Barracuda Lake, Coron

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About Barracuda Lake

Float peacefully in Barracuda Lake, Coron.

Coron is one of the top destinations for travelers visiting Palawan, Philippines. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Coron, Palawan, Barracuda Lake emerges as a captivating wonder for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

This famous destination offers a remarkable blend of stunning natural beauty and a distinctive thermocline phenomenon, making it an ideal spot for divers and snorkelers seeking an extraordinary underwater experience. This famous fresh and salt water lake holds a secret that draws in diving enthusiasts from all over the world.

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Due to its surprisingly characteristic of having thermocline phenomena, Barracuda Lake has been famous for tourists visiting Coron, Palawan. The water temperature is different depending on its depths. As you dive into the lake, you’ll feel a distinct transition from warm surface water to cooler depths, but then even warmer again. This phenomenon creates a fascinating diving experience, unlike any other, as you navigate through layers of varying temperatures. With that being said, Barracuda Lake offers one of the most unique diving experiences. Occasionally referred to as Luluyuan Lake by locals, its crystal blue waters are hidden between majestic rocky formations.

Crystal clear waters in Barracuda Lake, Coron.

Prepare to be enchanted by the crystal-clear waters of Barracuda Lake. Its exceptional visibility offers a window into an underwater world filled with awe-inspiring rock formations, submerged trees, and intriguing marine life. The lake’s remarkable clarity allows divers and snorkelers to explore its depths with unparalleled clarity, providing an immersive experience like no other.

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The surface water in Barracuda Lake can be warm, with temperatures reaching around 28-30°C (82-86°F). However, once you cross the thermocline, the temperature can drop abruptly by several degrees Celsius.

The precise cause of the thermocline in Barracuda Lake is still debated among experts, but one theory suggests that a combination of factors contributes to this phenomenon. The lake’s unique geological formation, consisting of limestone cliffs and rocks, may play a role in trapping the cooler water at the lower depths. Additionally, the lake’s location and limited water circulation might contribute to the stratification of water temperatures.

Scuba diving in the deep and mysterious waters of Barracuda Lake, Coron.

Diving through the thermocline in Barracuda Lake offers a remarkable sensory experience. As you cross this layer, you can physically feel the temperature change, often described as a sudden shift from warm to noticeably colder water. This transition adds an element of intrigue and adventure to the diving experience, making Barracuda Lake stand out from other dive sites.

Since Barracuda Lake is a mixture of both fresh and salt water, the result is this unusual temperature rise. What’s more surprising is that the divers can even distinctly see the thin boundary that separates the two bodies of water.

Barracuda lake is surrounded by towering  limestone formations  that create a dramatic backdrop for the lake. These cliffs, formed over millions of years through natural processes, showcase intricate patterns and textures, adding a sense of grandeur to the landscape.

Impressive limestone formations in Barracuda Lake, Coron.

Divers flock to Barracuda Lake for its unique geological formations, including jagged limestone cliffs and underwater caves. As you descend into the depths of Barracuda Lake, you’ll come across an intriguing underwater rock face. This submerged rock formation is a popular attraction for divers, featuring irregular surfaces, crevices, and nooks that provide shelter to various marine species and add a touch of mystery to your underwater adventure. Keep an eye out for barracudas, snappers, and other marine creatures that call this pristine environment home.

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Let’s just say, scuba diving Barracuda Lake is a sensory experience you are sure to remember for the rest of your life.

Did you know that when you dive into Barracuda Lake it feels like you’re walking on the moon? In Barracuda Lake, divers can experience a unique sensation of weightlessness due to the lake’s high salinity content. The water in the lake has a saltwater layer near the bottom, which gives divers a buoyancy effect similar to what is experienced in the Dead Sea.

When divers descend into the deeper parts of Barracuda Lake, they may notice an increased buoyancy compared to diving in regular freshwater or seawater environments. This buoyancy is a result of the high salt concentration in the lower layers of the lake, which increases the water’s density and makes it easier for divers to float effortlessly.

