Coron, Philippines Guide
Coron, nestled in the northern reaches of Palawan, truly is a landscape lifted from a postcard – think dramatic limestone karsts rising from impossibly clear turquoise waters. It’s a place that beckons both the intrepid explorer and the weary soul seeking solace in nature. Most days here are spent island hopping, uncovering hidden lagoons, and swimming in the surreal, often mirror-like, freshwater lakes like the iconic Kayangan Lake. For those keen to delve deeper, the area is also a world-renowned hotspot for wreck diving, with several WWII Japanese ships resting on the seabed, offering a unique historical and ecological experience even for snorkelers. And after a day of aquatic adventures, a hike up Mount Tapyas rewards you with a truly unforgettable panoramic sunset. While Coron's natural splendor is undeniable and justly famous, its popularity means that during high season, some of the most sought-after spots can feel less like a secluded paradise and more like a busy tourist hub. It's a trade-off for experiencing such beauty. Furthermore, while the town is charmingly laid-back, keep in mind that infrastructure is still developing; this can translate to occasional power outages or spotty internet connectivity, which are good to factor into your expectations. Embrace these small quirks, and Coron will undoubtedly deliver an unforgettable Philippine adventure.
Food & Cuisine
Coron's cuisine is a delightful blend of Filipino flavors with a focus on fresh seafood. Expect to find grilled fish, prawns, squid, and lobster prepared in various ways, often with garlic, ginger, and local spices. Kinilaw, a Filipino ceviche made with raw fish marinated in vinegar, onions, and ginger, is a must-try. Many restaurants offer traditional Filipino dishes like adobo (meat braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns) and sinigang (a sour and savory soup). For a local experience, head to the Coron Public Market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and street food. Lolo Nonoy's Food Station is a popular spot for affordable and delicious Filipino meals. Altrovè Coron is known for its Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizzas, offering a change of pace.
Nightlife
Coron's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines. The focus is more on enjoying the natural beauty and relaxing after a day of island hopping. Most bars and restaurants are located in Coron Town. You'll find several establishments offering live music, karaoke, and happy hour deals. Some popular spots include Helldivers Bar and Kawayanan Grill Station. Don't expect wild parties or nightclubs; the atmosphere is more geared towards casual drinks and socializing.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Coron Island is during the dry season, which runs from **November to May**. During these months, you can expect sunny skies, calm seas, and excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling. The months of March and April are considered peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The wet season, from June to October, brings occasional typhoons and heavy rainfall, which can disrupt boat tours and other activities.
Transportation
Transportation on Coron Island is primarily by boat. Bangkas (traditional Filipino outrigger boats) are the main mode of transport for island hopping tours, which are the most popular way to explore the lagoons, beaches, and dive sites. There are no buses, trams, or subways on the island. Within Coron Town (on Busuanga Island, the main island near Coron Island), tricycles are the primary mode of transportation. These are readily available and affordable for getting around town.
Airport
The airport serving Coron is **Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU)**, also known as Busuanga Airport. It is located on Busuanga Island, approximately **30-45 minutes by van from Coron Town**. Upon arrival, you can find numerous vans offering transfers to hotels in Coron Town. The van fare is typically a fixed price per person. Alternatively, you can arrange for a private transfer with your hotel in advance.
Attractions
Twin Lagoon
Experience the unique Twin Lagoon, separated by a limestone wall. Swim through a small opening (or over the ladder at low tide) to discover the second lagoon, where the water temperature dramatically changes due to the mixing of fresh and saltwater. Snorkeling here reveals vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes.
Lusong Gunboat and Lusong Coral Garden
The Lusong Gunboat and Coral Garden offer a unique snorkeling and diving experience in Coron. The Lusong Gunboat is a Japanese warship wreck, now covered in vibrant corals and teeming with marine life. Nearby, the Lusong Coral Garden boasts a stunning array of colorful corals and fish. It's a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts.
Skeleton Wreck
The Skeleton Wreck is a popular dive site in Coron Bay, offering a glimpse into the area's World War II history. The shallow depth makes it accessible to snorkelers and beginner divers. Explore the remains of this Japanese supply ship and observe the marine life that has made it their home.
Maquinit Hot Spring
Unwind and relax in the naturally heated saltwater of Maquinit Hot Spring, one of the few saltwater hot springs in the world. Located near the sea, it's a great place to soak after a day of island hopping or diving. The best time to visit is in the evening, under the stars.
Barracuda Lake
Barracuda Lake is famous for its thermoclines and dramatic temperature shifts, making it a unique diving and snorkeling spot. The lake's clear waters offer excellent visibility, allowing you to observe the unusual rock formations and, if you're lucky, spot a barracuda or two. It's a truly unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers.
Mount Tapyas
Climb the 700+ steps to the summit of Mount Tapyas for panoramic views of Coron Town and the surrounding islands, especially stunning at sunset. The large white cross at the top is illuminated at night, making it a prominent landmark. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for this rewarding hike.
Kayangan Lake
Often dubbed the cleanest lake in the Philippines, Kayangan Lake is a must-see. A short, steep climb leads to stunning panoramic views before descending to the crystal-clear, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Explore underwater rock formations and hidden caves in this iconic Coron destination. Don't forget your underwater camera!
