Boat Stops

Islands, villages, snorkeling bays and ship wrecks to visit in the North Palawan area during your explorations.

Coron Multi-day Island Hopping Boat Tour Expedition

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There are thousands of beautiful islands in the Philippines that every tourist should not miss. Coron has been one of the top most travel destinations when it comes to clear blue water beaches. It is also famous for its beautiful lakes and clear water lagoons. Moerover, it is also popular for divers especially those who love to dive into shipwrecks. There are many spots and islands to explore not just around Coron but also few hours away by boat like Black island, Malcapuya island, Banana island,  Bulog Dos island, Waling-waling island, Bamboo Island, Pass island, Lusong gun boat and many more.

That being said, two or three days will not be enough to visit all these beautiful islands and lakes. The famous spots around coron island like Siete Pecados, kayangan lake, twin lagoon,  and barracuda (baracuda) lake are always packed of people thus it is hard to avoid the crowds to be able to take beautiful photos without people on the background and to be able to just relax and enjoy the place.

Furthermore, last December 2019, coast guards in Coron came up with new rules and regulations and one of which is that all boats are required to checkout with them before leaving on a tour. This makes the earliest time you can leave is at 8 AM. However, if you book with us your Coron private island hopping boat tour (day tour), we will help you avoid the crowd. Your boatman or tour guide will take you to less crowded places first so you can enjoy each spots without rush and in your own flexible time. You may also customize the islands/spots you want to visit.

Another option is by booking a Coron Island Boat Tour expedition, you may visit other islands on your second day as early as six in the morning to avoid the crowds. There are so many beautiful spots, beaches and islands in Coron which you should not miss during your visit. Here are some suggested itineraries for you which you can customize:

Coron Island Hopping Boat Tour Expedition 4 days/ 3 nights Itinerary:

Day 1 (Coron Escapade):

Day 2 (Reefs and Wrecks):

  • Lusong gunboat
  • Lusong coral garden
  • East tangat
  • Pass island (sleep)

Day 3 (Coron Islands):

  • Reef Garden
  • Skeleton Wreck
  • Siete Pecados
  • Banol Beach
  • Atwayan Beach (sleep)

Day 4 (Coron Islands):

This Coron Multi-day Island Hopping Boat Tour expedition itinerary is perfect for those who likes to free dive, snorkel, relax on the beach and experience real Filipino island life. You will be staying in tents and nipa huts. There are only basic toilets. No hot shower either. If you are looking for something fancy as accommodation, I suggest booking a day trip to these islands where you can stay and get back to your fancy hotels at the end of the day tour. Price depends on the number of people on board, the more, the cheaper.

Tour Inclusions:

  • Private boat
  • Licensed tour guide
  • Boat captain and crew
  • Meals (bf, lunch and dinner)
  • Entrance fees
  • Overnight fees
  • Nipa hut (banana island and pass island)
  • Tent (atwayan beach)
  • Beers/rhum (complimentary drink on board, limited only)
  • Pick up and drop off (within coron town only)

Coron Island Hopping Boat Tour Expedition 3 days/ 2 nights Itinerary:

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Day 1 (Coron Escapade):

  • Lusong coral garden
  • Lusong gunboat
  • Maltatayoc island
  • Pass island (sleep)

Day 2 (Coron Escapade with sand bars):

Day 3 (Coron Islands):

In this Coron island hopping boat tour expedition itinerary, you will be staying in basic nipa huts with common basic toilets. This is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy the sun and beaches. On your third day, you will be able to visit the famous sites in coron island at an earlier time where you can avoid the crowds. Also, if you are looking for some nice drone shots of sand bars, Ditaytayan island has a long stretch sand bar while bulog dos has a shorter one. We usually offer private customized boat tours between Sibaltan and Coron or vice versa. But due to popular demand, we now offer private customized boat tours in the Coron area only.

To book a tour just fill in the form here and choose “Coron only” as your route. Or more info on Coron boat tours.

Or, for inquiries regarding prices and boat tour packages, please click the photo below: Palawan-boat-tours

Other links regarding Coron tours

Kayangan Lake
Twin Lagoons
Malcapuya Island
Banana Island
Bulog Dos
Barracuda Lake
Tips on choosing tours around Coron
Rural Coron
Obra Bar
Black Island

Barracuda Lake, Coron

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Coron is one of the most famous destinations for tourists visiting Palawan, Philippines and one of the most known lakes that every tourists would not want to miss out is the Barracuda Lake. This famous fresh and salt water lake holds a secret that draws in diving enthusiasts from all over the world.

