Coron: The Land of Limestone and Lagoons

When people dream of the Philippines, they are often dreaming of Coron. Located at the northern tip of the Palawan province, Coron is distinct from the main island of Palawan. It is actually part of the Calamian Islands group. The imagery here is iconic: jagged black limestone karst cliffs shooting vertically out of impossibly clear, turquoise water.

In 2026, Coron remains a top-tier bucket list destination. Often compared to El Nido, Coron is generally considered to have better diving and a slightly more laid-back town vibe. It is a place of underwater wonders, where history sleeps beneath the waves in the form of a Japanese ghost fleet.

Why Visit Coron in 2026?

Coron is the undisputed wreck diving capital of Southeast Asia. But you don’t need to be a diver to appreciate it. The island hopping here is spectacular. In 2026, new direct flight connections have made it easier to reach, yet the indigenous Tagbanua people (who own and protect many of the key tourist sites like Kayangan Lake) ensure that tourism remains regulated and respectful of the ancestral lands.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (December - May): The best visibility for diving and the calmest seas for island hopping.
Shoulder (November & June): Good chances of weather, fewer crowds.
Rainy Season (July - October): Typhoons can occur. Boat tours may be cancelled due to rough seas. However, the wrecks are diveable year-round if the boat can get there.

How to Get There

Fly: Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU) on Busuanga Island is the gateway. There are daily flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark. From the airport, it’s a 40-minute van ride to Coron Town Proper.
Ferry: There are ferries connecting Coron to El Nido (approx. 4-5 hours by fast craft) and Manila (overnight).

Iconic Experiences & Sights

1. The Japanese Shipwrecks

In September 1944, US Navy aircraft sank a fleet of Japanese supply ships hiding in Coron Bay. Today, around 10 of these massive wrecks are diveable.

Okikawa Maru: A massive oil tanker, penetrable by advanced divers.
Lusong Gunboat: Shallow enough to be seen while snorkeling.
Skeleton Wreck: The ribs of the ship are visible just a few meters below the surface.

2. Kayangan Lake

Dubbed the “cleanest lake in Asia.” A short but steep hike takes you to a viewpoint that offers the most famous photo op in the Philippines. You then descend into the lake itself, which is a mix of fresh and saltwater (brackish). The water is crystal clear and surrounded by towering cliffs.

3. Twin Lagoon

Two lagoons separated by a rock wall. At low tide, you can swim through a small tunnel to get from one to the other. At high tide, you have to climb a ladder over the rocks. The mixing of fresh and saltwater creates a shimmering “halocline” effect where the temperature changes rapidly.

4. Malcapuya Island & Banana Island

For pure beach lovers. These islands are about 1.5 hours away by boat but offer powdery white sand beaches that rival Boracay, without the crowds.

5. Maquinit Hot Springs

One of the few saltwater hot springs in the world. Located in a mangrove forest, the water is naturally heated by a volcano. It is the perfect activity for the evening after a long day of hiking or diving.

Where to Stay

Coron Town Proper: Not a beach town, but the logistical hub. It’s chaotic, noisy, and fun. Stay here for budget options, access to the pier, and the best restaurants.
Island Resorts: For a luxury experience, stay on a private island resort like Two Seasons or Club Paradise. You get the Maldives experience at a fraction of the price.

Gastronomy

Coron’s food scene is a mix of Filipino staples and international comfort food.

Lobster & Crabs: Available relatively cheaply compared to the West.
Cashews: Palawan is the cashew capital of the Philippines. Buy “Kasoy” (roasted cashews) as a souvenir.
Lato (Sea Grapes): A type of seaweed that pops in your mouth like caviar, served with vinegar and onions.
Adobo & Sinigang: Classic Filipino dishes available at every “Carinderia” (local eatery).

Sustainability & Culture

The Tagbanua tribe are the ancestral guardians of Coron. They have successfully reclaimed rights to their land and waters. When you pay entrance fees at Kayangan Lake or Barracuda Lake, you are contributing to their community. In 2026, strict rules on plastic bottles on boats are enforced to keep the waters pristine.

Safety and Tips

Cash is King: While more places accept G-Cash and cards in 2026, ATMs in Coron Town can run out of money. Bring ample cash.
Reef Safe Sunscreen: Essential to protect the coral.
Jellyfish: Can be present seasonally. Wearing a rash guard is recommended when snorkeling.

Coron offers a prehistoric kind of beauty. It is raw, dramatic, and deeply aquatic. Whether you are swimming through the ribcage of a WWII ship or floating in a hidden lagoon, Coron feels like an adventure on the edge of the world.