga.

Some of the places to visit are the Culion Museum and Archives, Culion Church, Aguila Viewpoint, Balanga Falls, San Ignacio Farm, Pulang Lupa, and diving/snorkeling sites. The first three are usually part of the Culion Town Historical Tour .

Island hopping tour usually includes Malcapuya Island, Banana Beach, Bulog Bulog Beach, Bogor Marine Park.

Getting There: You can charter a private boat via the Calamian Tourist Boat Association. The office is located at Lualhati Park, just behind the public market. The rates depend on the number of passengers and the itinerary. Note that because the price is quite steep, it is best for big groups. Alternatively, you can join a group day tour from Coron. This is a much cheaper option if you don’t plan to stay overnight on the island.

If you are planning to stay overnight, the cheapest option is to take the passenger boat from Coron. Only one trip per day per way. The departure time from Coron is 1:30 PM. The trip back to Coron is scheduled at 7:00 AM the next day. The travel time is about 90 minutes. Note that this schedule might change, depending on the weather condition and other reasons.

Rates: P3000/1-4 pax, P3500/5-8 pax, P6000/10-15 pax (Private Boat Roundtrip); Approximately P1200 (Day Tour from Coron); P180 (Passenger Boat Fare + P20 Terminal Fee)

18. Coron Town Tour

Coron is not just about island hopping and beach activities. The town center also has some attractions for those interested in seeing how the locals go about their lives. Here are the usual stops:

• Public market
• Souvenir shops
• Lualhati Park
• St. Augustine Church
• Maquinit Hot Springs
• Mount Tapyas

Some tours include a stop at a cashew nuts factory.

Although it is entirely possible to do this tour on your own — most stops are accessible by tricycle and on foot — it’s best done with a guide, who can explain the significance of these places to the locals.

Rates: Maquinit Hotsprings P200 (Entrance Fee); P350 (Roundtrip Tricycle Fare); FREE (Mount Tapyas Entrance) Coron Town Tour: P700 – P1,600 per person. Check the itinerary and inclusions before booking.

If you want to join a group tour, you can book Klook’s Coron Town Half-Day Tour. Usually, Klook offers discounted rates for tour packages.

19. Shipwreck Diving

The battle between the US Navy and the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1944 at the height of World War II resulted in about a dozen sunken warships at the bottom of Coron Bay. These shipwreck diving spots are just a short boat ride from the mainland and are within recreational diving depth. The colossal wartime vessel wrecks are said to be some of the best-preserved in the world.

Some of the popular wrecks are the Irako, the Olympia Maru, the Okikawa Maru, the Kogyo Maru, the Akitsushima, and the Morazan. There are many dive operators in Coron Town, so you will have no problem booking a diving tour here.

20. Seafood Galore

Because Coron is a world-famous island destination with very few food sources, expect the food to be quite pricey. Yes, even seafood! If you are eating at restaurants, the price range for a meal is P150 to P400.

To give you an idea, the P150-meal at a proper sit-down resto is composed of a cup of rice and a small serving of a Pinoy dish like adobo, tapa, or liempo. If you want to binge on seafood, the price of grilled seafood is around P200. For fruit shakes, the price is P100 to P120.

Some of the restaurants we tried are:

• La Morena Cafe
• Carl’s BBQ
• Kawayanan Grill Station
• KT’s Sinugba sa Balai
• La Sirenetta

The locals also recommend Santino’s Grill and Amigos’ Smokes and Grill .

That said, there are still many carinderias and other budget options for those traveling on a shoestring.

Note: Most restaurants and cafés are operating only during lunchtime and dinner time. Lunchtime is from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and dinner time is 6:00 PM onwards.

Top Coron Resorts & Hotels

Here are some of the top-reviewed hotels, hostels, resorts, and apartments in Coron as scored by Agoda customers.

• Happy Camper Hostel. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• Haisa Apartment. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• Blue Waters Inn Coron Palawan. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• Bluewave Hotel. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• Acacia Garden Inn. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
• Coron Eco Lodge. Check Rates & Photos! ✅

Search for more Coron Hotels!

Useful coron posts.

• List of DOT-Accredited Coron Resorts
• Coron Travel Guide with Sample Itinerary
• Coron Travel Requirements – COVID Pandemic New Normal

2021 • 02 • 27

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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• CULION, PALAWAN: Budget Travel Guide
• Hotel Maya: Where to Stay in Culion, Palawan, Philippines
• Culion Museum and Archives, Palawan: Remnants and Descendants
• Sunrise at Culion Church and Fortress, Palawan
• Tameta Pension House: Where to Stay in Coron, Palawan, Philippines
• CORON PALAWAN TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary
• List of DOT-Accredited CORON Resorts, Hotels & Tour Operators
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10 best things to do in coron, tourist spots, itinerary & travel guide blog 2024 for first-timers in palawan.

Itching for an ultimate island adventure? Check out this Coron Travel Guide Blog 2024 with sample itinerary, list of top things to do in Coron, tourist spots, places to visit, packaged tours, recommended hotels and beach resorts, travel requirements, and useful travel tips to help you plan your trip!

Are you ready to explore coron let's get started, 2024 coron travel guide blog for first-timers (updated) - things to do in coron, tourist spots & places to visit, when is the best time to visit coron, how many days to spend in coron, what to bring when traveling to coron.

How to Get to Coron, Palawan?

Manila to coron by plane, manila to coron by ferry, el nido to coron by ferry.

Where to Stay in Coron? Hotels & Resorts in Coron

The funny lion.

OTHER HOTELS AND RESORTS IN CORON

• Asia Grand View Hotel - Check room rates and availability
• Coron Soleil Garden Resort - Check room rates and availability
• Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel - Check room rates and availability
• Club Paradise Resort - Check room rates and availability
• Corto del Mar Hotel - Check room rates and availability
• The Palladium Hotel - Coron - Check room rates and availability
• Bacau Bay Resort - Check room rates and availability
• Bluewave Hotel Coron - Check room rates and availability
• Sophia's Garden Resort - Check room rates and availability
• Vienna Hotel - Check room rates and availability

HOSTELS AND BUDGET HOTELS IN CORON

• Hop Hostel - Check room rates and availability
• Sunlight Guest Hotel - Check room rates and availability
• Coron Bancuang Mansion - Check room rates and availability
• Vela Terraces Hotel - Check room rates and availability
• Coron Gateway Hotel and Suites - Check room rates and availability
• MO2 Westown Lagoon - Check room rates and availability
• Sunz En Coron Resort - Check room rates and availability
• Acacia Garden Inn - Check room rates and availability
• Sea Horse Guest House - Check room rates and availability
• Coron Vista Lodge - Check room rates and availability

Top Things to Do in Coron, Tourist Spots, Recommended Tours and Activities

What to do in coron, palawan here's a list of the top things to do in coron, must-do activities, tourist spots, attractions and recommended tours you should avail and should include in your coron itinerary ..

1. Coron Ultimate Tour

Sample itinerary.

• 08:00am hotel pick up
• Kayangan Lake
• Twin Lagoon
• Skeleton Wreck
• Siete Picados
• Coral Garden
• 12:30pm lunch at Atwayan Beach
• 05:00pm hotel drop off
• Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour
• Coron Island Escapade Day Tour

TRAVEL TIP: If you have more time, I highly recommend that you take it slow and avail separate tours for you to have enough time to explore Coron's islands and beaches. You have 3 options: Coron Tour A, B and C. Please see available Coron Tours below.

2. Coron Tour A

• 12:00pm picnic lunch at Atwayan Beach
• Secret Lagoon
• Siete Pecados

3. Coron Tour B

• Barracuda Lake
• 12:00pm picnic lunch at Banol Beach
• Reef Garden

4. Coron Tour C

• 08:00am start of tour
• Malcapuya Island
• Picnic lunch
• Banana Island
• Bulog Dos Island
• 05:00pm end of tour

5. Coron Town Half Day Tour

• 03:30pm hotel pick up
• Souvenir Shop
• Lualhati Park
• Cashew Factory
• St. Agustin Church
• Maquinit Hotspring
• 07:30pm hotel drop off

6. Coron Reefs and Wreck Day Tour

• 07:30am hotel pick up
• Lusong Gunboat
• Lusong Coral Gardens
• Lunch in Pass Island
• 05:00pm hotel drop off, end of the tour

7. Coron Glittering Fireflies and Bioluminescence Night Tour

• 06:00pm hotel pick up
• Mangrove Forest Park
• Buffet dinner at Pang-e't Restaurant
• 09:00pm hotel drop off, end of the tour

8. Coron Calauit Safari and Beach Tour

Sample itineraries.

• 07:00am-7:30am hotel pick up
• Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary
• 12:00pm lunch at Bulwang Fishpond Restaurant
• Relax/swim at Rio Aplaya Beach
• 01:00pm-2:00pm boat ride to North Cay Island
• 05:30pm hotel drop off
• Busuanga Town
• Lunch at Ocam-ocam Beach or Rio Playa Beach
• Black Island Cave
• Black Island Beach
• 06:00pm hotel drop off

9. Enjoy Coron Water Activities

• Parasailing and Clear Kayak Experience
• Banana Boat Ride and Clear Kayak Experience
• Flyfish Ride and Clear Kayak Experience
• All-in Watersports Experience in Coron
• Coron Watersports Thrills with Clear Kayak Experience
• Jet Ski and Clear Kayak Experience

10. Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort Palawan: Fly + Stay + Dine

• Enjoy an exclusive 4D3N or 5D4N stay at the luxurious Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort (SETIR) in Culion.
• Experience a hassle-free and safe all-in travel package inclusive of flight + accommodations + dining credits.
• Fly via Sunlight Air's chartered plane departing from a private terminal in Metro Manila.
• Choose from 4 different spacious villas depending on your travel group's preference.
• Get access to SETIR's expansive amenities ranging from spa, sauna services, restaurants, dive shops, and many more!

Sample Coron Itinerary (4 Days and 3 Nights)

Day 1 - arrival + coron town half day tour.

• 10:00 am - arrival in Busuanga Airport
• 10:30 am - take the airport transfer to Coron - ₱ 180 per person
• 11:30 am - arrive at the hotel, have lunch, check-in and rest √ See hotels & resorts in Coron here!
• CORON TOWN HALF DAY TOUR [ BOOK HERE ] - ₱ 655 per person
• 03:30 pm - hotel pick up
• 07:30 pm - hotel drop off
• 08:00 pm - dinner - ₱ 250 per person
• 09:00 pm - sleep
• DAY 1 EXPENSES - ₱ 1,085 per person

DAY 2 - CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR

• 06:00 am - wake up and prepare
• 07:00 am - breakfast - ₱ 150 per person
• ULTIMATE CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR - ₱ 1,449 per person
• 08:00 am - hotel pick up
• 12:30 pm - lunch at Atwayan Beach
• 05:00 pm - hotel drop off
• CORON FIREFLIES AND BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT TOUR [ BOOK HERE ] - ₱ 888 per person
• 06:00 pm - hotel pick up
• 09:00 pm - hotel drop off, end of the tour
• 10:00 pm - sleep
• DAY 2 EXPENSES - ₱ 2,487 per person

DAY 3 - CORON CALAUIT SAFARI TOUR + BLACK SAND ISLAND

• CORON CALAUIT SAFARI AND BLACK SAND ISLAND TOUR [ BOOK HERE ] - ₱ 2,338 per person
• 07:30 am - hotel pick up
• 06:00 pm - hotel drop off
• 07:00 pm - dinner - ₱ 250 per person
• DAY 3 EXPENSES - ₱ 2,738 per person

DAY 4 - DEPARTURE

• 08:00 am - check-out
• 08:30 am - take the airport transfer to Busuanga Airport - ₱ 180 per person
• 09:30 am - flight check-in
• 11:00 am - departure
• DAY 4 EXPENSES - ₱ 330 per person

TRAVEL TIP: For more Coron Sample Itineraries, please check out my post: SAMPLE CORON ITINERARIES for 3, 4, 5, 6 Days Tour or More!

Coron Budget Trip and Expenses

• You will be traveling with a travel buddy sharing some of the expenses.
• You will be availing join-in tours.
• You will be staying in a budget hotel for 1,500 pesos per night. (1,500 x 3 nights = 4,500 / 2 = PHP 2,250 per person)
• You will be taking the shared airport transfers.
• Your budget for breakfast is 150 pesos and for dinner is 250 pesos per person.
• Rates and prices are correct at the time of posting.

4D3N BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES PER PERSON

• HOTEL - ₱ 2,250
• DAY 1 - ₱ 1,085
• DAY 2 - ₱ 2,487
• DAY 3 - ₱ 2,738
• DAY 4 - ₱ 330

TOTAL - ₱ 8,890 per person

3d2n breakdown of expenses per person.

• HOTEL - ₱ 1,500
• DAY 3 - ₱ 330

TOTAL - ₱ 5,402 per person

• Round trip airfare Manila-Coron-Manila
• NAIA and Coron Airport terminal fees
• Food expense for snacks
• Budget for pasalubong, souvenirs and shopping expenses

Coron Travel Blogs

• THE FUNNY LION, "Lovely Boutique Resort in Coron, Palawan"
• My 4-Hour Flight to Busuanga
• Hiking Mt. Tapyas plus a Soothing Dip at Maquinit Hot Springs
• Killing Some Time in Coron Town Proper
• Coron Island Hopping Packaged Tour and Gimik Night

Coron Travel Requirements? What do you need to travel to Palawan?

There you have it my top things to do in coron, tourist spots and best places to visit for your palawan itinerary i hope this coron budget travel guide blog help you in planning an amazing and memorable palawan adventure enjoy the beaches, islands, lagoons of coron, palawan happy travels.

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3 comments :.

amaziiiinnggg

This is the ultimate Coron Travel Guide I need! Thank you for posting the top best things to do in Coron Palawan tourist spots and places to visit!

Thank you so much for sharing this. Keep it up!

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Explore Coron Palawan: The Best Travel Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive travel guide to the beautiful island of Coron in Palawan . If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Coron is the perfect destination for you. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to plan an unforgettable adventure in Coron . From the best time to visit and how to get there, to top tourist spots and where to stay , we’ve got you covered.

Key Takeaways:

• Coron, Palawan offers stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters.
• The best time to visit Coron is during the dry and summer season, from November to May.
• You can reach Coron by flights to Busuanga Airport or ferries from Manila , Puerto Princesa, or El Nido .
• Getting around in Coron is easy with tricycles and motorbike rentals. Island hopping tours are also popular.
• There are various types of accommodations in Coron, ranging from budget guest houses to luxury resorts.

Best Time to Go to Coron

If you’re planning a trip to Coron, it’s important to know the best time to visit to make the most of your experience. The ideal time to explore the pristine beauty of Coron is during the dry and summer season, which lasts from November to May. This period offers favorable weather conditions and allows you to fully enjoy the island’s stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life.

During the dry season, you can participate in various water activities such as snorkeling and diving without worrying about cancellations due to bad weather . The clear waters and abundant marine biodiversity make Coron a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.

Coron has a tropical climate , with the warmest months ranging from March to May. These months offer pleasant temperatures, making it an excellent time to indulge in outdoor activities and soak up the sun. The average temperature during this period is around 29°C, creating the perfect environment for beach exploration and island hopping.

To further enhance your understanding of the best time to visit Coron, refer to the table below showcasing the monthly weather characteristics:

As depicted in the table, the months from November to May experience relatively low rainfall, ensuring clear skies and optimal weather conditions for your Coron vacation.

Remember, planning your visit during the best time to go to Coron will provide you with an unforgettable experience, allowing you to explore the rich natural wonders of this Palawan gem while basking in perfect tropical weather.

Climate and Weather in Coron

Coron enjoys a stable tropical climate , making it an ideal destination for travel year-round. The weather in Coron is generally sunny, with a lower chance of rainfall and thunderstorms during the summer months. The average temperature during the warmest months, which are from March to May, hovers around 29°C, providing the perfect conditions for outdoor activities and water sports.

In contrast, the chilliest weather in Coron is experienced in October, with temperatures ranging from 22-23°C. While the temperature may drop slightly during this period, it is still generally comfortable for exploring the island and its breathtaking attractions.

Monthly Temperature and Rainfall in Coron

With these overall climate conditions, visitors to Coron can expect mostly clear skies and favorable weather for exploring the island’s natural wonders, engaging in water activities, and immersing themselves in the local culture. However, it’s always a good idea to check the forecast closer to your travel dates for the most up-to-date weather information.

How to Get to Coron

If you’re planning a trip to Coron, Palawan , there are two main ways to get there: by flights and by ferry. Here’s a breakdown of each option:

Flights to Coron

If you’re traveling from Manila or other parts of the Philippines , the most convenient way to reach Coron is by air. You can book a flight to Busuanga Airport, which is the closest airport to Coron. Major airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Skyjet offer daily flights to and from Busuanga Airport. The flight duration from Manila to Busuanga is usually around 1 hour.

Ferry to Coron

If you prefer a more leisurely and scenic journey, you can take a ferry to Coron. There are ferry services available from various destinations , including Manila , Puerto Princesa, and El Nido , that offer routes to Coron’s main pier. The ferry ride allows you to enjoy the beautiful coastal landscapes of Palawan and takes approximately 9-10 hours from Manila , 4-5 hours from Puerto Princesa, and 3-4 hours from El Nido .

Whichever mode of transportation you choose, both options will provide you with different experiences and opportunities to soak in the beauty of the Philippines . Make sure to plan your travel arrangements to secure your preferred flights or ferry schedules.

Getting Around Coron

Exploring the beautiful island of Coron is a breeze with the various transportation options available. Whether you want to visit popular tourist spots within Coron Town or embark on an island-hopping adventure, getting around is relatively easy and convenient.

Tricycles: Your Trusty Companion

When it comes to navigating within Coron Town, tricycles are the primary mode of transportation. These colorful vehicles are essentially motorcycles with a sidecar, offering a unique and efficient way to travel around the town proper. Tricycles are readily available and inexpensive, making them a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Motorbike Rentals: Freedom on Wheels

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and want to explore Coron at your own pace, renting a motorbike is a great option. Many rental shops offer motorbikes for hire, giving you the freedom to discover the hidden gems and scenic beauty of the island. Just make sure you have a valid driver’s license and wear a helmet for safety.

Island Hopping: Discover the Wonders

To experience the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding islands and snorkeling spots, joining an island hopping tour is a must. You have the option to join a shared tour boat, where you can meet fellow travelers and enjoy the journey together. If you prefer a more intimate experience, you can also arrange for a private tour boat, allowing you to customize your itinerary and explore at your own pace.

Whether you choose to hop on a tricycle, rent a motorbike, or embark on an island-hopping adventure, getting around Coron is both convenient and exciting. These transportation options ensure that you can easily access the town’s attractions and explore the stunning natural wonders that Coron has to offer.

Where to Stay in Coron

When visiting Coron, it’s important to choose the right accommodation to make your stay comfortable and convenient. There are various options available, ranging from budget guest houses to luxurious resorts. It’s essential to consider factors such as safety, accessibility, and proximity to the tourist spots you plan to visit.

If you’re looking for a beachfront experience, several beach resorts in Coron offer stunning views and direct access to the ocean. These resorts provide a tranquil atmosphere and a range of amenities to ensure a relaxing stay.

For those who prefer staying in the heart of the town, there are several hotels located in the town proper. These hotels offer easy access to restaurants, bars, and shops, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and nightlife.

If you’re traveling on a budget, guest houses are a great option. They provide basic accommodation at affordable prices, allowing you to save money while still enjoying your time in Coron.

To help you make an informed decision, here are some popular accommodations in Coron:

• Busuanga Bay Lodge – A luxurious resort offering breathtaking views of the bay.
• Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa – A beachfront resort with private pools and spa facilities.
• Coron Soleil Garden Resort – A tropical-themed resort with amenities like a swimming pool and restaurant.
• Sea Horse Guest House – A budget-friendly guest house located near the town center.

It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons when there is high demand. This ensures that you secure your preferred choice and avoid any last-minute hassles.

Now that you have an idea of where to stay in Coron, you can plan your trip accordingly and look forward to a memorable stay on this beautiful island.

What to See and Do in Coron

Coron offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this tropical paradise and discover some of the best sights and experiences that Coron has to offer.