Barracuda Lake,  situated on the north shore of Coron Island in the Philippines, offers one of the most unique diving experiences. Occasionally referred to as Luluyuan Lake by locals, its crystal blue waters hidden between majestic rocky formations aren’t big on actual barracudas and other wildlife. Instead, divers can experience a thermocline and halocline unlike anywhere else.

Starting out on the surface of the lake, divers, swimmers, and scuba enthusiasts can expect temperatures around 82 degrees Fahrenheit. But as you descend into the depths of the lake, around 45 to 50 feet down, the temperature drastically changes to just over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (to put that in perspective, most people keep their hot tubs at 104 degrees, so it’s best to forego a wet suit here).

This very strange increase in temperature is due to the fact that the lake contains both salt and freshwater. Divers can even see the thin, distinct boundary that separates the two bodies of water. Barracuda lake is also characterized by an impressive display of limestone formations that rise up on all sides and extend beneath the surface.

Barracuda Lake presents the curious with a unique opportunity to dive in a harmonious mix of fresh and salt water set against a backdrop of imposing jagged limestone walls. And if you are really lucky you may even have a chance to encounter with the only resident barracuda for which the lake was named, who is said to lurk in the shadows of the lake’s thirty-meter cave. Let’s just say, scuba diving Barracuda Lake is a sensory experience you are sure to remember for the rest of your life.

Divers have described a sense of “weightlessness” while exploring the hot or cool depths, and the sensational experience (which is largely devoid of flora and fauna) has also been likened to what it must feel like to walk on the moon. But the lake holds yet another surprise: just when the salt watery heat becomes a tad unbearable, the temperature changes back to cool again near the bottom – might sound and FEEL scary!

Another unique feature of the lake is the sand at the very bottom, which has been described as “jelly-like,” “silky,” “airy,” and “silty.” The lake bottom was so light and airy with one throw you could fill the water with a billowing cloud of its murkiness. It’s apparently good for play, too. And although the barracudas aren’t really around anymore, if you’re lucky, you may still catch a glimpse of one.

A set of ugly dwarf catfish and large brine shrimp nervously navigated their way. They were truly some of the ugliest critters under the sea. Barracuda Lake was a most unusual dive indeed!

<please add a video here of scuba diving in barracuda lake>

Know Before You Go

This lake is best experienced via scuba diving to get the full experience of the thermocline.

If You Go: Coron Scuba Diving at Barracuda Lake

What: Most people associate tropical fish and whale sharks with scuba diving in the Philippines. However there is more to its vast archipelagos and islets than aqua blue seas. Barracuda Lake may be one of the most unique dives you’ll ever do, full of surprises at every turn.

Why: Barracuda Lake is a standout thanks to its dramatic thermoclines where saltwater and freshwater oddly coexist in harmony. The first few layers of water as you dive down are normal freshwater (approximately 28° Celcius) until you approach 14 meters where you hit a halocline and thermocline and the water becomes saline and the temperature rises to a hot 39° Celcius. It is so hot you will want to skip the wetsuit. If you are an advanced diver and up for the challenge, there is also a cave at 35 meters that can be entered.

Where: Barracuda Lake is situated on the north shore of Coron island in Palawan, Philippines. It can be reached by an easy 20-minute boat ride from Coron town. If you are going with a dive operator ask to do this dive first as there are fewer tourists early in the morning and visibility is better.

When: You can dive Barracuda Lake year round.

Don’t Miss

  • Go there early in the morning when the place is not yet crowded. The entrance to the lake is small, so it can get crowded during peak hours.
  • Chill by the lake and enjoy this piece of paradise surrounded by limestone cliffs.
  • Visitors may snorkel or swim in the lake. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the barracudas residing in its waters. The name may sound scary but no need to worry because the barracudas won’t eat you.
  • You may even spot other fishes like rabbit fish, cray fish, catfish, and other sea creatures from the ocean that have found their way through the small openings in the limestone cliff walls.
  • If you are into diving, you will have the chance to experience the changes in water temperature (thermocline) as you go deeper.

Don’t Forget

  • It is advised to wear a life vest when you swim or snorkel.
  • Follow the rules at all times. Practice caution, especially when swimming without your life vest. The lake is very deep, if you can, do not go on your own or out of sight of your companions or the local guides.
  • If you are planning to swim, just bring what you need. There’s a resting area but it is advised to not leave your things unattended.
  • Bring enough money to pay for other incidentals such as food and drinks and entrance fee, especially if your group didn’t join a group tour.
  • Charge your gadgets and/or bring battery packs.
  • Keep the place clean. Practice proper garbage disposal. Leave nothing but footprints. Take nothing but picture and VIDEOS!

