Top 10 Irresistible Reasons to Visit Coron, Palawan
Coron Island in Palawan is a hidden paradise waiting to be discovered. Its crystal clear waters, limestone cliffs, and the allure of shipwrecks make it a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers. My husband and I were fortunate to have been gifted a honeymoon trip there, and it was truly mesmerizing. Coron is a destination that will captivate you with its unique experiences. Here are ten irresistible reasons why Coron should be your next adventure destination. Let’s explore, and I assure you that by the end of this article, you will be eager to make this trip to Coron a reality.
REASON #1: The Allure of Coron: A Paradise for Adventurers
Coron’s natural beauty is enchanting, with dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald-green waters, and vibrant marine life. Palawan has been dubbed one of the best travel destinations. Coron provides adventure and nature enthusiasts with an opportunity to leave behind the ordinary and enter a realm of stunning scenery and memorable adventures. The optimal period to explore Coron is during the dry season from November to May when the temperatures typically range from 25°C to 32°C. The calm sea during this period makes it perfect for outdoor diving and snorkeling.
REASON #2: White-Sand Beaches and Island Hopping
Step onto the soft, powdery sands of Coron’s dreamy beaches, where tranquility meets natural splendor. Island hopping is a must-do activity, with Malcapuya Island offering endless stretches of white beach and azure waters. Banana Island, with its tropical charm and vibrant marine life, and Bulog Dos Island, with fascinating sandbars and crystalline lagoons, each promise unique experiences. These serene escapes envelop you in the warmth of the sun and sea, creating a haven that’s hard to leave.
REASON #3: Coron’s Crown Jewels: Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon
Kayangan Lake, often dubbed the cleanest lake in the Philippines, offers stunning underwater rock formations and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Twin Lagoon invites adventurers to swim through a narrow aperture to reach a hidden second lagoon. These visually captivating spots offer a serene escape from the everyday hustle. For me, this was the best part of our honeymoon trip. It was hidden behind the rocky cliffs, providing an unforgettable experience.
REASON #4: Dive into the Depths: Exploring Rich Marine Life
Coron is a diver’s paradise, renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and pristine coral reefs. Sites like Barracuda Lake offer unique underwater landscapes with varying temperatures and stunning visibility. With beginner courses for new divers and intricate coral gardens for experts, the underwater world here is a must-explore.
REASON #5: Cultural Immersion: Meeting the Locals and Their Traditions
Coron is not just a natural wonder but also a cultural treasure trove. The Indigenous Tagbanua people offer a window into traditional Filipino life. Join community tours to witness their unique customs, crafts, and stories. Engage in conventional fishing or craft-making and savor local delicacies to immerse yourself fully in the culture. Visit the Maquinit Hot Springs for a unique experience, a popular spot among locals.
REASON #6: Shipwreck Exploration: Unraveling History Underwater
Coron offers history enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore World War II shipwrecks. These sunken Japanese warships, now overgrown with corals and home to diverse marine life, provide a fascinating glimpse into the past in a serene underwater setting. Sites like the Irako and Olympia Marue, located at depths suitable for beginner and experienced divers, offer a haunting yet captivating journey through history.
REASON #7: Outdoor Activities Beyond the Water
Adventure in Coron isn’t limited to the water—Trek to Mt. Tapyas for panoramic island views and breathtaking sunsets. For snorkeling enthusiasts, Siete Pecados Marine Park offers shallow reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. Each activity showcases the island’s diverse landscapes, ensuring something for everyone.
REASON #8: Culinary Adventures: Tasting Local and Fresh Seafood
Your adventure is only complete with indulging in the local cuisine. Coron is famed for its fresh seafood. Visit local markets or dine at seaside restaurants to try delicacies like grilled squid, kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), and lobsters, paired with a refreshing mango shake for an authentic taste of the island. You can also try the local delicacy, “Tamilok,” a woodworm found in mangrove trees. This unique culinary experience in Coron is a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of the locals, who have turned a simple ingredient into a delicacy.
