Wondering where to stay in Coron Palawan?
This ultimate guide for your Coron adventure shows you what you need to know before traveling to Coron in Palawan. Don’t miss it!
Where is Coron in the Philippines?
Coron comprises several beautiful islands and islets in the Calamianes group. It’s located between the island of Busuanga in the north and the mainland of Palawan in the south. The city of Coron, the main hub for tourism and transportation, is located on Busuanga Island. From here, travelers have easy access to the breathtaking natural attractions such as towering limestone cliffs, crystal clear waters and famous dive sites that Coron is famous for.
If you are wondering whether you would rather travel to El Nido or Coron, we recommend that you simply combine both destinations. It’s great even if you don’t have much time! How far Coron is from El Nido depends on the route you take. The distance is around 160 to 200 kilometers.
Read also: How to Get to El Nido Palawan.
How to get to Coron in Palawan?
There are many ways to get to Coron in Palawan. Choose one of the following options that best suits your budget and schedule.
By Air: The easiest way to travel to Coron is by flying to Busuanga Airport, also known as Francisco B. Reyes Airport, with the airport code USU. The airport for Coron in Palawan is located on Busuanga Island, near Coron Town. Several airlines operate flights to Busuanga Airport from major cities in the Philippines, such as Manila and Cebu. The flight duration from Manila to Busuanga is about 1 to 1.5 hour. If you are lucky you may also find flights from Clark or Puerto Princessa.
By Ferry: Another option is to arrive in Coron by sea. There are ferries available from Manila, El Nido and Puerto Princesa. The ferry company 2go operates a number of passenger ferries in the Philippines and connects Coron with Manila. The journey from Manila to Coron takes around 13 hours. The ferry from Puerto Princesa to Coron operated by 2go also takes 13 hours. There are currently four ferry companies offering trips from El Nido to Coron. The journey by fast ferry takes around five hours.
By Island Hopping Tour: Another option that we highly recommend is to go on an island hopping tour through Linapacan lasting several days. This is definitely the most adventurous way to get from El Nido to Coron. There are several tour operators and you can choose between 3 or 4-day tours. You will embark on a paradisiacal journey through the natural beauty of Linapacan.
Where to stay in Coron?
You’ll find lots of accommodations and hotels in Coron to fit your budget and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels in Coron:
Coron Town is the tourist center of the area and has a lot of accommodations. Hotels and guesthouses in Coron Town range from budget hostels to mid range hotels and boutique resorts. Coron Town is awesome. You have access to restaurants, stores, travel agencies and transportation hubs.
For a high end waterfront experience, stay at the Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel. This hotel has luxurious rooms, great views and premium amenities like a bayfront infinity pool and a Skydeck Jacuzzi Lounge. Perfect for events and has a lively vibe.
For an exclusive and private getaway, private island resorts offer seclusion, beauty and exclusive amenities making them perfect for romantic getaways and eco-tourism. For a more private and luxurious experience, stay at one of the resorts on nearby islands like Bulalacao Island. The resorts have beachfront locations and a peaceful atmosphere away from the noise of Coron Town.
For scuba diving enthusiasts, Sangat Island Dive Resort is the ultimate destination. Located on Sangat Island, the resort has access to world class dive sites including 11 World War II wrecks and colorful marine life. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for divers.
On Coron Island there are plenty of houseboats to experience the beauty of the surrounding islands and waters. Wake up to stunning views of the sunrise over the sea and enjoy peaceful evenings under the stars. Houseboats offer a level of privacy and exclusivity that you may not get in traditional land based accommodations, perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations or group retreats.
For eco travelers or looking for something different, there are eco-lodges and glamping sites in Coron. These have sustainable practices, nature immersion and unique accommodations like tents or native inspired cottages.
Coron Town Accommodations
Coron Town offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget-friendly options, there’s something for everyone in Coron Town.
For those seeking a luxurious stay, Corto del Mar Hotel is a top choice. This hotel offers elegant rooms, a beautiful swimming pool, and stunning views of the surrounding islands. Another excellent option is Coron Westown Resort, known for its spacious rooms and excellent amenities.
If you’re looking for a budget hotel, you could opt for The Ridge Coron in Coron Town Proper, which offers basic amenities and a convenient location. Coron Bay Area Lodge is also a budget-friendly option, providing clean and comfortable rooms in a central location without breaking the bank.
Busuanga Resorts
There are several resorts spread across Busuanga Island that offer a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of Coron Town. Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget accommodations, Busuanga Island has something to offer.