If You Have More Time and Budget

  • Other places to explore in on a boat tour around Coron Island are Banul Beach, Twin Lagoon, Kayangan Lake, and Siete Pecados.
  • If you want to explore beautiful beaches with sand bar and powdery white sand, checkout Malcapuya island, Banana Island, Ditaytayan and Bulog dos in our Coron Escapade tour.
  • Take other tours like Coron Town Tour (which includes Mt Tapyas and Maquinit Hotsprings), Calauit Safari Park Tour, and Culion Historical Tour.
  • Still craving for the “natural high” after Mt. Tapyas? Go try Mt. Dalara.
  • You might also be interested in Fireflies and Plankton Night Tour.

Palawan-boat-tours

Other common mispellings for Baraccuda lake:

Barakuda, barrakuda and baracuda lake.

Other links regarding Coron Boat Tours:

Kayangan Lake
Twin Lagoons
Malcapuya Island
Banana Island
Bulog Dos
Tips on choosing tours around Coron
Rural Coron
Obra Bar
Coron Multi-day Island Hopping Boat Tour Expedition

El Nido to Coron Island Hopping Boat Tours

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Have you ever been to a paradise? I mean, to a place with deserted islands, white sand beaches, clear blue waters, nipa huts and untouched coral reefs? The tropical paradise of Palawan in the Philippines was once again voted the “world’s best island” by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. Palawan ranked first in Travel + Leisure’s World Best Island list for 2017, which is based on readers’ ratings, getting a score of 93.15. It grabbed the No. 1 spot in 2016 and in 2013.

However, despite of being the world’s best island for several years, Palawan went down to the second spot this 2019 next to Sri Lanka. According to Travel+Leisure’s “The World’s Best Awards 2019.” The list, based on the travel website’s reader’s picks, considers “activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value.”, Rappler.

I think one of the reasons is the uncontrollable increasing number of tourists visiting Palawan each year. This plummeting of statistics of visitors made Palawan government more conscious now about protecting the coral reefs and lagoons. In El Nido, you can only visit one lagoon  each day unlike few years ago when I first went there, we visited the Small and Big Lagoon on the same island hopping boat tour.

There is tons to see between El Nido and Coron, around a thousand islands in this area, mostly pristine paradise beaches and undeveloped. if you are the kind of person who gets tired of being with the crowds when doing island hopping boat tour, our affordable customized private multi-day island hopping boat tour between El Nido (Sibaltan) and Coron is perfect for you!

You can check out this itinerary suggestion https://www.islandhoppinginthephilippines.com/palawan/various/suggested-itinerary/for off the beaten track ideas between Puerto Princesa and Manila, an increasingly popular tourist route and which includes El Nido and Coron.

 

When you book our island hopping boat expedition between El Nido (Sibaltan) and Coron, you can customize it. You can either start in Coron or in Sibaltan. Sibaltan is an hour away by van from El Nido town – do not worry about getting there. We can arrange a private van transfer for you at around 2,500 pesos good for nine people.

Malcapuya-island-rock-formations-intragram-worthy

With our El Nido to Coron multi-day island hopping boat tour, you can choose from having private, open, joiner and even party boat tour.

This multi-day island hopping boat tour includes basic accommodation for 500 pesos/night/person where you can sleep in a tent with mattress  or in nipa huts. If you want a fancier accommodation, that is also possible as long as you book it yourself.

When it comes to food, our usual price is 250 pesos/person/meal. It is a basic meal, with some rice and fresh-caught fish. But if you want a fancy meal, you may inform your boatman about this and just pay extra.

Philippines is composed of thousands of islands and surrounded by the ocean, hence, it is rich in seafood. I have traveled in few countries and nothing could compare to how delicious and inexpensive seafood are in the Philippines.

Fishing is one of the main livelihoods of locals in Palawan. Buying seafood directly from these local fishermen could save you a lot of money. Just ask your boatman about it. They said food is comforting, isn’t it? From crabs, oyters, green shells, small and big fishes to squids, it will make your boat tour extra special. Please, also DO NOT FORGET to ask one of our boat crews to climb a coconut tree for you and get you a fresh coconut juice. Furthermore, if you have any food preferences, do not hesitate to tell your assigned boatman.

As a tropical country, we are also known to have the sweetest mangoes in the world. Guimaras is a place where you can find the sweetest mangoes but Palawan is also known for it. Mangoes in Palawan can be bought in much lower price during its season especially during April to May.

So, while you are visiting our country, Philippines, do not hesitate so treat and splurge yourself with our fresh and affordable seafood. Most importantly, explore pristine paradise beaches away from crowds with our multi-day island hopping boat tour. As a result, you cannot stop yourself from telling your friends how amazing your vacation was in Palawan, Philippines. Book your unforgettable boat tour with us by clicking the photo below!