REASON #9: Hidden Gems: Less Crowded and Unspoiled
For those seeking tranquility away from tourist hotspots, Coron offers hidden gems that promise solitude and serenity. Secluded beaches like Banul Beach and early visits to Kayangan Lake provide peaceful experiences, allowing you to unwind and connect with nature. Explore small islands like Calauit for unique wildlife encounters without bustling crowds, ensuring a genuine connection with the environment and a sense of calm.
REASON #10: Warm and Welcoming Local Culture
A journey to Coron isn’t just about the stunning scenery; it’s also about the warm embrace of the local culture. The locals exude a genuine hospitality that makes every visitor feel like an honored guest. Engage in lively conversations with the community, participate in traditional festivals, or enjoy the island’s vibrant spirit. This cultural richness turns every nook and corner into a welcoming experience, adding joy and warmth to your adventure. Coron’s stories, told through its people, are interwoven with laughter, music, and a deep sense of pride, inviting you to be a part of their vibrant tapestry.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
Exploring Coron on a budget means something other than compromising on comfort or adventure. Here are some wallet-friendly places to stay that offer cozy accommodations and warm hospitality, ensuring you stay on your budget without spoiling your vacation:
- Coron Backpacker Guesthouse: Perfect for solo travelers and groups alike, this guesthouse offers a friendly atmosphere, clean dorms, and easy access to the town’s main attractions.
- Sea Dive Resort: Situated right by the water, Seadive offers affordable rooms with stunning views. The on-site dive shop is perfect for those keen on exploring underwater adventures.
- RB Transient House: Known for its welcoming hosts and homely feel, this transient house provides simple, clean rooms, perfect for a restful night’s sleep after a day of exploration.
- Jim’s Castle Inn: This inn is near local eateries and markets. It offers basic amenities, a relaxed vibe, and rooms that cater to budget-conscious travelers.
Each choice guarantees a comfortable stay without exceeding your budget, leaving you with more resources to enjoy Coron’s myriad adventures.
Luxury Accommodation Options
For those seeking a lavish retreat amid Coron’s tropical paradise, these luxury accommodations offer opulent surroundings, top-tier service, and unforgettable experiences:
- Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa: Nestled on a pristine island, this resort provides a blissful escape with plush villas, a private beach, and first-class amenities. Enjoy revitalizing spa services and delightful dining opportunities while savoring the stunning views of the ocean.
- Bacau Bay Resort Coron—Eco Lodge: This sustainable choice focuses on green practices and offers basic but comfortable accommodations at a great price.
- Club Paradise Palawan: This exclusive resort promises unparalleled elegance and comfort. It boasts beautifully designed rooms and a range of fine dining options. Positioned on the stunning Dimakya Island, it offers luxurious beachfront accommodations and exceptional service to make your stay truly memorable.
- El Rio y Mar Resort: A haven of serenity and sophistication, this resort is set on a calm bay with stunning mountain views. Guests can enjoy personalized service, elegant accommodations, and lavish amenities, including a jetty lounge bar and infinity pool.
- Huma Island Resort & Spa: This offers a unique blend of traditional Filipino elegance and modern luxury, making it a gem among the islands. Each overwater villa provides expansive sea views and access to world-class dining and wellness facilities.
Treat yourself to the ultimate Coron experience by immersing yourself in these luxurious accommodations’ premium comfort and service. These hotels and resorts will ensure a vacation filled with style and indulgence.
Best restaurants to try
Best restaurants to try
Embark on a culinary adventure in Coron, Palawan, where diverse flavors and unique dining experiences await. Discover the ultimate dining destinations that cater to every taste and budget. These top restaurants offer a diverse range of cuisines, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
- Pacifico Coron: Known for its extensive menu, Pacifico Coron is a cozy spot that delights with dishes like the Greek Farmer’s Salad and Chicken Adobo. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of international and local flavors in a setting that feels like a home away from home.
