If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines, you absolutely cannot miss Coron. Here are the best Coron Palawan tourist spots to visit!
If you’re anything like me and my husband, Ryk, you’re always on the hunt for the next dreamy destination. Well, let me tell you, we’ve found a slice of paradise that’s got us head over heels—Coron, Palawan.
This tropical haven is a smorgasbord of azure waters, towering limestone cliffs, and lush landscapes.
So grab your sunnies and your adventure spirit; this paradise is a treasure trove of natural wonders, and today, I’m going to spill the beans on the best Coron Palawan tourist spots.
Stay with me, because this Coron travel guide is jam-packed with tips, stunning photos (courtesy of my talented hubby, Ryk 📸), and all the deets to make your Coron trip unforgettable. Let’s get started!
Not sure where to stay? We’ve rounded up the best hotels and resorts in Coron to help you choose.
Coron Palawan Tourist Spots
Kayangan Lake
First up is the mesmerizing Kayangan Lake. Trust me, this is not your average lake. The photos of the lake online look gorgeous but it looks even better in person!
To get there, you’ll need to go on a bit of a trek that takes you up and down a series of steps surrounded by greeneries.
But don’t rush—make sure to stop by the viewpoint for some jaw-dropping scenery.
The lake itself has crystal clear waters, which are a unique mix of freshwater and seawater—yep, that’s brackish water for you.
A life vest is non-negotiable here. According to our guide, several people have drowned before, so safety first, folks!
And for my fellow Instagrammers, underwater photos with the limestone rock formations are a must.
Oh, and here’s a little secret—there’s a hidden cave at one end of the lake. Just ask your tour guide to show you. Ours was super cool about it!
And another tip! If you have extra cash, book the private island hopping tour. We did a private tour, and these island hopping tours usually leave the port earlier than the joiner tours. So there were only less than 10 people when we arrived at Kayangan Lake!
Kayangan Lake is part of the Coron Tour A and Island Super Ultimate Day Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR A
⛵ BOOK THE CORON ISLAND SUPER ULTIMATE DAY TOUR
Barracuda Lake
Next on the list is Barracuda Lake, named after—you guessed it—a large barracuda fish skeleton that was once seen in its depths. If you’re into diving, this is your spot.
Ryk and I were trying to look for any barracuda fish but there weren’t any.
It’s also one of the best freediving spots in the area. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the limestone cliffs as your backdrop. Just like Kayangan, the water here is brackish, so it’s a unique experience.
You can feel the warm and cool water while swimming. It was a lot of fun swimming around!
Barracuda Lake is part of the Coron Tour B and Island Super Ultimate Day Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR B
⛵ BOOK THE CORON ISLAND SUPER ULTIMATE DAY TOUR
Twin Lagoon
The Twin Lagoon is a tale of two worlds. It’s a kayaker’s dream. My husband Ryk and I had an absolute blast kayaking for hours. Plus, the water’s so clear, you can see fish!
One of the lagoons is a bit of a mystery—you can access it in two ways, depending on the tide. Either climb a ladder over the rock during high tide or move your kayak through an opening underneath during low tide.
We visited on a low tide so we only had to push our kayak under the rock to get to the other lagoon.
The lagoon is surrounded by powdery white sand, towering limestone walls, and a stunning coral garden.
part of the Coron Tour B and Island Super Ultimate Day Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR B
⛵ BOOK THE CORON ISLAND SUPER ULTIMATE DAY TOUR
Abandoned Sea Plane
This one’s for mystery lovers. There’s an abandoned Grumman HU-16 Albatross seaplane that sits in Coron. Nobody really knows how it got there. One theory is that it crash-landed and was too expensive to repair.
According to the locals, there’s a plan to turn it into a floating restaurant. That would be super cool!
Curious? Head to the opposite shore of the Marina del Sol Resort and Yacht Club.
Rent a motorbike for the one-hour journey from Coron town, and then rent a kayak or SUP from the resort. After about 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll find the plane. For a more detailed guide, check out this blog post.
