The Ultimate Coron Travel Guide: Your Gateway to Paradise

Getting to Coron

By Air (Fastest & Most Popular)

Manila ↔ Busuanga (MNL ⇄ USU)

• Airlines operating: Cebu Pacific (Cebgo), Philippine Airlines (including Cebgo-operated flights), and occasional SkyJet services
• Frequency: Multiple direct flights daily (commonly 4–6 non-stop departures per day overall, but exact number depends on the day of week)
• Typical schedule windows: early morning (around 06:00–08:00), mid-morning/noon, early afternoon, late afternoon/evening — flight times are ~1h 10m
• Sample flight numbers: DG6043 / DG6045 / DG6051 / PR2961 / PR2963 (DG = Cebgo, PR = Philippine Airlines). Always confirm on the airline site for the exact day

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Clark ↔ Busuanga (CRK ⇄ USU)

• Airlines operating: Philippine Airlines (including Cebgo regional services) and sometimes Cebgo direct services from Clark; SkyJet may operate seasonally
• Frequency: Fewer daily flights than Manila — often daily or several times per week depending on season. Check specific dates for availability
• Typical schedule windows: morning and mid-day departures are common; flight duration ~1 hour

Getting to Clark from Manila:

• Transfers typically take 1.5 to 2 hours. Options include:
  • Grab or taxi
  • P2P buses from NAIA Terminal 3: roughly 2 to 2.5 hours

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Other flight options:

• Arriving via Cebu? You can fly direct to Busuanga using Cebu Pacific, Cebgo, Sunlight Air, or Philippine Airlines
• Sunlight Air also operates to/from Busuanga, though its hub has shifted to Clark

AirSWIFT (El Nido connection)

• AirSWIFT (acquired by Cebu Pacific in late 2024) continues to serve both Busuanga and El Nido, offering regional connections from Manila, Cebu, and other key hubs

Once you land in Busuanga, expect a 45-minute to 1-hour van/minibus ride to Coron Town.

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By Sea (Ferries & Cruises)

Manila ↔ Coron (2GO Travel)

• Weekly departures: Fridays from Manila; return on Sundays
• Travel time: approx. 11–13 hours
• Fares: range from ₱800–1,200 (budget seating) up to ₱1,444+ for higher tiers

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Puerto Princesa ↔ Coron (2GO Travel)

• Weekly trips: taking about 13 hours
• Passenger fares: range between ₱2,904–₱3,292 depending on accommodations

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Best Time to Visit Coron

Coron is a year-round destination, but your experience will vary depending on the season. The dry months (October–May) remain the most popular for travelers, while the wet months (June–September) offer quieter, budget-friendly escapes.

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Dry Season (October – May)

• ☀️ Ideal weather: Sunny days, calm seas, and excellent visibility for snorkeling, freediving, and scuba diving
• 👥 Peak tourism: December to April draws the biggest crowds, especially during Christmas, New Year, and Holy Week
• 💸 Costs: Expect higher accommodation rates and tours that book out quickly—advance reservations are recommended

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Rainy Season (June – September)

• 🌦️ Occasional showers: Short tropical rains, with July–September seeing the heaviest downpours and occasional typhoons
• 🌊 Sea conditions: Choppier waters may affect boat tours; some trips can be canceled for safety
• 🌿 Tranquil & budget-friendly: Fewer tourists, greener landscapes, and excellent hotel and tour discounts
• 📷 Great for photography: Dramatic skies and lush backdrops make for beautiful shots

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Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options (₱500–₱2,000/night)

• Angel Gabriel Homestay – A cozy, family-run homestay offering simple rooms and a welcoming atmosphere
• Balaibinda Lodge – Budget-friendly lodge with basic amenities, ideal for short stays
• Coron Bancuang Mansion – Offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and an indoor pool, providing excellent value
• Filcan Backpackers Hotel – A no-frills option perfect for solo travelers or groups on a tight budget
• Dayon Hostel – A social hostel with dorms and private rooms, great for meeting fellow travelers
• Jazmine's Place – A homely guesthouse offering clean rooms and a friendly environment
• Jim's Castle Inn – Simple and affordable, suitable for travelers looking for basic accommodations
• Luis Bay Traveller Lodge – Provides basic amenities with a central location, ideal for budget-conscious travelers
• Mackys Hidden Inn – A hidden gem offering basic rooms at a budget-friendly price
• R2R Bayview Inn – Offers simple rooms with views, perfect for travelers seeking affordability

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Mid-Range Choices (₱2,000–₱5,000/night)

• Acacia Garden Inn – A boutique inn featuring a pool and garden ambiance, offering comfort at a reasonable price
• Charms Hotel – Modern hotel with an outdoor pool, located near key attractions in Coron
• Coron Bluewave Hotel – Contemporary hotel with an outdoor pool and restaurant, providing a relaxing stay
• Coron Gateway Hotel & Suites – Offers spacious suites with modern amenities, ideal for families or groups
• Coron Soleil Express Hotel – A stylish hotel with a pool, offering comfort and convenience
• Ocean Star Hotel – Provides modern rooms and amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay
• Vienna Hotel – A budget hotel offering basic amenities and a convenient location
• Blue Waters Inn – Charming hotel with island-inspired interiors and comfort

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Luxury Escapes (₱5,000+/night)