Palawan-boat-tours

Marriage Proposal Package in Palawan

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Are you planning to “seal the deal”? Do not know how and where to do it? Do not worry! We got you covered. Island Hopping in the Philippines is happy to announce that we can help you arrange your start to the road of forever, marriage proposal!

Philippines has thousands of stunning clear water islands and lagoons, especially between El Nido and Coron, Palawan. It does not just have exquisite pristine beaches but also way more affordable than Maldives and Bali. Proposing in a fancy resort or restaurant is already too mainstream and to think about it, it is also very expensive. There is not much better and romantic other than proposing to your loved one in a paradise.

Imagine, you island hop in some beautiful islands and finishes with a surprise marriage proposal in one of the beautiful islands either in Coron or in El Nido. If you want to get fancier, we also have multiday tours between El Nido and Coron where you can do island hopping in more secluded islands away from crowds.

We offer private boat tours in El Nido and in Coron which you can customize the way you want it. Meaning, you may choose which islands you would like to visit and where you would like to propose. With private boat tours, you hold your own time, you do not need to rush and you can leave earlier than joiner tours.

Sadly, before, in Coron, you may leave as early as 7am but due to the new management, all boats need to be checked out by the coast guards at 8am but it is still good because joiner tours usually leave at 9am or 9:30am. Moreover, our boatman will take you first to less crowded places in case you start later than 8am. Surely it is a WIN WIN!

However, if you have not done your research which island is perfect for your line ‘will you marry me?’, I recommend doing your marriage proposal in Banol Beach if you will be in Coron. At around 3pm, there are fewer people left on the island. Even way better if you do it in Banol beach just in time for the sunset. Isn’t it more romantic with the sunset on the background and a heart-shaped sand with rose petals in it? Simple as it sounds but very romantic enough which would really not stop your girlfriend from saying “YES!”.

If you are only visiting El Nido, between the three tours, Tour A, B and C. Tour B would be suit for marriage proposals. If you have suggestions or questions, we will always find ways to make it happen. So, book your private boat tour with us + romantic package. May it be wedding anniversary, honeymoon, birthday or marriage proposal, we find ways!

Palawan-boat-tours

Diving Reefs and Wrecks in Coron, Palawan

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Coron has been considered as one of the best spots in the World for Wreck diving! On the 24th of September 1944, 24 Japanese Ships were sunk by an Americain Air raid. There were 12 wrecks that have been discovered up to now. The shipwrecks are very well preserved and are all located in quite shallow water, perfect for recreational diving. However it is best to be at least Open Water Advanced to fully enjoy the wrecks as some dives can be quite challenging.

Most of the wrecks are really big (up to 160m!) and require more than one dive if you want to explore the entire ship. There are also boundless possibilities of penetration and even very deep penetration (especially on the Taiei Maru and the Akitsushima ) for the most experienced divers!

The wrecks lay either upright or on the side. Their depth is ranging from 12m to 30m. Only the Irako wreck is deeper, at 43m.

However, the visibility is often low (from 5m to 15m) and the marine life around the shipwrecks is poor with mostly Scorpionfishes, Crocodilefishes, Nudibranchs are the usual reef fishes like the Triggerfish or Clownfish. Groupers and Barracudas can also sometimes be spotted. So if you come to Coron it is definitely because you are passionate about Wreck Diving, not just to see the fish! This place is really beautiful and divers coming there are usually delighted!

Best time to dive in Coron, Palawan

Diving Season

It is possible to dive around Coron all year round. However they can experience some bad weather during the wet season (June to September / October) that can sometimes prevent any diving from happening. The best weather is usually from December to March and it is also at that time that the visibility is at its best.

Scuba Diving conditions

Water Temperature: ranging from 25°C to 31°C depending on the season.

Currents: From gentle to strong depending on the tide and location.

Visibility: You can expect a visibility of 5m to 15m. The best visibility is usually during the dry season (November to May).

Lusong Gunboat

The Lusong Gunboat Wreck is a popular snorkeling and Scuba Diving site in Coron Bay. It is a shallow spot with the shipwreck being between 5m and 15m deep. The boat is about 25m long. This shallow wreck dive is ideal for amateurs. In addition, the reef life is fantastic with plenty of small fishes all around the Lusong Gunboat. It is usually done as the second relaxing dive of the day.


This spot is perfect for macro underwater photography as there is plenty of things to see and you will a long bottom time. The hard and soft coral is great on the nearby reef perfect to finish your dive in shallow water.

It takes only 5 minutes to reach the place from the Coron Resorts.