Kayangan Lake

One of the most beautiful spots in Coron, Kayangan Lake is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and breathtaking limestone cliffs. Take a relaxing swim, go kayaking, or simply take in the stunning landscape.

Barracuda Lake

Another must-see spot in Coron, Barracuda Lake is famous for its unique mix of fresh and saltwater. Dive into the lake and marvel at the dramatic underwater rock formations and the possibility of encountering the elusive barracuda.

Culion’s Beautiful Beaches

Visit Culion, a nearby island known for its pristine white sandy beaches. Take a stroll along the coastline, go snorkeling to discover vibrant coral reefs, or simply relax under the shade of coconut trees.

Coron Calauit Safari

Embark on a safari adventure at the Coron Calauit Safari Park. Witness various exotic animals up close, including giraffes, zebras, and the Calamian deer, which is native to Palawan .

Wreck Diving

Coron is a wreck-diving paradise. Explore the underwater world and discover sunken Japanese World War II ships, such as the eerie Skeleton Wreck and the iconic Barracuda Wreck.

Hiking up Mt. Tapyas

For those seeking a physical challenge and a rewarding view, hike to the top of Mt. Tapyas. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of Coron Town and its surrounding islands.

Relax at Maquinit Hot Springs

Unwind and rejuvenate your body and mind at Maquinit Hot Springs. Soak in the natural hot springs and let the warm waters soothe your muscles after a day of exploring.

Try Local Cuisine

No visit to Coron would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Sample mouthwatering dishes like seafood kinilaw (ceviche), crispy pata (fried pork leg), and the iconic Palawan delicacy, Tamilok (woodworm).

Recommended Restaurants and Bars

Experience the vibrant food scene in Coron by dining at recommended restaurants and bars. Enjoy fresh seafood at the iconic The Old House Coron, savor Filipino fusion cuisine at Lolo Nonoy’s Food Station, or have a refreshing drink at the cozy La Sirenetta Seafood Restaurant & Cocktail Bar.

What to Eat and Drink in Coron

When it comes to culinary delights, Coron has a lot to offer. Indulge your taste buds with the mouthwatering local cuisine that showcases the freshest seafood and an array of flavors. Whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer international fare, Coron’s restaurants and bars have something to satisfy every palate.

Local Delicacies

Coron is famous for its seafood dishes, and one must-try specialty is kinilaw, a Filipino version of ceviche. Kinilaw features fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar, citrus juices, and spices, resulting in a tangy and refreshing appetizer. Another local delicacy to savor is the grilled seafood, which is often cooked over open flames, enhancing the natural flavors of the ocean’s bounty.

Recommended Dining Establishments

When it comes to dining in Coron, you have a wide range of options to choose from. Here are some highly recommended establishments:

These dining establishments offer a combination of local dishes, international favorites, and unique culinary creations. Immerse yourself in the vibrant food scene of Coron and discover the flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Fresh Fruit Shakes and More

Quench your thirst and stay refreshed with the delightful fruit shakes available throughout Coron. Made from fresh tropical fruits, these shakes are the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy a burst of natural sweetness. Aside from fruit shakes, some bars and cafes offer a variety of beverages, from local cocktails to international favorites.

Don’t miss the chance to sample the local drinks and experience the vibrant nightlife of Coron. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or exploring the town, there’s always something to sip and savor in this tropical paradise.

Practical Information and Tips for Coron

When planning your trip to Coron, it’s important to be aware of some practical information and useful tips that can enhance your overall experience. Here are some key details to consider:

1. Currency and Language

Coron uses the Philippine Peso (PHP) as its currency. It’s advisable to carry some cash as credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. ATMs are available in Coron Town, but it’s recommended to withdraw cash beforehand as they may run out of money during busy periods. The official language is Filipino, but English is widely spoken and understood in most tourist areas, making communication relatively easy.

2. Essential Items to Pack

When visiting Coron, remember to pack some essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here are some must-haves:

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the tropical sun with a high-SPF sunscreen.
• Insect repellent: Guard against mosquito bites by bringing insect repellent.
• Appropriate attire: Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for beach and water activities. Don’t forget your swimwear!
• Snorkeling gear: If you have your snorkeling gear, it may be worth bringing it along for underwater exploration.

3. Creating a Sample Itinerary

To make the most of your time in Coron, consider creating a sample itinerary that outlines the activities and attractions you’d like to experience. This can help you prioritize your days, optimize travel time, and ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see sights. Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary:

Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences and the duration of your stay in Coron. It’s always a good idea to check the availability and timing of tours and attractions in advance to help you plan accordingly.

By keeping these practical tips in mind and creating a well-structured itinerary, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the beauty and adventure that Coron has to offer.

Sample Itinerary in Coron

Here’s a sample itinerary for a 4-day trip to Coron:

Day 1: Arrival + Trekking + Hot Springs

Upon arrival in Coron, start your adventure with a trekking expedition to Mt. Tapyas. Enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding islands from the summit. Afterward, unwind and relax at Maquinit Hot Springs, a natural saltwater hot spring nestled amidst lush greenery.

Day 2: Island Hopping + Firefly Watching

Embark on an island-hopping tour to explore the pristine islands surrounding Coron. Visit highlights such as Kayangan Lake , Barracuda Lake, and Siete Pecados Marine Park, where you can snorkel and witness vibrant coral reefs. In the evening, experience the enchantment of firefly watching along the mangrove forests.

Day 3: Safari Park Visit + Sightseein g

Spend the day at the Calauit Safari Park, a wildlife sanctuary where you can observe rare and endangered species up close. Interact with giraffes, zebras, and other fascinating animals that roam freely within the park. Afterward, explore the town and immerse yourself in Coron’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the Coron Town Plaza and the St. Augustine Parish Church.

Day 4: Shopping + Departure

Before bidding farewell to Coron, spend some time shopping for souvenirs at the Coron Public Market. Browse through local crafts, clothing, and food products to bring a piece of Coron home with you. Finally, depart Coron and cherish the memories of your unforgettable trip.

Highlights of the Sample Itinerary:

• A combination of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and relaxation.
• Opportunities for trekking, island hopping, and snorkeling.
• Exploration of popular tourist spots such as Kayangan Lake and Mt. Tapyas.
• Close encounter with wildlife at Calauit Safari Park.
• Firefly-watching experience in the evening.
• Time for shopping and souvenir hunting.

Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences and the duration of your stay in Coron. Whether you choose to follow this sample itinerary or create your own, you’re sure to have an incredible time exploring the magical beauty of Coron.

Coron vs. El Nido: Which is Better?

Coron and El Nido are two popular destinations in Palawan , each offering unique experiences. While El Nido is known for its stunning beaches and limestone cliffs, Coron offers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. Both destinations have their charm and attractions, so it ultimately depends on your preferences. If you have time, it’s recommended to visit both to fully experience the beauty of Palawan .

If you want to immerse yourself in a more serene environment, Coron is the ideal choice. With its calm waters, hidden lagoons, and majestic rock formations, you can discover secluded islands and enjoy uninterrupted relaxation. Coron is also famous for its world-class wreck diving sites, where you can explore sunken Japanese warships from World War II.

On the other hand, El Nido is known for its breathtaking beaches and towering limestone cliffs. The Bacuit Archipelago in El Nido boasts untouched islands with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and island hopping. You can also visit the enchanting Big and Small Lagoons, where you can paddle through turquoise waters surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery.

To help you make a decision, here’s a comparison of some key features:

As you can see, both Coron and El Nido have their unique offerings. Whether you prefer a tranquil getaway or a vibrant beach party scene, both destinations provide unforgettable experiences. If time allows, consider visiting both Coron and El Nido to witness the natural wonders of Palawan in all their glory.

How to Get from Coron to El Nido

If you’re planning to travel from Coron to El Nido , there are two main transportation options available: flights and ferries. Both options offer scenic views of Palawan ’s coastal landscapes, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Flights from Coron to El Nido

Several local airlines operate flights between Coron and El Nido , providing a convenient and time-saving option for travelers. The flight duration is approximately 40 minutes, ensuring that you reach your destination quickly and comfortably. Consider checking the flight schedules of airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Skyjet for availability and booking options.

Ferries from Coron to El Nido

Alternatively, you can opt for a ferry ride from Coron to El Nido , which offers a more leisurely and scenic journey. The ferry journey takes approximately 5 hours and allows you to soak in the breathtaking coastal views along the way. It’s advisable to check the ferry schedules in advance to plan your trip accordingly and ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Whether you choose to fly or take a ferry, both options provide unique opportunities to appreciate the stunning beauty of Palawan en route to your destination. Select the mode of transportation that aligns with your preferences for convenience, comfort, and the chance to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Philippines .

Ferry Schedule

Please note that ferry schedules are subject to change, so it’s always advisable to verify the timings and availability beforehand. Make your travel plans accordingly and enjoy the scenic journey from Coron to El Nido in Palawan , Philippines .

Coron in Palawan is a tropical paradise that offers a unique travel experience. With its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, Coron is truly a must-visit destination in the Philippines . Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Coron has something for everyone.

From exploring the stunning lakes and beaches to embarking on thrilling island hopping tours and immersing yourself in the local culture, there are endless possibilities for unforgettable experiences in Coron. Make sure to plan your trip carefully, pack your bags, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, what are you waiting for? Embark on an incredible adventure in Coron, Palawan and discover the beauty that awaits you. Whether you choose to soak up the sun on the white sandy beaches, dive into the vibrant underwater world, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of the island, Coron will leave you in awe of its natural wonders. Start planning your trip today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.

What is the best time to go to Coron?

The best time to visit Coron is during the dry and summer season, which is from November to May. During this time, you can enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving without the worry of cancellations due to bad weather.

What is the climate and weather like in Coron?

Coron has a stable tropical climate, with the warmest months being March to May. The average temperature during the warmest months is around 29°C, while the chilliest weather is in October with temperatures around 22-23°C.

How can I get to Coron?

There are two main ways to get to Coron: by flights and by ferry. You can take a flight to Busuanga Airport from Manila or other parts of the Philippines . Major airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Skyjet offer daily flights to Coron. Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from Manila , Puerto Princesa, or El Nido to Coron’s main pier.

How can I get around Coron?

Getting around Coron is relatively easy. The primary mode of transportation in Coron Town is the tricycle, which is a motorcycle with a sidecar. Tricycles are cheap and can take you to most tourist spots within the town proper. If you prefer, you can also rent a motorbike to explore the area at your own pace. For island hopping tours, you can join a shared or private tour boat to visit the stunning islands and snorkeling spots around Coron.

Where should I stay in Coron?

There are various types of accommodations in Coron, ranging from budget guest houses to luxury resorts. It’s recommended to choose a place that is safe, accessible, and located near the tourist spots you want to visit. Some popular accommodations in Coron include beach resorts, hotels in the town proper, and guest houses. It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred accommodation.

What are the must-see spots and activities in Coron?

Some must-see spots in Coron include Kayangan Lake , Barracuda Lake, and Culion’s beautiful beaches. You can also attend the Coron Calauit Safari, go wreck diving, hike up Mt. Tapyas, and relax at Maquinit Hot Springs. There are also plenty of opportunities to try local cuisine and visit recommended restaurants and bars in Coron.

What are some local dishes and dining recommendations in Coron?

Coron is known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes seafood dishes like kinilaw (ceviche) and grilled seafood. Some recommended dining establishments include La Morena Cafe, Carl’s BBQ, and Kawayanan Grill Station. Don’t forget to try the fresh fruit shakes and local delicacies while in Coron.

What practical information and tips should I know before visiting Coron?

When visiting Coron, it’s essential to know that the currency is the Philippine Peso, and the official language is Filipino. English is widely spoken and understood in tourist areas. It’s also important to pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate attire for beach and water activities. Creating a sample itinerary can help you maximize your time in Coron.

Can you provide a sample itinerary for a 4-day trip to Coron?

Here’s a sample itinerary for a 4-day trip to Coron: – Day 1: Arrival + Trekking + Hot Springs – Day 2: Island Hopping + Firefly Watching – Day 3: Safari Park Visit + Sightseeing – Day 4: Shopping + Departure This itinerary includes a mix of outdoor activities, island hopping tours, and cultural experiences. Feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences and the duration of your stay in Coron.

Which is better, Coron or El Nido?

Coron and El Nido are two popular destinations in Palawan , each offering unique experiences. While El Nido is known for its stunning beaches and limestone cliffs, Coron offers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. Both destinations have their own charm and attractions, so it ultimately depends on your preferences. If you have time, it’s recommended to visit both to fully experience the beauty of Palawan .

How can I get from Coron to El Nido?

There are two main ways to travel from Coron to El Nido : by flight and by ferry. Several local airlines offer flights between the two destinations , with a travel time of about 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Coron to El Nido , which takes approximately 5 hours. Both options allow you to enjoy the scenic views of Palawan ’s coastal landscapes.

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Best Things To Do in Coron, Palawan

Coron in the Philippines offers jaw-dropping limestone formations surrounded by pristine white beaches and multiple clear jade-green sweet water lakes in its center. Like El Nido, Coron is part of Palawan Island. The town itself is small and used as a port to do island hopping tours. Use our 2-day Guide and find out about the things to do in Coron, Philippines.

Day 1 – Coron Island Hopping

Spend your first full day in Coron, Palawan, on a boat exploring the stunning islands nearby. The island hopping tours are one of the main things to do in Coron. Private and shared boat tours are being offered all around town and can be booked online as well. Visit Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon, Banol Beach, and Kayangan Lake all in one beautiful day trip.

Easily book this boat tour online

The price to go Coron Island hopping is quite high. Expect to pay 1600 PHP (30 USD) for a shared boat and 3000 PHP (60 USD) for a private boat. On top of that, every location that you visit charges an entrance fee, which varies from 200 – 400 PHP. Read more: Ultimate Philippines Travel Guide

It’s good to keep in mind that the Coron Island Hopping tours are incredibly popular. We recommend you leave the harbor as early as possible to avoid the crowds where possible.

Book your tour online

1. Coron Market

Start the day with your guide at the local market, get some fresh fish, veggies, and fruits for your lunch prepared by the boat staff, and some drinking water to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

Have a rich breakfast before heading to the market because the smells of raw meat can be quite intense in the morning.

Here are all your hotel options in Coron.

2. Kayangan Lake Coron

Crystal clear emerald water is only accessible via a short 300-step hike: Kayangan Lake holds the title “Cleanest lake in the Philippines”, all because a group of Filipinos takes care of the lake. Fantastic work, guys! The hike to the top also leads to a viewpoint that has a beautiful view over the boat docks.

3. Twin Lagoon Coron

Twin Lagoon in Coron, Philippines, is a large lagoon accessible via a small swim-through gap between cliffs. Snorkel along the cliff and see the incredible underwater life. Ask your captain to avoid the tourists as much as possible since you don’t want to be in the water with hundreds of others.

Book a tour to Coron’s highlights online

4. Banol Beach Coron

Soft white sand, crystal clear water, and a fantastic place to have a delicious lunch with the products you bought at the market and sunbathe afterward. Banol Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Coron.

A delicious Filipino lunch will be freshly prepared on the boat by the boat staff. The usually includes an eggplant salad, fish or chicken, fresh fruits, and rice. A yummy thing to do in Coron.

5. Barracuda Lake Coron

Snorkel or dive in unreal clear emerald water in Barracuda Lake. The water is so clear that you can see the limestone cliff go all the way down when you’re still standing on the wooden dock. We highly recommend snorkeling here.

Tip: Bring flippers. The water is sweet and unlike salt water, it won’t takes you back to the surface as quickly.

6. Have dinner at Altrove

Altrove makes delicious pizzas and is one of the few good restaurants in Coron. That’s why there is a line at the door every single evening. We recommend you to be there before 7 PM so you won’t be waiting in line for too long.

Day 2 – Things to do in Coron Town

Rent a motorbike in Coron for 500 PHP (9.5 USD) and explore the town’s surroundings. We rented a motorcycle at a shop on the corner of the street across the fountain.

Tip : Love tropics? See Siquijor Island .

7. Cabo Beach

The first stop is Cabo Beach, a small stretch of sand with huts where you can relax. The entrance to the beach is 50 PHP per person. Search for Cabo Beach on Google Maps and make sure to follow the path along the waterside. This dusty road takes you through local villages with kids who are very interested in interacting with you.

8. Lunch at Summer Cafe

Grab a delicious lunch and some WiFi at Summer Cafe. Tucked away in a small side street is one of the town’s most trendy cafes. Their yogurt with fruit is a must-try and a little different than Filipino food.

9. Mt. Tapyas – Viewpoint of Coron

One of our favorite things to do in Coron was hiking Mt. Tapyas. A stair of 750 steps that leads up the hill with Hollywood-like letters saying ‘CORON’. Start the walk at 4 PM, after the heat of the day. It is not as bad as it looks, and once on top, you will get rewarded with a view over the entire bay.

Don’t forget to explore the hills on the opposite side of the bay; it felt like pure magic seeing the sun go down from here.

Also read: ultimate Philippines travel guide

10. Maquinit Hot Springs, Coron

Relax your muscles from the hike at Mt. Tapyas in the 40-degree water of Maquinit Hot Springs. The natural salt-water hot spring is surrounded by a mangrove forest, has a beautiful view over the ocean, and is a good location to see the sunset as well. The entrance fee is 200 PHP (4 USD) per person.

11. Boat from Coron to El Nido

Picture yourself gliding over crystal clear waters between Coron and El Nido (or vice versa) along some of the untouched beauty of the Philippines.

Embark on a 4-day expedition with Big Dream Boatman to explore crystal-clear waters, hidden lagoons, and abundant marine life. As you traverse the archipelago, you’ll find opportunities for adventure, moments of quiet reflection, and glimpses into the vibrant local culture. With Big Dream Boatman, you’re not just a tourist but a curious explorer. Be sure to book this journey in advance, as it’s a popular way to travel to El Nido .

Discover the expeditions of Big Dream Boatman here .

How to get to Coron

The island is accessible via boat or direct flight from Manila or El Nido.

Getting to Coron by Airplane

A flight takes about 1.5 hours to Busuanga Airport, and it’s another 30 minutes to town by car. A flight in high season should cost you about 90 USD per person.

You can also take a short 40-minute flight from El Nido to Busuanga Airport on Coron. In high season, these flights cost 100 USD per person.

Getting to Coron by Boat

The other option is to take the overnight ferry from Manila. This journey takes 11 hours and only leaves on Thursdays and Sundays.

Browse boat schedules and tickets online

You can also get to Coron by boat from El Nido, which takes about 4.5 hours, although the ad says 3 hours. The ferry ride costs about 30 USD per person.

Find your tickets online

Where to Stay

Hotels in Coron are available for every kind of budget; however, traveling on a tight budget limits your choices drastically. The best place to stay is in town, as it has the most options, with the only downside being that you won’t have any beach near your hotel.

Hotels in Coron 😴

Please note that WiFi is very limited in Coron, Philippines. It’s best to buy a SMART SIM card to have a bit of connectivity throughout the day.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Coron via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

The most beautiful Resorts & Hotels in El Nido

10 best things to do in el nido, palawan, explore islands around el nido by clear kayak.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hey, at first your insights are very helpful for planning a trip to the Philippines!! Maybe you could say which company you used for the island hopping, that we did not choose for our trip? :)

Hi, great to hear that! Thank you. We haven’t used a company that we like to recommend. If you want to be sure of a good option, the ones linked in the guide . These all have been reviewed by people.

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Coron Palawan Travel Guide For The Philippines

Coron Palawan is one of the most amazing islands in the Philippines, with huge limestone peaks, multicolored lagoons, and great snorkeling or scuba diving.

Like other islands in the Philippines, Coron Island is a very budget friendly destination where you can see beautiful white sand beaches and some of the best coral reefs in Southeast Asia.

Even though Coron isn’t quite as famous as its nearby cousin El Nido , it’s more affordable and less crowded, and you could argue that the island hopping scenery is just as good.

This Coron travel guide will give you some details on getting there, things to do, where to stay, and how you can experience this gem of the Philippines yourself!

Where Is Coron Island?

Coron is a small island located 100 kilometers (60 miles) north of Palawan, which is a big island in the Philippines.

