Palawan is a tropical paradise in the Philippines and it has been rated as one of the best islands to go to in several publications and by various award-winning bodies. Aside from El Nido and Puerto Princesa, you’ve most likely heard of Coron.
Ilands tops the list of things to see in Coron. So, what are the must-see islands when visiting Coron Palawan? There’s a lot, actually. Let’s go!
Coron Bay
If you’re visiting Coron, the most obvious stop would be Coron Bay. The unbelievable azure waters and tall limestone cliffs will surely take your breath away. Visit the viewpoints and be amazed with the full perspective of the bay or check out the best secret swimming spots in the area.
You will also see multiple shipwrecks along Coron Bay that are now covered with natural reefs. So if you’re into history or shipwrecks, this would make a perfect spot to dive or snorkel around.
Busuanga Island
Busuanga Island is situated just west of Coron Island. It’s a heaven for divers, especially those who loves diving for shipwrecks. We’re talking about dozens of Japanese ships from WWI who got hit by an aerial attack in 1944!
The Japanese ships have found their final resting place right off the coast of Busuanga Island and are now covered with colorful reefs. So, if you want to swim inside and around those ships, pack your gear and just choose from various shops who offer wreck dives.
Lake Kayangan
Have you ever heard of the cleanest lake in the Philippines and in Asia AKA Kayangan Lake? This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Coron.
Ditch the uncomfy shoes because you’ll have to trek a few hundred steps to get from the docking point to the lake itself. To help you visualize the place, this lake is a body of water in the middle of the forest.
You’ll get a little bit of cardio workout getting there, but the forest scenery makes the hike feel like you’re just taking a leisurely stroll. Don’t worry, with the sights below the lake’s surface, the striking jagged rock formations, it’s so spectacular that it makes the trek very much worth it!
Remember when people told you to appreciate the little things or take it one step at a time? That’s exactly what you should do. Take a look at your surroundings, feel, enjoy, and breathe in all the beauty of Mother Nature.
Keep your eye open as you’ll easily see where lake suddenly drops off into a deeper swimming pool while you’re on higher ground. The lake is 70% freshwater and 30% salt water and being able to see that sight is a one of a kind experience.
When visiting Kayangan Lake, be as respectful as possible because the locals believe that good spirits inhabit the lake and so, they perform spiritual rituals in the area. This is probably the reason why it’s so clean and magical.
Black Island
Have you ever seen a Black and White Island? Well, it’s not literally black and white but the Island got its name 'Black Island' because of the black limestone rocks that covers the area. And even though the limestones are black, the beaches have beautiful fine white sand. FYI, the official name of the island is the Malajon Island.
You can explore the three small caves that are open to the public and one of them has a natural pool inside!
The first cave is where you’ll see some limestone rock formations and it’s also where you’ll also see the natural pool. For the other caves, bring your flashlights and headlamps! The second cave and third cave are connected to each other. Don’t worry, it’s not that far.
There’s also a great snorkeling spot nearby which is a coral garden with a colorful underwater scenery with a WWII shipwreck in the middle of it.
Twin Lagoons
This popular tourist destination is also called the “hidden lagoons” because the two lagoons are essentially small lakes that have been created inside limestone cliffs filled with azure ocean waters. It’s not just beautiful, it’s also oddly interesting.
You can swim through to the other lagoon when the tide is low because the surface of the water will lay below a limestone archway. The Twin Lagoons very unique experience as you pass through cold and warm spots while swimming through the archway — this is the oddly interesting part. The waters in the twin lagoons are actually a mix of saltwater and freshwater. The cold is the freshwater and the hot is the salt water.
Banana Island
Banana island is also known as Dicalabuan Island. It is part of a group of three islands south of Busuanga which is a perfect spot for lunch or overnight stay.
You can relax by the huts or lay back on the hammocks under the palm trees. If you want something a bit more active, you can also play a game of beach volleyball or just watch the sun go down with a cold drink in your hand.
Banana Island is also made for the romantics and sweethearts. You can spend time on the swing hanging from an old tree as your feet dangle into the water or look for a nice place to sit and chat.
There are lots of comfortable corners for sunset watching where you can have some quality time with your partner. Maybe this might even be the perfect place to pop the big question.
Whether you’re here to create a romantic moment or just enjoy nature, the crescent shaped lagoon of Banana Island mixed with the beautiful sunset view will surely not disappoint.
Banol Beach
Banol Beach is a small strip of sandy white beach that is perfect for tanning and lazing around. This public beach is a popular lunch stop during island tours where you can also have lunch and get off the boat for a while.
The beach has bright aquamarine waters and blinding white sand that will surely be perfect for your travel photo memorabilia. It is surrounded by limestone cliffs and jungle forests where you can explore a bit and enjoy.
Banol Beach is usually very quiet and you won’t find reggae bars in this area but it does have a lot of shelter from the sun making it perfect for some snacks and beers or maybe a little nap.
Barracuda Lake
Barracuda Lake is situated on the north shore of Coron. It is another popular tourist destination known for its eerie underwater mountains (or jagged limestone walls) and oddly interesting waters.
Just like the Twin Lagoons, this is also a spot where the freshwater and saltwater meet so you’ll feel the change of water temperature while you’re swimming in the waters. To be more specific, you can go 10 degrees colder with just one kick of your fin. Isn’t that something?
If you’re wondering whether there are actual barracudas in this lake, well there is a cave at approximately 35 meters below which can be penetrated by advanced divers. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the resident barracuda which the lake was named after.
So, that’s some of our must-visit islands in Coron. There also many hidden gems in Coron as well.
Thanks for reading.