Smith Beach
Smith Beach is a small, secluded beach that is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of Coron. The beach has white sand and clear water, and it is surrounded by lush vegetation. It is a great place to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Malcapuya Island
Escape to the pristine shores of Malcapuya Island, known for its powdery white sand beach and turquoise waters. Relax under the shade of palm trees, swim in the crystal-clear sea, or snorkel along the vibrant coral reefs. This idyllic island offers a perfect escape from the crowds and a chance to unwind in paradise.
Banol Beach
Banol Beach is a small, picturesque beach known for its fine white sand and clear waters. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a relaxing day by the sea. The beach is surrounded by stunning limestone cliffs, adding to its natural beauty. A perfect place to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
Kayangan Lake
Often dubbed the cleanest lake in the Philippines, Kayangan Lake is a must-see. A short, steep climb leads to stunning panoramic views before descending to the crystal-clear, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Explore underwater rock formations and hidden caves in this iconic Coron destination. Don't forget your underwater camera!
San Agustin Parish Church
The San Agustin Parish Church is a Roman Catholic church in Coron. It is a beautiful church with a simple design. It is a popular place for locals and tourists to worship. The church is a reminder of the Spanish colonial past of the Philippines.
CYC Beach
CYC Beach is a small, public beach known for its clear waters and mangrove trees. It's a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. The beach is easily accessible and offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of Coron Town. Great for a quick dip!
Banana Island
Banana Island is a tropical paradise with a long stretch of white sand beach, swaying palm trees, and inviting turquoise waters. It's a great place to relax, swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach and savor the tranquility of this beautiful island.
Coron Public Market
Immerse yourself in local life at the Coron Public Market. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as you browse fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. It's a great place to sample Filipino cuisine, purchase souvenirs, and interact with friendly locals. A true taste of Coron!
Lusong Gunboat and Coral Garden
Dive or snorkel at the Lusong Gunboat, another Japanese shipwreck from World War II. Nearby, the Lusong Coral Garden boasts vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life. This site offers a combination of history and natural beauty, making it a memorable experience for underwater enthusiasts.
Siete Pecados
Siete Pecados, meaning 'Seven Sins,' is a cluster of small islets teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. It's an ideal spot for snorkeling, even for beginners. The shallow, clear waters make it easy to observe colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures. A true underwater paradise!
Skeleton Wreck Dive Site
Descend into the depths and explore the eerie beauty of the Skeleton Wreck, a shallow Japanese fishing trawler teeming with marine life. Perfect for beginner wreck divers, this site offers incredible visibility and a chance to witness coral formations encrusting the skeletal remains of the ship. Expect to see schools of fish, nudibranchs, and other fascinating creatures. A truly unique and unforgettable diving experience in Coron's underwater graveyard!
Coron Island
Coron Island is a diver's paradise, boasting some of the best wreck diving in the world. Explore sunken Japanese warships from World War II, now vibrant artificial reefs. Beyond diving, discover the stunning Kayangan Lake, often touted as the cleanest lake in Asia, and Twin Lagoon, where you can swim between fresh and saltwater. Hike up Mount Tapyas for panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters.
Day Trips
Malcapuya Island boasts pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It's a perfect place to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. The island is relatively undeveloped, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds. Snorkeling is also excellent here, with healthy coral reefs just offshore.
1.5 - 2 hours by boat from Coron Town Proper Banana Island is another idyllic island with powdery white sand and clear waters. It's known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The island has a few basic accommodations and restaurants, making it a great place to spend the day.
1.5 - 2 hours by boat from Coron Town Proper Pass Island is a small, charming island known for its calm waters and beautiful beach. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The island has a few basic facilities, including picnic tables and restrooms.
2 - 2.5 hours by boat from Coron Town Proper Often dubbed the "Cleanest Lake in Asia," Kayangan Lake is a must-see. The iconic viewpoint overlooking the lake is a photographer's dream. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, revealing stunning underwater rock formations. Be prepared for a short but steep climb to reach the lake.
20-30 minutes by boat from Coron Town Proper Siete Pecados (Seven Sins) is a popular snorkeling spot teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The shallow waters make it ideal for beginner snorkelers. Expect to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures. It's a great place to spend a few hours exploring the underwater world.
15-20 minutes by boat from Coron Town Proper Twin Lagoons are two stunning lagoons connected by a small underwater passage (or a ladder during low tide). The water is a mix of saltwater and freshwater, creating a unique swimming experience. The lagoons are surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, offering a sense of seclusion and tranquility.
30-45 minutes by boat from Coron Town Proper Barracuda Lake is known for its unique thermoclines, where layers of water with different temperatures meet. This creates a surreal diving and snorkeling experience. The lake is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, adding to its dramatic beauty. The water is incredibly clear, offering excellent visibility.
30-45 minutes by boat from Coron Town Proper Bulog Dos Island is a small, picturesque island with a sandbar connecting it to another islet during low tide. The water is incredibly clear, and the sand is soft and white. It's a popular spot for photography and relaxation.
1.5 - 2 hours by boat from Coron Town Proper Malcapuya Island
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Banana Island
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Pass Island
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Kayangan Lake
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Siete Pecados Marine Park
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Twin Lagoons
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Barracuda Lake
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Bulog Dos Island
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