Coron
City

Coron

Hidden lagoons and pristine waters in Philippine paradise

Coron isn't just another tropical destination. This slice of northern Palawan hides some of the Philippines' most jaw-dropping lagoons behind towering limestone cliffs. You'll find crystal-clear waters that shift from emerald to sapphire, depending on the light. The island made headlines when Jacques Cousteau declared its waters among the world's best diving spots. But here's what most people don't know: the real magic happens in the hidden lagoons accessible only by kayak through narrow rock passages. Coron town itself stays refreshingly low-key, with family-run restaurants serving the freshest seafood and locals who still wave at passing boats.

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Malcapuya Island steals the show with its powdery white sand and turquoise shallows perfect for swimming. The beach stretches for nearly a kilometer, but you'll rarely see crowds since it requires a 45-minute boat ride from Coron town. Banana Island offers a more intimate setting with its crescent-shaped shore and coconut palms. The sand here has a slight golden tint, and the snorkeling right off the beach reveals healthy coral gardens. Twin Lagoon Beach provides the most dramatic backdrop - limestone cliffs tower above while you lounge on the small sandy area. But honestly, the beach itself isn't the main attraction here. It's the hidden lagoon behind those rocks that you access by swimming through an underwater passage. Banol Beach on Coron Island proper gives you easy access without boat transfers, though the sand is darker and the setting more rugged than the outer islands.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1.Book accommodation 2-3 months ahead for December-April peak season to avoid 50% price premiums
  • 2.Join group island hopping tours (1,500-2,000 pesos) instead of private boats (6,000-8,000 pesos) to split costs
  • 3.Eat at local carinderias (food stalls) where meals cost 150-250 pesos vs 400-600 pesos at tourist restaurants
  • 4.Buy snorkel gear in Coron town (800-1,200 pesos) rather than renting daily (200 pesos) for stays over 6 days
  • 5.Take shared van transfers from airport (200 pesos) instead of private taxis (1,500 pesos)
  • 6.Stock up on water and snacks at 7-Eleven before island tours - boat vendors charge triple the price

Travel Tips

  • •Bring reef-safe sunscreen - many lagoons ban chemical sunscreens to protect marine life
  • •Pack a dry bag for electronics during boat transfers - waves can splash unexpectedly
  • •Download offline maps before heading out - cell signal drops between islands
  • •Wear water shoes for rocky lagoon entries and sharp coral areas
  • •Book diving courses in advance during peak season - popular operators fill up quickly
  • •Carry small bills (20, 50, 100 peso notes) for tricycle rides and local vendors
  • •Start island tours early (7-8 AM) to beat crowds at popular spots like Kayangan Lake
  • •Respect photography restrictions at sacred sites - some lagoons prohibit drone use

Frequently Asked Questions

No certification required for snorkeling at most sites like Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon. For the famous WWII wrecks, you'll need Open Water certification or can take a Discover Scuba course (half-day, 3,500 pesos) that lets you dive with an instructor to 12 meters depth.

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