The feeling of weightlessness in Barracuda Lake can be quite remarkable. Divers often describe the sensation as if they are effortlessly suspended in the water, experiencing minimal resistance and feeling almost weightless. It creates a unique and tranquil diving experience, allowing divers to focus on exploring the underwater scenery and marine life without the usual gravitational pull.

The weightlessness experience in Barracuda Lake adds an extra element of relaxation and serenity to the dive. It offers divers the opportunity to enjoy a sense of freedom and ease while maneuvering through the underwater rock formations, swim-throughs, and observing the fascinating marine ecosystem.

It’s important to note that the level of buoyancy experienced may vary depending on factors such as the diver’s body composition, equipment used, and depth of the dive. Divers should always maintain good buoyancy control and follow proper diving techniques to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Experiencing weightlessness in Barracuda Lake is a special aspect that divers can cherish and appreciate. It contributes to the lake’s unique allure, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a distinctive and serene diving adventure.

Jelly-like sandy bottom of Barracuda Lake, Coron.

Another remarkable and often-described features of Barracuda Lake in Coron, Palawan is the unique texture and sensation of the sand at its very bottom. Visitors have used terms such as “jelly-like,” “silky,” “airy,” and “silty” to describe the feeling when walking or diving on the lake’s sandy floor.

The sand in Barracuda Lake offers a distinct sensory experience that sets it apart from traditional sandy bottoms found in other bodies of water. As you walk or swim along the lake’s bottom, you may notice that the sand feels different underfoot or when touched. The exact texture and sensation can vary depending on factors such as the depth, location, and individual perception.

Some divers have described the sand as “jelly-like” due to its soft, cushiony feel. Others have likened it to silk, emphasizing its smoothness and fine texture. The sensation of walking or diving on this sand has been compared to stepping on air or gliding through a silky substance, which enhances the overall experience of exploring Barracuda Lake.

The unique characteristics of the sand in Barracuda Lake can be attributed to various factors, including the composition of sediment and minerals present in the lake. The specific combination of particles and their arrangement create the distinctive texture and feel that divers and visitors encounter.

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!

The “silky” and “airy” nature of the sand adds to the sense of tranquility and otherworldliness when exploring the lake’s depths. It provides a gentle and comfortable surface for divers and snorkelers to move across, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the underwater experience.

It’s important to note that the sensation and texture of the sand may vary depending on factors such as water depth, diver movements, and individual perceptions. Exploring and experiencing the unique sandy bottom of Barracuda Lake firsthand is the best way to fully appreciate its distinct qualities.

The combination of the thermocline phenomenon, underwater rock formations, marine life, and the special sandy bottom creates a multi-dimensional and captivating environment in Barracuda Lake. It’s a destination that offers not only stunning visuals but also a unique sensory encounter that adds to the allure of this natural wonder in Coron, Palawan.

A video of some of our guests enjoying the sites:

YouTube video

Know Before You Go

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

Essential Travel Tips When Visiting Barracuda Lake

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Dive Certification

Ensure you have the necessary diving certification and experience to explore the depths of Barracuda Lake. Ensure you have the necessary diving qualifications, such as an Open Water Diver certification or higher, to safely navigate the depths of the lake. Safety should always be a priority.

Rent or bring gear

If you plan to dive, consider renting or bringing your diving equipment, including wetsuits, masks, and regulators. Having properly fitted and comfortable equipment enhances your diving experience and allows you to fully appreciate the underwater wonders of Barracuda Lake.

Water Temperature and Dive Duration

Prepare for the thermocline phenomenon by being aware of the changing water temperatures at different depths. The surface water may be warm, while the deeper parts of the lake can be significantly cooler. Consider wearing appropriate exposure protection, such as a wetsuit, to stay comfortable during your dive. Also, be mindful of your dive duration and plan accordingly to avoid prolonged exposure to colder temperatures.

