Coron is a breathtaking tropical paradise in the Palawan province, world-renowned for its dramatic limestone karst formations and crystal-clear turquoise lagoons. It is best visited during the dry season from December to May, when the seas are calmest for island hopping and diving.
Top Things to Do in Coron
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Getting Around Coron
From the Airport
Shared Van. Shuttle vans operate directly from Busuanga Airport (USU) to Coron Town Proper; the ride takes about 30 to 45 minutes and costs approximately 200-300 PHP per person. Private Van. Private transfers can be pre-arranged through your hotel or local tour operators for a more direct and comfortable ride, usually costing around 1,500 PHP per vehicle.
Once You're There
Tricycle. Tricycles are the primary mode of transport within the town proper; they are inexpensive, readily available, and can take you almost anywhere in the center for a small flat fee. Walking. The town center is compact and very walkable, though be prepared for hilly terrain if you head toward the outskirts or toward Mount Tapyas. Boat. Island hopping requires renting a motorized outrigger boat (banca) via a tour agency or directly at the harbor, which is the only way to reach the lagoons and remote beaches.
Where to Stay in Coron
Hotel picks for Coron are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Coron
KT's Sinugba sa Balay★ 4.6 (1,733)comesaria st, Coron, Palawan, PhilippinesA local institution that specializes in home-style Filipino cooking, particularly their savory adobo and grilled fish.
Summer Cafe & Bar★ 4.4 (238)National Highway &, Coastal Road, Baranggay 5, Coron, Palawan, PhilippinesThis is the best place in town to grab a healthy breakfast or a post-hike smoothie bowl while overlooking the bustling main street.
Coffee Kong★ 4.3 (684)Philippines, Palawan, Coron, Coron Town Proper, National Highway cornerThe go-to destination for high-quality roasted coffee and artisanal pastries to fuel your island-hopping adventures.
Altrove Coron★ 4.2 (2,104)Rosario Street, Coron Town Proper, Coron, Palawan, PhilippinesThis local favorite is legendary for its authentic wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta served in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Trattoria Altrove★ 4.2 (2,104)Rosario Street, Coron Town Proper, Coron, Palawan, PhilippinesThis sister location maintains the high standards of the original, serving exceptional Italian fare that provides a nice break from local seafood.
Sharky's Restobar★ 4.1 (1,251)Brgy.5 Poblacion dinagpan road, Coron Town Proper, Coron, 5316 Palawan, PhilippinesA lively spot known for its vibrant nightlife, live music, and generous servings of crispy pata.
Lobster King★ 4.0 (1,228)5 Coron - Busuanga Rd, Busuanga, Palawan, PhilippinesCome here for the freshest local catch, where you can select your own live lobster or crab to be cooked to your preference.
Levine's Eatery★ 4.0 (684)2622+3F7, Coron Town Proper, Coron, Palawan, PhilippinesKnown for its rooftop terrace view, this spot offers a great vantage point to enjoy local curries while watching the sunset.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Coron
Iconic Lagoons & Hidden Beaches
Morning. Start your adventure early by booking a private or group 'Coron Ultimate Tour' to beat the crowds at Kayangan Lake. After a short trek up the stairs, you will be rewarded with the iconic view of the lagoon that graces every postcard of the Philippines. Spend your morning swimming in the crystal-clear, brackish waters, which are framed by towering limestone cliffs. From there, take a short boat ride to the nearby Twin Lagoon, where you can swim through a small crevice to reach the hidden second chamber. Be sure to wear water shoes, as the limestone rocks can be quite sharp.
Afternoon. Continue your boat expedition by heading to the famous Barracuda Lake, known for its unique thermocline layers and deep, sapphire-blue water. It is a surreal experience to swim through the changing water temperatures while surrounded by jagged underwater rock formations. Afterward, make your way to Banul Beach for a relaxing lunch prepared by your boat crew on the white sand. Spend the remainder of the afternoon snorkeling at the Skeleton Wreck, a small Japanese supply ship sitting in shallow water that is perfect for beginners. The marine life here is vibrant, so bring your own snorkel gear if you prefer a custom fit.
Evening. Return to the Coron Town Proper as the sun begins to set, feeling exhausted but exhilarated from your day at sea. Head straight to the base of Mount Tapyas and prepare for the 700-step climb to the summit. It is a challenging trek, but reaching the giant cross at the top offers a panoramic view of the islands that is absolutely unmatched. After descending, soothe your tired muscles by taking a tricycle to the Maquinit Hot Springs, the only saltwater hot spring in the Philippines. It is the perfect way to end your first day, soaking in the warm water under a canopy of mangrove trees.
Island Escapes & Sandbars
Morning. Dedicate your second day to the stunning Malcapuya Island, which requires a longer boat journey but rewards you with some of the most pristine white sand in the region. The water here is a brilliant shade of turquoise, and the beach is lined with swaying coconut palms that provide plenty of shade. Spend your morning lounging on the shore or wading into the gentle surf, which remains shallow for quite a distance. It is an ideal spot for photography, so ensure your camera or phone is fully charged before leaving the port. Bring plenty of sunblock, as the tropical sun is intense even on cloudy days.
Afternoon. After enjoying a picnic lunch on the beach, travel by boat to the nearby Banana Island. This island is known for its excellent snorkeling reefs that start just a few meters from the shoreline, making it easy to spot sea turtles and colorful reef fish. If you prefer to stay dry, the island has several hammocks strung between trees where you can nap to the sound of the ocean. Before heading back to town, make a final stop at CYC Beach, a public beach that is popular with locals and offers a great atmosphere for a quick afternoon dip. It is a smaller, more intimate spot compared to the larger islands you visited earlier.
Evening. Back in town, spend your evening exploring the local markets and souvenir shops along the main thoroughfare. Browse for local handicrafts, pearls, and cashew nuts, which are a specialty of the Palawan region. For dinner, treat yourself to a fresh seafood feast at one of the waterfront restaurants, where you can watch the boats bobbing in the harbor. The vibe in the evening is relaxed and friendly, making it easy to strike up a conversation with other travelers. End the night with a cold beer or a fresh fruit shake at a local bar while planning your final day of exploration.
Local Culture & Inland Exploration
Morning. Spend your final morning getting to know the heart of Coron Town Proper by visiting the local public market. It is a sensory experience where you can see the daily catch being brought in and buy fresh mangoes or other tropical fruits. Afterward, walk over to the San Agustin Parish Church, a serene spot that provides a glimpse into the local religious culture. It is a quiet, contemplative place that stands in contrast to the high-energy island hopping tours. Take your time wandering the surrounding streets, where you can observe the daily routines of the local residents away from the main tourist hubs.
Afternoon. In the afternoon, consider hiring a local guide for an inland tour to visit the scenic areas surrounding the town that are often overlooked. You can travel to the outskirts to see the lush rural landscapes and rice paddies that define the interior of Busuanga Island. This is a great time to visit a local pearl farm or a cashew processing center to learn about the island's key industries. If you have any remaining energy, you can head to a nearby viewpoint for one last look at the limestone karsts from a different angle. It is a slower, more relaxed pace that allows you to truly appreciate the geography of the archipelago.
Evening. For your final evening, head to a rooftop restaurant to enjoy a sunset dinner with a view of the bay. Reflect on your three days of adventure as the sky turns shades of orange and purple over the water. Treat yourself to a final, indulgent meal featuring local specialties like grilled squid or sinigang. Before you head to your accommodation to pack, take a leisurely stroll through the town one last time to soak in the island atmosphere. It is the perfect conclusion to a trip that balances high-octane adventure with the laid-back charm of a tropical town.