The area around Coron Bay has dozens of small islands with white sand beaches and sunken World War II shipwrecks, making it pretty much heaven for scuba diving and tropical island hopping!  

How To Get To Coron Palawan

Coron town can be reached by flight or ferry.

There’s an airport in Coron called the Busuanga airport (USU), but it’s not served internationally, so you’ll first need to fly to one of the big cities in the Philippines — Manila or Cebu — and go from there. You can shop for flights to the Philippines at Skyscanner.

If you plan to visit both El Nido and Coron, the easiest way to get there is to take the ferry between the two places , which only costs 1,800 Peso and takes a few hours.

You can also join a 4-day Palawan sailing expedition from El Nido to Coron and see some of the amazing secluded islands along the way (I’ll explain more on that later).  

Where To Stay In Coron

Acacia Garden Inn

Vela Terraces Hotel

Coron Bancuang Mansion

Joval Homestay

How To Get Around

Coron town is pretty small and only has a population of about 3,000.

It’s small enough to be walkable by foot for restaurants and most other things, but if you want to do some exploring outside of town you’ll need transport.

Scooter rentals are about 500 peso ($10 USD) per day. You can flag down a tricycle taxi for 100-200 peso per trip, but the scooter is more economical for long trips or multiple stops.

Shared or private airport transfers by van can be booked on Klook for as low as 180 peso per person.

Coron Island Hopping

Coron has become a popular scuba diving destination, but the reason most people come here is for the incredible island hopping boat tours. You can’t miss these!  

• Coron Ultimate Island Tour

This is the main tour in Coron island and it combines a bunch of the top highlights in the area for a very full day trip.

You’ll get to land on some white sand beaches, see picturesque lakes and twin lagoons, and snorkel with fish at the fantastic coral gardens, along with at least one World War II shipwreck.

If you only do one tour in Coron, make sure it’s this one! It’s every bit as amazing as anything you can see in El Nido Palawan.

Coron Ultimate Island Tour: Book Now (or Read More )

• Coron Island Escapade Tour

This tour doesn’t seem to get as much publicity as the others, but it’s the best if you’re wanting to chill out on beaches.

You’ll get to walk across the ocean on a sandbar and see three amazing white sand beaches, complete with hammocks, fresh coconuts, and everything else you need to relax!

The main sights on this tour are Malcapuya Island, Ditaytayan Island, and Bulog Dos Island.

Book Now: Coron Island Escapade Tour

• Coron Multi-Day Trips

Aside from the popular 1-day tours, you can also join multi-day sailing trips in Coron and the surrounding area, with some expeditions lasting up to 4 days and 3 nights, taking you all the way from Coron to El Nido , or vice versa.

This can be a great way to go island hopping in paradise without the crowds and time constraints of a simple day tour, and you get to see a lot of nice new islands that are off the beaten path and not included on the main day tours. It’s also a fun way to meet other travelers.

There are several companies offering multi-day trips in Palawan, but one of the highest rated is Big Dream Boat Man . They’re based in Coron, and they also have sailing expeditions that go all the way to El Nido, stopping at some amazing places along the way!

Book Now: Coron Palawan Sailing Expeditions

Karst limestone peaks in Coron Palawan

What To Bring

Most of the items below can be found in Coron town in a pinch, but the quality of stuff you buy on the street won’t be guaranteed (personally, I’m not about to use a junky knockoff bag from a street vendor to protect my expensive camera gear).

It’s best to buy vetted products online!

• Waterproof Bag: Essential for keeping your electronics safe on the boat tours. I brought a 30 liter bag and was able to fit my drone, tablet, camera, phone, and a bunch of other stuff inside. Everything was kept dry, even when I took the bag swimming a few times to reach hidden beaches!
• Waterproof Phone Pouch: Same as above, but these are for your phone only. Great if you don’t have other electronics and just need something small to protect your phone.
• Snorkeling Gear: Many of the islands have nice corals and fish, and you won’t want to miss out on them. Snorkels and masks can be rented on the boat too, but if you plan to do multiple tours it’s more economical to bring your own gear.
• Water Shoes: Save your feet a lot of grief and wear water shoes! We got so many cuts while walking to shore from the boats.

Is Coron Palawan Safe?

Yes! We’ve spent weeks here and I’d say it’s a very safe place.

The Philippines does have some problems with drugs and violent crime, but this hasn’t touched the small, remote town of Coron and it’s been a popular tourist spot for many years now.

You’ll be surrounded by international tourists at all times. Just keep your wits about you and follow normal precautions, and you shouldn’t have any issues.

Best Time To Visit Coron

Coron island is a tropical destination, so it’s warm all year round.

It’s also drier than El Nido. However, the best months to visit are still November to May, when it’s less rainy and not quite as hot.

We went once in January and once in February, and both times had fantastic weather for the entire week.  

How Long To Stay

I would plan to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Coron Philippines.

Best Restaurants

Coron has a growing number of good places to eat, but these are some of our favorites:

• Om’s Thai : Best restaurant in Coron, IMO. Great food, cheap prices, and huge portions. Indoors dining area with A/C and fans.
• Levine’s Eatery : Good food, fair prices, great sunset view from the rooftop dining area.
• Mat’s Shakes & Snacks : Great crepes and ice cream.
• Trattoria Altrove Coron : Best pizza in Coron.

Other Coron Tips

• Credit Cards: Most restaurants, hotels, and other things in Coron are cash only. I like to book my bigger purchases online (like hotels and tours), that way I can pay for them with credit card and save my precious cash for fresh coconuts!
• ATM: Coron has several working ATMs now with big withdrawal limits. The pull fee is like 250 peso.
• Electricity: There used to be long brownouts in Coron every day, but the electricity situation in Palawan island has improved quite a bit. On our latest visit, there were still daily brownouts, but they were quite short and didn’t really impact our trip at all. Many hotels and resorts in Coron also have generators in case there’s a problem with the electricity.
• WiFi: Most hotels and places in Coron town have bad WiFi connections. This is gradually improving. For now, the best solution is to buy a local SIM card and use your phone as a hotspot. We had great speeds with Globe in the Coron area.
• Language: Like many places in the Philippines, English is widely spoken by the locals in Palawan, so you don’t need to learn Tagalog to visit.
• Hygiene: Don’t drink or brush with the tap water. Otherwise, eat and drink to your heart’s content!
• Mosquitoes: There is some malaria present in Puerto Princesa city, but it’s very rare in Coron Palawan. I’ve never heard of a tourist getting malaria in Coron or Busuanga. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist there, but it’s certainly not common at all. There is still a risk of dengue fever from mosquitoes in Coron, which can be pretty nasty, so it’s a good idea to wear mosquito repellent in town or around the jungle. You don’t need to wear mosquito repellant while enjoying the beaches and island hopping in Coron, though.

Best Coron Day Tour Packages

Klook has high rated Coron Palawan day tours for very competitive prices.

Their package for the Coron ultimate tour costs about 1,600 peso ($30 USD) and includes most of the usual stops like Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon, plus some good beaches and snorkeling locations. You also get free lunch and hotel pickup. This is a better price than many of the tour companies you’ll find on the street in Coron town!

The other advantage of booking an online tour like this is that you can pay by credit card or Paypal, so you won’t have to run to the ATM constantly (and the ATMs in Coron are not known for being very reliable in the first place).

Book Now: Coron Palawan Tour

Where To Stay

Everyone visiting the islands stays in Coron town, which is on the east side of Busuanga island.

This is where all the hotels and restaurants are located, and it’s just a short drive from the airport or harbor.

The Coron hotels below are some of our top recommendations! You can see more options here .  

Coron Hotels

Where we stayed.

We stayed at Coron Visitors Hotel in town for 1,400 pesos ($27 USD) per night. This price got us a clean double bed with cold A/C and a private bathroom.

Keep in mind this is a relatively remote island in the Philippines, and the hotel scene is still struggling to develop and catch up with rapid demand, so don’t expect luxury.

Even so, this is one of the best budget friendly hotel options we could find in Coron. The location was perfect -— just a 5 minute walk from great restaurants -- and the staff were very helpful in arranging airport transfers, tours, and other things for us!

Prices may fluctuate from time to time, so just keep an eye out for a good deal.

We stayed at Coron Visitors Hotel for $27 USD

• Coron vs El Nido – Which Is Better?

Palawan island has become famous for its tropical scenery and island hopping, but in a head-to-head comparison of Coron vs El Nido which is better?

Both of these places are amazing, and it’s possible to do both (I’d recommend it!), but if you’re limited on time you may have to choose one or the other since the two provinces are separated in the Philippines by 100 kilometers of sea.

El Nido is more popular and more developed than Coron, but that’s not always a good thing. Coron is quieter and has better snorkeling and diving. Both El Nido and Coron have amazing islands and beaches to explore.

I wrote up a complete comparison of all the differences, and hopefully it’ll help you decide between Coron or El Nido!

Read More: Coron vs El Nido – Which Is Better?

• Coron Ultimate Island Tour: What To Expect
• El Nido Palawan Island Hopping Guide
• My Philippines Travel Guide – Tips, Info & Photos

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Brother… been both places… Love El Nido, but the diving in Coron, and the in-town vibe was way cooler.. I built a house in Iba Zambales, and am heading back April 2023… Coron is number 1

Coron is definitely underrated! Cheers

Hi there! Thanks for the info 🙂 we are headed to El nido and coron for 3.5 weeks, very excited! From what I’m reading it seems there are no good beaches on (busuanga island, is that correct? I really want to avoid having to go on group tours (or pay for private tours) as much as possible. We have the big dream boat man tour booked and the paolyn floating house for a few nights. But spending 8 days on busuanga island staying in coron town… can we just ferry over to coron island and have a chill day on the beach? Or what would you recommend for just chill beach days?

Hi Laura! Sounds like a great trip. Yeah, the best beaches are on the northwest side of Coron island, which requires a boat to reach those if you’re coming from Coron town in Busuanga island. Unfortunately I don’t know of any cheap ferry between Busuanga and Coron, just the group tours or a private tour.

The distance by sea from Busuanga to Coron is really short though, so if you negotiate you may be able to get a pretty good price for a private tour, especially if you tell them you only want to stay on one beach for the day. Good luck and have a nice trip!

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10 Awesome Things to Do in CORON, PALAWAN

Tourism transforms towns and cities, and that’s exactly what it did to Coron. What used to be a sleepy, laidback town has boomed to become a major tourist destination in Palawan. Smack at the heart of the Calamian Group of Islands, Coron is the jump off point to many neighboring destinations — Culion, Busuanga, Linacapan, and even El Nido (if you can take the long hours on the boat) — that are blessed with exquisite white beaches, brackish lakes and lagoons, and vibrant diving spots.

If you already have plane tickets and you’re wondering about the activities that await you in the tropical paradise that is Coron, here are some of our suggestions. Otherwise, we hope this list will do the convincing.

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Brave the 700 steps to the top of Mt. Tapyas.

It is the second tallest peak in Coron and is a popular first stop because of its accessibility. Mt. Tapyas may be reached on foot from the city center. At 210 meters, it is a dominant natural structure, towering over the town. It’s an easy climb; a concrete staircase leads to the summit. There are plenty of covered “rest stops” along the way so if you have the time, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. If you could, go in the late afternoon and catch the most breathtaking view of the islands during sunset.

More information about Mt. Tapyas .

2. Watch the sunset at Lualhati Park.

If you have the will to see the sun retire for the day but doesn’t have the stamina to endure the 700 steps of Mt. Tapyas, make your way to Lualhati Park for a more down-to-earth sunset experience. If you’re planning on chartering a boat for any island trips, there’s a big chance that you will find yourself here, anyway. Wanting to get some adrenaline to work? You’ll find a zipline facility along the baywalk but this might underwhelm those who have tried more exhilarating lines in other parts of the country.

3. Explore Coron Island and its lakes and lagoons.

Probably the most popular tour in this part of Palawan, Coron Island Tour will take you on a hop from one lake to another. Coron Island’s jagged coast harbors lagoons that are friendlier to swimmers. Further inland, accessible by trekking are eight lakes but only two of them are open to the public. Barracuda Lake sounds intimidating, or even frightening to some, but it reveals a fascinating surprise when you put your mask on. The cliffs that dive into its depth appear oddly intriguing, as if it hides a secret world. It just has a fantasy film feel to it. Kayangan Lake, said to be one of the cleanest in the country, has become the flagship destination of Coron, thanks to its crystal clear water, cradled in between karst cliffs.

And oh, if you’re a diver, go down and visit Cathedral Cave and the Barracuda Lake Cave, just two of the caverns under the island.

4. Spend a day or two in Culion.

Just an hour away by boat, the island of Culion looks like an ordinary town but its history of struggle will prove that it is anything but. For over a century, the town became a leper colony, which at one time was the biggest and most organized in the world. But since the development of the multi-drug therapy, a new era has finally dawned on this sanctuary. Coron tourism has been overflowing into its neighbors and Culion catches some of it, treating visitors to a walk back in time. The buildings and other facilities of the former leprosarium remain standing, open to curious minds. Don’t leave the island without a visit to Culion Museum and Archives for a greater understanding of the illness and the struggles of the patients, and the Aguila Viewpoint for a breathtaking view of the town and its nearby islets.

For more info, read my Culion Travel Guide .

5. Visit the African Safari in Calauit.

Tucked in the other side of Busuanga Island, the Calauit Wildlife Safari offers a piece of Africa to tourists. Yes, it’s a long shot but it’s the closest some of us can get to a real African safari. Marcos had the park set up through a presidential decree to shelter zebras, giraffes, and six species of antelopes that were all imported from Kenya. The residents were relocated and the bamboo forests cleared to accommodate the animals. You will also find a thousand Calamian deer, an endangered species endemic to Palawan that has thrived in the island.

More about Calauit Island

6. Snorkel around coral gardens.

The waters surrounding Coron and Busuanga are patched with coral gardens, which boast a multitude of corals and other marine lifeforms. You don’t need to be a diver to enjoy exploring one. All you need is a mask and you’ll be easily drawn to the rich and colorful underwater world as soon as you dip your face in the water. Some of these coral gardens can be found in Lusong, Atuayan, and Decalve Marine Park. The most famous is the Siete Pecados Reef, covered by a variety of corals from staghorn to gorgonia fans. On a lucky day, you will also spot a Napoleon Wrasse and other rare species!

A tour usually makes a stop to one of these but you might still want to ask your travel agency first to be sure.

7. Get all warm and fuzzy at Maquinit Hot Springs.

There are only a few saltwater hot springs in the world and — yes, you guessed it — one of them is in Coron. Set in the middle of a mangrove forest, Maquinit Hot Springs provides a therapeutic time at 38-40C. The source is said to be an underground volcano that heats up the saltwater that is now gathered in a giant tub. The floor of the pool is pebbly and rough, adding a more natural touch to the relaxing experience. It’s around 25 minutes away from the city center, accessible by trike.

8. Go wreck-diving in Sangat and Lusong!

Coron is becoming increasingly popular as a wreck-diving destination. Beneath the surface, Coron Bay hides a number of ships, submarine chasers, and gunboats that sank during World War II. These shipwrecks are well scattered around the area, each offering a different diving experience. The most well-known is the Japanese supply fleet that submerged in September 1944. The fleet includes Iraku, Okikawa Maru, and Akitsushima, Lusong Gunboat , and the Olympia Maru.

9. Laze on white sand beaches!

While wreck dive sites and hidden lakes are what most people visit Coron for, a tropical destination is never great without sparkling white beaches — and Coron has plenty of them! Usual picks include Banol, Atuayan, Malcapuya, and Banana (the beach, not the fruit, but some bananas won’t be such a bad idea during the trip). If you’re visiting Calauit, you can ask your boatman to make a stop at the glorious Black Island (aka Malajon Island, my personal favorite), North Cay, South Cay, and Pamalican Island  (not the luxury resort).

10. Meet some mermaids.

Well, not really mermaids but just as attractive — dugongs! If Bohol is famous for dolphins and Donsol for whale sharks, Coron has the gentle and lovable dugong for that exciting and enlightening wildlife encounter. The dugong (sea cow) is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s list of species that are vulnerable to extinction but they remain thriving in Coron, one of the few places where you can watch and observe them in the wild. You may contact the Dugong Dive Center at Club Paradise ( [email protected] ).

If you have more time, you can even take a boat to the islands of Linacapan and the municipality of El Nido in the northern tip of mainland Palawan. If you don’t, no need to worry because the towns of Coron, Busuanga, and Culion will keep you busy with a wide range of activities you will surely have a hard time choosing from. And, trust me, that’s a very good problem to have.

Related posts:

• 30 BEST BEACHES in the Philippines According to Travel Bloggers (Part 3)
• IF YOU HAVE TWO WEEKS, Which Beaches Should You Visit?
• 5 PHILIPPINE DESTINATIONS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
• 10 GREAT DOLPHIN AND WHALE WATCHING DESTINATIONS in the Philippines
• THE WEEK AT THE BEACH: Best Photos on Instagram (Issue 1)
• 10 TOP-RATED RESORTS IN CORON, PALAWAN
• WHERE ELSE CAN YOU GO in PALAWAN? (Other than Puerto Princesa, Coron and El Nido)
• HOW TO GET TO CORON (From Manila, Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Cebu)

where can I get a package deal going to coron Palawan on dec. 2013, for 4 days 3 nights stay for family of 4 plus 1 adult.

• Pingback: Majestic rock formations of Coron, Palawan

hi everyone! as a travel agent, we so glad to speak up about your travel in palawan, if you want to know regarding tours or accommodation in palawan dont hesitate to contact me / us, we can help you..here is my contact no.09077112986..please feel free to contact us..or email at [email protected]

Thank you and God Blessed!

I’ve been there last year. The place is definitely worth your time and money. 🙂

Make it more meaningful through Kawil Tours 🙂

great, will be there this november for the 1st time so this becomes handy!

I will definitely go back .. Its paradise.try calamian tours their tour packages is affordable .

Baon kau madami off lotion kung pupunta kau sa coron.

i wonder what shipwrecks are lying there from ww2 sounds interesting

Hello, I am very interrested, do you hav a email address?

Is August a good time to visit Coron? Will a 4D3N be sufficient to explore it?

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Kayangan Lake In Coron Island: The Ultimate Guide

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: September 21, 2023

Categories PHILIPPINES

Kayangan Lake is by far the most popular spot on Coron Island and for good reason. You cruise into the ‘parking lot’, which in itself is an immaculate reef with crystal clear water. After parking the boat you take a short hike up the stairs to the viewpoint before clambering down the other side to reach the famous Kayangan Lake. It’s a crystal clear, freshwater lake with unbelievable underwater rock formations, which make it one of the most incredible sites in Coron, Palawan.

Above the surface, this is the ‘postcard view’ of the region and arguably home to the most popular viewpoint in Coron. Underneath the surface, it truly feels like a dream world and the snorkeling is incredible. The best way to get to Kayangan Lake is on the Coron Ultimate Island Hopping Tour , which includes visiting Barracuda Lake aswell as many other snorkeling spots and beautiful beaches.

Table of Contents

WHERE IS KAYANGAN LAKE

Kayangan Lake is located on Coron Island. Coron Town is where all of the tourists stay and it’s actually on Busuanga. It gets a little confusing but all you need to know is that you will be staying in Coron Town and taking a boat over to Kayangan Lake and Coron Island to visit all of the other lagoons, snorkel spots and shipwrecks on a tour such as the Coron Ultimate Island Hopping Tour . You can see on the map below where Kayangan Lake is in relation to Coron Town (Busuanga).

HOW TO GET TO KAYANGAN LAKE

The simple answer about how to get to Barracuda Lake is:  By Boat

You will most likely be staying in Coron Town, which is where the hotels, bars, restaurants, and airport is located. The next question is about which boat. There are lots of Coron Island Hopping Tours available and they range in price. Options are:

• Full-day Island hopping Group Tour
• Private Island Hopping Trip
• Big Dream Boat Man 3-Day, 4-Night Island Hopping Trip

KAYANGAN LAKE TOUR PACKAGES AND DAY TRIPS

Kayangan Lake is part of Island Hopping Tour ‘B’ . This means that as a solo or budget traveler you can visit Kayangan Lake as well as multiple other locations on a day tour for a cheap price including lunch! I highly recommend Tour B and of course Tour A and have done them both.