- Alfresco Coron: A casual bar that doesn’t break the bank, Alfresco Coron offers a variety of delicious and affordable dishes, including grilled tuna, mango salad, pasta, and rice bowls. It’s perfect for a relaxed meal with fresh, flavorful options.
- El Kuvo: To taste Filipino and international cuisine, El Kuvo offers enticing options like mango ceviche. The friendly service and welcoming ambiance make it a popular choice for diners.
- Santino’s Grill: Renowned for its barbecue offerings, this restaurant serves tender pork ribs and other grilled delights, making it a go-to spot for meat lovers.
- Om’s Thai Restaurant: Offering indoor and rooftop terrace seating, Om’s Thai Restaurant is a must-visit for those intrigued by authentic Thai flavors. Its menu, crafted by a Thai chef, brings a unique culinary experience to Coron.
- Ramen Sakura: For those craving Japanese cuisine, Ramen Sakura impresses with its flavorful ramen and stir-fried dishes, providing a cozy spot for a satisfying meal.
- Amihan Bistro: This charming French-European bistro captivates guests with its delightful pasta selections and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner.
Each Coron restaurant adds a unique flavor to the island experience, offering a warm, welcoming vibe that leaves visitors eager to return for culinary adventures.
How to Get Around Coron Island
Navigating the stunning landscapes of Coron Island is an adventure in itself, with a variety of transportation options to suit different preferences and ensure a seamless travel experience. Upon arrival, many visitors opt for the convenience of arranged transfers provided by resorts, whisk you away directly to your luxurious accommodations. For those seeking to explore the island at their own pace, renting a scooter offers freedom and excitement as you wind through scenic coastal roads and vibrant local communities. Alternatively, tricycles, the charming local mode of transport, provide a delightful way to soak in the island’s scenery while engaging with the friendly locals. Whether you prefer the ease of pre-arranged services or the thrill of independent exploration, getting around Coron Island is a delightful part of your journey, filled with picturesque views and warm encounters.
Best time to visit Coron
Coron beckons during most of the year, but to truly experience its magic, plan your visit between November and May. This period is graced with sunny skies and calm seas, perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. See yourself having the most fantastic time under the sun on the pristine beach or discovering marine life. The dry season ensures your adventures aren’t hindered by unpredictable weather, allowing you to savor every moment on this enchanting island. My husband and I married in December and went there for our honeymoon in the same month. The weather was perfect for our island hopping and picnic at one of the island stopovers. Get ready for a new adventure in Coron. Start planning your travel today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
How to get to Coron
Getting to Coron is a thrilling start to your unforgettable adventure on this beautiful island. Flying to Coron into Francisco B. Reyes Airport is the most convenient transportation, approximately 22 kilometers from the town center. Several airlines offer direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major Philippine cities, which makes getting there a breeze. Upon reaching the airport, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery on a pleasant drive through verdant surroundings as a shuttle or taxi service transports you to your lodging or the town center.
For those who wish to add a touch of nautical charm to their journey, ferry services are available from Manila and Puerto Princesa. These voyages offer a more leisurely travel pace, spectacular ocean vistas, and the opportunity to meet other travelers, beginning your Coron experience with camaraderie and excitement. No matter how you choose to arrive, Coron’s warm, inviting atmosphere will make you feel instantly welcome, setting the stage for the many wonders that await.
Practical Tips for a Memorable Coron Adventure
Here are tips that will make your trip smooth and full of fun:
- Accommodation: Pick the best from various budget hostels and luxury resorts.
- Travel: Book flights to Busuanga Airport and arrange transfers to Coron Town.
- Gear: Pack appropriate gear for snorkeling, hiking, and casual city wear.
- Health: Stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect yourself and the environment.
Begin Your Coron Adventure
Coron, Palawan, is a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be discovered. It has something to offer for the avid diver, a culture enthusiast, or someone looking to escape into nature; Coron has something extraordinary. Start planning your Coron adventure today and experience the magic of one of the Philippines’ most stunning destinations.
