Situated off the coast of Palawan, Coron is a sought-after destination for its submerged wrecks, freshwater lakes with extraordinary hues and limestone cliffs that sculpt the landscape. You'll find activities for everyone here: diving, hikes to scenic viewpoints and island-hopping cruises. Quieter than its neighbour El Nido, Coron appeals to those seeking more low-key tourism and closer connection with nature. To help you plan your itinerary, let's review the must-sees you should know about.

History

In 1902, authorities officially established the town and changed its name from Penon de Coron to Coron. Between 1939 and the outbreak of World War II, many residents left agriculture to work in manganese mines. In 1942, the Japanese took control of the mines. Then in 1944, American aviation sank several Japanese ships in the bay. From 1947 onwards, commercial fishing developed, attracting workers from Luzon and the Visayas. Between 1950 and 1992, the creation of the municipalities of Busuanga, Linapacan and Culion reduced Coron's territory. For a long time, Coron remained a fishing village. Since 1967, it has held the status of a national reserve, which has helped protect its landscapes and natural wealth.

Journeying Through Coron's Lands

Coron is located in the north of Palawan, within the Calamian archipelago. The island covers 71 km² and is home to around 2,500 residents spread across two barangays, all part of Coron municipality. The administrative centre, meanwhile, sits on the neighbouring island of Busuanga, where approximately 51,800 people live according to the 2015 census.

When visiting this town, you'll discover lands considered ancestral by the Tagbanwa people. The clear waters surrounding the island reveal several Japanese wrecks dating from World War II.

What to Do?

Multi-day Sea Expedition

Dreaming of an extraordinary adventure? Set out on an expedition to discover Coron's most secret corners. This expedition connects Coron and El Nido in both directions and lets you explore the islands of northern Palawan in a different way.

Underwater Adventure

Undersea hunting invites you to experience something unique while respecting ecological balance. Let yourself be guided by local guides on dedicated outings to learn essential techniques and be informed about species permitted for fishing. They take you to explore waters rich in fish, where you can test your underwater skills.

Romantic Escapes Around Coron

Take advantage of the calm that reigns at Coron and savour moments together. Gaze at the stars from peaceful islands or share an intimate dinner beneath the night sky. Take time to admire sunsets that paint the horizon, with your partner surrounded by the island's natural landscapes.

Discover the Wonders of Coron's Islands

Dive into the clear waters of Coron Bay and set off to discover the seabed around Busuanga island. Explore Kayangan Lake, then continue your adventure across the different islands. Each offers its own terrain for exploration. You can visit wrecks, go hiking or reach viewpoints worth the journey.

Snorkelling in Coron Palawan

If you prefer a more peaceful underwater activity, snorkelling offers an excellent alternative to diving. Around Coron, several sites lend themselves perfectly to this activity, such as Siete Pecados, Coral Garden or the shallow wreck of the gunboat Lusong. These spots attract visitors for their colourful corals and the diversity of fish.

Head out for a snorkelling trip around Coron or embark on an expedition around Palawan. You'll see coral reefs, wrecks and calm waters.

Coral Garden invites you to glide over an underwater landscape rich in shapes and colours.

Siete Pecados consists of seven small islets and is home to reefs full of life where fish move among healthy corals.

The dark cliffs of Black Island contrasting with the clear waters create an exceptional setting. It's the moment to explore underwater caves and observe abundant marine life.

The wreck of the Skeleton invites you into history. This sunken ship has become a refuge for marine fauna. Swimming around it, you discover a blend of history and nature that makes the site worthwhile.

Nestled between towering limestone cliffs, Barracuda Lake stands out for its thermal waters. You'll feel the difference between layers of warm and cold water.

Kayaking

Kayaking at Coron is an opportunity to explore the marine landscape with calm and freedom. Gliding over peaceful waters, you navigate around limestone cliffs and access lagoons, often unreachable by larger boats. Each paddle stroke brings you closer to the island's hidden corners.

Freediving

If you wish to explore the seabed easily, freediving immerses you in this world. This experience brings you closer to the underwater realm in its most natural form.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving at Coron takes you on a journey between past and present. Its clear waters invite you to observe the richness of local marine life. This destination stands out for its numerous Japanese wrecks from World War II, submerged at various depths between 10 and 40 metres. These structures have become refuges for marine fauna and offer a unique setting for your explorations.

Practical Information

When to Visit?

The best time to visit Coron extends from November to May, when skies are clear and the sea remains calm. This is the ideal moment to explore the islands and discover the seabed.

From Manila

By Air

Take a direct flight to Busuanga Airport (USU). The flight takes approximately one hour. Several airlines serve this route, including Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, SunlightAir and AirSwift. Once you arrive at Busuanga, allow approximately 45 minutes by minibus to reach your destination.

By Ferry

For a more peaceful crossing, opt for the ferry from Manila to Coron. Departures occur every Tuesday and Saturday. Choose from several comfort levels, from tourist class to private cabins. The journey takes approximately 11 hours.

From Cebu

By Air

Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines operate direct flights between Cebu and Busuanga Airport (USU). The flight takes approximately one and a half hours.

From Puerto Princesa

By Air

To reach Busuanga Airport (USU) from Puerto Princesa, you generally need to take a flight with a stopover in Manila. It's not the most direct route, but the journey takes between 3 and 4 hours.

By Ferry

2Go Travel operates a maritime connection between Puerto Princesa and Coron. Every Thursday, the boat departs the port at 5 a.m. and arrives in Coron around 10 p.m.

By Road

Choose a public bus that typically takes between 7 and 8 hours to reach your destination. You can also opt for a minibus, shared or private, which reduces the journey to approximately 5 hours. Once in town, you'll need to take a ferry to reach Coron.

From El Nido

By Air

Air Swift operates the only direct air connection between El Nido and Busuanga Airport (USU). The flight takes around 40 minutes.

By Ferry

Several ferries operate between El Nido and Coron. Montenegro Lines departs at noon on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, while Atienza Lines leaves at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The journey typically takes between 4 and 5 hours.

By Tricycle

This remains the most common form of transport on the island. A ride typically costs between less than one dollar and three dollars, depending on the distance and whether you're hiring the vehicle outright. Drivers know the town well and remain available to guide you.

By Private Transport

Rent a car or motorcycle from several agencies to travel independently.

Island-hopping by Boat

To explore the islands and beaches around Coron, you can either join a group tour at an affordable rate or hire a private boat.