Coron, Palawan in the Philippines has always been high on my bucketlist. So when I finally got the opportunity to visit it, I eagerly grabbed the chance. Especially after learning that we can include the coron ultimate tour in our itinerary.
So even after learning I was pregnant and my husband was hesitating, I insisted to continue with the travel plans as agreed. Who would want to miss such a promising trip?
You may be wondering, ‘Why Coron?’
Well, for those who are not familiar, Coron is known for its amazing beaches, gorgeous lakes and wonderful diving and snorkeling spots.
Like the rest of Palawan’s famous municipalities, Coron has several beautiful attractions that any nature-lover will admire.
For travelers who are planning a visit to Coron, there are several tour packages you can avail, including the Coron Town Tour, Calauit Safari Tour, Busuanga Island Tour and Island Escapade Tour among others.
With the numerous islands that you can visit and the numerous tour packages, there is absolutely something for everyone.
One of the packages that we have booked is the Coron Island Ultimate Tour from the Calamian Islands Travel & Tours. This was the same agency who took us on our Calauit Safari Tour. The Coron ultimate tour includes a visit to several of Coron Island’s gem: its lakes and beaches.
Cost for the Coron Ultimate Tour was around 1,600 Php (31.60 USD). This includes the tour guide, hotel pick up, tourist boat, permits and entrance fees for every destinations and lunch buffet.
Our booking type was a joiner package, meaning we were joined with other groups during the tour. It was much cheaper than the Exclusive Package which was about 2,500 Php.
There are also joiner tours from local agencies that costs at about 1,450 Php per head and you can book them online.
The van that will take us to the port arrived at the hotel at around 7am. We were taken at the port near the Lualhati Park where the boats for the tour were docked and waiting for its guests.
Here, guests may rent additional gear for the trip, including flippers and snorkeling gear. The guides will be more than happy to assist you with the procurement of the equipment.
I’ve mentioned before how my family and I enjoy snorkeling. So for this trip, we bought our own gear/ equipment so as not to worry about renting (ie. snorkeling gear, life vests and aqua shoes). It was more comfortable too to have our own items with us. 🙂
Once set, everyone was ready to explore the beauty that Coron has to offer!
For those who are planning to visit Coron, below were the places that we’ve visited and the activities that we had!
Table of Contents
What Islands to Visit During the Coron Ultimate Tour:
Barracuda Lake
Initially, our itinerary included the Kayangan Lake. Unfortunately, it was closed at the time of our travel due to an accident wherein two (2) tourists died after free-diving in the lake. Hence, the itinerary was changed instead to Barracuda Lake.
You need to take this 30-40 wooden steps to get to the lake.
The landing platform at the lake was pretty small. So it is advisable not to linger too long. As for us, we immediately jumped into the water to avoid the crowd and enjoy the lake. That is, after taking this picture. LOL.
Barracuda Lake is famous for its thermocline, meaning its temperature changes rapidly with depth. The lake is a favorite spot for tourists who love to dive.
I am no diver, but from what I saw from snorkeling, the landscape at the bottom was definitely unique. It added a nice touch to the gorgeous limestone cliffs that serve as its boarders. Barracuda Lake was indeed one of the most gorgeous lakes I’ve seen.
CYC Beach
CYC Beach or ‘Coron Youth Club Beach’, was our second stop for our Coron Ultimate Tour.
We were supposed to head to the Twin Lagoon, but seeing that there were already other boats going on that direction, our guide opted to proceed to the CYC Beach first and save Twin Lagoon for later.
CYC Beach has picturesque views and powdery white sand. It is perfect for those wanting to sunbath and just enjoy the crystal clear water.
As for us, we chose to enjoy the water and look for fishes and corals.
Skeleton Wreck
Dive-lovers would be happy to explore our 3rd destination of our Coron Ultimate Tour: The Skeleton Wreck.
It is a Japanese Sunken Ship that is located around 40 meters below sea level. What is astonishing, however, was how clear you can still see it from above (we were snorkeling).
We had our guide took pictures for us. He was free-diving and was a pretty good swimmer!
There were plenty of fishes here that you can feed, not to mention the corals on the wreck. Too bad we didn’t get to dive and take pictures. We did enjoy the water though. 🙂
Beach 91
After exploring the Skeleton Wreck, we headed to Beach 91 where our lunch was prepared for us.
There were cottages set-up with delicious food including seafood, meat and veggies. The view was also breathtaking and added such a great ambiance to a relaxing lunch.
Our guide was very game and took pictures for us of the island. See how breathtaking the view is!
Twin Lagoons
After our scrumptious and relaxing lunch, we then headed to the Twin Lagoons. This was indeed, for me, one of the highlights of our Ultimate Coron Tour.