This location is a Reef. You can dive Lusong Gunboat all year long.

Access: from the Shore.

Level: Advanced divers

Irako Wreck Dive Site

The Irako Wreck is one of the best Wreck Dives of Coron Bay in Palawan and in the Philippines. It is a 147m long and 19m wide former Japanese Refrigeration Ship. It was sunk during World War II in 1944 by an American air attack.
The Irako Wreck I lies now 40m deep still pretty much intact. The visibility is usually good and there is a great marine life surrounding the shipwreck making it one of the best dive sites around Busuanga Island. Here you can spot hunting Tunas and Groupers as well as Green Sea Turtles and Lionfishes. Barracudas and Trevallies can also be seen patrolling the ship. The hard and soft Coral all over the Irako is great especially on the superstructures.

The main deck is 34m deep and has penetration opportunities in the Wheelhouse and the Cargo bays. The Engine Room is also penetrable but at this depth it should only be attempted by very experienced divers with the necessary equipment.
Due to this great depth and sometimes strong currents it is best to be an Advanced diver to fully enjoy this amazing wreck! Moreover, it is better to dive with Nitrox gas if you want to increase your bottom time.
The Irako Wreck is located just 10 min by speed boat from Coron Dive Resorts just south of another beautiful wreck, the Kogyo Maru!

Most people are here for Wreck Diving. You can dive Irako Wreck all year long.

Access: from the Shore.

Level: Advanced divers

Akitsushima Dive Site

The Akitsushima Wreck is a former Seaplane Tender sunk in Coron Bay in Palawan. This former war ship is 118m long and is now one of the best dive site around Coron. It is located not far from another great spot, the Okikawa Maru Wreck.

The Akitsushima has been sunk on September 24 1944 during World War 2 by an American Air attack. It now lies in good shape on her port side 36m deep. The shallowest point of the wreck is 22m deep.

There are several penetration possibilities especially in the engine room where you can observe the machinery and the 4 engines. Due to the depth this should only be done by divers with a wreck diving certification.

The Seaplane that the Akitsushima was carrying disappeared in the explosion after she was hit at the stern and then sunk in a few minutes. You can still see the huge crane that was used to lift the seaplane. There is also an antiaircraft gun that you can find near the seabed.

You can spot also some interesting sea life with Barracudas, Tunas and Batfishes patrolling around the Shipwreck but there is not so many fishes.

Due to the depth and sometimes strong current this dive site is reserved to Advanced Divers.

Most people are here for Wreck Diving.You can dive Akitsushima all year long.

Access: from the Shore.

Skeleton Wreck Dive Site

Skeleton Wreck is a popular Snorkelling spot in Coron Bay. It is also possible to scuba dive this small 25m long Shipwreck. The top of the Skeleton is 5m deep and going down to 22m at the stern. This is an easy dive ideal for beginners.

The reef is also really nice with a teeming reef life giving good underwater pictures opportunities. It is possible to rent a fisherman boat in Coron to go on a Snorkelling day tour to explore the best spots around Busuanga Island.

This location is a Reef. You can dive Skeleton Wreck all year long.

Access: from the Shore.

GOOD NEWS! We now offer fun dives in Coron for as low as 5,000pesos for 3 dives including rent for scuba diving equipment. This is one of the activities you can do while island hopping in Coron. Send us a message for more information at [email protected]

If you want to book a private boat tour between El Nido and Coron or just around Coron only,  please the photo below.

Palawan-boat-tours

Combination Tour – El Nido plus Multiday Tour (Sibaltan to Coron)

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Palawan is a beautiful place to start your travels when visiting Philippines. It has a lot to offer! From Puerto Princessa, Sabang, Port Barton and to the famous destinations like El Nido and Coron, two weeks in the Philippines will never be enough. There are thousands of islands to explore as well as lagoons and ship wrecks. But do not worry, we will help you island hop to these exquisite beaches and crystal blue water lagoons without missing them while moving from one place to another and most importantly, away from crowds.

My husband, Karel, used to live in a beautiful island with powdery white sand and pristine waters for two years. This island is infamous that most people who are taking the fast ferry from either Coron to El Nido or El Nido to Coron have been missing it out. Not only this island that they have missed out but many more. As a result, he came up with an idea which you still can do island hopping from Coron to El Nido or vice versa without missing these stunning and off the beaten islands.

With our multiday tours, you can island hop from Coron to Sibaltan or the other way. Sibaltan is an hour away by van from El Nido town which is not that much. There is no fixed schedule of vans going to Sibaltan from El Nido town but we can arrange a private transfer for you for only 2,500pesos.