To book your  ISLAND HOPPING TOUR B  you can  Click Here  to check the availability and book online (It’s just $35 USD)

• It includes Barracuda Lake, Kayangan Lake, Banol Beach, Snorkel at Skeleton Wreck, Twin Lagoon

The best way to avoid the crowds at Kayangan Lake is to arrive before they do! This four-day expedition make sure you visit all the tourist spots before the tourists and then you sleep on secluded islands in cabins and tents throughout the region. To book your Big Dream Boat Man Expedition you can Click Here  or if you want to see my detailed blog post (and my most epic drone photos ever) you can visit my blog post about my experience:  BEST ISLAND HOPPING BOAT TOUR IN CORON: BIG DREAM BOAT MAN REVIEW

BIG DREAM BOAT MAN ISLAND HOPPING TRIP

Big Dream Boat Man is a locally owned tour company that offers THE BEST island-hopping experience in Coron on their private 3-day, 4-night trip throughout the islands nearby Coron.

Reasons to book with Big Dream Boat Man

• Skip the crowds: Visit popular spots like Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake and Lusong gunboat BEFORE the crowds arrive.
• Secluded Spots: Visit islands that the daytrippers can’t reach.
• Sunrise & Sunset: Stay overnight at secluded islands in cabins and tents on the beach. Enjoy bonfires, drinks and a fun atmosphere.

3 POPULAR CORON TOURS

• Coron Island Hopping Trip : The iconic boat trip to amazing Kayangan Lake & Barracuda Lake. Best value and most popular
• Snorkeling, Shipwrecks, Private Islands (Island Hopping D) : Pass Island, Lusong Gunboat Shipwreck Snorkel & Coral Gardens. This is my favorite island hopping in Coron and is the snorkeling paradise & active tour.
• Coron Land Tour : Get to know Coron! Visit Mt Tapyas viewing deck, Maquinit Hot Spring and important sites around town. Great for a day off from snorkeling and island hopping.

I only recommend tours with Guide To The Philippines , who are a locally owned company and the most RELIABLE & PROFESSIONAL in Coron with small group sizes.

MY EXPERIENCE AT KAYANGAN LAKE

Kayangan Lake in Coron, Palawan is an awesome spot to hang out for several hours if you like to explore. While most tourists on the Coron Ultimate Island Hopping Tour will snorkel for 20-30 minutes and move on there is actually a lot to see and do here. There’s a cave that most people don’t know about, epic free-diving and of course the famous viewpoint.

Freediving at Kayangan Lake

While it is now compulsory to wear a life jacket at Kayangan Lake (two tourists died doing some pretty full-on freediving so they tightened the rules for snorkelers) you can still get away with free-diving here. I usually hang out by the edges of the left side of the lake, put my life jacket on a rock and free-dive down by the cliffs underwater.

This underwater landscape is up there with my favorite snorkel/free-dive spot in the world. Epic jagged rocks make you feel like you are on the moon as you dive deeper. Make sure you are cautious as it is a freshwater lake so you will be significantly less buoyant than in salt water making it harder to return to the surface.

If you are not 100% sure in your swimming/free-diving capabilities please keep your life jacket on. Technically everyone needs to keep it on but those rules are for the masses and I’m willing to bend them knowing that there is very small to no-danger for ME  while I do basic freediving at this part of Kayangan Lake. I made this video on my last visit to Kayangan Lake while on the Coron Ultimate Island Hopping Tour .

Snorkeling at Kayangan Lake

Of course, the most popular activity at Kayangan Lake is snorkeling. Most tourists will keep their lifejackets on and check out the underwater cliffs from above. Snorkeling at Kayangan Lake offers a unique experience, unlike any other freshwater dive.

Touted as one of the cleanest lakes in Asia, Kayangan’s crystal-clear waters provide a pristine window into a mesmerizing underwater world. One of the standout features is the majestic rock formations that lay submerged beneath the surface. These ancient stone structures, sculpted over eons, form a surreal underwater landscape, teeming with pockets of marine life. Gliding over these natural monoliths gives snorkelers the feeling of exploring an alien realm, making every dive in Kayangan Lake a memorable adventure.

Awuyuk Cave at Kayangan Lake

On the left side of the lake, quite near to the boardwalk is Awuyuk Kayangan Cave. It is about 10-meters to swim through and in parts in pitch black. It’s a short adventure but pretty exciting and best done with a guide. Looking back out towards the light from inside the cave is a scene not to be missed.

Kayangan Lake Viewpoint

The famous viewpoint of Kayangan Lake is actually not of the lake funnily enough. The viewpoint is at the top of the stairs before you head down towards Kayangan Lake and actually looks out to the area where the boats are parking. It is beautiful and the water clarity is so good that you can see the cliffs continue down below the surface. In peak times there can be a line here, which can be pretty hectic but if you come early in the morning it is much more relaxed.

Drone flight at Kayangan Lake

If you are fortunate enough to have a drone, this is an amazing spot to fly. In fact, all of Coron makes for spectacular flying. However, they do it call it the ‘Drone Graveyard’ for a reason. With cliffs at all different heights, bad signal and bright sun for pilots, this region has claimed many drones over the years. Fly high, fly slow and enjoy the view from the sky.

How to avoid crowds at Kayangan Lake

The best way to avoid the crowds at Kayangan Lake is to arrive at opening time, which is 7 am. You can do this by hiring a private boat or going with Big Dream Boat Man . If you join a regular group tour you will inevitably be there at peak time most likely.

Big Dream Boat Man (How I visited):  Big Dream Boat Man is a  3-night Coron island hopping tour expedition  that is different from the rest. Instead of battling the crowds, the sea of life-jackets and the lines, Big Dream Boat Man takes you to the hotspots such as Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon before the crowds come.

After spending one day at the hotspots, Big Dream Boat Man veers away and guides you on an expedition to some of the hidden gems  such as Kayangan Lake  and off-the-beaten-path locations in Coron, which in my opinion were equally as impressive if not more so than the famous spots on Coron Island. We free-dived at WWII shipwrecks,  camped on secluded beaches, swam with stingrays, counted the stars from the beach at night and ate like kings during our island hopping tour with Big Dream Boat Man.

Make an inquiry/booking: To visit the website to check the tour itineraries, costs and availability of dates you can click here: Big Dream Boat Man Website 

If you want to read the big blog post about my Big Dream Boat Man 4-day journey you can head over to read that by clicking here .

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT KAYANGAN LAKE

• Cleanest Lake in Asia : Kayangan Lake is often touted as the cleanest lake in Asia due to its crystal-clear waters, which provide spectacular underwater views.
• Mixture of Fresh and Salt Water : The lake is a mix of 70% freshwater and 30% saltwater. This unique combination is called a brackish water environment.
• Sacred Place : The indigenous Tagbanua people, who are the ancestral domain holders of Coron Island, consider Kayangan Lake as a sacred place.

BEST TIME TO VISIT KAYANGAN LAKE

The best time to visit Kayangan Lake is during the dry months of November to May, with the peak tourist season falling between December and March. During these months, the weather in Coron, Palawan is typically sunny and dry, ensuring clear skies and calm waters, ideal for snorkeling and sightseeing. It’s also less likely for tours to be canceled due to weather disturbances. However, those seeking a quieter experience might opt for the shoulder months at the beginning or end of this period, as the lake can get crowded during the peak season.

Regardless of the timing, the ethereal beauty of Kayangan Lake remains a constant, but visiting during these recommended months guarantees a more seamless experience.

KAYANGAN LAKE ENTRANCE FEE

Your entrance fee for Kayangan Lake is most likely organized by your tour operator but the system is not that you need to buy the tickets in town before you arrive. They are trying to regulate things more these days so that is how it works. The fee is 300PHP per person, which is $6 USD. This fee will rise year over year

WHERE TO STAY IN CORON TOWN

Coron Town is the base for all of your adventures in Coron. In Coron Town you have the bars, restaurants, transport, places to book tours and you are close to Mt. Tapyas and Maquinit Hot Spring. It is also just a $3 shuttle to the airport. Below are my three picks plus one all-inclusive resort (I’ve stayed multiple times) that includes private island hopping.

• The Funny Lion  (Good Atmosphere):  The Funny Lion is a boutique resort in Coron that I visited several years ago. Let’s just say that beer from the hot tub with one of the best sunset views in Coron is about as good as it gets. It’s ultra-modern and has a spa, pool, and immaculate rooms. The rooftop bar and dining is an awesome place to be after a long day of island-hopping in Coron.
• Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel  (Value):  Located by the bay in Coron Town, this upscale hotel features an infinity pool which makes for a picture-perfect sunset view (Possibly the best sunset hotel view in Coron). If you want comfort and luxury at the same time this place is for you. It has its own private dock so you just leave straight to the island-hopping tours from your hotel room!
• Casa Fidelis Resort All-inclusive (Includes private island hopping) : I had the most amazing stay at Casa Fidelis. The villa had a large patio area that looked out over the garden. Stepping stones led you from the room to the dining area, where we had decadent spreads of gourmet food for every meal. Casa 

3 BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORON

• Best Location: Two Seasons Coron Island Resort – Incredible Island Bungalows
• Where I stayed : Outpost Hostel – Central location, great hostel vibes.
• All-Round Resort: Sunlight Eco Resort – Great beachfront location & activities.

ARE YOU KEEPING UP WITH MY CORON SERIES?

• Best Island Hopping Experience: (4 Days & 3 Nights) Big Dream Boat Man Coron Tour Review .
• My Ultimate Travel Guide: Coron Travel Guide: 22 Awesome Things To Do
• A detailed activity schedule for you: Ultimate Coron Itinerary for 3-4 Days
• A comprehensive accommodation guide: 20 Best Places to Stay in Coron
• Best activity that is not in the water: Mt. Tapyas Hike for the best view in Coron.

Or you might want to jump to a few of my favorite spots in Coron:

• Read my blog post about Kayangan Lake
• Read my blog about Black Island
• Read my blog about Barracuda Lake
• Read my blog about​ Lusong Gunboat

Viola Smith

Tuesday 28th of July 2020

Hi Jackson. Lovely read. I definitely want to visit Coron after the restrictions are lifted. Where are you these days?

Hey, I'm in Australia now but I'm heading to Europe soon. Enjoy Coron.

14 Things to do in Coron + Tourist Spots

Imagine clear blue water, colorful coral reefs, white sand beaches, and tall cliffs – that’s what makes Coron one of The Philippines’ must-visit island destinations. This stunning archipelago, located at the northern part of Palawan Province, is filled with stunning spots under and over the water like the pristine Kayangan Lake, Maquinit Hot Spring, Malcapuya Island & more.

But Coron is not just pretty – it’s also got a cool history. You can dive into the past and check out old shipwrecks from World War II. It’s like going on a treasure hunt underwater! Coron is a fun mix of nature and history, making it a great place for a relaxing yet exciting getaway.

Here’s a list of beautiful places to visit in Coron including top things to do & the best Coron tourist spots.

To make your trip planning easy, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app. Seeing all your saved locations on the map will help you get started on planning your Coron itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

See also: Coron DOT-Accredited Hotels , Coron Itinerary , Best Travel Apps . View all travel tips on: Coron .

Things to do in Coron

1. Tour around Coron and Busuanga

Island hopping is an absolute “must-do” in Coron. Boat tours typically run the whole day with picnic-style lunch included and pick-up/drop-off from your hotel in Coron town proper or resort (if you are staying overnight in the islands). Spend a least two full days for tours because there is a LOT of amazing lakes, coral reefs, beaches and dive sites to see in Coron and nearby towns like Busuanga/Culion.

There are different island hopping tour routes in Coron (scroll below for the list). Book Tour A & Tour B, which includes nearly all of Coron’s most popular tourist spots like Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon & Barracuda Lake.

If you want to compress the highlights in one day, book the “Super Ultimate” or the “Ultimate” day tour, which is a combination of Tours A & B. Then, choose another tour that’s more suited to activities you want to do. Book “Tour C” or the “Coron Island Escapade” for more time at the beach. Do you love snorkeling & freediving? the “Reefs and Wrecks” tour is the perfect option. If you want to see the Giraffes and Zebras, book the Calauit Safari tour.

Book your trip to Coron

Before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip! Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Coron Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Coron Super Ultimate Day Tour

Coron-Busuanga Airport Shuttle – Shared and Private Transfers

Coron Ultimate Tour

Coron Tour A

Coron Calauit Safari and Beach Tour

Coron Tour B

Where to stay in Coron:

Two Seasons Coron Island Resort (Splurge | Bulalacao Island)

The Funny Lion (Mid-Range | Coron Town)

Zuri Resort (Mid-Range | Coron Town)

Coron Ecolodge (Budget | Coron Town)

Blue Waters Inn (Budget | Coron Town)

Outpost Hostel (Budget Backpacker | Coron Town)

Michel’inn Coron (Budget Backpacker | Coron Town)

Money-saving tip : Use promo code “ KLOOKDETOURISTA ” to grab 5% OFF hotels and 3% OFF tours/activities next time you book on Klook.

Book here Hotels Airport Transfers Insurance Internet

For more travel inspiration,  follow Detourista on :

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2. Coron Island Hopping Tours

Includes: Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon, Twin Peaks Coral Garden, Balinsasayaw Reef Garden, CYC Beach, Beach 91.

Coron Ultimate Day Tour

Similar to the Super Ultimate Tour, but with Skeleton Wreck included. Includes: Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Atwayan Beach, Skeleton wreck, CYC Beach, Twin Peaks Coral Garden.

Includes: CYC Beach, Coral Garden, Atwayan Beach, Siete Pecados, Kayangan Lake.

Includes: Barracuda Lake, Skeleton Wreck, Banol Beach, Twin Lagoon, Reef Garden.

Includes: Coco Beach, Ditaytayan Island, Malcapuya Island.

Calauit Safari

Includes: Calauit Island Safari, Black Island.

Reefs & Wrecks Freediving

Includes: Lusong Gunboat, Lusong Coral Garden, Pass Island.

Coron Island Escapade

Similar to Tour C. Includes: Malcapuya Island, Ditaytayan Island, and Bulog Dos Island.

3. Coron Town Land Tour

There are many interesting places to visit that can be reached by land from Coron town proper. You can easily add a land tour of Coron to your itinerary since spots like Mt. Tapyas and Maquinit Hot Springs are just nearby. Go for a half-day tour if you have free time during your arrival or departure day. Busuanga Island, where Coron and the airport are located, is a huge island with lots of other off-the-beaten-path destinations to explore.

Coron Land Tour (Half Day)

4. See the Shipwrecks & Dive Sites

Coron is home to some of the Philippines’ most beautiful coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and SCUBA diving. Of course, its historic World War II shipwrecks are not to be missed. If you love exploring the underwater world of Coron, the “Reefs and Wrecks” tour is for you. Barracuda Lake, Skeleton Wreck, and Lusong Gun Boat are some of my favorite freediving spots.

Coron Reef and Wrecks Tour

Coron scuba diving packages.

5. Enjoy the Water Activities

In addition to the island hopping and land tours, here are some of the fun water activities that you can try in Coron.

Banana Boat   ( Book here )

Flyfish Ride and Clear Kayak   ( Book here )

Jet Ski   ( Book here )

Banana Boat Ride and Clear Kayak   ( Book here )

Donut Ride   ( Book here )

Waffle Glider   ( Book here )

Coron Tourist Spots & Places to Visit

6. Kayangan Lake

Location : Coron Island, Coron, Palawan, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Kayangan Lake, celebrated for its incredibly clear waters, stands as Coron’s most photographed tourist spot. Nestled on Coron Island, just a boat ride away from Coron town, it is considered the cleanest lake in Asia. A short hike from the boat docking area leads to a viewing deck offering a stunning panorama of the jungle, limestone cliffs, and the sea. After capturing the breathtaking scenery, follow the trail down to the lake for a refreshing swim, surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic landscapes.

7. Barracuda Lake

“Located next to Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake is famous among freedivers for its crystal-clear waters and warm thermocline, where the water temperature changes with depth. Encircled by stunning limestone cliffs, the lake promises a surreal underwater experience with unique rock formations beneath the surface.

8. Twin Lagoon

Also located in Coron Island, the Twin Lagoon is another tourist spot often seen on cinematic reels and travel videos. imilar to Barracuda Lake, this natural wonder is celebrated for its dual-temperature waters. As adventurers approach, they witness the captivating spectacle – the meeting of warm and cool waters. The warmth greets visitors first, creating a magical embrace, followed by a refreshing transition into cooler depths.

9. Skeleton Wreck & Beach

Location : Coron, Palawan, Philippines

This sunken World War II ship is a favorite among divers exploring underwater wrecks. It is found just off Coron Island. As divers descend, the ship’s skeletal remains emerge from the depths, creating an eerie yet mesmerizing sight. There’s small beach cove near Skeleton Wreck that has crystal clear waters perfect for a relaxing swim.

10. Lusong Gunboat & Coral Garden

Location : near Lusong Island, Coron, Palawan, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

The Lusong Gunboat was my favorite WWII wreck and freediving site in Coron. Not only was the boat still largely intact, covered in colorful corals. If you are a skilled diver, you can swim inside the hull for a closer look. Next to the Lusong Gunboat was a thriving reef, also one of the best snorkeling sites in Coron.

11. Mt. Tapyas

Location : Near Coron town, Palawan, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

A towering landmark, this mountain is famous for its panoramic views and iconic cross that stands proudly at its summit. To conquer this natural marvel, travelers embark on a challenging yet rewarding climb, marked by a staircase with over 700 steps. At the top, the reward is unmatched – a spectacular 360-degree view of Coron town and the surrounding seascapes. The jump-off point of Mt. Tapyas is a 5 to 10 minute tricycle or shuttle ride from the center of Coron town.

12. Maquinit Hot Spring

Location : Sitio Maquinit, Coron, Palawan, Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Maquinit Hot Spring is another famous attraction accessible by land from Coron Town and often included in the land tours. This place is like a little oasis, perfect for chilling out after exploring. Just imagine yourself unwinding in open-air pools, surrounded by mangroves, soaking in the warm and therapeutic goodness. It’s a total mood booster!

13. Calauit Island Safari

Location : Calauit Island, Busuanga, Palawan . Save on Google Maps .

Calauit Island Safari is a wildlife sanctuary located in the town of Busuanga (the neighboring town of Coron). Renowned for its distinctive mix of African and local wildlife, the sanctuary offers a captivating experience akin to an African safari. Previously accessible primarily by boat from Coron town, Calauit Island now provides a convenient land access to a nearby pier, facilitating easy crossing to the island. Once there, visitors can encounter free-roaming zebras, majestic giraffes, and various other species. The land journey from Coron to Busuanga takes around 2 hours, while the boat ride was around 20 minutes.

14. Black Island

Location : Black Island, Busuanga, Palawan . Save on Google Maps .

Located in Busuanga, Black Island is frequently paired with Calauit Island Safari in tour packages. Out of all the beaches I explored in Coron and Busuanga, this one stood out as the most dramatic. Not only does it boast impressive fine white sand, but it is also blessed with towering ebony cliffs contrasting with clear blue waters. Follow a trail from the beach to discover a massive cave with a grand entrance chamber and fascinating natural formations. There are also lovely coral gardens off the beach, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling.

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Coron that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Coron

Coron tourist spots, things to do in Coron, where to go in Coron & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

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Coron Attractions

Your ultimate guide to coron: top attractions revealed.

With its crystal-clear waters, stunning landscapes, and fascinating marine life, Coron and the Calamian Islands offer a plethora of attractions that are sure to leave you breathless. In this article, we'll take you through the must-see sights and experiences to add to your itinerary for a truly unforgettable trip.

DESTINATIONS

Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour

Coron Island Hopping by Shared Boat

Essential Coron | 4 Days

Come to palawan.

Coron, located in the province of Palawan in the Philippines, is a first-class municipality that boasts breathtaking natural beauty. It encompasses the eastern portion of Busuanga Island, Coron Island, and approximately 50 smaller islets.

This stunning collection of islands forms the Calamian Archipelago, situated in Northern Palawan and separating the South China Sea from the Sulu Sea.

