Coron, Philippines Guide
Coron, a jewel in Palawan, Philippines, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its towering limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It's a haven for divers and snorkelers, boasting some of the world's best wreck diving sites, remnants of a Japanese fleet sunk during World War II. Beyond the underwater wonders, Coron offers breathtaking island hopping tours, hidden lagoons, and picturesque lakes, making it an unforgettable destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. The town itself is a charming mix of local culture and tourist amenities. While relatively small, Coron Town provides a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding islands and attractions. You'll find a variety of restaurants, shops, and accommodations to suit different budgets. The friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere contribute to Coron's unique appeal, making it a truly special place to visit.
Food & Cuisine
Coron's cuisine is a delightful blend of Filipino flavors with a focus on fresh seafood. Expect to find grilled fish, prawns, and squid readily available at restaurants throughout the town. Kinilaw, a Filipino ceviche made with raw fish marinated in vinegar, onions, and ginger, is a must-try. For a taste of local life, head to the Coron Public Market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Lolo Nonoy's Food Station is a popular spot for affordable and delicious Filipino dishes. Altrovè Coron is known for its Italian cuisine with a Filipino twist. For a more upscale dining experience, consider checking out La Sirenetta Restaurant & Bar, which offers stunning views of the bay.
Nightlife
Coron's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to other tourist destinations. The focus is more on enjoying the beautiful surroundings and relaxing after a day of island hopping. Several bars and restaurants along the main streets of Coron Town offer live music and happy hour specials. Some popular spots include Helldivers Bar and La Sirenetta Restaurant & Bar, both offering great views and a relaxed atmosphere. Expect a more casual and social scene rather than a high-energy clubbing experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Coron is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. During these months, you can expect sunny skies, calm seas, and lower humidity, making it ideal for island hopping, diving, and other outdoor activities. The peak season is from December to February, so expect higher prices and more crowds during this time.
Transportation
Transportation within Coron Town is primarily by tricycle, a motorized three-wheeled vehicle. These are readily available and affordable for getting around the town and nearby areas. For exploring the islands and lagoons, boat tours are the main mode of transport. These tours are typically organized by local operators and offer a convenient way to see the highlights of the region. There is no bus, tram, or subway/metro system in Coron.
Airport
The airport serving Coron is Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU), also known as Busuanga Airport. It is located approximately 30-45 minutes from Coron Town by van or shuttle. Many hotels offer airport transfers, or you can easily find vans and tricycles outside the airport terminal. The cost of transportation from the airport to Coron Town typically ranges from PHP 150-300 per person for a shared van.
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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