We were greeted with the amazing views of Coron’s karst landscape and aquamarine waters as we were approaching the lagoons.
The Twin Lagoons are two bodies of water separated by a wall of karst. The two lagoons are separated by walls of karst and can be accessed by entering a small crevice under the rock. Two to three (2-3) persons can swim through this narrow opening at a time.
On high tides, this entry is submerged into water. Once this happens, visitors may use the wooden ladder built over the cliff.
Aside from being an alternate entry to the second lagoon, climbing the ladder will greet you with the lagoon’s amazing views.
We spent the entire time leisurely swimming in the second lagoon. The water was very deep in most parts and temperature differs on some areas. It was pretty awesome to just float away on its waters.
Siete Pecados Marine Park
Our last stop on the Coron Ultimate Tour was the Siete Pecados Marine Park. For coral-lovers and those wanting to snorkel, this is the place for you.
The name ‘Siete Pecados’ was derived from the seven islets surrounding the area. According to the legend, it is believed to be the seven daughters of a local who went swimming against their mother’s orders and drowned. The seven islets appeared after their death.
This marine park boasts of an abundant marine life, including colorful corals and fishes. Not to mention the crystal clear water that is very common in Coron.
We managed to explore a part of the marine park and it was truly amazing. This reminded me of how much I love Palawan and its gorgeous corals!
Feeding the fishes is prohibited so as not to disturb the natural food chain in the park’s ecosystem.
It took us the whole day to complete the Ultimate Coron Tour and I just loved every moment of it.
It was just too bad about the Kayangan Lake though. I’m sure it would’ve been awesome to see one of the most cleanest lake in Asia!
Maybe when I get to visit Coron again, I’d be able to visit it too!
Have you ever been to Coron? What was your favorite part of the Island’s Coron Ultimate Tour?
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I’ve heard so much about Palawan. Haven’t set foot in the Philippines yet even though I have done a lot of SEA. Definitely on my list since I love snorkeling. My husband is more of a diving person.
I’m pretty sure you and your husband will have plenty of things to do here as you both love the sea! 🙂
Beach 91 and and the Twin Lagoons look absolutely gorgeous! I think I could make a trip to Philippines just to visit these 2 sights. I had a trip to Philippines planned for this year but unfortunately had to cancel it. 🙁
It is gorgeous! Was really amazed when I got there! Too bad about your trip cancellation. 🙁 I hope you do get to visit soon! 🙂
I am absolutely dying to visit Palawan! I’m a little hesitant because it seems really hard to get there, but the crystal clear water and marine life looks 100% worth the journey!
The transportation from one island to another can really be a challenge, but once you get the hang of it, it is pretty easy. I hope you get to visit soon! The Philippines has sooo much to offer! 🙂
I haven’t been to the Philippines but your photos of the white sand beaches, blue seas and those steep cliffs certainly make it look appealing.
Indeed, the Philippines have soo much to offer! 🙂
Such a beautiful island! I love that the ocean looks so crystal clear and blue! I can’t wait to visit the Philippines one day 😀
It is really stunning! I’d love to hear YOUR stories when you do go get to visit, Rhiannon 🙂
I just love places that are naturally beautiful! Not sure about the name, but barracuda lake looks so beautiful!
Me too. It gives off such a relaxing feeling 😀
I have not been but it looks beautiful! I am not a diver either, I prefer snorkeling so it’s nice to know that you can still see alot.
There are indeed a lot of cool snorkeling spots in the Philippines 🙂
Have never been to the Philippines but your post has shown that there’s a lot to explore in your country!
Yes indeed. Hope you get to visit soon! 🙂
I loved the Philippines, haven’t been to Palawan yet but if I read your blog I can’t wait to visit!
Great to hear that you’ve already visited. Palawan should definitely be on your list once you visit again 🙂
Every destination is so gorgeous..but Barracuda Lake looks just magical! Can’t wait to travel to the Philippines! 🙂
Would love to hear some of your stories too when you do get to visit! 🙂
What a gorgeous place! The colour of that water is just stunning. Thanks for sharing – I would love to have the chance to travel here one day.
You’re welcome, Sara! 🙂
Wow so many beautiful spots to be seen! I love snorkeling so I think I need to add this to my bucket list!
I’m sure you will enjoy snorkeling here as there are great spots! 🙂
What was your date of visit? I’m flying there tomorrow but I’m quite apprehensive on the seafood since a couple of people died from red tide poisoning.
It was March this year 🙂 I’ve heard about this news too. I hope you still enjoy your visit to Coron despite this.