There are 82 islands along the way and you can see as many as you want. Comfortably, we recommend visiting three to four islands to really have the most of your experience in each island without rushing. There are many things to do during this multiday tour. The most common one is snorkeling. If you are looking for some adventure, you can do cliff diving on a natural big stone formation along the way. If you want to experience how to catch your own fresh fish, we have spear guns for rent.

 
Spear gun

For some sporty people, our wakesurf board and wakeboard are perfect for you. Might be hard to be able to stand up while the boat is moving when it is your first time so this is quite challenging. Also, this is quite exhausting because you are using your whole body especially your arms and your abdomen but it is DEFINITELY FUN! Something different to do other than snorkeling.

To those who would want to explore some mangroves or the surrounding island in a relaxing way, we have kayaks available for you.

At the end of the day, if you are tired from doing all these activities in the water, you can just lie on the beach, getting some sun tan while drinking some fresh coconut juice.

TIP: You can request to your boatman to get you some fresh coconuts directly from a coconut tree. Yes! It is possible and in some islands it is for FREE but some may charge you around 20-30pesos each which is still cheaper than buying it in a restaurant.

Barakuda Lake, Coron, Palawan

 

If you are staying for few days in El Nido, we also have private and joiner island hopping boat tours. In our private boat tour, it is possible to combine some spots from tour A with tour B or tour A with tour C. In our page, just click the route that you want and the tours. For El Nido day trips and multiday tour, please click Combination El Nido and multiday tour and submit route.

Twin Lagoon, Coron, Palawan


Snake Island, El Nido, Palawan – Tour B

TAKE NOTE: Our boats start and stop in Sibaltan, not El Nido, because there are many islands to visit on the east side of the peninsula, the waves can get rough in the open ocean on the west side of the peninsula, and El Nido is much farther than Sibaltan by boat, so your tour would have to be much more expensive. From Sibaltan it is an easy one hour van ride to or from El Nido and you will find some contact information to vans on the Sibaltan page:
https://www.islandhoppinginthephilippines.com/palawan/island-hopping-launching-pad-east-palawan/
If you have the time, this archaeological village is also well worth visiting or very nice to stay at for at least one night.

So which one would you prefer? Taking a fast ferry or island hop to these beautiful beaches and experience real island life? If you chose the latter, just click the photo below and it will guide you through the process.
Palawan-boat-tours

Malcapuya Island

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Malcapuya-Island-dsc_0413
#1 of top things to do around Coron according to Tripadvisor.

This island, along with Bulog Dos and Banana Island are part of a package offered by local tours in Coron because they are located so close to one another. Each of these stops, Bulog Dos and Malcapuya, charges an entrance fee of  200p/person, and is located close also to our recommended stop for this area, No Name island. Malcapuya Island is apparently the best of these three, and any of these four is a good stop to break up the trip into smaller parts. If you want to visit more than one stop in this area, you might not have time during the same day to also visit Araw Beach.

Malcapuya island is so far the best island I have been to near Coron. It has a long stretch beach, very unique rock formations and the island has soft white sandy beaches comparable to Boracay. Its sand is really so soft! Didn’t I just say that twice?

http://static.islandhoppinginthephilippines.com/sites/2/2019/06/malcapuya-island-soft-white-sand3933.jpg

The sand is so soft that you might want to have a taste to see if it’s real sand

It is quite far to get there from Coron town. It will take maximum 2 hours by boat depending on the size of waves. I would suggest leaving early to expedite the journey because usually during early morning, the waves are calm. Another IMPORTANT TIP: I highly recommend booking a private boat tour. In this way, you can manage your time. The usual “joiner tours” with 16-22 people leave around 9:00am, in which case many boats are on board hopping from one island to another with the same itinerary and duration of stay, making the islands fully-packed of tourists.

Amazing rock formatio

Amazing rock formation I camouflaged against with my suntanned skin

Based on our experience, we left around 7:30am and we got to our first destination, Bulog Dos, after 1.5 hours. At that time we were the only ones, so we were able to take awesome photos of the sand bar and the beach without hoards of crowds in the background.

One of the huge unique rocks found in Malcapuya Island

If you are visiting Coron with a limited schedule, you should not miss visiting this island. It is quiet, clean and something unique from the touristy lakes in Coron.

Enjoy the white long stretch beach of Malcapuya Island

Look at these amazing nature-made rock formations – it’s Instagram-worthy!

Unspoiled beach with fifty shades of clear blue water

Malcapuya-island-rock-formations-intragram-worthy

Enjoy the whole beach away from the crowds by booking a private boat tour with us!

This one has an entrance fee of 200p, but they have begun work on a new resort, so it is uncertain how long it will remain open to the public (check out the Tripadvisor link above to make sure).

