Coron, Palawan: A Quick Guide

Discover the beauty of Coron before traveling with our quick guide. This article provides tips and ideas to help you make the most of your visit and create unforgettable memories.

About Coron, Palawan

Located in the lush and captivating northern part of Palawan, Philippines, lies the charming town of Coron. It has a rich history dating back to the 11th century when the Tagbanua tribe first called it home.
This vibrant community boasts of some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the world, from dramatic limestone cliffs to crystal-clear waters. Exploring Coron’s diverse marine ecosystem is a popular activity among adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its unique atmosphere is further enriched by the blend of cultures and traditions that make up the town and its people.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this page aims to be your go-to guide to discovering everything Coron has to offer. From navigating the town to finding the best spots to experience, we hope this resource will be helpful in making your trip to Coron unforgettable.

The Tagbanua People: Culture and Traditions

The Tagbanua people are the indigenous inhabitants of Coron Palawan, known for their rich culture and traditions. They have a deep connection with the land and sea, and their way of life is deeply rooted in nature. The Tagbanua people have a unique belief system that emphasizes the importance of preserving the environment and living in harmony with nature.
With an estimated population 150,000, they are considered as the largest ethnic group in Palawan. They are a highly religious people believing in many gods and spirits. They believe in magic and practice traditional healing methods.
One of the best ways to understand and experience the Tagbanua culture is by participating in their festivals. The Tagbanua people celebrate various festivals throughout the year, showcasing their traditional dances, music, and crafts. The most famous festivals are the Pagdiwata Festival and the Tarek Festival where you can witness traditional performances and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
The introduction of the Western cultures and the fast growing tourism in Coron, Palawan placed the Tagbanua People in front of different challenges.

The Rich Legacy of the Tagbanua

Coron Palawan has a fascinating past that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by the Tagbanua people, who lived in harmony with nature and relied on fishing and farming for their livelihood. In the 16th century, the Spanish arrived in Coron and established a settlement, leaving behind a rich colonial heritage that can still be seen today.
During World War II, Coron Palawan played a significant role as a Japanese military base. The remnants of this dark period can be explored through underwater wrecks, making Coron a popular destination for wreck diving enthusiasts.
A Tagbanua Couple Singing. Photo by Al Linsangan.
Tagbanua Children

Coron, Palawan's Geography

Coron Palawan is located in the Calamianes Islands, a group of islands in the western part of the Philippines. It is known for its stunning landscapes, characterized by towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. The area is surrounded by numerous islands and islets, each offering its own unique beauty and charm.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Coron is the 700-step hill known as Mount Tapyas. Climbing to the top of Mount Tapyas provides a panoramic view of the entire town and the surrounding islands and mountains, making it a must-visit spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Coron, Palawan's Weather

Coron Palawan enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. The dry season, from November to May, is the best time to visit, as the weather is generally sunny and ideal for outdoor activities. The wet season, from June to October, brings occasional rainfall, but it is still possible to enjoy Coron’s attractions during this time. Also note that these are also the months when the Philippines gets the most number and strongest typhoons.
It is important to note that the weather in Coron can be unpredictable, so it is always a good idea to check the forecast before planning your trip. Packing lightweight and breathable clothing, along with sunscreen and insect repellent, is essential for staying comfortable throughout your stay.

Accurate Weather Forecast by PAGASA

To learn about the current weather in Coron, Palawan or any part of the Philippines, visit the PAGASA website. PAGASA is the Philippines’ weather forecasting agency.

Delicious Food, Delicacies and Restaurants

Coron Palawan is not only known for its stunning natural beauty but also for its delicious food and delicacies. The local cuisine is a mix of Filipino, Spanish, and Chinese influences, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
One of the must-try dishes in Coron is the “kinilaw,” a traditional Filipino ceviche made with fresh fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, lime juice, and spices. Another popular dish is the seaweed salad locally know as “Enseladang Lato”. For dessert, don’t miss out on the “halo-halo,” a refreshing treat made with crushed ice, sweet beans, fruits, and topped with evaporated milk and leche flan.
We also recommend other Filipino famous food like sinigang, adobo, kare-kare, and lechon. There plenty of Filipino dishes that you can also try in Coron but we’re afraid, we don’t have that much space.
Kare-kare
Pork Adobo
Sinigang

Tour Packages, Itinerary and Budget

Coron Tour Packages

Planning your trip to Coron Palawan can be overwhelming, with so many attractions and activities to choose from. To make things easier, many tour operators offer pre-designed Coron Palawan tour packages that include accommodations, transportation, and guided tours. These packages cater to different interests and budgets, ensuring that you can find one that suits your needs. This is the most preferred way that tourists in Coron avail simply because of convenience.