I love your blog Marvi! The colours of the Philippines are so vibrant and I really, really need to come and visit to experience the underwater world. Places like Barracuda Lake look amazing!
That’s soo sweet! Thank you, Lisa 🙂 We have so many amazing beaches, colorful corals and abundant marine life that I’m sure you’ll love!
I’m so sad I missed Coron while I was in The Philippines, but we just couldn’t fit it in the schedule! I can’t wait to return though – I’ll definitely be spending some quality time with many of the places you mentioned!
That’s too bad.. Where did you go when you were here? The Philippines has soo many amazing islands that you can visit, and Coron is definitely one of those! 🙂
Wow your photos are stunning! I really want to go!
Thank you, Anekha. 🙂 I hope you do get to visit! 🙂
What incredible pictures! seems like a lovely day!
It was! Thank you, Nikki 🙂
I can’t believe you can see a shipwreck from above the water. What an adventure to be able to dive to a shipwreck! Barracuda lake looks sensational. I just love the formidable rock formations that surround it. I had never heard of this region, so thank you for introducing me to it!
You’re welcome, Katelyn. I’m pretty sure diving at the shipwreck would have been divine (it was already great from our point of view as we were just snorkeling).
Palawan is very near to us for I live in Negros Occidental, but I have opportunity to visit the place or the chance to go along with my fellow school heads who spent their summer vacation there. The place indeed is full of beautiful nature spots to explore.
I definitely agree. I’m glad you enjoyed it as much as I did 🙂
We are trying to plan a trip to Coron myself and how opportune that I come upon your article. Will keep this article in mind once we have booked our flights. Thanks.
Thank you, Fred:) Glad you found this helpful. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the trip 🙂
I would love to go snorkeling in Palawan. The water looks so clean and beautiful and the fish are stunning. Looks like you had a wonderful experience there.
Yes we did. Snorkeling, especially at the Siete Pecados was indeed awesome!
Many of my travel blogger friends are also recommending Coron as one of the best places to visit in the Philippines. We have yet to arrange a trip there and I’m excited to see Nemo underwater. 🙂
It is indeed one of the best island you can visit 🙂
Did you feel safe during your stay in Coron? We are hesitant to visit related to unfortunate events with foreigners.
Yes. We felt pretty safe when we went there. I know there are a lot of news coming out, but I believe those were isolated cases. There were plenty of foreigners when we visited and they were even strolling around and enjoying themselves 🙂
I am so loving the scenery in this area of Palawan. This is on my list of places to go when I visit the P’Pines and so would love to go diving here 🙂
Glad to hear that! I’m soo jealous! When I’m a much better swimmer, maybe I’ll try some diving lessons too! 🙂
The water looks absolutely incredible here. I would love to go diving and visit the some of the different diving/swimming spots. Thanks for putting this on my bucket list.
Coron has one of the best diving spots in Asia. I’m sure you’ll love it! 🙂
I was also able to see Coron and explore the different marine life and also their mountain. Coron is really such a rich place when it comes to natural attractions and marine diversity.
Totally agree! 🙂
Wow, I’ve seen and heard so much about the Philippines, yet I have never been there before. Definitely adding it to my bucket list now after seeing these photos and reading this post!
Glad to hear that! 🙂
wow Barracuda Lake looks so wonderful! I haven’t heard about Coron yet but now I have to add it to my list what to see in Philippines when I visit one day! There is so much to do and to see! amazing beaches, those lakes and sea life!
Yes, indeed. If you love diving, you will definitely enjoy Barracuda Lake 🙂
I actually haven’t done that much research on the Philippines – so the introduction to the post was very useful 🙂 thanks for setting it up properly.
Anyway, it seems like the tour was a great deal! Each of those sites was unique – but I have to say I’m most intrigued by the shipwreck.
My very first snorkeling trip ever was in the Florida Keys, and my favorite spot on that trip was a shipwreck that would have been about 15-20m down. All that was visible was the very upper decks and main mast and its first boom, but MAN was it so cool to see! I also loved Looe key for all the sea life there – just like at Siete Pecados.
Thanks for sharing! It sounds like a great time, and I bet you’re glad you went even though you had just discovered you were pregnant! That’s awesome!
Yes I was 🙂 It was something I didn’t want to miss as I was dying to go there years ago. 🙂 I would’ve loved to explore the shipwreck too, if I just know how to dive. LOL.
Wow what a lovely place. Makes me want to hang up and visit. The under sea life seems beautiful.
Thank you!
Ooohhh I miss Coron! I’ve only been there once ages ago (2005) but based on your photos (which are amazing by the way), it hasn’t changed! I want to go back there, this time with Mahal and our baby. Hopefully sometime this year. I will refer back to this post! 🙂
Thank you 🙂 Wow! I too would love to visit again with my little one someday! Have a safe travel! 🙂
Visiting places like this makes you feel in love with nature. Very beautiful scenery.
