Things To Do
in Coron

Coron is a breathtaking island group in northern Palawan known for its crystal-clear waters and towering limestone karsts. It is famed for wreck diving, pristine lagoons, and world-class snorkeling that reveals vibrant coral gardens. The town of Coron provides a compact base with friendly locals, convenient boat tours, and easy access to nearby attractions.

From secret beaches to historic shipwrecks, Coron blends adventure with tranquil tropical scenery.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Welcome to Coron
morning
:

Arrive in Coron and check into your accommodation. Take some time to freshen up before exploring the nearby town, soaking in the local culture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the day's adventures.

afternoon
:

Visit the Coron Public Market to sample fresh fruits and local delicacies. Explore the town’s historical sites such as the Lualhati Park and find unique handicrafts to take home as souvenirs. Prepare for an exciting sunset by heading to Mount Tapyas for a climb to enjoy panoramic views.

evening
:

Settle into a cozy restaurant for a traditional Filipino dinner. Engage with locals as you share stories and learn about their way of life. End your day with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront, watching the stars light up the night sky.

day 2
Island Hopping Adventure
morning
:

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an island hopping tour. Visit the stunning Kayangan Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. Take a refreshing swim and capture stunning photos of the scenery.

afternoon
:

Continue the adventure by heading to the nearby Barracuda Lake, famous for its unique thermal layers. Enjoy snorkeling and exploring the vibrant marine life while admiring the impressive limestone cliffs surrounding the lake. Savor a packed lunch on one of the secluded beaches for a true island experience.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation and relax after a thrilling day. Head out to a beachside bar for cocktails as the sun sets, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Enjoy live music and the gentle sounds of the waves as you unwind.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
🥙Mid-range meal for two$25-40
🛏️Hotel or guesthouse per night$40-70
🚤Island-hopping day trip$25-60
Coffee at cafe$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning scenery and world-class snorkeling/diving
  • Relaxed, small-town vibe with easy access to island-hopping
  • Limited nightlife and fewer luxury options
  • Pricey for a remote Palawan destination; weather can affect boat trips during the rainy season
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
  • "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gusto ko ng isda." - I would like to eat fish.
  • "Maaari mo bang i-rekomenda ang murang pagkain?" - Can you recommend something affordable?

Places to Visit in Coron

Visit one of these nice places.

Kayangan Lake Viewpoint

Iconic turquoise water framed by sheer limestone cliffs, best photographed with soft light in the morning or late afternoon.

Twin Lagoons

Crystal-clear turquoise pools with limestone archways; light changes with tides for varied photography.

Maquinit Hot Springs at dusk

Natural saltwater pools with warm turquoise water and atmospheric sunset tones.

Mt. Tapyas Viewpoint

Panoramic overlook of Coron Town and surrounding islets after a climb of stairs.

Siete Pecados Marine Park

Vibrant coral gardens and abundant sea life ideal for underwater photography while snorkeling.

Culinary Guide

Food in Coron

Coron's cuisine centers on fresh seafood, grilled fare, and Palawan flavors with Filipino twists.

Coron Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kinilaw na isda

Raw fish ceviche style with vinegar, calamansi, and onions; best enjoyed at waterfront eateries.

Must-Try!

Tamilok (woodworm) with calamansi

A local delicacy served with lime and dipping sauces; commonly found in certain eateries and stalls.

Inihaw na pusit

Grilled squid often served with garlic and vinegar dipping sauce.

Danggit

Sun-dried fish typically paired with rice and eggs for a simple, hearty meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Coron Public Market

Morning market with fresh seafood, produce, and snacks; great for sampling grilled fish and dried goods.

Street stalls near the town proper

Grab quick snacks like banana chips, fried snacks, and fresh fruit shakes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tropical monsoon climate with warm temperatures year-round. Sea temperatures range from roughly 26-30 C, with cooler evenings on higher elevations. The dry season offers clear skies; the wet season brings brief tropical showers and occasional typhoons. Overall, expect sunny days, blue skies, and refreshing sea breezes most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for elders and personal space

Use polite greetings; avoid loud behavior in public; say 'po' when addressing older locals.

Photography consent

Ask permission before taking photos of private individuals or homes; avoid intrusive shots.

Dress modestly at religious sites

During visits to churches or villages, dress modestly and remove hats when indoors.

Gift giving and transactions

Be patient with locals; bargaining is common but keep a friendly tone.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of sea currents when snorkeling or island-hopping; wear life jackets on boats; check weather and sea conditions before trips; carry a basic first aid kit and stay hydrated.

Tipping in Coron

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is common but not mandatory; leave 5-15% in restaurants if a service charge is not included; tip boat crews and guides with a small amount per person.

Payment Methods

Cash (Philippine peso) is widely accepted; some places accept USD. Major hotels and some restaurants accept credit cards; ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (Nov–Apr)

Clear skies, calm seas, and excellent visibility for snorkeling and island-hopping; expect more crowds and higher rates.

Wet Season (May–Oct)

Rainy days and occasional storms; some tours may be canceled due to weather, but visitor numbers are lower and rates can be cheaper.

Shoulder Seasons (May & Oct–Nov)

Intermittent sun, good value, and moderate crowds; ideal for flexible itineraries.

Nightlife Guide

Coron at Night

Coron's nightlife is relaxed and low-key, with seaside bars and laid-back lounges. Most evenings center on beachside dining, live acoustic music, and small groups of friends sharing seafood and cocktails; club scenes are rare and the vibe is casual and family-friendly.

Hiking in Coron

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Tapyas Summit Trail

A popular hike with a stair climb to a panoramic view of Coron town and surrounding islets.

Calauit Island nature walks

Wildlife reserve with nature trails offering wildlife viewing and scenic viewpoints.

Airports

How to reach Coron by plane.

Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU)

Also known as Busuanga Airport; the gateway to Coron with regular flights from Manila, Cebu, and other hubs; transfer to Coron town by van or boat.

Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS)

A longer option for travel to Palawan; flight to PPS followed by land/sea transfer to Coron (typically used by some itineraries).

Getting Around

Walkability

Coron Town is compact and walkable along the waterfront and main streets. Sidewalks can be uneven; most travelers rely on tricycles or private boats for longer distances or island trips. The central area is easy to explore on foot, with most attractions reachable within a short ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tagbanua

Indigenous communities in Palawan with ancestral ties to Coron; visitors should show respect for traditional lands and customs.

Filipino locals and expatriates

A mix of local residents and foreign visitors; English is commonly understood in tourist areas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Diving and Snorkeling

World-class wreck dives and coral gardens around Coron Island.

Kayaking

Exploring lagoons and mangrove channels at a relaxed pace.

Beach and Water Sports

Swimming, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding in calm bays.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in most areas; main movement is by tricycle in town and by boat for island trips. Roads can be narrow and dusty in rural areas; during peak season, boat queues and market visits may cause minor delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Coron.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available in many eateries; ask for vegetable dishes, tofu-based meals, or local vegetables; avoid fish sauce if vegetarian.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available through local clinics and a small hospital in Coron Town; for more extensive care, many travelers seek treatment in Puerto Princesa or Manila; medical evacuation can be arranged if needed. Carry basic medications and travel insurance.

Discover Philippines

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