Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
18/08/2025
Pinkmean Creative, Pexels
Coron, Philippines, offers a blend of pristine natural beauty and adventurous exploration, making it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking active relaxation. It is well-known for its crystal-clear lakes and lagoons, dramatic limestone cliffs, and vibrant underwater world, which includes World War II shipwrecks and abundant coral reefs.
Coron Town serves as the central hub for visitors, where hotels, hostels, and guesthouses are available. While not a prominent party destination like some other Philippine islands, the town provides several relaxed options for socializing. Visitors can find bars and restaurants offering chill music, drinks, and opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Noteworthy spots include Island Boy Grill and Kawayanan Grill Station, which sometimes feature live acoustic bands, along with popular backpacker havens like No Name Bar. For a quieter evening, Altrove Coron offers a cozy atmosphere for pizza and wine, and Sharky's Restobar provides a rooftop view. Most establishments typically close around midnight.
Top 5 Things to do in Coron
Activities primarily revolve around marine exploration, including island hopping to stunning lakes, lagoons, and beaches, alongside diving and snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs and historical shipwrecks. Land-based attractions offer panoramic vistas and therapeutic experiences.
1. Island Hopping: Coron Island Ultimate Tour (Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoons, Skeleton Wreck, Siete Pecados Marine Park)
This comprehensive tour explores Coron's iconic natural and historical gems. Visitors can swim in the exceptionally clear waters of Kayangan Lake, often considered the cleanest lake in Asia, after a short uphill trek to its famous viewpoint. The experience continues at Twin Lagoons, where one can swim through a narrow opening (at low tide) to discover a hidden lagoon with layers of warm and cool water. The tour also includes the Skeleton Wreck, a shallow World War II Japanese supply ship suitable for both snorkeling and free diving, teeming with marine life. Finally, Siete Pecados Marine Park offers a vibrant snorkeling experience amidst healthy coral gardens and diverse fish species.
Cost: Group tours typically range from PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,800 per person, which usually includes boat transport, a guide, lunch, and all entrance fees. For a private boat, costs start from approximately PHP 2,700 for 2-4 people, excluding entrance fees and lunch, providing flexibility to customize the itinerary and avoid crowds by departing earlier.
Transport: All destinations on this tour are accessed by boat from Coron Town's port. Tours usually depart directly from the town.
Explore the Lusong Gunboat, a shallow World War II Japanese shipwreck located at a depth of around 10 meters, making it accessible for snorkelers and beginner divers. The wreck is adorned with corals and provides a habitat for various marine species. Adjacent to the gunboat is the Lusong Coral Garden, a vibrant reef known for its extensive and diverse coral formations, offering exceptional visibility and a chance to drift along the reef with the current. This area is generally less crowded than other popular snorkeling spots.
Cost: This is often part of a 'Reef and Wreck' tour, with group tour prices similar to other island hopping tours (e.g., PHP 1,200-1,800 per person, including lunch and fees). Private boat rentals would incur additional costs for entrance fees (if applicable, as some sources suggest it's less crowded and might not have a fixed entrance fee for the marine park itself).
Transport: Accessed by boat from Coron Town. This site is further from Coron Town than the Coron Island attractions.
3. Mount Tapyas Hike for Sunset Views
Embark on an invigorating hike up Mount Tapyas, ascending 721 concrete steps to reach its summit. From the top, a panoramic vista unfolds, revealing Coron Town, the surrounding rolling hills, and the distant islands of Coron Bay. The experience is particularly rewarding during sunset, as the sky transforms with colors over the landscape. A large white cross and the 'Coron' sign mark the summit, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Cost: There is no entrance fee to hike Mount Tapyas.
Transport: The base of the stairs is centrally located in Coron Town Proper, making it walkable from most accommodations. Alternatively, a tricycle ride from anywhere in town typically costs between PHP 30 to PHP 50.
4. Maquinit Hot Spring
Indulge in a relaxing soak at Maquinit Hot Spring, one of the few saltwater hot springs in the world. The natural thermal pools offer warm, mineral-rich water, heated by volcanic activity, providing a soothing experience, especially after a day of island hopping or a hike up Mount Tapyas. The pools are set amidst a tranquil mangrove forest, creating a serene ambiance.
Cost: The entrance fee is approximately PHP 200 to PHP 300 per person.
Transport: Located about 20-30 minutes from Coron Town. The most convenient way to reach it is by hiring a tricycle for approximately PHP 300-400 for a round trip, with the driver waiting. It can also be part of a Coron Town tour package.
5. Island Hopping: Beaches and Relaxation (Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, Bulog Dos Island)
Escape to the pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters of Malcapuya Island, often considered one of Coron's most beautiful beaches. The island offers a tranquil environment ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in its reef-protected shores. The tour typically includes Banana Island (also known as Dicalubuan Island), another idyllic spot with powdery white sands and calm waters, perfect for relaxation. Some tours also visit Bulog Dos Island, known for its picturesque sandbar connecting to another small islet during low tide, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
Cost: Often offered as 'Tour C', group tour packages usually cost around PHP 1,500 to PHP 1,800 per person, which generally covers boat transport, lunch, and the entrance fees for the islands. Individual entrance fees for Malcapuya and Banana Island are approximately PHP 200 per person.
Transport: All islands are accessible by boat from Coron Town. The boat ride to these islands is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
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