Must See Attractions in Coron Island

Kayangan Lake

Kayangan Lake is a stunning freshwater lake located in Coron Island, which is part of the Calamian Islands in the northernmost tip of Palawan, Philippines. It is known for its crystal-clear water , surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, making it one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting the region.

To reach Kayangan Lake, visitors must hike up a steep trail that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and waters. Upon reaching the top of the trail, visitors are rewarded with a panoramic view of the lake and its stunning surroundings.

The lake itself is approximately 300 meters wide and 100 meters long, and its water is so clear that you can see the bottom even at a depth of 10-15 meters. Kayangan Lake’s water is composed of 70% freshwater and 30% saltwater, offering tourists the option to swim, snorkel, or float around using a life jacket. 

Barracuda Lake

Barracuda Lake is a unique natural wonder located in Coron Island, Palawan, Philippines. This stunning lake is known for its crystal-clear water, unusual rock formations, and the presence of a large barracuda fish that lives in its depths.

To reach the lake, visitors must take a boat to the entrance and then climb a steep wooden staircase that leads to the water. The climb can be challenging, but the reward is worth it as visitors are greeted with a breathtaking view of the lake.

Barracuda Lake is known for its thermocline , a phenomenon where the water temperature changes abruptly at a certain depth. In this case, the temperature changes from warm to cold at around 14 meters deep, creating a unique and eerie sensation for swimmers.

The lake is also home to unusual rock formations that are perfect for diving and exploring. Visitors can swim through narrow crevices and tunnels, or climb up and jump off the rocks for a thrilling experience.

One of the highlights of Barracuda Lake is the large barracuda fish that lives in its depths. The fish is considered sacred by the indigenous Tagbanua people, and visitors are asked to respect its presence and not disturb its habitat.

Twin Lagoons

Twin Lagoons is a popular tourist destination located in Coron Island, which is part of the Calamian Islands in the northern part of Palawan province in the Philippines. It is called “twin” lagoons because there are two lagoons separated by a limestone cliff .

To reach the lagoons, visitors typically take a boat from Coron town and travel through a narrow channel surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. As you enter the first lagoon, you’ll notice that the water is crystal clear and has a beautiful emerald green color. The lagoon is surrounded by steep limestone cliffs, and you can see various types of marine life swimming around.

To get to the second lagoon, visitors must swim through a small opening in the limestone cliff, which can be quite challenging depending on the tide. The second lagoon is much larger and deeper than the first, and the water is a deep blue color. The lagoon is also surrounded by steep cliffs, and there are usually fewer people here, making it a more peaceful and serene spot.

Other attractions near Busuanga

Coron’s rich history is evident in the many Japanese shipwrecks from World War II scattered throughout the area. These sunken vessels have become a popular attraction for divers and snorkelers alike, surrounded by impressive rock formations and diverse marine life. With wrecks located in depths ranging from 10 to 140 feet, visitors of all experience levels can explore these fascinating pieces of history. 

Pass Island

Pass Island is a picturesque island situated between Culion Island and Coron Island, and is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities .

The Pass Island Shipwreck, also known as the Lusong Gunboat Wreck , is a popular diving site. The shipwreck is believed to be a Japanese gunboat that was sunk during World War II. The wreck is now home to a variety of marine life, including schools of fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral reefs. The ship’s structure is still largely intact, and divers can explore the engine room, the gun turrets, and other parts of the ship.

The wreck lies in shallow waters, making it an ideal dive site for beginners as well as experienced divers. The water around the wreck is crystal clear, with excellent visibility, making it easier to spot the marine life and explore the wreck’s nooks and crannies.

Black Island

Black Island, also known as Malajon Island, is one of the beautiful islands in the Calamian Islands in the northern part of Palawan province in the Philippines. It is located about 22 kilometers away from Coron town, and it is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and black limestone cliffs.

The island got its name from the black limestone cliffs that tower over its beaches . The cliffs are said to have been formed from volcanic activity thousands of years ago, giving the island a unique and distinctive appearance. The contrast between the black cliffs and the white sandy beaches is a sight to behold.

One of the attractions on the island is the Black Island Shipwreck , which is a World War II Japanese ship that was sunk during the war. The shipwreck has now become an artificial reef and is home to a variety of marine life, making it a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.

Calauit Island

Situated off the north-western coast of Busuanga Island, Calauit island is part of the Municipality of Busuanga. In 1997, the entire island was declared a wildlife sanctuary and game preserve and has since been transformed into a popular tourist attraction, known as the Calauit Safari Park.

Interestingly, the animals that visitors can see in the safari park were not native to the Philippines but were imported from Africa in the 1970s. This was done to save them from the threat of extinction due to rampant hunting and poaching. The collection includes majestic giraffes, numerous zebras, and several antelopes.

To make the safari park more conducive for the imported animals, the bamboo forests in the area were cleared and developed to resemble the savannahs of Kenya. This effort to recreate their natural habitat helped the animals adapt better to their new home.

Today, the imported animals continue to thrive in the safari park, with their population steadily increasing over the years. 

Attractions in Coron town

Mount Tapyas

Mount Tapyas is a popular tourist destination located in the town of Coron, on Busuanga Island, in the northern part of Palawan province in the Philippines. The mountain rises to a height of 210 meters and offers spectacular panoramic views of Coron and the surrounding islands.

To reach the top of Mount Tapyas, visitors must climb over 700 steps to reach the summit. The climb is challenging, but the breathtaking views from the top make it well worth the effort. Once at the summit, visitors can take in stunning views of Coron town, the nearby islands, and the beautiful blue waters of the sea.

There is also a large cross at the summit, which serves as a landmark and a popular spot for taking photos. The cross is lit up at night, making it visible from afar and adding to the beauty of the town’s skyline.

For those who don’t want to climb the steps, there are tricycles available to take visitors to a mid-way point on the mountain, where they can enjoy beautiful views and take photos.

Visitors are advised to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes for the climb. The best time to climb Mount Tapyas is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, to avoid the heat of the day and to take advantage of the stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Maquinit Hot Spring

Located about 25 minutes from the center of Coron, Maquinit hot spring is the only known saltwater hot spring in the Philippines. The hot spring is nestled between a hill and the sea, providing a picturesque landscape that is as beautiful as it is relaxing.

The hot spring’s water temperature reaches up to 40 degrees Celsius , providing a soothing and rejuvenating experience for visitors after a long day of physical activity such as swimming, island hopping, diving, and hiking. The warm water and scenic surroundings make Maquinit hot spring an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Coron.

Visitors can hire a tricycle or take a boat to reach the hot spring after their island hopping activity. They can then soak in the warm waters of the hot spring, which is believed to have therapeutic benefits, especially for those with joint and muscle pains.

Other Islands in Coron Bay

Malcapuya Island

Malcapuya Island is a popular tourist destination located in the Calamian Islands of the Palawan province in the Philippines. It is part of the municipality of Coron and is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and beautiful coral reefs . The island is about a 1.5-hour boat ride from the town of Coron.

The island is surrounded by a shallow reef that is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish and coral formations. The waters around the island are also a popular spot for sea turtles, which can often be seen swimming in the area.

Ditaytayan Island

Ditaytayan Island is a small island located in Coron Bay. The island is known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, which make it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Ditaytayan Sandbar is s a long, narrow strip of white sand that emerges during low tide and disappears during high tide. The sandbar is surrounded by crystal clear waters and offers stunning views of the nearby islands and the open sea.

Ditaytayan Island is surrounded by coral reefs, which are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and other aquatic creatures. Visitors can explore the coral reefs by snorkeling or diving and get up close with the marine life.

Bulog Dos Island

Bulog Dos Island is a small, uninhabited island located in Coron Bay. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Visitors can explore the coral reefs and see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. 

One of the unique features of Bulog Dos Island is its sandbar that emerges during low tide, which connects the island to a neighboring island called Bulog Uno. The sandbar is an excellent place to take photos and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and the open sea.

Classic Coron Tour Options:

Experience the ultimate Coron adventure with our Island Super Ultimate Tour. Discover stunning lakes, gorgeous lagoons, and spectacular snorkeling sites, including Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoons, Beach 91, CYC Beach, Balinsasayaw Reef, and Twin Peak Reef.

Book Online

Escape to some of the most idyllic tropical islands of Coron and immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters with the Coron Island Hopping Tour. Discover the beauty of Malcapuya Island, Bulog Dos Island, Ditaytayan Island, and Sandbar while basking in the sun on the beach and snorkeling amidst the underwater world.

Embark on an unforgettable snorkeling adventure with the Coron Reef and Wreck Tour, where you can witness the diverse marine life and explore the fascinating World War II shipwrecks resting in the shallow parts of the sea. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to discover the history and natural beauty of Coron’s underwater world.

Discovering Coron in 4 days

Day 1: Arrival in Coron – Explore Coron town Arrive at Coron-Busuanga airport and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Coron town, including Mount Tapyas for scenic views of Coron Bay, and Maquinit Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.

Day 2: Discover Coron Island  Explore Coron Island on a full-day tour by boat. Visit Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, and Twin Lagoons for picturesque turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs. Discover marine life and colorful corals at Twin Peaks Reef and Balinsasayaw Coral Garden, and relax on CYC Beach and Beach 91.

Day 3: Island Hopping Indulge in a fun-filled day of island hopping. Visit beautiful islands like Malcapuya Island, Bulog Dos Island and Ditaytayan Island, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the pristine white sand beaches.

Day 4: Departure from Coron airport Bid farewell to paradise as you check out of your hotel at 12:00pm and transfer to Coron-Busuanga airport for your departure.

Coron Palawan – Complete Travel Guide & Things To Do (2023)

Coron is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, a place that you just need to see with your own eyes to truly believe.

But how do you get there? And what is there to do once you finally arrive in Coron?

This travel guide offers everything you need to know to make the most of your trip – from the best things to do to essential tips .

With this complete guide, you can plan an unforgettable trip to Coron Palawan .

Table of Contents

Coron Palawan Complete Travel Guide

My Personal Thoughts on Coron, Palawan

Before we dive into this guide, I just wanted to take a second to say how much I love Coron .

This is probably my favorite island in the whole of the Philippines! …which is quite a big statement, since the Philippines has SO MANY beautiful islands to choose from.

In fact, we loved it so much that Coron is where we decided to hold the first-ever Travel Continuously Summit !

From the charming town of Coron to the endless local islands to hop around, I’m confident in saying that you’ll fall in love with this little island – Jordan Simons .

The 3 Top Things to Do in Coron

Where is Coron, Philippines?

Coron is an archipelago in the Philippines located off the northwest tip of Palawan Island, just south of Mindoro.

The island chain consists of several large islands and a few dozen smaller land masses that reach from the northern to the southern section of Palawan.

You can see where Coron is on a map here:

Introduction To Coron

When visiting Coron, you’ll find yourself in a convergence of cultural influences – Tag banua, Cuyunon, and Ilocano being the most prominent.

These ethnic groups have amalgamated to form a unique identity distinct from other parts of the country offering visitors different perspectives of Filipino culture.

The crystal-clear waters surrounding Coron are home to stunning marine life including stunning coral reefs and vibrant fish species such as sardines, snapper, and barracuda, making it one of the best places in the Philippines to go diving or snorkeling !

There are also numerous historical sites throughout Coron such as Kayangan Lake (the site designated “cleanest lake” by Guinness World Records) and Mount Tapyas (the highest point on Coron Island) awaiting exploration.

There’s truly something for everyone here; this complete travel guide on Coron will show you where to go and things to do for an unforgettable trip!

How to Travel to Coron

Before you can start exploring, you’ll need to figure out how to get there first.

Luckily, getting to this tropical paradise is fairly easy and straightforward.

Get to Coron By Air

The easiest way to reach Coron from Manila is by air.

Several airlines offer direct flights from Manila or other major cities in the Philippines including Cebu City and Kalibo International Airport.

Get to Coron By Speed Boat

Otherwise, you can make arrangements to get a boat directly from El Nido or Puerto Princesa.

The most common route people take is normally with a direct speed boat from El Nido.

Get to Coron By Ferry

It’s also possible to take larger ferries from both of these locations – as well as an 18-hour journey from Manila – which could make for an interesting but slightly longer journey.

The ferry services will normally depart every day. Just be aware of any weather complications, as they can also be canceled if there is a typhoon.

You can book your tickets ahead of time or directly at any local port – just be sure to get there early so you don’t miss out.

Why Travel to Coron, Palawan?

Are you looking for a destination where you can experience breathtaking nature, immersive culture, and stunning beaches ? Welcome to Coron.

Coron is world-renowned for its breath-taking landscapes, crystal clear waters, lush jungles, and exotic marine life. It offers plenty of activities for the adventurous traveler – from cliff jumping and island hopping to snorkeling and SCUBA diving.

But why travel to Coron, Palawan ?

The easy answer would be that it is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines and offers a perfect place for travelers to explore and relax.

With over 45 inhabited islands, stunning limestone cliffs that plunge into clear turquoise waters, idyllic lagoons, towering karst mountains, thick forests, and tropical fish habitats – Coron provides an opportunity to explore an unspoiled paradise.

There’s just so much to do in this island paradise, which brings us neatly to the next section!

Things to do in Coron Palawan

As we’ve already been saying, Coron has something for everyone.

Check out some of these must-try activities:

Island Hopping in Coron

Be dazzled by some of the best postcard-perfect beaches in all of Asia. Coron is home to a wide array of tropical islands, each offering its own unique experiences.

Head out on a guided tour or rent your own boat and take in classic views such as limestone cliffs, stunning blue lagoons, and verdant jungles.

This is definitely the best thing to do on Coron – and you can’t leave without at least doing one day of island hopping.

There are plenty of vendors around the town offering different tours. The highlights that you won’t want to miss are Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoons, and the WW2 Shipwreck .

READ MORE: Meeting The Tagbanua At Camp Carabao

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in Coron

Glide through crystal clear waters and discover diverse undersea life such as starfish, crustaceans, and technicolor corals native to Coron’s reefs.

Rent a kayak, or SUP board, and join an organized tour that will have you gliding over crystal water full of Nemos!

Hike Mt Tapyas

Work up an appetite with a hike up Mt Tapyas (210 meters above sea level).

This is one of Cayangan’s highest points providing 360-degree views that stretch across the open ocean – day or night this is a truly unforgettable sight.

Pack picnic snacks and stay for sunset or sunrise if you can!

READ MORE: Epic Sunset At The Top Of Mount Tapyas In Coron!

Maquinit Hot Springs

If you have some spare time at the end of the day, you NEED to get to the Maquinit Hot Springs for sunset .

In the mangroves outside of Coron Town are the Maquinit Hot Springs. These are saltwater hot springs, a rare thing in the world, and the source of the geothermal energy is an underground volcano that vents into the sea.

Plus, the sunsets are spectacular.

Calauit Safari Park

Visit a secluded wildlife sanctuary known as Calauit Island where African wildlife roam freely through the forests alongside indigenous species who call this special place home.

See creatures like giraffes, cheetahs, monkeys, zebras, wild buffalos, and crocodiles as well as endemic species like Palawan bearded pigs amongst many others!

While I haven’t actually been here personally yet, it always comes up as an option in Coron and it’s definitely something unique to try.

With so much amazing stuff to do in Coron Palawan, it’s no wonder why people flock year after year for an unforgettable experience that leaves lasting memories!

Is Coron Safe?

For travelers considering a trip to Coron Palawan in 2023, safety is an important factor in their decision-making process.

Coron is one of the quieter and less commercial destinations in the Philippines, but that doesn’t mean that security and safety standards are any lower than in other places.

Make sure to read up on the history of the island and understand the basics of tourist safety before traveling there.

Coron is mostly safe with regards to petty crime such as pickpocketing, but taking precautionary measures like carrying a padlock or keeping valuables out of sight will help reduce danger even further.

The Philippine government also has regular police patrols throughout all tourist areas so that worries related to security can be minimized—which can be an added layer of comfort for wary travelers.

Finally, double-check the tour operators you plan on traveling with for any local licenses or permits before embarking on any tours or activities; this not only helps you make sure that everything will run smoothly during your vacation but also contributes towards responsible tourism for everyone’s benefit!

Coron Vs El Nido: Which is Better?

You might be trying to decide between two popular destinations: Coron or El Nido .

There is no right or wrong answer, as both places offer unique activities and attractions. It really comes down to personal preference and your own travel style!

Both El Nido and Coron are must-see destinations for travelers visiting Palawan.

Coron is less developed than El Nido but offers its own charm with numerous lagoons, beaches, and hidden waterfalls. There’s also plenty of buzzing nightlife with restaurants, bars, and cafes dotting the town while still maintaining the peaceful character of its surroundings.

Meanwhile, El Nido boasts stunning limestone cliffs that always take travelers’ breath away. It’s a popular spot for adventurers looking for hiking, kayaking, or island hopping tours through Bacuit Bay – perfect for snorkeling and diving activities due to its abundance of tropical sea life!

Ultimately the choice boils down to what kind of sightseeing experience you’re looking for from your travels; if you’re looking more for adventuring outdoors then El Nido would be suitable but if culture and relaxation are more up your alley then Coron will certainly have something in store.

Where Next After Coron?

Wonder what is next when your visit to Coron Palawan is over?

While Coron Palawan surely has plenty of interesting places to explore and activities to try, it should not be the end of your Philippine travels. If you are planning a trip to the country, why not extend your stay with these other areas that can offer you an unforgettable experience?

Once finished exploring Coron Palawan, you might consider visiting El Nido . Located near the northern tip of mainland Palawan, this rustic town offers stunning beach destinations and lush vegetation with spots for trekking or kayaking.

Tour packages are available for adventurous travelers looking for island hopping experiences or visits to underground rivers and lagoons .

For those with time constraints, another option would be Manila – home to several tourist attractions perfect for any type of traveler including families with young children or couples who want to enjoy wonderful days out in the capital city before venturing off elsewhere in the country.

From Intramuros’ historical sites to Manila Bay’s gorgeous sunset views, there’s plenty that can keep one fascinated throughout their stay in this Philippine metropolis.

After Coron Palawan it is easy discovering what comes next; pick any destination knowing that beautiful experiences await around every corner!

READ MORE: Why The Philippines Starts Christmas In September

Frequently Asked Questions

Coron Palawan is known for its stunning natural beauty, with attractions including Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and the Siete Pecados Marine Park. Other popular places to visit include Mount Tapyas, the Maquinit Hot Springs, and the Skeleton Wreck.

Coron Palawan is a great destination for outdoor activities. Popular activities include island hopping, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and visiting the many beaches. Coron also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including the Coron Town Market and the Coron Eco Museum.

The best time to visit Coron Palawan is from December to May, when the weather is dry and sunny. This is also the busiest time of year, so it’s important to book accommodation and activities in advance.

Traveler & Content Creator

My name is Jordan Simons and over the past few years I've learned how to travel the world continuously. Now I want to show you how to do the same.

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Palawan is truly one of the most amazing islands worldwide. When you visit again, don’t miss out on exploring the southern region known as Balabac. It’s a hidden gem that remains unexplored by most tourists, allowing you to enjoy its pristine and untouched beauty. Here, you can experience the genuine allure of the area without any crowds or commercialization.

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COMPLETE Travel Guide to Coron, Palawan + 5 Days Itinerary

Coron is one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines and one of the top attractions in Palawan. It’s mostly famous for Kayangan Lake — which is said to be one of the cleanest lakes in Asia. Coron has numerous islands which you can explore through island hopping boat tours, lagoons, and WW2 shipwrecks that are popular among freedivers and scuba divers.

For me, it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in the Philippines. In fact, for foreign travelers who plan to visit the country, it would be my topmost recommendation.

Aside from its beautiful nature attractions, another thing that I like about Coron is that it’s budget-friendly, even for solo travelers like me. Even though tour rates aren’t standardized yet, the rates for accommodation and tours are reasonable. I’m going to share several budget tips to Coron here with you!

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El Nido to Coron

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The easiest way to get to Coron is by booking a flight to Busuanga Airport.

