Coron Island, Palawan, Philippines Guide
Coron Island, nestled in the northern part of Palawan, is a true jewel of the Philippines, famed for its dramatic limestone karsts that jut out from emerald and sapphire waters. While the island itself is largely uninhabited and protected, it’s the primary destination for the iconic island-hopping tours that depart from nearby Coron Town on Busuanga Island. Here, you'll discover a world beneath the waves, with pristine coral gardens teeming with marine life and captivating World War II shipwrecks that make it a diver's paradise. Above the surface, prepare to be mesmerized by the surreal beauty of hidden lagoons like Twin Lagoons, the unbelievably clear waters of Kayangan Lake (often called the cleanest lake in Asia), and secluded white-sand beaches perfect for sunbathing or a quiet picnic. However, a trip to Coron Island isn't without its considerations. During peak season (roughly November to May), popular spots like Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoons can become quite crowded with tour groups, sometimes diminishing the sense of serene natural escape. Additionally, while the main town is relatively developed for tourism, power outages can occasionally occur, and the internet connection might be less reliable than you'd find in larger urban centers. Despite these minor inconveniences, the sheer natural splendor and unique aquatic adventures Coron Island offers make it an unforgettable destination for those seeking a blend of laid-back island life and thrilling outdoor exploration.
Food & Cuisine
Coron's culinary scene revolves heavily around the incredible freshness of its seafood, pulled straight from the surrounding waters. You can expect to find a wide array of grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and squid prepared in various Filipino styles, often simply seasoned to let the natural flavors shine. Beyond seafood, local eateries in Coron Town serve up classic Filipino comfort food like adobo (meat stewed in soy sauce and vinegar), sinigang (sour soup), and hearty rice dishes. For a truly local experience, check out the public market for fresh produce and seafood, or venture into the cluster of restaurants along the main road, such as Lolo Nonoy's Food Station or the more upscale The Nest at Coron for a mix of Filipino and international flavors with a view. Don't miss trying local fruits or a refreshing buko (fresh coconut water).
Nightlife
Nightlife in Coron is generally laid-back and reflective of its island vibe, focusing more on relaxation after a day of island hopping rather than high-energy clubs. Most of the evening activity centers around the various restaurants and small bars in Coron Town. You'll find a scattering of establishments offering live acoustic music, especially on weekends, and many bars provide stunning sunset views over Coron Bay. Places like NoName Bar and The Coron District Bunkhouse often have a good buzz with fellow travelers sharing stories over drinks. It's the perfect setting for enjoying a quiet drink, perhaps a local San Miguel beer, while soaking in the tropical atmosphere, rather than dancing the night away.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Coron Island is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. During these months, you can expect plenty of sunshine, calmer seas, and lower humidity, making it ideal for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. The peak of this season, particularly from December to February, offers the most pleasant weather, but also sees the highest number of tourists. The wet season, from June to October, brings more rainfall and the possibility of typhoons, which can disrupt boat tours and cause rough seas. While traveling during the wet season might offer fewer crowds and sometimes lower prices, it also carries the risk of cancelled tours and less predictable weather.
Transportation
Public transportation on Coron Island (or rather, in Coron Town, the main base for exploring the island) is quite limited. You won't find large bus networks, trams, or subway systems here. The primary mode of getting around locally is by tricycle, which are motorbikes with sidecars. These are readily available for short trips within Coron Town and to nearby attractions. For longer distances, especially to the airport or other parts of Busuanga Island, shared or private vans are the standard. Most of your travel to the actual attractions around Coron Island will be by boat, as part of organized island-hopping tours.
Airport
The main gateway to Coron Island is Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU), more commonly known as Busuanga Airport, located on Busuanga Island, approximately 30-45 minutes by land from Coron Town. Upon arrival, the most common and convenient way to get to your accommodation in Coron Town is by shared shuttle van. These vans are readily available outside the terminal and typically cost around 250 PHP per person. It’s advisable to pre-book a transfer with your accommodation or through a tour operator, though walk-up options are usually plentiful. Private vans are also an option for those seeking more direct or flexible transport.