Mount Tapyas
Rise and shine, early birds! Mount Tapyas is your go-to spot for catching both the sunrise and sunset. The panoramic view of Coron Town and the bay is just breathtaking.
But here’s the catch—you’ve got to climb 700+ concrete steps to get to the top. Ryk and I were trying to walk up fast so we wouldn’t miss the sunset! We missed the entrance and got lost a little bit. Good thing a few locals showed us the right way.
The trek up isn’t that bad. There are plenty of shaded benches for pit stops, so feel free to take your time and enjoy the view.
When you’re in town, spotting Mount Tapyas is a breeze. Look for the big white cross and the letters spelling “CORON” at the top. Oh, and don’t forget to bring water.
Mt Tapyas is part of the Coron Town Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON TOWN TOUR
Maquinit Hot Springs
After a day of adventure, Maquinit Hot Springs is the perfect place to unwind. Coron town tours usually include this in their itinerary after a trek up Mt Tapyas.
It’s also a fantastic spot to catch the sunset, just 25 minutes from the town center. The hot spring has a man-made, two-tiered circular pool of cemented rocks that can reach a scorching 40 degrees Celsius—perfect for those aching muscles.
According to locals, the heat comes from a volcano. The hot spring is surrounded by a pretty cool mangrove forest. It also features several cottages you can rent for a great picnic trip.
You can hire a tricycle, take a boat, or rent a motorbike to get there. The roads can be pretty rough in some parts and muddy when it rains so that’s something to consider if you’re planning on driving a motorbike.
The hot springs are open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Maquinit Hot Springs is part of the Coron Town Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON TOWN TOUR
Coron Town
If you’re the type who loves to explore on two wheels, Coron Town is your playground.
Rent a motorbike and roam around to your heart’s content. And while at it, why not go on a food trip? The local cuisine is to die for. There’s seafood, sausages, pizza, barbeque, and more!
Oh, and don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs for the folks back home!
Or you can join a Coron Town Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON TOWN TOUR
Calauit Safari Park
Bet you didn’t expect to find a safari park in Coron, did you? Me too! So, when I found out about the sanctuary, I booked a tour immediately. 11/10 would do it again.
Calauit Safari Park is a wildlife sanctuary that spans a whopping 3,700 hectares. It occupies the whole of Calauit island. It was established in 1976 as an experiment between Kenya and the Philippines.
Inside, you’ll find zebras, Calamian deer, and even giraffes freely roaming around. There’s also a mini zoo with various animals. And if you’re up for it, you can camp on the island, too! Just imagine waking up to a view of these majestic animals.
Calauit Safari Park is part of the Calauit Safari Tour (this includes Black island). Entrance fee and lunch is also included in the tour price.
🏝 BOOK CALAUIT SAFARI AND BEACH TOUR
Black Island
Malajon Island, or Black Island, as locals and tourists call it, is found in the northwest of Busuanga Island. This was a side trip after our Calauit Safari Park tour, and boy, was it worth it!
Dark, colossal karst cliffs and an unspoiled white beach dominate the island. The unique view with the powdery white sand makes it one of our top 3 beaches in Coron!
Black Island is a fantastic place for snorkeling, diving, and just being a beach bum. Just a few meters away from the beach, you can go freediving around a shipwreack.
And guess what? There are also caves to explore and swim around in. We had fun checking these out while our guide told us about the tribe in charge of the island.
There are a few cottages if you want to bring food for a picnic. And if you want to stay overnight, camping is also an option.
Black Island is part of the Calauit Safari and Beach Tour.
🏝 BOOK CALAUIT SAFARI AND BEACH TOUR
Siete Pecados
Siete Pecados, or “Seven Sins,” comprises seven small rocky islets. It’s a famous snorkeling spot, and for a good reason.
The coral garden is incredibly well taken care of. One of the best we saw in Palawan.