Coron tour packages range from day tours, two-day tours, and even multi-day tours. Families prefer multi-day tours arranged for them by a single tour operator especially if they are staying in Coron for a few days. It’s more convenient for them. While others prefer one-day tours and arrange another with a different tour operator. This gives them the freedom to choose the tours that they prefer or in cases where they did not like the service of the first tour operator. 

Choosing the right tour packages in Coron boils down to your preference and your needs. You will not run out of choices here. 

Coron Itinerary

If you prefer to plan your own itinerary, there are plenty of resources available online to help you create a memorable trip. Start by identifying the top attractions you want to visit, such as Kayangan LakeTwin Lagoon, and Mount Tapyas. Then, allocate enough time for each activity and consider transportation options, such as hiring an exclusive speed boat or private outrigger boat or joining group tours.

When planning your visit to Coron, Culion, and Busuanga, it is important to consider the amount of time you can allot to your itinerary. It goes without saying that the more days you can spend exploring these beautiful places, the better. With more time on your hands, you will have the opportunity to see more sights and enjoy more activities, creating a more memorable experience overall.

However, circumstances may not always be in your favor, and time may be a limiting factor in planning your trip. In such cases, we highly recommend at least spending 3 days and 2 nights for a comprehensive tour of Coron. This is where our Exclusive 3D2N Coron Tour Package comes into play, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for those with a more limited time frame. With this tour, you will be able to enjoy a host of activities and explore the beautiful sceneries of Coron, Busuanga, and Culion, Palawan.

Other tour operators offer as many as four and five days of tour. This allows them to see more places, do more activities in both sea and land. Because Coron is not all about the beautiful beaches and limestone rock formations. There are other interesting activities that you can do inland like farm tours, cycling, and hiking. 

Budget - How Much Do I Need?

The cost of food, accommodations, tour packages and activities can vary, depending on your preferences. It is recommended to set aside a budget for entrance fees, transportation, meals, and souvenirs (if you want) to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

If you are worried about over-budgeting, more especially if you are travelling with a huge group or a family, availing pre-planned tour packages can help you better visualize a good understanding of your  overall expenses in Coron.

Private tours cost higher over joiner tours but they have their benefits. Speed boat tours are understandably more expensive than the traditional boats.
Getting around is not expensive. This is most of the time provided by your tour operator of choice. However, to really enjoy the town, walking is more recommended by us if you are in Coron town, of course.
Entrance fees vary from one destination to another but they should be covered by the tour operator if you booked a pre-planned tour.

Exclusive Speedboat Island-Hopping and Snorkeling Tour Packages

Exclusive Coron Island-Hopping Tour

Starts at P3,875.00 per person

Exclusive Coron Island-Hopping Tour

Starts at P4,560.00 per person

Exclusive Coron Island-Hopping Tour

Starts at P27,800.00 per person

Accommodations: Luxury to Budget-Friendly Options

Coron Palawan offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort, a cozy guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, Coron has it all.
For those seeking luxury and relaxation, resorts such as Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa and Club Paradise Palawan offer luxurious amenities, stunning views, and impeccable service. These resorts provide the perfect escape for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate in a tropical paradise.
If you’re traveling on a budget, Coron Town proper has numerous guesthouses and hostels that offer affordable accommodation without compromising comfort. Some popular budget-friendly options include Coron Backpacker Guesthouse, Garden Resort, and Sea Horse Guesthouse.

