Coron is one of my favorite destinations in the Philippines. This island has some of the best views I've seen in Palawan. There are plenty of stunning beaches and lagoons waiting to be explored when you visit.
Read my travel guide budget and itinerary for Coron.
Guide
Coron is part of Palawan and for me it is one of its most beautiful districts. The island is home to clear and emerald-tinged lagoons, a vibrant underwater ecosystem, and beaches that have powdery, white sand. I've been to the island twice and don't mind returning.
Tours
The most convenient way to explore Coron's attractions is to go on a tour. You can book in town after arriving or book online.
One of the things you must do while in Coron is to go island hopping. Tour A takes you to one of the most famous and iconic destinations in town, Kayangan Lake. Swim in its clear, blue waters and take photos of the giant rock. The trip also includes other stops such as CYC Beach, Coral Garden, Atwayan Beach and Hidden Lagoon. It also include lunch and boat transfers.
After seeing Kayangan Lake, you'd want to see more of Coron. This tour will take you to two other famous and beautiful spots, Barracuda Lake and Twin Lagoon. Both have turquoise-tinged, clear waters where you can take a dip in. Go swimming, snorkeling and just admire the fetching views. The tour includes other stops such as the Skeleton Wreck and Banol Beach. It also include lunch and boat transfers.
Book here:Coron Tour B
Coron Tour C
After seeing some of the clearest lakes and lagoons, why not go on another tour to see the stunning beaches of Coron? This tour takes you to Malcapuya Island and Banana Island. The fine, white sand of the beaches and the clear waters will make you want to stay longer. Go beach bumming and swimming during your stops. The tour includes lunch and boat transfers.
Book here:Coron Tour C
Coron Ultimate Tour
If you don't have much time in Coron, you can choose this tour to see the highlights such as Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon and Barracuda Lake. The waters of these are crystal clear and clean. The views are spectacular as you approach the attractions. You'll also get to see Coron's beautiful underwater ecosystem in Siete Pecados and the Malawawey Reef. Other stops include Banol Beach, Skeleton Wreck and CYC Beach.
Book here:Coron Ultimate Tour
Calauit Safari Tour
Who would've thought that there would be a safari in the Philippines! Calauit is a haven for a few savanna animals such as giraffes and zebras. The long trip is only worth it if you've been to other places in Coron. Feed the giraffes, take photos of the wildlife and just enjoy the views. After the safari, you'll make a stop at Black Island, Pamalican Island or North Cay. The tour includes boat transfers and lunch.
Book here:Calauit Safari Tour
Other Places of Interest
- Mt. Tapyas - You can go on a leisurely hike up to the cross for overlooking views of the town. Sunset is a good time to go. There is no entrance fee. You can hire a tricycle to take you for around P30-P50 one way.
- Maquinit Hot Springs - You can go to the hot springs for a leisurely half day out. Dip into the warm waters to soothe your body and relax your mind. P150 entrance fee. The tricycle ride for a round way trip is P300-P400.
There are tricycles to take you around Coron town, but most of the places in town are within walking distance. You can rent a motorcycle for around P200-P600 a day. It is also possible to rent a boat to go island hopping, rates are somewhere up to P4000 depending on the size of the boat and destinations you want to visit. You'll need to add money to buy food and P500 for the guide fee. You'll also pay the entrance fees for the places you'll visit.
Where to Stay in Coron
Coron has a number of accommodations regardless of your budget. There are hostel dorms, guesthouses, hotels and resorts.
How to Go to Coron from Manila
There are many regular flights from Manila to Coron. Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific operate this route regularly. Coron is a popular destination which means tickets are booked quickly, especially during promo fares. There are also some flights from Clark Airport in Pampanga.
Alternatively, you can travel by ferry from Manila to Coron via https://travel.2go.com.ph/.
How to Go to Town from Airport
There are many vans traveling regularly from the airport to town. You don't have to look for them, they'll find you as soon as you leave the arrival hall. The fare is P150 and may take up to 40 minutes.
How to Go to El Nido from Coron
If you have a longer trip, you can get to El Nido from Coron.
Montenegro Shipping Lines
Boat departs at 12nn and costs P1760 one way. The trip takes around 4 hours.
Phimal Fast Ferry
Boat leaves at 1:20pm and costs P1760 one way. The trip takes about 4 hours.
Best Time to Visit Coron and Palawan
The Philippines only has a dry and wet season. The ideal months to visit Coron is from March to early June. This is the time when the sun is out and the skies are blue.
If you plan to visit Puerto Princesa as well, read my post here:budget and itinerary for Puerto Princesa
Budget for Coron
This is a budget for one person for 4 days and 3 nights. The total will cost more or less depending on your spending habits, choice of accommodation, tours, where you eat and what else you do in Coron.
1500 - Dorm bed accommodation for 3 nights
1590 - Coron Ultimate Tour (depends on where you book)
1573 - Coron Tour C (beaches, also depends on where you book)
300 - Airport transfers round trip
1000 - Food and drinks
5963 - Total for 4 days and 3 nights
Itinerary for Coron
This is a sample itinerary for 4 days.
Check out accommodation
Depart for airport