Malcapuya-Island-11.-cottages-at-malcapuya-island

At the moment it offers accommodation as explained on http://www.traveling-up.com/a-night-in-malcapuya-island-coron/ (TravelUp pics):

  • Our room for the night was a simple cottage by the beach, an enclosed thatched hut with an electric fan and a mattress on the floor. Cost for cottage rental was P750/person.
  • There are two restrooms with open air showers a few meters away from the huts.
  • The island does not have electricity, but they have a generator which provides light and electricity at night.
  • There are outlets in the huts where you can charge phones and camera batteries.
  • You can also opt to stay in a simple house-for-rent on an elevated portion a few meters from the shoreline, which has a single room, basic yet comfortable beds, and a decent restroom.

Rather undeveloped at the moment, which only adds to its charm, with many deserted and protected beaches.

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To get here you can join or book one of our private custom Palawan boat tours between El Nido and Coron, or Coron only tours. Tons of paradise beach islands to see along the way, excellent snorkeling in crystal clear waters, caves to explore, Spanish fortress and much more. Completely off the beaten path. You can even rent one of our wakesurf or wakeboards for a total blast drag through paradise!

Palawan-boat-tours

Other links regarding Coron tours

Kayangan Lake
Twin Lagoons
Malcapuya Island
Banana Island
Bulog Dos
Tips on choosing tours around Coron
Rural Coron
Obra Bar

Coron Boat Tours

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Do you want to stay away from the crowds and enjoy the pristine islands for yourselves?

If you prefer a private tour only for your group, just fill in this form, choose “Coron only” for your boat tour and we will arrange a boat for you. Your own boat, your own time and your own islands. Or you can join one of our multi-day tours to El Nido (Sibaltan), hitting the most popular Coron spots on the way. We can also organise group or private tours in El Nido.

The prices in the table below includes private boat, licensed tour guide, lunch, snorkeling gears, entrance fees and pick up from hotel by tricycle (within coron town only). If you want to be picked up by a van from the Busuanga airport or within coron town, we could have it arranged with you for an additional cost.

If you want to do some fun diving during your private boat tour in Coron, we could have that arranged as well. Most of our customers would do one fun dive in Barracuda lake and after that, they will continue island hopping in 2 to 3 islands around Coron only.

TAKE NOTE: Prices may change especially during peak and high season.

TOUR2 pax3 pax4 pax5 pax6 pax
CORON TOUR A8000 940010700 13250 15050 
CORON TOUR B8100 9550 10900 13500 15350 
CORON ULTIMATE870010450 12100 15000 17150 
CORON SUPER ULTIMATE9100 11050 12900 1600018350 
ESCAPADE C110000  1130012500 1550017200 
ESCAPADE C210100 11450 12700 1575017500 

coron-boat-tours-destinations

This Tripadvisor page shows the most popular destinations around Coron, our favourite suggestions being Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoons, quite close to one another.

At some of the places, like Twin Lagoons, the local caretaker grills fresh fish and rice. Or the boat crew can cook you up the same for 200p/meal. If instead you buy vegetables from the public market (the loading area for most of the boats), the crew can probably cook that for you for free, but a little tip would be nice.

Take note: As of December 2019, the coast guards in Coron made a bizarre rule that all boats is required to check out with them first before leaving. Meaning no boats can leave earlier than 8 am. This was not the case before but our boatmen have to follow this rule. With regards to this, do not worry. We can still help you avoid the crowd by bringing you to less crowded places first. All joiner tours do then same route everyday and they usually start on the nearest island in their itinerary.

In this list you can choose the general, bold text popular package tours (each one requires a full day), or customize your tour by choosing seven individual locations  (maximum seven locations per day).

Coron Island Tour A
1. Kayangan Lake
2. Smith Beach
3. CYC Beach
4. Queen Reef
5. Coral Garden
6. Green Lagoon

Coron Island Tour B
1. Twin Lagoon
2. Barracuda Lake
3. Reef Garden
4. Smith Beach
5. Skeleton Wreck

Coron Ultimate Tour
1. Kayangan Lake
2. SietePecados
3. Banol Beach
4. Twin Lagoon
5. Coral Garden
6. Skeleton Wreck
7. CYC Beach

Super Ultimate Tour
1. Kayangan Lake
2. Barracuda Lake
3. Skeleton Wreck
4. Twin Lagoon
5. Atwayan Beach
6. Coral Garden
7. Siete Pecados