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Local Guides

Hiring a local guide is highly recommended. These experts possess extensive knowledge of the lake’s unique characteristics, safety protocols, and can provide valuable insights into the underwater landscape. They can also ensure you have a safe and memorable diving experience.

Environmental Preservation

Respect the delicate ecosystem of Barracuda Lake by refraining from touching or removing any underwater formations and avoiding the use of sunscreen that may harm the environment. Contribute to the preservation efforts by not littering and taking any trash back with you.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Barracuda Lake is during the dry season, which typically runs from October to May. This period offers more favorable weather conditions, including calm seas and less rainfall, providing optimal visibility and enjoyable diving experiences. Detailed weather forecasts for the Philippines.

Don’t Miss

  • Start your island hopping boat tour early in the morning before 9AM the tourists from joiner or group tours arrive. The entrance to the lake is small, so it can get crowded during peak hours. Best to avoid the crowds is by booking a Coron private boat tour.
  • Chill by the lake while having a cold beer or snacks and enjoy this stunning lake 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.
  • 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 to take lots of underwater photos.
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What a Barracuda fish looks like. Don’t worry, they are not abundant here and will certainly not eat you.

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

Palawan boat tours to Barracuda Lake, Coron.

Other common mispellings for Baraccuda lake:

Barakuda, barrakuda and baracuda lake.