We saw a variety of fishes, colorful corals, and even a turtle! Just a heads-up, the water current can be strong, so guides often provide a rope to snorkelers for safety.
Siete Pecados is part of the Coron Tour A and Island Super Ultimate Day Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR A
⛵ BOOK THE CORON ISLAND SUPER ULTIMATE DAY TOUR
Banul Beach
Banul Beach was our lunch stop; let me tell you, it was divine. There are several cottages where you can relax and enjoy your meal.
The beach features the same powdery white sand and limestone walls that Coron is famous for, plus a coral garden perfect for snorkeling.
Banul Beach is part of the Coron Tour B.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR B
CYC Beach
Then, we have CYC Beach, short for Coron Youth Club. This is a public-access beach, and you’ll often find locals hanging out here.
It’s a great place for kayaking, picnicking, or launching your boat. There are also mangrove trees that add to the scenery.
This was our final stop on the island-hopping tour, and it was the perfect ending. If you’re into camping, this is a great spot to pitch a tent.
CYC Beach is part of the Coron Tour A and Island Super Ultimate Day Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR A
⛵ BOOK THE CORON ISLAND SUPER ULTIMATE DAY TOUR
Pamalican Island
Pamalican Island is a haven for beach bums like yours truly. Seriously, if you’re looking just to lay back and soak up some rays, this is your spot.
The waters are crystal clear, perfect for a leisurely swim or snorkel. And did I mention the white beach? It’s like walking on a cloud!
Lusong Coral Garden
For my snorkeling aficionados, Lusong Coral Garden is a must-visit. This underwater paradise is teeming with marine life.
But wait, there’s more! It’s also home to a World War II Japanese shipwreck gunboat.
Skeleton Wreck
Speaking of wrecks, our island hopping tour included a tour of the skeleton wreck. Nearby, there’s a teeming marine life that’s great for snorkeling.
And the best part? The shipwreck in the area is very shallow. So, even if you’re not a pro diver, you can still enjoy this historical gem.
Skeleton Wreck is part of the Coron Tour B and Island Reef and Wrecks Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR B
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND REEF & WRECKS TOUR
Malcapuya Island
Malcapuya Island is another gem that made it to our top 3 Coron beaches, during our Beach Escapade island-hopping tour. We stopped here for a few hours to eat lunch and just laze around. It was the highlight of our trip!
The island offers fine, powdery white sand dotted with palm trees. It’s unspoiled, secluded, and just downright gorgeous.
The boat ride from Coron Town can get a bit rough but don’t worry. Once you get used to it, it becomes super fun going up and down the waves.
Once the boat reaches the island, it’ll dock on the other side. From here, it’s just a 2-minute walk to Malcapuya Beach.
The waters are shallow and perfect for swimming. Just a heads-up: some parts are rocky, so aqua shoes are a good idea. And of course, diving and snorkeling are on the menu.
Malcapuya Island is part of the Coron Tour C and Island Escapade Day Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR C
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND ESCAPADE DAY TOUR
Bulog Dos
Bulog Dos is all about that lengthy white sandbar and snorkeling spots just a few meters from the beach. According to our guides, turtles often visit the coral reefs around the island.
We didn’t see any turtles, but we did spot some colorful fish that were just as exciting.
Bulog Dos is part of the Island Escapade Day Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND ESCAPADE DAY TOUR
Banana Island
Last but not least, we have Banana Island, also known as Dicalabuan Island. This island is a smorgasbord of natural beauty, offering white sands, crystal-clear waters, mangrove trees, and rock formations. The shallow waters are great for kids or anyone who wants to wade around without any fuss.
Pass Island
Pass Island is all about the cream-white soft sands. But it’s not just a pretty face; it also features volleyball and basketball courts. So, if you’re up for some beach sports, this is your spot. And let’s not forget about snorkeling—the underwater world here is just as exciting.
