Coron, a breathtaking island in the Palawan archipelago, is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning underwater landscapes. Although Palawan itself is a popular destination, Coron stands out as an underrated gem, offering a quieter and more immersive experience compared to other destinations in the Philippines. If you’re planning a trip, here’s everything you need to know about this hidden paradise.
Getting to Coron
Coron can be reached either by boat or plane. Most travelers opt for a flight, especially from popular destinations like Bali, Indonesia. Flights usually pass through Manila, where you’ll need to connect to a domestic flight to Busuanga, the airport serving Coron. The flight takes approximately 50 minutes and is operated by local airlines such as Cebu Pacific. The logistics of flying within the Philippines can be challenging due to frequent delays and lack of clarity on boarding gates at Manila’s domestic terminal.
Alternatively, Coron is accessible by ferry from El Nido. The ferry journey, however, is quite long, taking almost 8 hours, and its schedule is often subject to weather conditions.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Coron is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to May. During these months, the weather is sunny, and it’s ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and exploring the many lagoons and lakes. It’s best to avoid visiting during the typhoon season, which usually occurs from June to November.
Accommodation in Coron
Most of the accommodations are located in Coron Town, the main hub of the island, where you’ll find hotels, restaurants, and shops. The town itself is simple and lacks the luxury infrastructure of more developed destinations, but it provides the basics for a comfortable stay. For example, Casa Coron Hotel offers affordable rates and basic amenities like air conditioning, hot showers, and a good breakfast.
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, there are a few upscale resorts located on smaller islands, such as Two Seasons, Club Paradise Resort, and Coron Westown Resort. However, expect limited services in general, with few places accepting credit cards or U.S. dollars. Most transactions are in Philippine Pesos (PHP).
Things to Do in Coron
Coron is primarily known for its world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities, with several remarkable sites to explore.
- Kayangan Lake: One of the island’s most famous attractions, Kayangan Lake requires a short hike and a climb up about 300 steps to reach a viewpoint that offers a stunning panoramic view of Coron. The lake itself is a serene freshwater spot surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.
- Siete Pecados: This snorkeling site is a must-see for marine enthusiasts. The underwater scenery is like a living aquarium, teeming with a wide variety of fish and vibrant coral reefs.
- Twin Lagoon: A pair of lagoons, one saltwater and the other freshwater, connected by a narrow passage. Visitors can swim from one lagoon to the other, making for an unforgettable experience.
- Barracuda Lake: Known for its mix of fresh and saltwater, Barracuda Lake is a deep and visually striking location, surrounded by rock formations. It’s a perfect spot for both snorkeling and diving.
- Malwawen Reef & Skeleton Wreck: Another excellent site for snorkeling, Malwawen Reef boasts a variety of marine life, while the Skeleton Wreck offers an opportunity to view a Japanese WWII wreck from just a few meters underwater.
Must-Do Tours
To fully experience Coron, there are several tours that shouldn’t be missed:
- Coron Island Tour: This comprehensive tour covers some of the most iconic sights of the island, including Kayangan Lake and Siete Pecados.
- Island Escape Tour: Explore three remote islands—Malcapuya, Banana, and Bullong Islands—known for their beauty and serenity.
- Wreck Diving Tour: Coron is home to over 12 sunken Japanese ships from World War II. Diving or snorkeling around these wrecks is an experience unlike any other.
- Reefs & Wrecks Tour: A perfect combination of snorkeling at various reefs and a visit to the underwater wrecks, followed by a relaxing stop on a pristine island.
Local Cuisine
Coron’s food scene is simple but satisfying, with a focus on seafood and rice. Most meals are hearty, and the local specialties often include pork and fresh fish. Here are a few recommended spots:
- Los Guapos: A casual Mexican restaurant where you can enjoy a drink or a quick snack after a day of exploration.
- Calle Real Bistrô: Known for its good food and pleasant ambiance, this restaurant offers a range of Filipino dishes.
- Sinugba Sa Balay: Famous for its grilled pork ribs, this small and cozy restaurant offers delicious meals at reasonable prices.
- Carls BBQ: Despite its slow service, this BBQ joint offers tasty food in a relaxed atmosphere.
Practical Tips
- Currency: The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s essential to carry cash. Currency exchange rates tend to be better in Manila than in Coron.
- Transportation: In Coron Town, most travel is done via tricycle or van, which are affordable and convenient. Expect to pay around 300 PHP for a 1-hour ride from the airport to the town.
- Diving and Snorkeling: Coron is renowned for its diving opportunities. The wrecks from WWII and vibrant coral reefs make it one of the world’s top diving destinations. It’s recommended to book diving tours a day in advance or even on the spot if there’s availability.
- Shopping: Coron has a small market with local vendors selling pearls, accessories, and souvenirs. Pearls from Palawan are particularly high-quality, so consider purchasing some as a souvenir.
Coron is an exceptional destination for those looking to explore unspoiled natural beauty, dive into history, and experience a unique side of the Philippines. While the island may not boast the luxury of more commercialized destinations, its charm lies in its raw, authentic atmosphere and the extraordinary experiences it offers. Whether you’re diving into World War II wrecks, snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons, or enjoying local dishes in a humble setting, Coron promises to leave a lasting impression.
About Epic Click Travel
Epic Click Travel is a professional travel partner for hassle-free trips specializing in fast and seamless flight bookings, hotel reservations, and visa processing, ensuring a stress-free travel experience. Whether it’s a business trip or a dream vacation, Epic Click Travel handles all the details so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Phone: +971 4 572 6638
Whatsapp: +971 52 427 5718
Email: Info@epicclicktravel.com/ epicclicktraveltourism@gmail.com
Epic Click Travel & Tourism LLC
Instagram: @epicclick_travel
Facebook: Epic Click Travel & Tourism LLC
Linkedin.com: Epic Click Travel & Tourism LLC