Home » Palawan » Boat Stops » Barracuda Lake, Coron

Chloe BlanchardChloe Blanchard
13:38 27 Mar 24
The most wonderful experience from booking to beach! Karel and Mel were so fast and responsive to my very last minute trip over the holidays. We booked a private boat for two and could not have been happier with our four day trip! We didn’t think about anything other than snorkeling the entire time. Linda, our captain, cooked wonderful meals and took us to totally empty beautiful beaches. We loved staying the night in Pical especially! Wonderful to experience the Philippines this way! Will come back again and would recommend to anyone!
hotel luci del farohotel luci del faro
08:13 31 Jan 24
We booked the 3 day 2 night expedition, from Coron to Sibaltan.First of all the booking part was really simple. I organized this trip to the Philippines last minute for my family (my parents and my uncles) but Karel answered all my questions very quickly and really made everything easier for me. It was an incredible experience. Albert, our tour leader, is a wonderful guy, always smiling and ready to help us. They assisted us in everything and really took care of making everything go smoothly. The accommodation on the islands is as spartan as you expect but the location of each hut alone is worth the trip. The wonder of nature was then added to the goodness of cuisine. It's really difficult to argue how you can cook all that goodness on a boat.If you are looking for an authentic experience, in contact with nature, off the beaten track, this company's private expedition is certainly for you.
Kate BrownKate Brown
00:22 27 Oct 23
What an unforgettable experience! We did a two night (3 day) island hopping tour from Sibaltan to Coron. Everything was so well organized and the boat crew were amazing and really made sure we had a great time. The accommodation was rustic, but added to the authentic experience of the Philippines. Karel always responded to any queries we had promptly. Our boatman, Albert, was the most amazing chef and we enjoyed every meal. The crew taught the kids how to fish with a line which was their highlight of the trip. They took us to the most unbelievable snorkelling spots along the way. Would highly recommend this trip.
Ian PascualIan Pascual
02:43 10 Aug 23
One of the most amazing, unforgettable things you can do in your life
Lou PrataliLou Pratali
11:04 25 Jul 23
This is a must to do!!Super ultimate tour is the best with Kayangan and barracuda lake, twin lagoons (my favorite), coral garden (blue fabulous coral) were the best. It’s really worth it to pay for private tour (3500 to 4000 PHP). You will also have to pay for entrance fees (150 to 200PHP by location) and eventually shopping at the market - must do (count 300 for 2 for fish, pork, fruits and vegetables, water).
Gérard BENOITGérard BENOIT
16:11 07 Feb 23
I was looking for a personalized excursion to the stunning Bacuit Gulf.Based on the comments, I contacted Mel.Very responsive, very efficient and perfect organization.The on-board staff were very friendly and very helpful.And I'm not even talking about the meal on board...a marvel.In all fairness, this excursion will remain an excellent memory and I cannot recommend Mel and his team highly enough.A big thank-you.
Alyse TarbottonAlyse Tarbotton
23:48 30 Aug 22
This tour went well above all our expectations! I couldn't recommend this enough! The boat crew, captain and tour guide were nothing but amazing, everyone was so kind, helpful and friendly. The crew knew the best spots to visit that weren't overcrowded with tourists, 3 times we were lucky enough to have whole islands to ourselves! It was my partner's birthday while away and everything went above and beyond, bonfire, cake, birthday card, singing and celebrating with us.If you love camping this is definitely a tout you should do, it has been the highlight of our trip!!
Danish KayaniDanish Kayani
10:24 31 Oct 19
Coron is the best place i have ever seen.. picturesque. Beautiful. Peaceful
We booked a 4 days/3 nights private boat trip from Coron to Sibaltan. The organization went very well from the beginning, the owner answered to all my questions, and we were able to choose which islands to visit and where to sleep. The first night we slept in a bungalow in Banana Island, the second we camped in Araw beach and the last we slept in a seafront bungalow builded on a tree in Pical on Iloc Island.The islands in that area are the most beautiful islands I have ever seen, with clear water, lots of coral reef and fishes to see, white sand and almost deserted. The crew was very friendly and polite and they organize every single meal and for camping they give you a tent which was just perfect! This was our highlight in our 2 weeks in the Philippines and I wish I had booked a longer trip. A private trip gives you the freedom to decide where and when to go.
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Gérard Benoit
Gérard Benoit
2023-02-08
recommends
I was looking for a personalized excursion to the beautiful bay of Bacuit. Seeing the comments, I contacted Mel. Very responsive, very efficient and perfect organization. The crew were very friendly and very helpful. And I'm not even talking about the meal on board...a marvel. In all fairness, this excursion will remain an excellent memory and I can recommend Mel and his team highly enough. A big thank-you.
André Mardoñal
André Mardoñal
2019-10-22
recommends
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The island world of Linapacan between Coron and El Nido with the clearest waters in the world is truly a dream for itself! Without a boat you won't be able to see it! But what this boat trips makes so amazing is the crew! Once you come on board they might be shy in the beginning but will make you feel welcome and home from the first moment. Not only that they are looking that you sit comfortable all the time, they will prepare fresh and delicious food what the buy from local markets. They know the best spots and most beautiful islands and will bring you to places where you get this "Robinson Cruisoe feeling". Every day you visit 3 to 5 spots for snorkeling, enjoying a beach or exploring a little island. The accommodation we had was good and simple. We slept in bungalows and tents right at the beach. Sheets and towels were always provided and sometimes towels. After a while you feel like a family on board. We loved living the boat life didn't wanna leave! If you doubt take a longer than shorter trip! For any questions please message me.
