Maquinit Hot Springs form an open-air geothermal basin, tucked between the sea and mangrove roughly 5 km north of central Coron. The water, both saltwater and warm (38 to 40°C), makes it a rare curiosity in the Philippine archipelago. Most travelers stop by in late afternoon, after a boat tour or dive, to unwind their muscles in a simple, natural atmosphere.

Why visit Maquinit Hot Springs?

The name Maquinit derives from the Filipino word mainit, which means hot. The full expression thus translates literally to "hot and hot spring" — a redundancy that immediately underscores the place's defining feature. The basin is fed by geothermal activity linked to regional volcanism, and the water maintains a constant temperature of 38 to 40°C year-round.

Three elements make this stop singular: it is one of the very few saltwater and warm springs in the Philippines, the basin is arranged soberly (stone edges, mangrove views) without massive tourist infrastructure, and the warmth of the water contrasts pleasantly with a day spent in the cool lagoons of Coron Bay.

What you'll find on site

The facilities remain rustic. The main pool, roughly one meter deep, is surrounded by a wooden deck and bordered by mangroves. A few changing cabins, cold-water showers and a small light food area complete the site. The view overlooks the sea and the limestone islets that characterize the region.

The experience hinges on atmosphere: you settle in for an hour or two, alternating between immersion and poolside pauses, exchanging a few words with fellow bathers. The sunset, particularly cherished, draws larger crowds between 5 and 6 p.m.

Practical bathing tips

• Start with short dips: 10 to 15 minutes initially. Get out, hydrate, then return to the water if you wish. Total recommended time hovers around one hour.
• Stay hydrated: the water's warmth causes subtle dehydration. Bring a water bottle.
• Medical precautions: pregnant women, young children and those under cardiovascular treatment should seek medical advice before bathing.
• Personal effects: bring a towel, swimsuit, non-slip sandals and a waterproof bag for your belongings.
• Entrance fee: a modest access fee is collected on site, in Philippine pesos.

When to visit

The site is open throughout the day and early evening, with last entry in late afternoon (around 7 p.m.). Late afternoon remains the most popular window: outdoor heat drops, the contrast with the pool water becomes more pleasant, and the light on the mangrove is softer.

Season-wise, the dry period (November to May) is most comfortable for combining Maquinit with boat excursions around Coron. In the wet season, bathing remains possible but road access can be slippery.

How to get there

The site sits roughly 5 km north of Coron Town, about thirty minutes' travel away. Several options exist:

• By tricycle from Coron Town: the most common means. Allow 25 to 30 minutes, including a final stretch on a potholed road. The fare is negotiable at the start.
• By rental scooter: practical if you plan several stops during the day. Rental shops are plentiful along the main street.
• By private van with driver, arranged through your accommodation, especially if staying outside town.
• With a boat tour: some excursion packages include a stop at Maquinit at day's end.
• On foot: roughly 1 hour 20 minutes from Coron. The road is partially unlit — favor walking on the way and returning by tricycle.

What to see nearby

Coron concentrates several points of interest to combine with Maquinit. Mount Tapyas, accessible by a stairway of roughly 700 steps, offers panoramic views over the bay at sunset. The lagoons (Twin Lagoon, Kayangan) and Japanese wreck dive sites form the region's other major highlight. To extend the geothermal theme elsewhere in the Philippines, the Ardent hot spring in Camiguin offers a different setting, in fresh water and amid forest.

Frequently asked questions

Preparing your trip

Maquinit Hot Springs fit naturally into a stay in Coron, a standout stop on any circuit through the Palawan archipelago. To build your complete itinerary, consult our trips to the Philippines.