• Take a local flight to Busuanga Airport. Cebu Pacific offers the cheapest year-round fares.
• From Busuanga airport, there will be vans waiting that can take you to Coron (P150, 30-40 minutes). If you’re in a group, you can also hire the entire van (P1500). From the drop-off point, take a tricycle to get to your accommodation.
• 2Go has weekly trips from Manila to Coron. The port is located in Pier 4 in Tondo, Manila. Travel time is 11 hours; fare is about P1400+ per person depending on how early you book and your ticket class. Book ferry tickets from Manila to Coron here .
• From the Coron pier, walk for 15 minutes to the town proper or ride a tricycle.

There are ferries from El Nido to Coron. For regular ferry, travel time is 4 hours; fare is P1760. Book ferry tickets from El Nido to Coron here .

Things to know before you go

Here are some information about Coron, Palawan:

• Coron is safeguarded by the indigenous tribe of Tagbanua. As such, some places are considered sacred and off limits.
• Be respectful. Wear a coverup when walking on streets.
• There are ATMs in Coron.
• Most establishments accept cash only, but some resorts and establishments also accept major credit cards.

As in most destinations in the Philippines, the best time to go here is during summer  where there is guaranteed good weather.

However, going during off-peak season has its perks too. You can avoid the huge summer crowd and even get discounted rates on rooms and tours. I love traveling during off-peak season for these reasons, moreso in Palawan which is rarely affected by the typhoon season. There might be cloudy skies or a bit of rain, but it doesn’t experience heavy rain as other places such as Manila .

Coron town proper is small so almost everything is walking distance. Alternatively, you may also ride tricycles for a minimum fee.

On the day of your flight departure, you can ask assistance from your hotel’s receptionist to schedule a van pickup to the airport since the vans follow a daily schedule.

Island hopping tours

Island hopping is the main activity offered in Coron. Each island hopping tour is different, but mainly you will get to see beaches, lakes particularly Kayangan Lake which is considered the cleanest lake in Asia, and snorkel in underwater coral areas and shipwrecks. During island hopping, you will also get to see the iconic photo in Coron: an islet surrounded by clear turquoise water that is the Coron Bay.

Each tour may differ depending on the agency, but joiner tours are generally the same in terms of places to visit. As said above, there are no standardized tours in Coron so rates may vary per agency.

Tour A is a great start for your island hopping experience. It takes you to several beaches and snorkeling areas, as well as the famous Kayangan Lake. If you like snorkeling, I suggest you explore the surrounding waters in CYC Beach. Most people stay on the shore, but it actually has one of the best underwater spots I’ve seen during my stay there.

• Places to see : Las Islas de Coral, CYC Beach, Atwayan/Sunset beach, Quin Reef, Green Lagoon, Kayangan Lake
• Book your tour via Klook

This takes you to more snorkeling spots in Coron. But the true highlight of this tour is the Twin Lagoon, which features dazzling-blue lagoons against a backdrop of karst formations.

• Places to see : Barracuda Lake, Smith Beach, Skeleton Wreck, Reef Garden, Twin Lagoon

This is a new tour which includes Malcapuya Island and other islands in Coron.

• Places to see : Coco Beach, Waling-Waling Island, Malcapuya Island

This tour takes you to three beautiful islands in Coron. The islands are located a bit far compared to other island hopping stops (about 2 hours), so majority of your time will be spent on the boat ride. Again, if you like snorkeling, you will enjoy Banana Island with its giant clams and Malcapuya Island wits its big schools of fishes.

• Places to see : Bulog Dos Island, Banana Island, Malcapuya Island

This is the best tour for those who enjoy snorkeling and freediving, as you will be taken to a vast coral garden (lazily named Coral Garden) where it’s possible to get sightings of sea turtles and the shipwreck sites. The shipwrecks can be seen even from the surface. This is a fun tour; my only complaint during my tour is that each stop is too short so there’s not much time to linger and enjoy the underwater scenes.

• Places to see : East Tangat, Pass Island, Coral Garden, Lusong Gunboat
• Rate : P1300 per person

If you want to see the best island hopping spots in Coron in one tour, you can avail of the Coron Island Ultimate Tour. If you’ve already taken the rest of the tours, there’s no need to get this one.

• Places to see : Siete Pecados, Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Smith Beach, Skeleton Wreck, Las Islas de Coral, CYC Beach
• Rate : P1500
• Island hopping starts at at 9AM up to 4 or 5PM. If you’re availing of a joiner tour, make sure to get to the port early and keep track of time at all times so other joiners wouldn’t have to wait for you.
• The tour includes lunch buffet and water.
• Rental for snorkeling set and/or aqua shoes are not included (P150 each).

Other tours in Coron

If you want a little break from the sea, there are other tours in Coron you can avail.

As its name suggests, the highlight of this tour is the Calauit Safari . The safari is home to various endemic and imported wildlife, such as giraffes. It’s about 3 hours away from the town proper, and as such pickup is usually at around 4AM.

Other places to see may vary depending on the travel agency offering this tour. Others may include side trips to town attractions while others offer snorkeling sites to be visited along with Black Island.

• Places to see : Calauit Safari Sanctuary, Isla Paraiso, Busuanga town proper, Malbato Church, (Optional) Black Island

Culion Tour is an underrated tour in Coron. It takes you to Culion, which was once a leper colony. Today, it’s a charming town with various historical landmarks.

• Places to see : Culion Church and Forest, Aguila Viewpoint, Culion Museum and Archives, Bogor Marine Park.

If you have half a day, you can take a Coron town tour where you can buy souvenirs and take home cashew, which is one of the local products in Palawan. Other highlights include Maquinit Hot Spring, a natural hot spring within a mangrove  forest, and Mount Tapyas which is a favorite spot for island hopping.

The tour is also doable DIY as you only need to commute via tricycle to get to the destinations for minimum fare. If you’re going to Maquinit Hot Spring, a private tricycle costs P300 good for 4 people; the driver will wait for you. Entrance fee is P200 per person.

• Places to see : Lualhati Park, cashew shop, souvenir shop, St. Augustine Church, Mount Tapyas and Maquinit Hot Spring

This is a magical tour wherein you can see fireflies and bioluminiscent planktons. The tour starts at 6PM to 9PM, with buffet dinner.

• Rate : P950 per pax

There are various travel agencies in Coron, Palawan. You can just walk around the Coron town proper and book for a tour, at least a day before. Regardless of your choice, I highly suggest that you give a tip to your boatman/guide especially if you’re happy with their service!

Here are your options:

• Joiner tours . The easiest and most convenient option, whether you’re solo or with companion(s).
• Private tours . If you’re in a group, you might want to get a private tour (i.e., per-person rate is the same as joiner tour, but it will be exclusive to your group) or you may find your a private boat to rent. If you choose the latter, take note that you will have to buy your own food in the market for cooking during the tour and pay the entrance fees, which are not included in the rental rate. The advantages of this is that it’s cheaper and you can dictate which places to go and which time, which is useful if you want to escape the crowds. Moreover, you can also stop over beach coves not included in the usual island hopping tours.

There are a number of restaurants in Coron where you can enjoy local delicacies and other cuisines. Here are the most recommended ones:

• Kawayanan Grill . This restaurant offers reasonably priced seafood platters.
• Santino’s Grill . A popular restaurant famous for their baby backribs
• Sea Dive Restaurant or La Sirenetta . A great option especially for sunset viewing.

I recommend La Sirenetta which has good ambiance and food.

If you’re on a budget, there are carinderias in Coron where you can buy meals for around P100 per person.

Where to stay

The great thing about Coron is that it offers a range of accommodations, starting from budget-friendly fan rooms and dorms to mid-range resorts and even luxury island resorts.

Here are some accommodation highlights. You can also check out our separate article on the Best Resorts in Coron Palawan .

Here are some of the most recommended resorts and hotels in Coron:

• Two Seasons Coron Island Resort and Spa . This is a 5-star luxury accommodation, considered one of the best in Coron. Book discounted rooms here .
• Club Paradise Palawan . A private island resort with its own spa and pool. Book discounted rooms here .
• Sunlight Ecotourism Island Resort . One of the most beautiful resorts in Coron, with luxurious water villas. Book discounted rooms here.

Here are some of the recommended budget accommodations in Coron, Palawan:

• Coron Westown Resort . A popular laid-back accommodation with outdoor pools. Book discounted rooms here .
• Seahorse Guesthouse . This guesthouse offers dorm-type accommodation, with free breakfast. It has a rooftop area where you can eat and which features a nice view of the ocean. Book discounted rooms here .
• Coron Paradise Bed & Breakfast . A good option if you want a private room in a budget, with free breakfast. It’s close to major establishments such as restaurants and souvenir shops. Book discounted rooms here.

I recommend staying at least 5-6 days in Coron. If you wish to maximize your time, you can avail of the Coron Ultimate Island Tour and other 1-2 island hopping tours and the rest exploring Calauit Safari or Cuyo Island. If you’re into diving as well, I suggest adding 2-3 days more to your itinerary.

Anyway, here’s a sample 5 days itinerary to Coron.

As island hopping tours normally start at 9AM, if you arrive in Busuanga Airport at 7:30AM or earlier, you still have time to drop your bag at your accommodation and join a tour.

Here are important budget tips so you can still enjoy Coron without breaking the bank!

• Snorkel and aqua shoes rental are not included in island hopping tours, which are rented out at about P150 each. If you’re going to stay for a few days, it’s best to buy or bring your own equipment. I got my own snorkeling set for less than P1000 and I’ve used it in other locations besides Coron.
• If you’re in a group, you may look at all-in tour packages. However, if you’re solo or in two’s, it’s cheaper to book the island hopping tours and accommodations separately. This advice was given to me by a travel agent when I inquired about rates.
• It’s cheaper to do the Coron Town Tour on your own, as the attractions can be visited via commute with tricycles. This is especially true if you’re in a group.
• For cheap eats, there are carinderias selling meals at about P100. Another favorite backpacker spot is the ihawans in the port area, where you can buy grilled chicken, pork and seafood for cheap.

Here are the current rates in Coron. These are per person rates.

Usually you only have to worry about dinner. Breakfast is often served complimentary in hotels and tours include lunch buffet.

For 5 days, a safe budget would be P9000-10,000 per person .

Did you find this travel guide to Coron, Palawan, helpful? Any other suggestions to future travelers?

Visiting Palawan? Check out the rest of our guides in Palawan:

• Ultimate Guide to Palawan
• Top Things to Do in Palawan
• Best Beaches in Palawan

Puerto Princesa :

• Guide to Puerto Princesa Underground River
• Island Hopping in Honda Bay
• Best Resorts and Hotels in Puerto Princesa
• Travel Guide to Coron
• Best Resorts in Coron Palawan
• Travel Guide to El Nido
• Best Resorts in El Nido Palawan
• Travel Guide to Balabac
• Island Hopping in Balabac
• Onuk Island

Port Barton :

• Travel Guide to Port Barton + 3 Days Itinerary
• Top Things to Do in Port Barton
• Island Hopping in Port Barton

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

57 Comments

Hello Katherine! We will be going to Coron on Oct 21-25. We are 11 in a group but 8 persons will be leaving on the 3rd days, so unluckily 3 of us will remain. Can you give me some recommendations please. Should I book with the package tour including accommodation and land transfer or is it cheaper to have it separately?

Katherine Cortes

It depends on the package rate and inclusion. 🙂 You can compute naman saan kayo makakatipid.

Can I ask for the contact number of the tour package you availed. thanks po 🙂

Hi! Your blog inspired me to book a solo trip to Coron. Just a question though: how did you handle your phone & money while swimming? Did you leave them behind or bring them with you in the water?

Hi Aly! Good question. Hmm. Because I was on tours I just leave my bag on the boat ahahaha.

Hi Katherine, very helpful post. Thank you. We are planning to visit Coron in December 2019 for 4D3N. We will be 8-10 people (family)on a tight budget. How much should we save per person for all expenses including airfare and lodging? Thank you!

Hi Katherine! I read that you spent 8k on this trip. Did you go there via cebpac or 2go? Coz I’ve been checking out cheap flights and so far 7k is what I’ve seen. We’re going there for our cousin’s wedding in March next year. Hope to hear from you. Thanks in advance!

7k RT is expensive. Try to wait for promos. Cebu Pac frequently holds them. 🙂

Thanks for the blog as I it really helps me picture out how to do my itinerary..Planning to visit Coron this September for our 5th Anniversary

Irene Arquero

Thank you so much i found your blog. Anyway will plano namin pupunta ng Coron sa First week ng January we have six peoples in the group from age 11 years old to 60 years old. Any recommendations From the beginning to the end of our trip? This is our first time.

Overall experience to Seahorse Guesthouse? I am considering this hotel for our family vacation in Coron.

Hi, the Seahorse Guesthouse has dorm rooms and fit for solo/couple backpackers. You might want to check other resorts if you’re coming with your family.

You can check for discounted rates via Agoda here – https://www.agoda.com/pages/agoda/default/DestinationSearchResult.aspx?cid=1779159&pcs=1&city=16185&hotelAccom=37&sort=agodaRecommended

Hi! Sorry if this had been asked, I tried searching past comments!

For booking your tours, did you pre-book all of them online or did you wait until you arrived to walk to their booth and then book them?

I actually just texted them a day before, if I remember correctly. But this was low season. During high season it’s recommended to pre-book.

Hi, Is it wise to go in July ?? It’s raining most of the days. Kindly advise !!!

Hi, will travel 2nd or 3rd week of Nov, do you suggest to look for travel packages in Coron or book prior? Thanks

I always find it prudent to book prior or at least do pencil reservation. 🙂

Hi! Im really glad i came across this blog, this is helpful, we’ll be in coron on the 31st of October to the 3rd of November and we’re booked at SeaHorseguest house (me,my hubby and our son) i want to know the most practical tour we can get since we’re traveling with our 12y/o kid. Thanks! And can we just book it with seahorse?

Hi. I happened to leave a comment in this post some few months ago, and since then i’m receiving notifs that I’m not even involved in. Ummm, how can I unsubcribe po? I need to know po sana. Thanks.

Hi Michelle, sorry abt that! Usually there’s an unsubscribe button in email notifications. Let me know if you’re still having problems.

Please don’t get me wrong, I love this blog & and it helped me a lot during my trip.. Maybe I only need to adjust notification settings. 🙂 Thank you po..

Hey, I‘m also heading to Coron as single traveler and I‘d like to do some of the tour packages you have mentioned in your blog. However, I cant find a link or name of the agency that provided exactly these Tour A etc. packages. Can you name it? Many thanks!!

We literally allotted a whole subsection for the travel agencies and even gave links for their pages. : )) I got the tours from JY Travel and Tours.

I was in Coron just last week, travelled solo as well. Booked my tour from Alherini Travel Services in facebook, and I must say, they are Legit, accomodating and very smooth to transact with. Hope that helps.

Hello! Do you know if still perfect to have a vacay during the month of oct. (this year)?

I’m not sure if it’s going to be “perfect.” 🙂 June-November is the rainy season so it really depends on the weather, but the good news is Palawan doesn’t really experience strong typhoons. You might still get a lil bit of rain here and there tho.

Hi! I’d like to ask for advice on how I can have a worthy vacation to Coron for 3D2N only. I want to travel solo and as much as possible not to join groups. Thank you so much!

Then you should hire your own private boat. 🙂 Afaik for packaged tours you’ll still be with other people, so this is probably the best choice.

Good day po! Meron po kayong idea if every anong oras bumabyahe ang van sa airport going to coron town proper?

We don’t know the timetable for the vans, but take note that Coron is a major attraction in Palawan and so with the influx of passengers, there are always public vans outside the airport. If unsure, you can always contact your resort/accommodation; they are affiliated with those doing airport transfers.

Hi Katherine we’re planning to go there with my partner. Is there any boat to rent in the pier area? I want to DIY my travel and i dont want to book tours. Which is more cheaper DIY or TOUR Agency?

Yep, you can go to the pier but I’m not sure about the availability during summer.

DIY or tour agency — it depends. If there are only 2 of you I’d go for joining a group tour instead.

Hi Duke. I recommend Jon for private boat in Coron. You can ask them how much is the rate. This is worth considering if you want to enjoy the place on your own and you can choose which tourists spots you can visit. Though you have to shoulder the entrance fees and you have to buy your own food in the market for cooking later on.

We hired JON, ARMAN, & STANLEY our boatmen/tourguide for 2 days island hopping. They’re helpful, kind and they made our Coron trip worth remembering ❤️

For private boat: ■JON(Boatman in Coron): +639955287803 +639218139568

For solo or couple travelers it’s more cheaper if you get a tour at local travel agency, you dont need to think about your food and entrance fees since it is included in the package.

Hi, I just want to ask. Is solo travelling to Coron safe? I want to assure my mom that it’s safe, or else she won’t allow me to go. And I already have tickets for April. Hoping to hear from you soon. Thanks.

Yes. I’m wondering where your mom got the idea that it might not be safe. Coron is pretty well known even abroad.

Hi! I’m visiting Coron on april 30 to may 4 2018, i will traveling alone is it not really that bad? it will be my first solo travel. Will I still be able to enjoy the tours and have an overall great time?

It largely depends on you haha. But this was my first solo travel and I loved it. 🙂

Hi! I’m thinking of going to Coron this March, it will be 3D2N. Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Island and Maquinit Hot Spring are the places I want to visit. It would be my first time to travel alone. Just want to ask for help in planning my itinerary or how do I get there without joining tours.

You can rent a private boat if you don’t want to join tours. Maquinit hot spring can be reached via tricycle. 🙂 You can visit all those in ome day.

Hi! Nice blog, i enjoyed reading it. We will be travelling as a couple on Feb 27 to Mar 3. We plan to rent a private boat instead of joining a group. The cheapest rate provided to me is 3700/pax for the Coron Island Tour. And 4800/pax for the Malcapuya, banana and bulog beaches. Rates included all entrance fees, food, licensed tour guide. Do you think the rate is reasonable? Or i can find better deal once i arrive at Coron?

I think the price is reasonable because there are only two of you. You can also try looking for a travel agency/boat owners who’ll agree on a rate per boat (not per person) and see if it’ll be cheaper. Last time I was there boat rental is 2000-2500, entrance fees and lunch not included. Not sure if the rate is the same for the three beaches you mentioned because those are a bit far.

Hi! I’m visiting Coron on July 2018, so I’ll be expecting some rain 🙁 Given it rains, is it really that bad? Will I still be able to enjoy the tours and have an overall great time?

We love to travel during the rainy season because of fewer crowds, lower rates. 🙂 If it’s just a little bit of rain, you’re still good to go. But if there’s a strong typhoon, tours might get cancelled. In general though, Palawan rarely experiences strong typhoons as in other parts of the PH… so you’d be terribly unlucky to be stuck in one. Good luck!

Good day, Ask ko lng po if anu masuggest mo maam. Me and my cousins will be going this coming august, we are 4 in the group, is it ideal and cheaper if we will do DIY or avail a package for the whole tour? Thank you for your response

I think since there’s 4 of you it’s better to get a private boat (DIY). 🙂 It’s cheaper overall and you get to do your own itinerary.

Hi! Do travel tour agencies allow grouping solo travellers for private tours instead of letting them join with the group tours? This is to allow more flexibility on the itineraries instead of feeling rushed.

Yes. 🙂 You can rent a private boat if they offer it (with your own itinerary) or go on a private group tour (following their itinerary).

Coron looks lovely. I have not been to the Philippines yet, but it is on my bucketlist! I see you did 4 tours? Would you recommand that? Did you meet loads of people on those tours? x

Yes and yes. 🙂 I liked the first three tours. I wasn’t impressed with tour D, but I heard it’s a popular choice because of the coral garden. I did meet lots of people because I joined group tours. Hope you decide to visit here!

I love solo travel and I’m looking at Coron for next year. Is it possible to request for a budget breakdown of your 5-day stay? 🙂 Thank you so much and i wish you more travels today, onward!

Hi Monica. I already have a whole section for budget and expenses in this post. 🙂

Camille Umagat

I’m going to Coron this November. Isn’t it awkward to go on tour without any friend/s?

Nope. But you will probably get asked a lot why you’re alone or if you’re heartbroken… or something along those lines. 🙂

Marice S. Batiao

Hello, I’m planning for a solo trip this September. Do you have to book the tour in advance or you can just get book then and there on a cheaper price. Also, I’m going on a weekday, there might be no group tours available. Thank for the help.