Pass Island is part of the Coron Island Reef and Wrecks Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND REEF & WRECKS TOUR
Culion Island
Let’s start this segment with a bit of history. Culion Island was once known as the world’s largest leper colony. But don’t let that deter you—the World Health Organization declared it a leprosy-free area in 2006.
It’s not a tourist hotspot mainly because of the underdeveloped route, but that’s part of its charm.
What can you see here? Well, the Culion Museum is a must-visit. Built in 1997, it originally served as a leprosy laboratory.
Then there’s La Immaculada Concepcion Church, a former Spanish fort turned church. And don’t miss Fort Culion, built by the Augustinians—it has cannons and offers a fantastic viewpoint.
Ditaytayan Island
Then there’s Ditaytayan Island. This is a unique spot where a narrow strip of white sand emerges during low tide. It’s like Mother Nature’s own red carpet! The island is surrounded by coral reefs that make for some excellent snorkeling.
Ditaytayan Island is part of the Coron Tour C and Island Escapade Day Tour.
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND HOPPING TOUR C
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND ESCAPADE DAY TOUR
Shipwrecks
For history buffs and diving enthusiasts, Coron Bay is home to 12 shipwrecks. During World War II in 1944, the U.S. Navy attacked the Japanese Navy which resulted in these dozen wrecks.
Some of the popular ones include Irako, Akitsushima, Olympia Maru, Okikawa Maru, and Morazan. It’s like an underwater museum!
🏝 BOOK CORON ISLAND REEF & WRECKS TOUR
Cabo Beach
Let’s kick things off with Cabo Beach, a secluded haven that’s perfect for those who want to laze around. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming and beach walking.
Trust me, the serenity here is like a balm for the soul. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, this is your sanctuary.
North Cay
If you’re into snorkeling and scuba diving, North Cay is your go-to spot. The underwater world here is just as mesmerizing as the island itself. It’s one of those places where you can lose track of time exploring the depths of the sea.
South Cay
If you’re into camping, this is your spot. Imagine setting up your tent with waves gently lapping at the shore—sounds dreamy, right?
But wait, there’s more! You can kayak from North Cay to South Cay if you’re up for a little adventure. It’s a fantastic way to explore the area and get a mini-workout in. Trust me, kayaking through these crystal-clear waters is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Malbato Chapel
Malbato Chapel is mainly made of stones and offers a fantastic view of the surrounding area. But be prepared for a bit of a workout—it’s a long climb to reach the chapel. Trust me, though, the view from the top is worth every step.
Bali Beach
Next up is Bali Beach, and no, you’re not in Indonesia! This beach is another sunbather’s paradise.
The huts available for rent make it an excellent spot for picnics. And the view? You get a stunning panorama of the island’s limestone cliffs and a glimpse of Siete Pecados. It’s like a postcard come to life!
Royal Island Watersports
For the adrenaline junkies out there, Royal Island Watersports has got you covered. You can sunbathe in style in their cabanas and enjoy the white sand shores. But the real highlight here is the water sports.
We’re talking parasailing, jetskiing, banana boats, fly fish, bandwagon, and even hurricane rides. Oh, and they have clear-bottomed kayaks.