For a luxurious experience, consider staying at Two Seasons Coron Island Resort. This resort offers stunning villas with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. El Rio y Mar Resort is also an ideal choice for accommodation surrounded by pristine beaches.
Mid-range travelers will find comfort and value at Busuanga Bay Lodge. This resort offers well-appointed rooms, a dive center, and easy access to island hopping tours.
Budget travelers can enjoy a comfortable stay at Sanctuaria Treehouses Busuanga. This resort offers basic amenities, a remote location surrounded by lush greenery and absolutely beautiful views.
How many days should you stay in Coron?
The ideal number of days to spend in Coron depends on your interests, budget, and time. However, we recommend spending around 3 to 5 days in Coron. That allows enough time to explore the highlights of the area and experience its natural beauty and attractions.
Best Time To Visit Coron in Palawan
The best time to visit Coron in Palawan is during the dry season between November and May. During this period, you can expect sunny weather, calm seas, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. The warm temperatures ranging from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius during peak season attract many tourist.
The period from June to October is wet season. During this time, the weather in Coron is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity and tropical storms. Traveling during the wet season offers the advantage of fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates, and the opportunity to witness lush green landscapes.
Things to Do in Coron
Coron is a paradise for adventure-seekers and nature lovers. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your stay in this beautiful destination.
One of the most popular activities in Coron is island hopping tours. These tours take you to the stunning islands and lagoons of Coron, where you can swim, snorkel, and relax in the sun. Some popular island hopping tours include visits to Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake, and Twin Lagoons.
For those who love the underwater world, snorkeling and diving are must-do activities. Coron is home to vibrant marine life and coral reefs, making it a top destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. You can explore the famous shipwrecks and colorful coral gardens with a guided tour from a local dive center.
If you prefer to stay on land, hiking and trekking are great ways to explore the lush forests and scenic trails of Coron. Guided hikes and treks are available, offering a chance to discover the natural beauty of the area.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine by visiting the local markets. Here, you can try delicious street food and shop for unique souvenirs to take home.
Island Hopping Tours in Coron
Island hopping tours are a must-do activity in Coron. These tours take you to the stunning islands and lagoons of Coron, where you can swim, snorkel, and relax in the sun. There are several types of island hopping tours to choose from, each offering a unique experience.
The Ultimate Tour is a popular choice, taking you to several iconic destinations, including Kayangan Lake, and Twin Lagoons. This tour is perfect for those who want to see the best of Coron in just a few days.
For a more personalized experience, consider booking a Private Boat Tour. This tour allows you to explore the islands of Coron at your own pace and schedule. You can choose your destinations and spend as much time as you like at each stop.
If you’re traveling on a budget, a Group Tour is a great option. This type of tour allows you to explore the islands of Coron with a group of people, making it a fun and affordable way to see the sights.
Whether you opt for an island hopping experience or explore the island on foot, it will be an unforgettable experience that you should not miss out on.
Cash & ATM
While some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Coron may accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash for convenience. ATMs are primarily located in Coron Town. You can find them near the town plaza, along the main road, and in commercial areas. ATMs in Coron typically have withdrawal limits per transaction. Although there are many ATM’s in Coron, they are often empty, especially in the peak season.
The majority of transactions here are made in cash. We have rarely seen the option of paying by card. Restaurants and cafes as well as tours are usually paid for in cash. So make sure you have enough money with you to save yourself unnecessary stress.
Internet & Electricity
Internet: The internet connection in Coron is good. Many cafes, restaurants, and accommodations in Coron Town or nearby offer free WIFI, so you always have a fast connection. Local SIM cards can be purchased at the airports as well as directly in the town. Additionally, it’s a good idea to download offline maps, entertainment, and essential travel apps before your trip to minimize reliance on internet connectivity while in Coron.
Electricity: Coron Town and most tourist accommodations have access to electricity, but power outages are not uncommon, especially in more remote areas or during inclement weather. However, if power outages occur, they usually do not last long.
How safe is Coron in Palawan?
Coron is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. The only thing that can happen in crowded places is pickpockets. So it’s better to leave expensive items in your accommodation or hide them well. However, violent attacks are very rare. If you take care of your belongings and act careful, you have nothing to fear in Coron.
Of course, there are also natural dangers in Coron. Typhoons and earthquakes in particular can occur. It is important to inform yourself about potential dangers and to check the weather forecasts regularly. In emergencies, stay calm and follow the official instructions.
There are a few pharmacies in Coron where you should be able to get the basics. If you need special medicines, bring them with you.