Even in off-peak season it’s best to book in advance. There are group tours even on weekdays. 🙂

Hi! I’m going to Coron this January and I’m also booked at Seahorse Guesthouse! I just wanted to ask if they provide the guests with free towels? Also, do guests need to bring their own padlock for the locker or do they also provide them?

Hi Martin, yes the inn provides towels and a padlock.

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Top 15 Things to Do in Coron, Palawan

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Coron, Palawan can be seriously confusing at first. The municipality encompasses a town (located on Busuanga Island), an island (nearby Coron Island), and over 50 minor islets in the Philippines’ Calamian archipelago.

Say Coron’s name to Filipinos while you’re in the capital city of Manila and you’ll see their eyes light up like kids on Christmas morning. That’s because Coron is arguably the most picturesque part of Palawan, which was voted  Best Island in the World  by  Travel + Leisure  readers several years in a row.

We had the pleasure of spending a week in Coron, bookending our time teaching a branding workshop at TBEX Manila. From gorgeous beaches and dramatic limestone landscapes to exquisite Scuba diving and all sorts of wildlife, it was an extraordinary experience that left us eager to go back and spend more time in the Philippines.

Here we’ll take a brief look at the history of Coron, tips on where to stay, and share our picks for the best things to do in the area.

• The History of Coron Palawan, Philippines
• Coron Palawan Map
• Top 15 Things To Do in Coron
• Our Favorite Coron Hotels & Resorts

READ MORE:  The Top 10 Things to Do in San Vicente, Palawan (Philippines)

A BRIEF HISTORY OF CORON PALAWAN, PHILIPPINES

Stretching from Tara Island in the northeast to Canipo Island in the south, northern Palawan’s  Calamian Archipelago  separates the South China Sea from the Sulu Sea.

The original inhabitants of this area were the Tagbanwa, Calmiananen, and Cuyonon tribes. Coron Island and the waters that surround it are the ancestral domain of the Tagbanwa people, and have been officially designated as such since 1999. They’re one of the oldest ethic groups in the Philippines, believed to descend from inhabitants who lived over 20,000 years ago.

European contact in the region came long after Ferdinand Magellan arrived in the Philippines in 1521, and Spanish colonization of Cebu began in 1565. The first permanent Spanish settlement in the Calamianes was on Culion, where a fort and church were built in 1670 in defense against Muslim raids.

It was a migrant to this settlement, named Nicolas Manlavi, who ultimately established the first settlement on Coron Island Palawan, in present-day Banuang Daan. Manlavi– a Cuyo Islands native who served for several years on Spanish Galleons– lived in Culion but owned farm land on Coron. His daughter Evarista later wed Claudio Sandoval from Iloilo, and the Sandoval clan rose to become one of the region’s most prominent families.

At the turn of the 20th century, American naturalist Dean Worcester became Secretary of the Interior for the First Philippine Commission. He recommended Culion as the site of the Philippine Leper Colony, which forced the Sandovals to relocate to what is now known as Coron and Busuanga.

Now, nearly 120 years later, Coron’s population has grown from just over 5,000 to 52,ooo, spread across an area of 266 square miles. Just 2700 or so people live on Coron Island, and many of the Calamian Islands remain relatively uninhabited. Perhaps that explains why the Coron Island Natural Biotic Area is listed on the  UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

READ MORE:  Danjugan Island, An Idyllic Philippines Escape

CORON PALAWAN MAP

 top 15 things to do in coron.

If you’re the sort of person whose idea of a great vacation in lazing about on gorgeous beaches, with a good book in one hand and a fruity tropical drink in the other, Coron has that in spades.

But if you’re like us, and prefer healthy doses of outdoor recreation in between spa treatments, there’s plenty of that as well.

Here’s a look at our recommendations for the Top 15 activities in the area, listed in no particular order…

READ MORE: The 15 Best Palawan Resorts & Hotels (Philippines)

1. Birdwatching in Kingfisher Park

One of the lesser-known ecotourism attractions in Coron, this Palawan nature park is located on Busuanga Island near the Malbato Chapel. Transfers can be arranged to and from the two of Coron

The mission of this is “to protect, preserve, and restore the biodiverse ecosystem of Malbato through economically and environmentally sound sustainable development, education, and proactive community involvement.”

Kingfisher Park offers an array of activities, from half-day birdwatching and mangrove kayaking tours to hiking and waterfalls tours. Their full-day package includes lunch, dinner, all trekking activities, mangrove kayaking, and their Starry Starry Night boat tour at sunset. Sunscreen and insect repellent are HIGHLY recommended, especially for the latter activity.

For those interested in Asian wildlife, the park is home to six species of Kingfisher and an array of other endemic birds, plants, and animals. The 73 bird species that may be spotted there include the Palawan Flowerpecker, Oriental Dwarf-Kingfisher, Blue Paradise-Flycatcher, Javan Frogmouth, Crested Serpent-Eagle, Philippine Hawk-owl, Palawan Hornbill, and many more.

There are also six different species of frogs in the park, including two fascinating endemic amphibians. The park is also home to Parrot International’s Blue Racquet Tail Parrot /Kilit Project, among other community-focused conservation initiatives.

READ MORE: Beautiful Birds of the Galapagos Islands

2. Climb Mount Tapyas

Imagine it’s 3PM on a 93º Fahrenheit day, with 97% humidity. You’re on a beautiful tropical island (Busuanga) surrounded by brilliant blue waters. Climbing to the top of a mountain whose summit stands 700 feet above sea level is probably not going to be at the top of your “must-do” list. But it definitely should be!

The second-tallest mountain in the town of Coron, Mount Tapyas is the most distinctive landmark in the area. The Hollywood-style CORON sign and gigantic white cross at its summit can be seen for miles around, looming large over the bustling port town.

There are steps – a whopping 723 of them– that take you to the top, with plenty of shaded benches and scenic viewpoints for photos along the way. Unfortunately, I’d torn a muscle in my calf the week before we left for the Philippines.

Between that and the heat/humidity, we had to take it slow and steady, stopping frequently along the way to rest and hydrate.

But the 360º view from the top is spectacular, with pastoral scenes of the surrounding hills on one side and gorgeous blue/green ocean and neighboring Coron Island on the other.

I’d recommend going a little later in the day than we did so you can watch the sunset from the summit. But even with a hurt leg, this was still among my favorite Coron attractions.

READ MORE:  10 Best Mountains in the World Bucket List

3. Explore Beautiful Coron Bay

Surrounded by dynamic karst landscape islands, with towering tree-studded rocks rising straight out of the sea, Coron Bay is arguably amongst the most beautiful places we have ever visited during our travels.

Boating in Coron Bay takes you to countless attractions, from Apo Island and beautiful beaches (including Atwayan and Banul Beach) to the snorkeling hotspot known as Siete Pecados (Seven Sins).

The coral reef here is colorful and pristine, and marine life is abundant, but you’ll want to get there early if you hope to avoid the tourist crowds .

The stunning sight that greets you as you round the corner of Coron Island– with Baquit, Busuanga, and Uson Islands all around you– is truly breathtaking.

The brilliant blue water is so gorgeous, it almost doesn’t look real. And if you go in the early morning or late afternoon, you may be delighted to realize that you have this portion of Coron Bay virtually all to yourself (see photo above for proof!).

This part of the bay is where you access the steep, occasionally slippery hiking trail to Kayangan Lake. But it’s also an exceptionally tranquil spot for a picnic, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the sights of one of the most picturesque places on the planet.

READ MORE:   How Palm Oil Threatens Palawan, Philippines

4. Feast at a “Boodle Fight”

One of our favorite Filipino cultural traditions we experienced in Coron is the boodle fight . In American military slang, “boodle” (which is thought to derive from “the whole kit and caboodle”) is the word for contraband sweets.

But in the Philippines a boodle fight is generally a meal that uses no silverware and no dishes. Instead, the bounty of food is spread out on a long table covered in banana leaves.

In the Filipino military, diners stand shoulder to shoulder on either side of the table. When the command is given, they practice what is known as kamayan , or eating with the hands.

We had two boodle fights during our visit, one at TBEX and another at Club Paradise Resort. But the latter was much more memorable, as it took place on the island’s beautiful Hidden Beach. The table was covered in rice, fish, shrimp, squid, clams, crab, mussels, meats, and a variety of vegetables.

It was extremely tasty and extraordinarily messy. You would use the fingers of your right hand to gather up rice and ulam (the Filipino word for the main dish), mushing them into a ball to make it easier to get it all into your mouth.

As we ate and talked with our blogging friends, we looked out over one of the most stunning ocean views we’ve ever been fortunate enough to witness. It was an excellent meal I don’t neither any of us will ever forget!

READ MORE: 5 Weird Foods the French Consider Delicacies

5. Get Away from It All at Club Paradise

The resort so nice we stayed there twice, Club Paradise is located about 40 minutes by boat from Busuanga on its own private island (Dimakya).

You can see Busuanga from all sides of the island, but Dimakya Island feels blissfully remote: The only boats we ever saw nearby during our 6 days there belonged to the resort.

Though the island itself is very small, Club Paradise offered such a diverse array of activities that we spent six days there and never once got bored. Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, and Hidden Beach are all gorgeous, tranquil and uncrowded.

The snorkeling from the beach is exceptional. We saw colorful coral reef, giant clams, a pair of color-changing octopi, sea turtles, reef sharks, and much more less than 50 feet from shore.

If you do get tired of staying on Club Paradise property, they also offer tours for Scuba diving and island hopping (more on that below). You can also arrange an all-day trip encompassing many of our other favorite things to do in Coron!

READ MORE:   What Is An Eco Lodge? (Top 10 Eco-Lodges in the World)

6. Get a Traditional Hilot Massage

Getting to Coron, Palawan from our home base in Atlanta was no easy task. It required three flights, nearly an hour-long drive from the Francisco B. Reyes Airport in Busuanga, then a 30-minute boat ride. By the time we reached the private island on which Club Paradise Resort is based, we’d been traveling for nearly 27 hours.

Fortunately, the resort’s Glow Spa was both affordable (around $30 for an hour) and incredibly effective at stress relief. They specialize in Hilot, a Filipino massage style that was traditionally used to heal everything from body aches and strained muscles to colds, coughs, and fevers.

Long before Western medicine reached the shores of the Philippines , the manghihilot (masseuse) worked alongside the albularyo (herbalist) to heal the people of the community.

Elders typically passed down their knowledge of ancient Filipino massage techniques to their children, teaching them how to detect congestion, an imbalance of energy, and/or skeletal misalignments.

During the Phillippines’ colonial era, Hilot fell out of favor, and became associated with impoverished people who couldn’t afford Western medicine. But over the past few decades Hilot has made a comeback, and is now a popular healing alternative at spas throughout the country.

Our Hilot sessions at Glow Spa were so remarkable, we had three during the six days we were there. It started like any other massage, with oil, checking for pressure points, and a mixture of circular and long strokes to move energy through the body.

Despite their tiny size, our manghihilots were incredibly powerful, with deft fingers and tugs that created chiropractor-like cracking sounds.

By the end, we felt relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to tackle all the Coron tours and attractions on our itinerary.

READ MORE: 40 Healing Vegetables (Nature’s Medicine)

7. Go On a Coron Island Hopping Tour

Our favorite Club Paradise excursion was a half-day Coron Island Hopping Tour that took us to three different islands in the area. Each offered compelling arguments for why the Palawan archipelago has been voted Best Island in the World so many times.

The islands they visit change slightly depending on weather, but we started out on Diatoy Island. Uninhabited and as tranquil as you can imagine, the island’s pristine white sand didn’t have a single footprint on it when we arrived.

The picturesque view was equally stunning above and under water, where we saw Clownfish, Angelfish, and Parrotfish less than 20 yards from shore.

The snorkeling was even better at Dimalanta Island, which boasted a stunning coral reef system. The crystal clear aquamarine waters were teeming with marine life, including an intensely colorful Mantis Shrimp that hid before I could snag a photo. As colorful as the myriad fish were, this was one place where the coral itself was even more impressive.

We finished our tour on Malpagalen Island, a.k.a. the Island Without Trees. The closest island to Club Paradise, this striking sandbar features fascinating rock formations and dramatic limestone cliffs.

At low tide its small sea cave makes a great selfie spot, with the beautiful blue ocean and rolling hills of Busuanga Island’s coast in the background.

READ MORE:  10 Exotic Islands For Your World Travel Bucket List

8. Hike to Kayangan Lake

We loved what is widely considered the cleanest lake in Asia so much that the fact that it rained the whole time we were there did nothing to dampen our enthusiasm. It was the last stop on our Coron Island Tour (which can be booked through Club Paradise), and also our favorite.

Coron Island is part of the ancestral domain of the indigenous Tagbanua people, who are known locally as Calis. They protect the pristine fishing grounds around the island, including the gorgeous cove pictured above, which you enter to reach the hiking trail to the lake.

The rock-strewn trail is steep and extremely slippery, but there are railings to hold onto as you ascend and descend. The heat and humidity conspire to leave you sweaty and winded, but the world-class views will truly take your breath away.

But I would definitely advise going there in the early morning or late in the afternoon. When we passed by at lunchtime, the cove was swarming with tourist boats that would’ve ruined the serene vibe we ultimately savored.

READ MORE: 20 Biggest Lakes in the World Bucket List

9. Meet the Tagbanua People

Many of our favorite things to do in Coron– including visiting Coron Bay, Kayangan Lake, and Barracuda Lake– bring you into the domain of the Tagbanua (or Tagbanwa) people.

This indigenous Filipino tribe was given a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title to around 85 square miles that encompass both land and sea, to which they now manage all tourism .

The Tagbanua people are among the oldest of all the indigenous people in the Philippines. There’s evidence to suggest they may descend from the Tabon Man, whose remains (discovered in a cave in Palawan in 1962) date back more than 16,000 years.

There are two major populations in Palawan, with the Calamian Tagbanua primarily found in Busuanga Island, Coron Island, and El Nido.

Today the Tagbanua tribe protects the land and marine ecosystems in and around Coron. They also preserve their rich cultural traditions, including three native languages, an ancient tribal religion, crafts such as bamboo basket weaving and woodcarving, and more.

Folk music and dance have historically been a huge part of Tagbanua cultural rituals. Musical instruments such as the babarak (nose flute) and kudlung (boat flute) are not as common today as they once were. But you will see babandil (percussive gongs) and tipanu (flutes) used alongside modern instruments such as acoustic guitars.

If you spent much time exploring Coron, you will almost certainly meet some of the slim, brown-skinned Tabangua people. And if you happen to have a Tagbanua guide at Barracuda or Kayangan Lake, make sure to ask them more about their rich cultural traditions!

READ MORE: 50 Fascinating Facts About Indian Culture

10. Search for Dugongs

The Dugong is a massive marine mammal (averaging 600-800 pounds) that can be found in warm coastal waters from East Africa to Australia. They’re closely related to Manatees, but with a dolphin-like fluked tail and a sharply downturned snout that’s made for feeding on sea grass.

Legend has it that it was Dugongs that sea-worn sailors often mistook for mermaids. In fact, the word Dugong is derived from the Tagalog language word for “lady of the sea.” It’s an apt description, as Dugongs tend to be smaller, slimmer, and much more shy than their Manatee cousins.

We booked an all-day Scuba diving tour to search for Dugongs off the coast of several small islands north of Club Paradise, whose seagrass beds they often visit.

But in the end we found them while snorkeling closer to the shore of a larger island (which we won’t mention to protect them from poaching and mass tourism ).

Dugongs are frightened by loud noises and surprisingly fast. The murkiness of the water from storms the previous day only enhanced the sense of mystery.

We watched in stillness as this endangered animal fed in the depths below, then swam along 20 feet beside it as ascended for breath. If you’re an animal lover, this arguably the most magical thing you can do in Coron.

READ MORE: 60 Weird Animals Around the World

11. Scuba Diving in Coron

The Philippines are world-renowned as one of the best places to Scuba dive , and the area around Coron is blessed with more than its fair share of Scuba hotspots.

The most famous of these is Apo Reef Natural Park , which was added to the tentative list as a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering some 15,792 hectares, the park centers around Apo Reef, the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world. Its diverse array of coral is stunning, as are the gorgeous tropical fish and other marine life that can be spotted there.

About 30 minutes from Club Paradise, you’ll find the Kyokuzan Maru shipwreck, which lies in the bay between Cabilaun Island and Busuanga Island.

Measuring nearly 500 feet long, the World War II ship remains mostly intact, sitting at depths ranging from 40-75 feet. Over the decades it has transformed into a beautiful artificial reef that is a favorite among wreck divers in Southeast Asia.

We were equally impressed with the reefs around Busuanga and Coron Island. These reef systems offer a great mixture of hard and soft corals, which are more vividly colorful than those in most of the other dive sites we’ve visited.

They’re teeming with life, from Clownfish and Nudibranchs to Dugongs, Giant Clams, Reef Sharks, and Sea Turtles (we saw 13 in one day).

Though we didn’t have a chance to dive there, we heard great things about Coron Island’s Barracuda Lake. Some people compare it to Superman’s Fortress of Solitude due to its otherworldly limestone pinnacles.

The water inside it is a mixture of saltwater and freshwater, so it gets considerably warmer the deeper you dive.

READ MORE: 10 Best Places to Scuba Dive (World Travel Bucket List)

12. Snorkel/Dive World War II Shipwrecks

As we mentioned above, there are plenty of Coron diving options, particularly for those who love shipwrecks. But the area also has some shipwrecks that are shallow enough for snorkelers and free divers to get in on the action.

The plethora of wrecks date back to 1944, when 24 Helldiver bombers and 96 Hellcat fighter planes (some of which were also carrying bombs) devastated a fleet of Japanese supply ships hiding out amongst the islands of Coron Bay.

Due to the remains of the ships they sank during that historic 15-minute bombing run, Coron is now considered one of the best places for wreck diving in the world. There are a half-dozen huge shipwrecks in Coron Bay today, all teeming with coral and other marine life. 

The easiest one for snorkelers to see is the Skeleton Wreck, a relatively small (25-meter long) ship. It starts at a depth of around 15 feet, so it’s become extremely popular with free divers. It’s usually teeming with Lionfish, Parrotfish, Stonefish, and Nudibranch. 

If you’re certified for serious wreck diving, there are plenty of huge World War II relics to explore. Some of the most popular include the 118-meter Akitsushima, the 122-meter Olympia Maru, the 147-meter Irako, and the 160-meter Okinawa Maru.

All of them offer decks, cabins, passageways, and engine rooms to explore, and some still have anti-aircraft guns in place!

READ MORE: 15 Japan Photos From A Dream Come True

13. Snorkel Twin Lagoon

Unlike nearby snorkeling sites such as Siete Pecados (which missed this list due to being crowded and having garbage floating on the water), Twin Lagoon isn’t a must-see for its marine life. In fact, the coral here is still recovering from years of dynamite fishing. But it still ranked among our favorite things to do in Coron due to the stellar scenery.

As our boat pulled into a lagoon, we were surrounded by on all sides by dynamic karst landscape . Our guide pointed out a cave in the water, which you could either swim through or climb a ladder over to reach a hidden lagoon on the other side.

There wasn’t a single soul there when we arrived, and the view when we made it through the hole was truly jaw-dropping. Dramatic limestone cliffs loomed large above us, and there were fish to be found near their base (where the coral is starting to recover).

For my money, this area ranks right alongside Kayangan Lake among the best views in Coron. The only downside was the huge crowd of loud tourists that arrived just as our time in the lagoon was winding down.

Unfortunately, not all tour groups are as nature-reverent as we would like, but it didn’t spoil the serene majesty of the setting.

READ MORE: How to Choose a Responsible Scuba Tour Operator

14. Soak Your Stress Away at Maquinit Hot Spring

It’s customary to visit Maquinit Hot Spring at the end of the day after climbing Mount Tapyas, which is precisely what we did.

One of the world’s few saltwater hot springs, Maquinit is a two-tiered circular pool (with a small waterfall) whose gently falling waters are said to be fed by volcanic activity.

Fair warning: The water here is EXTREMELY hot, running 102-104ºF. It felt scalding to the skin at first touch, and even after I grew accustomed to it I only went in up to my knees.

But it worked wonders on my aching leg muscles after the 723-foot climb, and Mary (who doesn’t get overheated as easily as I do) found it delightfully therapeutic.

