With its clear waters, towering cliffs, and sandy islets, Coron in northern Palawan is full of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Only in Coron can you dip into lakes and lagoons hidden behind mountains. Only in this part of the Philippines can you find pockets of pristine white sand alongside limestone crags. Only in Coron can you enjoy a short swim, dive into shipwrecks, and savor a seafood lunch on the shore—all from the convenience of your boat.
Hopping from one amazing island to another on a chartered boat is the best way to see what the town and its environs have to offer. So, get your smartphone camera ready, put your aqua shoes on, and apply some sunscreen. Here is our list of the best island-hopping excursions in and around Coron.
The bucket list: Kayangan Lake, CYC, and Hidden Lagoon
If you’re going for the very first time, you absolutely must stop at Kayangan Lake, Coron Youth Club (CYC), and Hidden Lagoon. Kayangan Lake has been recognized as the cleanest body of water in the Philippines for years. Along with the arduous trek up and down the surrounding cliffs, the lake is Coron’s most popular attraction. CYC, on the other hand, has been a local favorite for decades. The beach is fabled for its white sand and mangrove trees and is perfect for snorkeling. Meanwhile, Hidden Lagoon should be visited when the tides lower enough that you can swim under the rocks that keep this lagoon, well, hidden from plain view. Explore Kayangan, CYC, and Hidden Lagoon at a package tour that starts at 1,100 PHP.
Distant shores: Malcapuya and Bulog Dos
Looking to channel your inner sailor and venture out farther? Consider an island-hopping excursion to Malcapuya and Bulog Dos for 1,430 PHP. Malcapuya is one-and-a-half hours away from Coron town proper, but it is well worth the visit. The waters are as clear as glass, and the white sand stretches far and wide. Southeast of Malcapuya is Bulog Dos, an islet linked by a sandbar. From Bulog Dos, you could take a peek inside the exclusive Two Seasons resort.
Open seas: Malcapuya, Coco Beach, and Ditaytayan
Malcapuya is a starting point for other islands that jut out into the open sea, such as Ditaytayan and Coco Beach on Bulalacao. Stroll around Coco Beach and have fun with the hammocks and swings as you sunbathe. At Ditaytayan, also known as Bulog, take a walk on the famous winding sandbar and snap mesmerizing photos of untainted natural scenery. Take this adventurous island-hopping tour of Malcapuya, Coco Beach, and Ditaytayan at packages starting from 4,650 PHP.
Deep dive: Pass Island, Lusong Gunboat, and Lusong Coral Garden
Diving and snorkeling are also popular things to do when in Coron. Coron’s waters do not disappoint with World War II shipwrecks, tropical fish, and vibrant corals waiting to be discovered. Located northwest of Coron Bay are Pass Island and the gunboat shipwreck and coral gardens of Lusong. Explore a different side to this island paradise with an expedition to Pass and Lusong islands that starts at 4,650 PHP.
Coron to the max: Calauit Safari and island hopping
If you have a few more days to spare and don’t mind waking up early in the morning, then make the most out of your Coron vacation with a visit to Calauit Island National Park. More popularly known as the Calauit Safari, the park is, in fact, a wildlife sanctuary created in 1976 as a game reserve. Feed and interact with giraffes, Calamian deer, and zebras as they freely roam the plains.
After an early morning of spotting exotic wildlife, spend the rest of the day visiting Busuanga town proper and walking down the quiet shores of Ocam-Ocam Beach. Finally, sail to Black Island for more shipwrecks, black rock formations, and cave swimming. This Calauit Safari and island-hopping package is available starting at 5,500 PHP.
Planning a trip to Coron, Palawan? Get your dose of vitamin sea by booking your island adventures through KKday. Don’t forget to check out the tourism guidelines of Coron before you go!
*Featured image via KKday Supplier