Must Try Coron Tours
- Coron Island Hopping Tour A – includes Kayangan Lake, Atwayan Beach, Siete Pecados, CYC Beach
- Coron Island Hopping Tour B – includes Barracuda Lake, Banul Beach, Skeleton Wreck, Twin Lagoon
- Coron Island Hopping Tour C – includes Malcapuya Island, Coco Beach, Ditaytayan Island
- Island Super Ultimate Day Tour – includes Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, Twin Lagoon, Twin Peak, Coral Garden, Balinsasayaw Reef Garden, CYC Beach, Beach 91
- Island Escapade Tour – includes Malcapuya Island, Ditaytayan Island, Bulog Dos Island, Black Island Cave, and Black Island Beach
- Reef and Wrecks Tour – includes Pass Island, Lusong Gunboat, East Tangat Wreck, Lusong Reef, and Coral Gardens
- Calauit Safari and Beach Tour – includes Calauit Wildlife Sanctuary, Buluang Fishpond Restaurant
- Coron Town Tour – includes Mt Tapyas, Maquinit Hot Spring, Town Plaza, Lualhati Park, St. Augustine Church, Souvenir Shops, Cashew Factory
How to Get to Coron
Alright, now that we’ve covered all the must-see spots in Coron, let’s talk logistics. How do you actually get to this slice of paradise? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
From Manila
Via Ferry
If you’re coming from Manila and you’re not in a rush, taking a ferry is a scenic and leisurely option. The journey can take around 11 to 16 hours, but you’ll get to enjoy some beautiful sea views along the way. Just make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Via Plane
For those who want to get to Coron ASAP, flying is the quickest way. The flight from Manila to Busuanga Airport, the closest airport to Coron, takes about an hour. From there, it’s a 30-minute van ride to Coron town. Several airlines offer daily flights, so you’ve got options.
From El Nido
Via Boat Expedition
If you’re coming from El Nido and you’re up for an adventure, consider a boat expedition with Big Dream Boatman Expeditions. These trips can take anywhere from 3 to 5 days and offer an intimate experience of the islands between El Nido and Coron. It’s like a mini-vacation before your actual vacation!
Via Ferry
The ferry from El Nido to Coron takes around 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose. It’s a comfortable and straightforward way to travel, and you’ll get to see some stunning landscapes as you approach Coron.
Here’s our detailed guide on how to get from El Nido to Coron via ferry.
Via Plane
Yes, you can also fly from El Nido to Coron! The flight takes about an hour, just like from Manila. However, flights on this route are less frequent, so make sure to check the schedule and book your tickets in advance.
Coron Airport to Coron Town
If you rode the plane to Coron, you’ll find yourself in Coron airport which is 30 minutes away from Coron town. So how do you get to town?
Once you’re outside the airport, you’ll find several van transfers waiting for passengers. Each van is designated to a few hotels/resorts. Basically, hotels have partnered with the vans.
So just mention your booked accommodation to any of the drivers outside and they’ll point you to the right van. They also have a list of guests flying in Coron provided by the accommodation. You should see your name on that list.
Coron Travel Tips
Alright, before we jump into the jaw-dropping spots you’ll want to hit up in Coron, let’s talk some travel nitty-gritty. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way, especially in a place as diverse as Coron. So, here are some tried-and-true travel tips from yours truly and Ryk. 🌟
Best Time to Visit
If you’re looking for that perfect sun-kissed selfie, aim for January to May. It’s the dry season, and the weather is just divine. But hey, we’ve visited during the rainy season too, and it’s got its own moody charm.
What to Pack
Coron is all about the great outdoors, so think light and breathable clothing. Don’t forget your swimwear, sunscreen, and a good pair of hiking shoes. Oh, and a waterproof camera is a must for those underwater shots!
Money Matters
While some places accept cards, cash is king here. There are ATMs in Coron town, but it’s better to have enough cash on hand. Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck in paradise without any moolah!
Health and Safety
Coron is generally safe, but it’s always good to be cautious. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. And please, for the love of all things travel, get travel insurance!
Getting Around
Tricycles, motorbikes, and boats—oh my! There are plenty of ways to get around Coron. We personally love renting a motorbike; it gives us the freedom to explore at our own pace.
Recommended Coron Hotels/Resorts
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your vacation, am I right? So, based on our experiences and some solid recommendations, here’s a list of places you might want to consider:
- Two Seasons Coron Island Resort
- Club Paradise Resort
- Tag Resort
- Zuri Resort
- Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel
- El Rio Y Mar Resort
- Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort
- The Funny Lion
- Zenvea Hotel Coron
- Blue Waters Inn Coron Palawan – Budget Option
- Skylodge Resort – Budget Option
- Acacia Garden Inn – Budget Option
Here’s our list of where to stay in Coron.