Sarah Uhan
Sarah Uhan
2019-01-31
recommends
All in all it was a really great experience. It's a once in a lifetime thing to do and you won't get more authentic and basic Philippino experiences anywhere else. We were not so lucky with the wind and waves so we couldn't do all the stops we wanted to unfortunately. So be aware that especially the months from January to May can be very rough on water. But we still saw some great places Benji took us. Benji and his family was very nice and they did everything they could. The food was amazing - always freshly made in authentic Philippino style and way too much for the 2 of us. Make sure to bring enough cash - many of the islands cost extra (entrance fee) and be aware that any kind of accommodation and food (200php per meal) is not included in the boat fee. Also the deposit and commission fee for the agency are a little over the top, especially since the crew does not get any of it. The costs all in all are rather high for phillipino circumstances especially given the basicness of it all. However if you think about that all 5 boat people (in our case) live off of the boat fee alone, you spent the money willingly. Be aware though that accommodation and sanataries are very basic if even existant. So you gotta have the right mindset. Bring tissue, sanatiszer and earplugs to get some better sleep. Another feedback I have concerning the size of the boat. I don't think it is sufficient for more than 4 people. If the weather is like it was these days, you always have to sit on top and it was already a little squeezy with us 2 and 5 boat people. So I guess 4 guests can be fine but more than that won't have the space. There is different boat sizes but make sure to talk about that with Karel in advance. Other than that it was really worth it and we got to see so many great beaches and reefs which we could have never been able to visit without the tour.
Eric Liu
Eric Liu
2018-03-15
recommends
It was scary to book a 5 day trip with no places to stay confirmed or a strong itinerary. And in the Philippines, communication is difficult. But that is part of changing mindsets to a rural island mindset. In the end, everything worked out. We had some tough moments with bugs. But we also had some amazingly beautiful secluded beaches, the best snorkeling in the world, relaxing on the beach, and freshly made food on the boat while docked at beautiful places (better than being on land). Note, we went with Benji. Recommendations: - you must get a local SIM when you arrive to make sure pickup and everything works out - some islands have bugs - use bug spray! Pros: - a fraction of the cost - away from the crowds - can customize what you want - just ask! - a truly local experience - saw a REAL rural town Cons: - locals aren't really polished tour guides - if you don't ask for it, you won't get it, need to be pretty proactive - pretty simple "activities" - no frills like bathrooms or kayaks etc.
Ángela Deand
Ángela Deand
2017-04-26
recommends
We can't be more grateful to have had the opportunity of experience the peace in Patoyo Kitesurfing Camping! Spending two weeks in Dimancal Island, gave us the chance to experiment the rural and traditional way of life, in touch with the nature and people. We have learnt how to cook with fire, how to open a coconut and how to survive in an environment where for a time we forget about unnecessary needs, just to focus on enjoy the small details and pleasures of life. Mentioning too the amazing snorkeling and beautiful islands around this place, which make it unique​ and special. It is a lovely option if you are running away from tourists and overcrowded places in the Philippines. You will find yourself in the middle of virgin beaches and nature, surrounding​ by charming people. We will definitely come back!
Caroline Danielle
Caroline Danielle
2017-02-13
recommends
We haven't done a Tao tour, but I would suspect that this is a cheaper version of the same thing. Our boat operator (Benji) and the entire crew were were fun, friendly and made an effort to ensure we had a good time. If you get a large group of people together it can be a really inexpensive alternative to other Coron-El Nino and vice versa island hopping tours. The food was good, but more expensive than as advertised by Karl. The price quote we got was 100 php a meal, but the boat charged us 200. Since the food was good we didn't mind the extra expense, but it is important to keep in mind if you're on a budget. Definitely plan for some incidental spending. Our boat did have some mechanical issues and as a result we ended up being stuck in the same place for longer than we wanted to be. That being said, little could have been done about it and the trip was fun nonetheless.
Hauk Are Fjeld
Hauk Are Fjeld
2017-01-01
recommends
If you believe that doing the touristic tours in El Nido and going to "The hidden beach" takes you off the beaten path, you are wrong. There are lots of beautiful places in Palawan, but few of these places are without any other tourists. If you want to spend some extra effort on getting away from the tourist places, and don't mind a little "primitive" living, Island Hopping in the Philippines is definitely something you should check out
Arnold Cabiguen
Arnold Cabiguen
2015-05-08
recommends
The snorkeling in this area is phenomenal. Clearest waters in the world. I guess it's because there is relatively such lower tourist traffic through here, and the locals really protect the reefs!
Karel Kosman
Karel Kosman
2015-05-08
recommends
Love it so much, just had to say it twice!

A wife and a mother of one with a small family business operation. We love to travel so we know what you need. In our family, I’m the one who loves organizing romantic wedding proposals and El Nido and Coron private day tours.

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Barracuda Lake
Average rating:  
 1 reviews
 by Karel
Great dive!

Quite the experience, especially with the bizarre temperature change!

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