In this cell you can choose the general bold popular package tours (each one requires a full day), or customize your tour by choosing three individual locations  (maximum three locations per day).
Coron Escapade C1
1. Malcapuya Island
2. Banana Island
3. Bulog Dos
Coron Escapade C2
1. Malcapuya Island
2. Bamboo Island
3. Waling-waling Island
This package tour is fixed.
Reef and Wrecks
1. Lusong Gun Boat
2. Lusong Coral Garden
3. East Tangat
4. Pass Island

If you are staying at a hotel with a pier, the boatman can pick you up and drop you off straight from there. Or they can arrange a tricycle taxi to take you to their boat.

book-tour-now

Other links regarding Coron tours

Kayangan Lake
Twin Lagoons
Malcapuya Island
Banana Island
Bulog Dos
Tips on choosing tours around Coron
Rural Coron
Obra Bar

Twin Lagoons, Coron

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One of the top things to do around Coron according to Tripadvisor. Click here if you are interested in booking some local Coron tours.

Located not far from Kayangan Lake on the same island of Coron (the town of Coron is located on another island), another worthwhile stop along a boat tour. The coastline is splendid and the bay mystifying as you approach the little house wedged into the sharp rocks at the lagoon’s mouth.

Twin-lagoons-coron-twin lagoonsPhoto left: the usual entry is at the boats in the upper right, where the house is. But boats can also get into the second lagoon, shown bottom left.

The house owner will paddle out occasionally, collecting the 200p entrance fee from the various boats, but if you’re hungry, this could be a good stop for lunch because they’ll also grill you up some fresh fish. If you take a peak behind the house you’ll find the usual hung laundry, roaming chickens and dirt floor backyard that you’ll find in any other rural Filipino home, so obviously the attendants are not collecting much of the entrance fee.

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Grilled fish diner and entrance fee collection.

Because the lagoons are so popular, you can expect a lot of tourists bobbing in the water, but still much less than the lagoons around El Nido.

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To get to the other lagoon, if tide is low enough you can swim your way under a tight impasse, otherwise you can crawl over on a funky ladder system.

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If it is low tide, the ladder is a worthwhile climb if you want to take some good pictures.

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View from the top of the ladder to the second lagoon.

Alternating cold fresh water with warm ocean water can give a slightly eerie feeling, which is why the locals call the lagoons “strange waters”.

Here is a short video:

Click here if you are interested in booking some local Coron tours. Or you can join or book one of our private custom Palawan boat tours between El Nido and Coron, which would include this site and Kayangan Lake. Tons of paradise beach islands to see along the way, excellent snorkeling in crystal clear waters, caves to explore, Spanish fortress and much more. Completely off the beaten path!

Palawan-boat-tours

Kayangan Lake

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Kayangan-lake-20170209_123804Click on pic to zoom in.

No. 3 of things to do around Coron according to Tripadvisor.

But it requires a steep 75m climb (about 300 steps total), both up and down into it, about 15 minutes if you are in reasonably good shape. That includes the waiting time, as the path is too narrow to accommodate traffic in both directions, and because it is a popular destination, be prepared to slide to the side and wait occasionally.

It is a hall of fame awardee for the cleanest and greenest inland body of water in the Philippines and dubbed as the cleanest lake in Asia. However, when I was there it didn’t seem so clear but somewhat murky, and hardly as clear as the waters around Linapacan.

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If the climb is too much for you, another alternative is the nearby Barracuda lake, one of two out of eight lakes in the area open to the public. It has only 30-40 steps.

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The lake is surrounded by a karst scenery of limestone cliffs and guarded and maintained by Tagbanua tribesmen, who consider the lake a sacred cultural site. It is believed that spirits used to dwell in the sacred lakes and that a ritual was performed to transfer the spirits from Kayangan and Barracuda to Cabugao, the largest of all the lakes. Kayangan Lake is 70% fresh water and 30% salt water. According to Coron Tourism it is the most photographed spot in Coron.

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Typical shot of Kayangan Lagoon from the top of the climb.

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The busy docking area in the lagoon.

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It has astonishing underwater rock formations (which have jagged edges and can be fun to grab onto to keep underwater and pull yourself along), and you can discover the enchanting Awuyuk Kayangan Cave, where you’d have to swim to go through its narrow entrance.

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There is a cave you can check out at the top of the climb. At the top there is also an area where you can take a beautiful shot of the Kayangan Lagoon, where the boats dock.

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The trip from Coron there is itself breathtaking, the shoreline adorned with beautiful limestone cliffs and hidden little beaches.

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There is an entrance fee of 200p to enter the area.

To get here you can join or book one of our private custom Palawan boat tours between El Nido and Coron, or a local Coron tour. Tons of paradise beach islands to see along the way, excellent snorkeling in crystal clear waters, caves to explore, Spanish fortress and much more. Completely off the beaten path!

Palawan-boat-tours