Yes indeed 🙂 It’s like pushing a refresh button and you’ll feel great!
Wow this tour is almost like made for me! Interested in almost everything I read. I love snorkeling and would love to see the Skeleton Wreck – rarely will you see a wreck without diving!
I’m glad you enjoyed it! 🙂 Agree on the diving. 🙂
Wow, all that beautiful blue water! The Philippines is on my bucket list! Thanks for your recommendations!
You’re welcome, Kristi! Glad it inspired you! 🙂
This is the definition of paradise! Would love to do the wreck dive and explore the lush greenery!
So true! A paradise indeed! 🙂
I had not really heard alot about Coron and I am so glad you did this article! It looks beautiful!
Thank you, Paige! 🙂
The water and surroundings look so beautiful! There seems to be so much to explore in the Philippines! Thanks for the tip – sometimes it is nice to be on a tour and not have to think about the details of the day 🙂
Agree! I think its one of the best things about being on tour. It allows you to enjoy the moment! 🙂
Oh wow, those bright colors are absolutely gorgeous. I love to snorkel and spend time doing activities in the water so I’ll be adding this to my list of things to do when I visit!
I’m so happy to hear that! 🙂
Wow, the lakes, the landscape, and the environment look simply awesome. Must admit, I had never heard of this destination before. So, thank you for the introduction.
You’re welcome, Anu 🙂 It’s one of the Philippines’ most beautiful island 🙂
OMG that barracuda lake looked unbelievable! All your philippines posts make me so eager to fly over there immediately!
I’m so happy to hear that! Thank you Megan! 🙂
These pictures are amazing. looks like they are from a movie scene! Thanks for this post! it’s definitely made me want to visit soon
You’re welcome, Andrea. I’m glad you liked it 🙂
Wow Thats Natural Beauty . quite amazing and felt relaxed by seeing this beauty.
It is beautiful! I’m glad you liked it! 🙂
Nice one, as a scuba diver I have it on my list to visit. Good to see how it is over there and seems like a fun and relaxing place
Coron is indeed a layback town that keeps you relax! 🙂
We were supposed to visit Coron a year ago, but CebPac dissolved their Cebu-Busuanga direct flights. I hope they will re-establish the flight because Coron has always been in our sights. We would love scuba diving there; the wrecks there are awesome dive spots!
You can check out Philippine Airlines. They just recently offer direct flights from Cebu to Busuanga 🙂
What a paradise! this must have been such an amazing trip! Baraccuda lake looks so cool! Thanks for sharing
It was really great! 🙂
I’m ashamed to say I have only visited Manila in the Philipines. Coron looks completely the opposite to Manila! The color of the water and the lakes, especially Barracuda Lake and Skeleton Wreck. I must visit more of the Phillipines
Too bad.. Coron IS indeed the complete opposite… It has a very relaxing ambience that I’m sure you’ll love! 🙂
Aaaah, we’re going to the Philippines this winter and are going to Palawan! My wife is planning it out so maybe Coron will be on the list. If it has good scuba diving, definitely count me in! It looks so beautiful and am very excited for my visit.
Coron has plenty of diving spots. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it! 😉
Wow, this place looks incredible! Your photos of it are so beautiful! Such gorgeous lakes and beaches. This sounds like a great place to snorkel. It would be eerie but fascinating to swim around a sunken ship. I haven’t used my snorkeling gear in a really long time. Hoping to travel to the ocean again soon! What type of underwater camera do you use?
Thank you, Erin 🙂 It was a wonderful experience snorkeling here 🙂 I would love to learn how to dive too and explore sunken ships such as this! 😀 .. We use my sister’s sony underwater camera. not really familiar with the specs though. 🙁
Hello Marvi! It’s indeed an awesome post. My kids love snorkeling too! I booked a tour package with Ultimate Coron Experience (ultimatecoronexperience.com) and I want to add snorkeling to our itinerary so I want to know if you think Coron, Palawan is a good place for kids to snorkel?
Hi Lia! Thank you for dropping by! I’m sure they’ll love it! Most of the places we visited were deep. If your kids are fond of snorkeling and aren’t afraid of deep water, I’m sure they’ll love it! 🙂
You got me here I have wanted to go to Coron, but four years ago there was no plane from El Nido only boat and or go to Puerto Princessa. But now they made it easier to reach and hope next time we go home in the Philippines we can visit here. Your post made me wanna go there right now! I’ve been dreaming of this place for many years. Thanks for the helpful and detailed information it is constructive.
You’re welcome April 🙂