Island Hopping in Coron
Coron, on the northern tip of Palawan's Busuanga island, is a different beast from El Nido: deeper lagoons, dramatic limestone cliffs and one of the world's best WWII shipwreck-diving sites. The Kayangan Lake viewpoint is the most-photographed scene in the Philippines, and the surrounding Twin Lagoon and Barracuda Lake are equally surreal.
What to see and do
Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Siete Pecados Reef and Barracuda Lake are the headline stops. Divers should add the Akitsushima, Irako and Olympia Maru shipwrecks (40m depth, advanced certification recommended). Multi-day expeditions to El Nido by traditional boat take 3–4 days and stop at uninhabited islands.
Best months to visit
November through April is the dry, calm season. December–February offer the most reliable visibility for diving. Skip July–September: the rainy season often closes the lakes due to ranger advisories.
How to get there
Fly into Busuanga (USU) airport from Manila, Cebu or Clark. Vans transfer you to Coron Town in about 45 minutes. All boat tours leave from Coron port.
Local operators in Coron
Compare and contact local crews and captains directly.
Coron Tour Package (CMT)
Island hopping¿Mismo grupo que CMT El Nido? Verificar.
Coron Island Hopping
Island hoppingOperator of trusted boat tours in Coron.
Frequently asked questions
Coron or El Nido — which one should I pick?
El Nido is best for lagoons and beaches; Coron is best for diving wrecks and crystal-clear lakes. If you have 4+ days, combine them with a multi-day expedition boat.
How much does a private boat cost in Coron?
Private pumpboats run USD 27–41 for a full day with up to 6 guests; premium speedboats or yacht charters go USD 49–81 per person.
Is the Coron Ultimate Tour worth it?
Yes if it's your first visit — it bundles Kayangan, Twin Lagoon and Siete Pecados. Returning travelers usually prefer a private charter that swaps in less-crowded spots like Malcapuya or Banana Island.
Do shipwreck dives require certification?
Most Coron wrecks sit between 18 and 40 metres. Open Water certification covers the shallower wrecks; Advanced Open Water is recommended for the Irako and Akitsushima.