For me, the best part was watching the sun set over the ocean, with the sounds of birds in the mangrove forest and the smell of barbecued meats wafting through the air. It proved a wonderfully relaxing way to wind down after a day of adventure.

READ MORE: The 20 Biggest Waterfalls in the World (Bucket List)

15. Watch For Wildlife

We say “watch for wildlife.” But the truth is that, during our time in Coron, the animals weren’t exactly difficult to spot.

There were hundreds of massive Fruit Bats in the trees above the spa at Club Paradise, flying to the mainland every night to feed. We saw Monitor Lizards and Herons daily in the lagoon across from our Garden View Suite.

When we went snorkeling at the resort, we saw Sea Turtles, Giant Clams, Black-tipped Reef Sharks, massive Porcupinefish, and Octopus right offshore.

One of the most unusual Coron attractions, the 14-square mile Calauit Safari Park , is a wildlife sanctuary created by Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos in 1976. Its 1,870 animals include Antelopes, Giraffes , and Zebras brought over from South Africa . They roam Calauit Island freely, along with local species such as the Calamine Deer, Palawan Bearded Pig, and Philippine Crocodile.

The Rainforest Trust is currently working to conserve Palawan’s threatened forests ,  which are home to an array of endemic animals.

The region’s vulnerable and endangered species include the Palawan Bearcat, Palawan Leopard Cat, Palawan Hornbill, and Palawan Pangolin. Palawan is home to around 60 mammal species, 279 species of birds , and some 600 species of butterflies.

READ MORE: Saving Asian Animals (Wildlife Conservation Programs)

CORON PALAWAN HOTELS

Our favorite coron hotels & resorts.

Compare Prices FOR Coron HOTELS

GUIDES WE RECOMMEND: CLICK PHOTO TO LOOK INSIDE ↓

Our Coron trip was sponsored by Club Paradise and the  Tourism Promotions Board Philippines . But we will never compromise our obligation to our readers. Our opinions remain our own. 

If you enjoyed reading our Top 10 Things to Do in Coron, Palawan, you might also like: 

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Everything You Need to Know About Coron Palawan – 2024 Guide

By: Author Adam

Posted on Last updated: 14 February, 2024

The islands, commonly known as Coron, are some of our favorite places in the whole world. We have visited more than 80 countries around the world, but when my mind drifts to our favorite places – it always ends up here. Coron is special .

This cluster of islands has become most well known for a handful of WWII shipwrecks permanently entombed off Coron’s shores. Above the surface, Coron is just as majestic.

Over the past decade, it has become home to one of the most photographed spots in all of the Philippines. The deeper you look, the more breathtaking sights you will find here in Coron, Philippines.

Our first trip was in 2014, and we just returned from another amazing trip in Coron. Here is everything you need to know before planning a trip to Coron Palawan in the remote corner of the Philippines.

Where Is Coron?

A part of the Calamian Islands, or Calamianes Archipelago, Coron is in the Palawan Provence in the far west of the Philippines.

What most travelers call Coron is Coron Town, which is located on the largest island in the archipelago, Busuanga Island. What can be confusing is there is also Coron Island, which is a stunning undeveloped island that most Coron day trips visit.

Coron Island is located on Busuanga Island, a 30-minute boat ride from the town, and it is home to many of the top sights in Coron. You can find Twin Lagoons, Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, and many stunning beaches and smaller lagoons here.

Coron Town is a fishing village with a population of just over 40,000, but it is becoming more and more popular tourist every year. Coron is often listed as one of the top tourist places in the Philippines .  The Palawan has been recently named the most beautiful island in the world many times over, and we’d have to agree.

Related Article: El Nido Palawan Guide

2024 Coron Travel Guide

How To Get To Coron

Traveling to coron by plane.

Coron Airport Code: XCN

The quickest way to get on the island is to fly. Cebu Pacific and Philippines Airlines run flights several times per day from Manila. If possible, avoid the later flights.

The Coron airport (Busuanga) doesn’t have runway lights, and flights can’t land after dusk. There are also flights from El Nido to Coron on Air Swift, click here to check prices and book online .

Coron Palawan Airport to Coron town:

When you arrive by plane, all of the local taxi drivers know the flight schedules, and they will be waiting to take passengers to the town of Coron.

Ferry from Manila to Coron

There is a ferry that runs from Manila and Puerto Princesa to Coron. The ferry from Manila to Coron is 15 hours long and runs twice a week. The journey from Puerto Princesa to Coron also takes 15 hours.

The same boat company then runs from Coron back to Manila or Puerta Princesa, which is the getaway to El Nido. There are tons of things to do in El Nido. We highly recommend adding El Nido to your Philippines travel plans.

Ferry From El Nido to Coron

There are two ferry companies that run an El Nido to Coron ferry, each once a day. For our complete El Nido to Coron, ferry guide click here , complete with schedule and ferry tips. The ferry only takes 4 hours and is one of the fastest ways to travel to Coron. The ferry sells out days in advance. Make sure book tickets online in advance .

Expedition Cruise El Nido to Coron

One of the coolest and most scenic ways to travel between El Nido and Coron is an Expedition Cruise . This is one of the newest ways it’s a super unique adventure cruise traveling between El Nido to Coron. The expedition cruises range from three to five-day options, and you’ll stop and camp at various islands that lie between Coron and El Nido.

If you want a crazy, fun Philippines adventure, then an expedition cruise is for you. You have to open to beach camping, but you’ll see the islands and beaches that very few people visit.

We recommend booking an expedition cruise with  El Nido Paradise . They have six different expedition cruises. The cruises include all your meals, water, rum & coke, snorkel equipment, tents & bedding, and amazing scenery. Prices vary based on the dates and length of the expedition cruise. Click here to book online.

Related Article: Things To Do In El Nido

Coron Palawan  Itinerary

The diving in Coron could take weeks if you have the time or desire. For most, it’s the main draw to Coron, and the most popular sites are a fleet of sunken Japanese warships in 20-35 meters of water.

The dive sites are about an hour’s boat ride from the port in Coron Town, and it’s typical to do two tanks per day and sometimes three, depending on the dives.

How Many Days Should You Spend In Coron?

Well, that depends on how you are diving and how much diving in the Palawan you’re doing. Outside of diving, we would plan a minimum of 3 days in addition to diving days to do some Coron island hopping and see the rest of the surrounding islands near Coron Palawan.

Coron Day Trips

During the day, get on a boat, get out of town, and explore the other islands nearby. There are a handful of preset island tours where you will join other travelers to see some of the top sites in the Palawan nearby. Prices are from 850P to 1500P, including lunch.

Most tours return after 4 p.m., leaving you only to find dinner in town. Picky eaters, beware. We didn’t find any options for Hannah’s selective pallet. The few good ones we found are in the tips section.

Where to Stay in Coron Palawan?

The easiest place to base yourself in Coron Town is on the Island of Busuanga. However, there isn’t much to do in the actual town. The beaches on the main island require a drive, but in the town, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, tour operators, and even a little bit of nightlife.

The action and the main draw to Coron is a boat ride away. The small islands clustered around Busuanga are some of the prettiest I have seen, and the diving is one of a kind. Here are a few properties we suggest:

• Corto del Mar (this is where we stayed) | Check Rates On Booking.com | Read Latest TripAdvisor Reviews 
• The Funny Lion the #1 hotel in Coron on TripAdvisor | Get The Best Price On Booking.com | Read Latest TripAdvisor Reviews 
• Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa right on their own private bach |  Get The Best Price On Booking.com | Read Latest TripAdvisor Reviews 

There are also options where you can have a boat take you to another island to stay, but you need to bring all of your food and be okay without moving around a lot. If we were to come back, we would consider this option.

*When looking for the best price and the biggest selection of hotels in Coron, check prices on Booking.com . We’ve found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.*

Recommended Hotel in Coron – Corto del Mar Hotel

Don’t forget your insurance! You never know when you’ll need it. We suggest getting  travel insurance with Safety Wing. Which coverage includes medical, trip interruption, lost luggage, and more. Often rates are as low as $12 a week. 

Things To Do In Coron Palawan

1. Visit Kayangan Lake

Known as one of the clearest lakes in all of Asia, this gem and the island that holds it is one of the most stunning places on the planet. Kayangan Lake and the nearby viewpoint are one of the most photographed places in all the Philippines.

The main viewpoint most people are familiar with is not actually of the lake but the bay on the other side of Coron Island. Currently, they have parts of the lake roped off for conservation, and during our 2019 visit to Coron, there were no Bamboo rafts on offer.

If you visit in the late morning, this lake will be at its busiest. If you can, try to arrange a trip that goes early in the morning or after lunch. Many of the standard tours all follow the same route, which puts many people at the sight in the late morning.

However, just before noon is one of the best times to see the famous viewpoint at the top of the hill at Kayangan Lake, with no shadows in the bay. The best approach is to visit in the early morning and visit the lake and then, on the way out, stop at the viewpoint while it is sunny.

2. Visit Malcapuya Beach, Banana Island, & Bulog Dos Island

A short boat ride from Coron Town is the stunning Malcapuya Beach. With only a few small hotels on the beach, you can have this picture-perfect stretch of sand mostly to yourself. Seriously, some of the most beautiful scenery we have encountered. Bright blue and green waters with white sands.

To get to this beach, you can take a day tour visiting this beach and a few others as part of the Beach Tour day trip bookable in Coron Town. (all part of the beach tour #1, 1200P)

Also typically included on this day trip from Coron is a visit to Banana Island . This is a small palm cover island just a few minute’s boat ride from Malcapuya and Bulog Dos Islands .

Here you’ll find stunning water and cute hammocks draped from palm trees. It’s a great spot to relax.

Related Article: Siargao Island – The Philippines’ Best Kept Secret

3. Shipwreck diving in Coron

One of the main draws for visitors is the fleet of Japanese warships at the bottom of the sea in Coron. Here, you can find 12 well-preserved World War II wrecks at diveable depths, which is pretty incredible. I dove four of the wrecks as part of my Advanced Open Water Certification with Corto Divers.

4. Visit Coron Island

Some of the best things to see and do in Coron are on Coron Island, not the island with Coron Town. The best stuff is a boat ride away. Make sure to take lots of day trips while visiting Coron Palawan.

5. Get a Dive Certification or Advanced Certification

This is a great place to get certified to dive. There are incredibly unique places to explore while diving in Coron. The shipwrecks are a great place to complete an advanced open water certificate.

There is a lot to see on the required dives as opposed to other places where there you may just go through the skills. Here in Coron, Philippines, on your deep-dive training, you can swim around the shipwrecks, which are deeper than 35 meters at some points.

For the other specialty dives, you can again use the shipwreck to fill your wreck dive training. Coron is also an awesome place for a night dive with lots to see, including bioluminescent plankton glowing in the dark.

6. Swim into the Twin Lagoon

One of the most breathtaking scenes in Coron is the stunning Twin Lagoon. Make sure to take a day trip that brings you to these pools of water that hold every shade of blue imaginable. Located on the fringes of Coron Island, the twin lagoons are a must-visit.

Related Article: Top Things to do in the Palawan

7. Maquinit Hot Springs

Relax in the Maquinit Springs after a busy trip of diving and exploring the beautiful islands of Coron. The water in the springs is warm and cozy at just over 100 degrees F.

Located outside of town, you can either arrange a local guide or hire a driver to bring you there too. This is a great place for sunset to relax after a busy day exploring Coron, Philippines.

Related: See our full guide to the Maquinit Hot Springs

8. Dive or Snorkel in Barracuda Lake

Next door to Kayangan Lake is another ultra-clear lake named Barracuda Lake . For a quieter experience than the more popular Kayangan Lake, then head over to Barracuda. In addition to the fewer crowds, this lake also has some interesting features like thermoclines and underwater mountains. This lake is just as clear if not clearer than Kayangan Lake and is less visited.

Most people say Kayangan Lake is the clearest lake in Asia. Those people obviously haven’t been to Barracuda Lake. This Lake also has many unique features that make it a top dive spot in Coron.

9. Snorkel the Lusong Gunboat

One particular shipwreck is so shallow you can actually snorkel it. The Lusong Gunboat is situated just below the surface. After over 70 years, it has become part of the environment, and corals are growing on it. It is fun swimming around it.

10. Hike Mt.Tapyas

If you are looking for some adventure that doesn’t involve a boat, then do the climb to the top of Mt. Tapyas . While probably not technically a mountain, the view from the top is worth the hike up. Here you’ll be rewarded with views of Coron town and Coron Island in the distance.

Best Restaurants in Coron Palawan

There aren’t many choices of restaurants in Coron , especially for Western food. If Filipino food isn’t your thing, you will be limited.

By far, the best Western options we found were at the Corto Del Mar hotel, with pizzas, pasta, and burgers, along with Filipino options. We didn’t have a bad meal here.

Altrove Pizza – The same owner who runs the Altrove in El Nido has opened a location in Coron as well, and it’s just as good. There is sometimes a wait outside, but the line moves pretty fast. Worth the wait, generally.

Try the Sisig – If you like Sisig, try it at Lolo Nonoy’s cooking station. It is one of the best I have had in the Philippines. The garlic rice is good, too, and beer is always 40P.

Corto del Mar Hotel –  Good thin-crust pizza and some of the cheapest happy hour beer in town at 35P from 5-8 pm. Sunday pizza and a beer for 200P is a good deal.

Coron Travel Tips:

Dive with Corto Divers – Their boats are nicely set up for diving, the staff is knowledgeable, and they actually care if you have good dive experience. Lunch is included with dives, and the food is some of the better food I have had in the Philippines.

From all the other shops I visited, I am confident I made the right choice diving here, you won’t be disappointed.

Make sure your tetanus shot is up to date if diving: The ships are awesome to explore, but they are full of tight entries and rusty metal. We saw lots of people walking around town that looked like they had a run-in with a sharp piece of ship metal, so get your shots if you are going under.

Avoid the later flights to Coron Palawan Airport : Taking the last flight to Busuanga you run the risk of it being canceled because the airport stops service at dusk because they have no runway lights.

Coron Palawan FAQs:

Is there an ATM on Coron? Yes, we saw at least three machines. Fees were 200P per transaction.

Is there 24-hour power?  Yes, over the past few years, the power grid has been much improved, and brownouts or power outages are much less frequent.

El Nido Vs. Coron

This topic seems to have come up between Coron and El Nido of which to visit. The simple answer is they both should be visited! If you don’t have time in your schedule to visit both – cut something else out because you seriously need to see both of these places.

Do not skip El Nido, and definitely, do not skip Coron Palawan.

Related Articles

• Best Way From El Nido to Coron Palawan Ferry or Plane
• Best 15 Things to do in the Palawan, Philippines
• The Secret Truth About Kayangan Lake
• Top 10 Best Restaurants in Coron, Philippines
• Barracuda Lake Coron Island | Everything you NEED to Know

Don’t Forget to pin me for later!

Hannah Lukaszewicz

Wednesday 15th of January 2020

Nolton you'll have a blast traveling solo too. If you take the group day trip tours you'll meet lots of others who love to travel.

Friday 3rd of January 2020

What an amazing and helpful I and three more friends will spend two weeks in Philippines, we have decided to visit Coron and El nido, but we haven't decided another place, we have thought about Boracay, Cebu or Siargao, what recommendations could u give us?? Thanks

Monday 6th of January 2020

Siargao is a great island, that would be our top pick of the destinations you listed!

Thursday 7th of November 2019

We are planning to return from coron to manila through ferry on sunday . Is it worth, we are planning since it is cheap!!!!

Tuesday 12th of November 2019

Coron is a great place to visit and easier to get to from Manila since the Star cruise/ferry has started to run. We like to have 4-5 days to see everything, but you can see a lot in Coron with just a long weekend too. Have a great trip!

Andrea Ammann

Sunday 3rd of November 2019

Hi, thank you for the great Informations we could find here. My Boyfriend and I'll visit the philippines in january. We start our trip in siargao. I saw there us rainyseason in this time. Do you know if its usually just short showers oder is it rainy all day long? We're not sure for how long we should stay. After we're gonna fly to cebu/bohol for spending +/- one week and the last week wed like to spend in coron. Is one week in coron to much time? Thank you so much,

Monday 4th of November 2019

I would not say January is rainy season for all of the Philippines, generally, it is a pretty good time to visit. I was in Coron and Siargao last January and I had some rain in Siargao, but great weather the whole time in Coron. I found Siargao weather more unpredictable in January - I still had mostly nice days but it did rain for a little bit most days. In Siargao when you do have good days make sure to take the day trips on those days, some trips won't run if it is windy or rains later in the day. Have a great trip to the Philippines!

Friday 25th of October 2019

Hi, thank you for your recommendations. My family are planning to go to Palawan. I was thinking we would go to Puerto Princesa to go to the that cave then go to Coron. We are not divers but it would be a nice experience to go to that lake that you recommend in Coron. Do you think that’s a good plan? I

Thursday 11th of February 2021

Both Barracuda and Kayangan Lake are definitely worth a visit even for non-divers.

Coron Palawan Kayangan Lake Island Hopping Tour with Lunch & Transfers

Description

Jump into the clear waters of Kayangan Lake and visit the stunning shores of Coron, Palawan, with this day tour. Filled with stops at some of the province's best islands, this trip is the perfect getaway for travelers who love snorkeling and marine life. It also includes entrance fees to each destination, a picnic lunch, land and sea transfers, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and service of a guide. 

Your guide will fetch you from your accommodation within Coron's town proper to start your tour. Afterward, you will make your way to the port to board your boat for the day. Take in the beautiful surroundings as you cruise to your first stop, the famous Kayangan Lake . 

The lake has gained widespread recognition thanks to its clear waters that are home to different species of fish. The whole lake is also bordered by towering karst cliffs, adding to the area's picturesque appeal. Next, you will head to Atwayan Beach . Compared to Coron's more popular shores, this beach is smaller but a great spot to unwind and take in the tropical ambiance. 

Afterward, you will head to a snorkeling area called Las Islas de Coral . This place is teeming with marine life, making it a great spot to experience some of Coron's best underwater wildlife in their natural habitats. From there, you will travel to CYC Beach , a small white sand island that also boasts clear waters. You may also enjoy your picnic lunch here by the sea as you take a break from the island-hopping tour. 

When you're recharged and ready to go, you will now make your way to the last stop: Green Lagoon . As its name suggests, the waters here are a beautiful emerald shade. Dive right in to cool off and get a peek at the fish that have made a home in the lagoon as well. 

Immerse in some of Coron's top beaches and lagoons with this island-hopping tour. Check availability by choosing a date.

Attractions

What to bring

Good to know.

Tour Information: This tour is available daily.

Meet-up Information: Guide to the Philippines will send tour reminders at least (1) day before the tour date through your registered email address or mobile number. Please keep all communication lines open. Make sure to have the electronic copy of your confirmed tour voucher ready.

On the day of the tour, your assigned Tour Guide will meet you at the lobby of your hotel at least fifteen (15) minutes prior to start of the tour. Strictly no latecomers or tour reservation might be forfeited.

Tour Proper: Please be reminded to dress appropriately. All guests are expected to do their share in ensuring their safety and security as well as that of their personal belongings. Guide to the Philippines and Tour Operators are not liable for the loss or damage to any personal belongings left unattended during the tour.

Picnic lunch will be served in-between the itinerary. For food allergies or food preferences, please let us know in advance so we can advise if the request is possible. Optional activities that may be available on-site should be paid in cash so make sure to bring extra money in Philippine Peso Currency. Guests may snorkel during the island hopping so prepare gears such as fins, tails, snorkel maks, and comfortable swimwear.

The recommended pick-up time is 8:00 am but guests who availed private tour may recommend their preferred time and our operator will advise whether the schedule would fit the itinerary.

Children Friendly: Yes!

Pet Friendly: No. Please understand that the establishment does not allow pets inside.

Senior Citizen/PWD Friendly: Yes. However, please be advised that this tour includes mostly walking tours and may not be suitable for PWDs or individuals with existing cardiovascular ailments.

Cancellation Policy: The operator may cancel the activity in case of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions. In this case, you will be given the option to reschedule or request a full refund. Schedule cancellation requests must be made 48 hours before your original subject to approval. No shows are not entitled to reschedule and refund.

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