Attractions
Kayangan Lake
Kayangan Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters surrounded by limestone cliffs, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can also hike up to a viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.
Skeleton Wreck
The Skeleton Wreck is a popular diving site where visitors can explore a sunken Japanese ship from World War II. The wreck is now covered in coral and home to a variety of marine life, making it a must-visit for diving enthusiasts.
Coron Souvenir Shop
Coron Souvenir Shop is a popular spot to purchase locally made handicrafts, souvenirs, and gifts to bring back home. Visitors can find a variety of items such as shell jewelry, woven baskets, traditional clothing, and other unique treasures that showcase the culture of Coron.
Twin Lagoon
Twin Lagoon is a unique natural wonder where two lagoons are separated by a limestone wall. Visitors can swim through a small opening in the wall during low tide or climb over it during high tide to explore both lagoons.
Coron Bay
Coron Bay is a picturesque bay surrounded by limestone cliffs and dotted with small islands, offering stunning views and opportunities for island hopping. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the bay, visit nearby islands, and enjoy activities like snorkeling and kayaking.
Mount Tapyas
Mount Tapyas is a popular hiking spot with a staircase leading to a viewpoint overlooking Coron town and the surrounding islands. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sunset from the top of the mountain, making it a great spot for photography.
Coron Public Market
Coron Public Market is a bustling market where visitors can shop for fresh produce, seafood, local handicrafts, and souvenirs. The market offers a glimpse into the local culture and is a great place to sample traditional Filipino dishes and interact with friendly vendors.
Calauit Safari Park
Calauit Safari Park is a wildlife sanctuary home to a variety of African and endemic species, including giraffes, zebras, and Calamian deer. Visitors can go on a safari tour to see these animals up close in their natural habitat, making it a unique experience in Coron.
Malcapuya Island
Malcapuya Island is a pristine white sand beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxing day on the beach or explore the island's lush tropical surroundings.
Banol Beach
Banol Beach is a secluded white sand beach with clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can relax on the beach, snorkel in the shallow waters, or enjoy a picnic with stunning views of the surrounding limestone cliffs.
Barracuda Lake
Barracuda Lake is a popular diving spot known for its thermocline, where warm water meets cold water, creating a unique diving experience. Visitors can also enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
Lusong Gunboat
Lusong Gunboat is a sunken Japanese shipwreck from World War II that is now a popular diving site. Visitors can explore the wreck and see remnants of the ship, including its gun turrets and machinery, while encountering a variety of marine life.
CYC Beach
CYC Beach is a peaceful white sand beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing. Visitors can enjoy a quiet day on the beach, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the nearby coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Bulog Dos Island
Bulog Dos Island is a small uninhabited island with a pristine white sand beach and clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can relax on the beach, explore the island's rocky cliffs, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding seascape.
Siete Pecados Marine Park
Siete Pecados Marine Park is a protected marine sanctuary with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the underwater world and encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine species.
Day Trips
Pass Island is a small, charming island known for its pristine beach, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. It's an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful escape from the crowds. The island offers good snorkeling opportunities and a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Palawan.
Approximately 2-2.5 hours by boat from Coron Town Bulog Dos Island is a stunning island featuring a sandbar that connects it to another smaller islet during low tide. The island boasts powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling spots. It's a picturesque location perfect for photography and enjoying a relaxing day surrounded by natural beauty.
Approximately 2-2.5 hours by boat from Coron Town Banana Island is a small, idyllic island characterized by its banana-shaped coastline and powdery white sand. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip, offering excellent snorkeling opportunities, calm waters for swimming, and picturesque scenery. The island is less crowded than some of the more popular destinations, providing a more secluded and peaceful experience.
Approximately 1-1.5 hours by boat from Coron Town Malcapuya Island is a tropical paradise known for its pristine white sand beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It's a popular destination for snorkeling, swimming, and simply relaxing on the beach. The island offers a tranquil escape with stunning views and a chance to experience the natural beauty of Palawan.
Approximately 1.5-2 hours by boat from Coron Town Pass Island
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Bulog Dos Island
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Banana Island
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Malcapuya Island
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