Coron's Top Destinations

Coron Palawan is home to some of the most breathtaking destinations in the Philippines. From turquoise lagoons to white sandy beaches, there is no shortage of natural wonders to explore.
One of the top destinations in Coron is Kayangan Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs. To reach the lake, you’ll need to climb a series of steps, but the effort is well worth it once you witness the beauty that awaits you.
Kayangan Lake
Another must-visit spot is Twin Lagoon, where you can swim through a small opening that leads to a hidden lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs. The contrasting colors of the water, with shades of turquoise and emerald, create a magical and surreal experience.
Barracuda Lake

Don’t forget to visit Barracuda Lake, famous for its unique thermocline phenomenon. As you dive deeper into the lake, you’ll feel a sudden change in temperature due to the stratification of freshwater and saltwater. This creates an otherworldly experience that is not to be missed.

Siete Pecados Marine Park is an incredible destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. It boasts a diverse and colorful array of marine life and stunning coral formations to explore.

Other destinations include CYC Beach, Hidden Lagoon, Maquinit Hot Spring, and Calachuchi Beach, among others. However, if you have limited time to spend in Coron, the top destinations we mentioned above are must-sees (at least in our opinion).

Recommended Fun Activities in Coron

In addition to exploring the stunning destinations in Coron, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

1. Cruising on Speedboat

Instead of the usual Coron Island-Hopping Tour using the traditional Filipino banca, why not try to mix your itinerary with a speedboat tour? It is a  sure and fun way to discover Coron differently. You may want to read our blog post comparing speedboat and traditional bancas. If you are visiting Coron to experience Filipino culture, go for a traditional boat. If you prefer a more premium experience, speedboat-based tours are the best. Among its advantages are efficiency, speed, flexibility, safety, and convenience.

2. Hiking

If you prefer to stay on land, hiking to the top of Mount Tapyas is a popular activity. The panoramic view from the summit is truly breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset. Remember to bring water and wear comfortable shoes as the climb can be steep. You can also do cycling around the town and the mountain sides.

3. Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Kayaking and paddle boarding are also highly recommended in Coron. Go explore the long rivers covered with thick mangroves. Interact with the locals while they catch river fishes, crabs and shrimps.

4. Parasailing, Jet Skiing, and Banana Boating

Parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boating tugged by a speed boat are getting popular activities in Coron today.

5. Island-Hopping and Swimming

For a more relaxed experience, island hopping and swimming are the must-do activities in Coron. Explore the nearby islands and discover secluded beaches, snorkel in pristine waters, and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty that surrounds you.

6. Diving and Snorkeling

For adventure seekers, Coron offers world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. The area is home to numerous coral reefs, underwater caves, and shipwrecks, making it a haven for marine life. Dive into the depths of the ocean and witness the vibrant colors and diverse marine species that call Coron their home. For non-divers, you will still enjoy Coron’s underwater marvels via a snorkeling tour. If you love diving, we recommend one of Sangat Island Dive Resorts’ diving tours.

7. Farm Tours

Farm tourism is a growing activity in Coron, Palawan. We highly recommend that you try one this tours in Coron Natural Farms. Because experiencing Coron is not just about island-hopping and snorkeling. There are activities other than these and one of those is a farm tour where you can experience farm life, fresh farm-to-table food, and organic produce.

How to Reach Coron, Palawan: Air and Sea Options

Coron is accessible by air and sea. The most convenient way to reach Coron is by flying into Francisco B. Reyes Airport, also known as Busuanga Airport. Several airlines offer regular flights to Busuanga Airport from Manila and other major cities in the Philippines. From the airport, you can take a van or a tricycle to reach the town of Coron.

The three major airline carriers are SkyJet AirlinesCebu Pacific, and Philippine Airlines.

If you prefer a more scenic route, you can also reach Coron by ferry. There are regular ferry services from Manila, Puerto Princesa, and El Nido to Coron.

2GO Travel is your best and most convenient option if you are coming from Manila. This is the same shipping company that goes back and forth to Puerto Princesa. If you don’t mind the long sea travel, we highly recommend this option. On the upper deck of the ship, you can mingle with the locals and sing karaoke all the way to Coron. With good weather, you can catch one of the best sunsets in the world in Manila Bay. The problem with 2Go Travel is they have limited departures.

If you are coming from El Nido, your options are Atienza Shipping Lines and Montenegro Lines.

The ferry journey takes longer than flying but offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding islands. Depending on the weather and sea condition, Manila to Coron takes about 10-11 hours.

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