The Philippines is a fantastic tourist destination with a magnitude of amazingly beautiful landscapes worth exploring.  One of the most amazing of these is the island of Coron, in the province of Palawan, with its lakes, lagoons, islands and breath-taking turquoise blue seas.  The Coron Palawan tourist spots listed in this post provide the ideal locations to get the best out of your visit to the Philippines.

There can be a lot to do in Coron and it’s easy to miss the best bits if you’re not prepared.  For many, it will make sense to book a Coron Palawan package deal as this will ensure you cover the best of the best.  The local tour guides know the landscapes, seas, lagoons and will be able to take you directly to the hottest and most beautiful spots.  So whether you’re into snorkelling, diving or simply chilling on the beach be sure to get some of that important local knowledge.

In this blog post we will cover:

-       Where is Coron?

-       Coron tourist spots you must visit

• Kayangan Lake
• The Twin Lagoon
• Barracuda Lake
• Banul Beach
• Skeleton Wreck
• Malcapuya Island
• Twin Peaks Coral Garden
• Waling-Waling Island
• Green lagoon
• Mount Tapyas

-       Going further afield

-       Accommodation and other key information

Coron, Palawan, Philippines

Where is Coron?

Part of a group of islands in the northwest region of the Philippines, Coron and the Coron Island is part of the larger Calamian Islands in northern Palawan. 

The best way to get to Coron is by ferry, especially if you’re not keen on flying. Ferries frequently travel from these three locations.  Puerto Princesa, El Nido or Manila.  Each is a considerable trip but by far the cheapest way to travel.  The shortest, El Nido will take about 4 hours but most may need to travel from Manila as this is the capital city in the Philippines.  This scenic boat trip will take about 24 hours but will pass some of the most amazing sights along the way.

The alternative way to reach Coron is by flying to the Busuanga airport from either Manila, Cebu or Pampanga. 

Coron tourist spots you must visit

Here’s a list of some of the most beautiful and scenic locations in Coron.  Breath-taking places that simply cannot be missed from your bucket list.

Kayangan Lake

Kayangan Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.  The lake was created by a dam that was built in 1924 by the Spaniards as part of their irrigation system for their coffee farms. The lake has been declared one of the cleanest bodies of water because it only collects rainwater and no other runoff from factories or agricultural activities. It also has an abundance of freshwater fish species such as tilapia, carp, catfish, and others that are not common to other lakes in Mindanao.

The Twin Lagoon

The Twin Lagoon Coron is one of the most beautiful sites in Palawan. It is a great place to visit if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. The lagoon is surrounded by limestone cliffs, and the water is crystal clear. The lagoon is a two-lobed body of water, with a small island that divides it into two parts. The lagoon has been shaped by at least two volcanic eruptions that were separated by about 10,000 years ago.

Barracuda Lake

Located on the north side of Coron Island this lake is well known for its crystal-clear water, and rough limestone organic cliffs as well as being a well-known diving location.  The lake contains both fresh water and salt water which makes for an unusual temperature, with the surface being somewhat cooler than the temperature further down.

Banul Beach

Banul Beach on the northwest side of the island is famous for being one of the most beautiful in the Palawan region with its white sand, clear water and natural rock formations.  It is rather small but offers a lot of activities like swimming, snorkelling, diving and kayaking. The sea is calm and the beach can be enjoyed for both sunbathing or paddling. It can only be reached by boat, a mere 15-minute ride from the town of Coron.

Skeleton Wreck

This popular snorkelling or diving spot in Coron Bay is perfect for the underwater explorer.  The Japanese supply ship from the second world war is now a sunken 25m long wreck and is an ideal dive for beginners or for those who simply like to snorkel in and around busy sealife-filled shipwrecks. 

Malcapuya Island

Malcapuya Island is a small island in the Philippines that is known for its white sands and clear blue waters. Located on the northern coast of Luzon, it has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The island has been home to indigenous people since time immemorial, and they have been living off of fishing and farming. The locals are very friendly people who welcome visitors with open arms. They are also very welcoming towards outsiders so you will never feel out of place when visiting this beautiful paradise.

Twin Peaks Coral Garden

Very close to Barracuda Lake, this idyllic snorkelling location offers some of the best corals and fish schools Palawan has to offer. An easy dive location for all levels of experience with a great variety of reef fish and other wildlife including turtles.  The current in the water can pick up at times so it’s always best to stick within groups and enjoy a guided tour.

Waling-Waling Island

Waling-Waling Island is a small island located in the middle of the Philippine Sea, approximately 30 kilometres off the coast of Palawan. It is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Palawan and has been declared a National Park because it is home to over 100 different species of corals.

The island has a lot to offer when it comes to natural wonders. There are many limestone caves, secluded beaches, and beautiful rock formations that will take your breath away. It also has a diverse ecosystem that includes plants and animals that are endemic only to this place.

Green Lagoon

Located close to Twin lagoon this beautiful place is famous for its green waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkelling.  The limestone cliffs are host to a number of wooden walkways and huts along the side of the lagoon.  It’s described by many as the highlight of their day, so one not to miss.

Mount Tapyas

One of the best viewpoints in Coron with a 689-foot peak access via 721 steps to the pavilion at the top.  Once at the peak you’ll have views stretching over the harbour, bay and over to Coron Island.  Further views of rolling hills, villages, the sea and Coron Town below will take your breath away.  This spot is best experienced for a sunset.  Many set off from the town below, an hour before the sun dips over the horizon, to ensure they don’t miss this spectacular sight. 

Going further afield

If you have more time available there are plenty more places to explore in the vicinity of Coron.  The neighbouring island of Culion is host to many more exotic and beautiful places, whether it’s a day tour of the island or more beaches and lagoons you’ll be entertained for days.

There are 23 districts in Palawan but if you’re staying in the Coron area the main island is Busuanga which is divided into two coasts, west and north.  This Island alone has an endless number of activities to enjoy including mountain hikes, forest walks, a safari park, relaxing hot springs, water sports and some of the best sunset spots the planet has to offer.

Accommodation and other key information

There's a great variety of accommodation types available for all budgets in and around Coron.  These include the amazing houseboats of Paolyn, a selection of beach resorts, hotels, hostels, inns, camping, glamping and vacation rentals.  So whether you’re travelling on a budget or treating yourself to a luxury holiday there’s something for you.

The local language is predominantly Filipino but most of the locals can also speak English.  The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP)

Round up

There's no shortage of beautiful places and amazing activities to do whilst in Coron Palawan.  We’ve listed some of the most popular and stunning that should not be missed if you are in the area.  Tour guides are plentiful and will give you the best experience of the lakes, lagoons, corals and mountains.  Planning your trip carefully will ensure you get to see and enjoy the best this province has to offer.