• Bacau Bay Resort Coron – A luxurious resort offering stunning bay views, an outdoor pool, and exceptional service
• Coron Westown Resort – Spacious resort with multiple pools and dining options, perfect for relaxation
• Corto Del Mar Hotel – Boutique hotel with Mediterranean-inspired design and personalized service
• Coron Soleil Garden Resort – Offers a serene garden setting with modern amenities and a pool
• Two Seasons Bayside Coron – Luxury hotel with beachfront access, providing a premium experience
• Tropicasa Coron – A boutique resort offering luxury villas and personalized service
• The Funny Lion Inn – Chic boutique hotel with an infinity pool and sunset views
• Tag Resort – A stylish resort offering modern facilities and a tranquil environment
• Sunz En Coron Resort Corp. – A resort offering modern facilities and a tranquil environment
• MO2 Westown Lagoon – Resort-style hotel with lagoon-style pool and nightlife access
• Zuri Resort – A resort offering modern facilities and a tranquil environment

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Getting Around Coron

Exploring Coron is simple and affordable, with options that fit every traveler's style:

Tricycles (₱15–₱150 per ride)

The main mode of local transport in Coron Town. Great for short distances (like from your hotel to the market or pier). For private hires to Maquinit Hot Springs or farther spots, negotiate a rate beforehand (₱500–₱1000 round trip).

Motorbike Rentals (₱500–₱800/day)

Perfect if you want freedom to explore beyond town. Drive to beaches like Ocam-Ocam or Concepcion Falls at your own pace. Helmets are usually provided.

Private Vans / Cars

Best for families or groups. Daily rentals start around ₱2,500–₱3,000 with a driver.

Bicycles

Eco-friendly and fun for short rides around town or to nearby viewpoints. Rentals start at ₱300–₱500/day.

Walking

Coron Town is compact and safe to explore on foot—even in the evenings. Great for café-hopping, dining, and exploring local shops.

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Scuba Diving in Coron

Coron is recognized as the Wreck Diving Capital of Southeast Asia, thanks to its 12 Japanese WWII shipwrecks—each transformed into thriving reefs.

Top Dive Centers (2025):

• Reggae Dive Center – PADI 5 Star IDC with 17+ years of experience and fun vibes
• Safety Stop Dive Shop – Friendly PADI shop offering fun dives, wrecks diving
• Umali Dive Center – Veteran-led, tech and recreational diving with top gear
• Manta Scuba Diving – PADI 5 Star Resort, reef and wrecks dives in rich marine sites

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Land & Inland Activities

Coron isn't just about the sea—there's plenty to do on land too:

• Mount Tapyas Hike – 721 steps to the giant cross for panoramic views. Best at sunrise or sunset
• Maquinit Hot Spring – One of the world's few saltwater hot springs, open until 9–10 PM
• Coron Town Walking Tour – Explore the local market, St. Augustine Church, and souvenir shops
• Calauit Safari Park – See giraffes, zebras, and endemic Palawan wildlife. Full-day trip from Coron
• Concepcion Falls – Hidden waterfall, best visited by motorbike
• Ocam-Ocam Beach – Remote, peaceful beach perfect for a DIY trip
• Cashew Nut Farms – Learn about Palawan's famous roasted cashews
• Adela's Lakdayan Beach Camp – A quiet stretch of fine sand and crystal-clear water

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Where to Eat

Top Cafés in Coron

• Epic Cafe – A go-to spot for hearty breakfast and strong coffee, loved for its cozy, all-day vibe
• Cafe Ynani (Amiras Buco Tart Haus) – A hidden gem famed for Spanish latte, oat-milk beverages, matcha lattes, and killer tarts. Quiet and perfect for working or unwinding
• Mama Cafe – Serves fresh salads, pasta, sandwiches, and coffee - think comfort food with a healthy, locally sourced twist
• Good Grind Coffee – Modern cafe with a minimalist style, serving specialty brews and light bites
• Coffee Kong – A longtime favorite in Coron, famous for strong brewed coffee and hearty breakfast options to kickstart island adventures

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Top Filipino / Local Cuisine Restaurants

These serve authentic Filipino dishes and beloved local favorites:

• Karl's BBQ – Thatched-roof charm, and a menu filled with grilled Filipino classics like sisig and mee goreng
• Santino's Grill – Famous for its melt-in-your-mouth baby back ribs and hale-hale—locals say it's a must-visit for hearty Filipino grill meals
• Boom's Eatery – Nestled near the Mt. Tapyas lookout, offering Filipino-inspired dishes and international fusion, plus a fun "boodle fight" experience
• Inasal Co. – Local favorite for authentic Filipino grilled chicken and traditional dishes

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Top International Cuisine Restaurants

For guests seeking flavors beyond Filipino fare:

• Trattoria Altrove – Coron's beloved Italian spot famous for wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and cozy ambiance. Pro tip: arrive before 6 PM to beat the line
• Poco Deli Coron – Hidden European deli offering charcuterie, sausages, gourmet sandwiches, and imported ingredients like US Angus beef
• Corto del Mar Restaurant – Mediterranean-themed dining located at the Corto del Mar resort, with a refined atmosphere and fusion menu
• Pacifico Coron – International café best known for its burgers like the Aussie Burger, Greek salads, and welcoming, relaxed setting
• Amihan Bistro – A Paris-inspired restaurant offering French and European fare with exceptional service and cuisine

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Pubs & Hang-Out Spots

Great places to relax, enjoy drinks, and soak up Coron's nightlife:

• Bambar – Local favorite bar with great atmosphere
• Kuridas Bar – Popular local hangout spot
• Sharky's Restobar – Coron's quirky bar with a shark statue entrance, live music, and Filipino bar food like crispy pata and crocodile sisig. Friendly vibe and popular with both locals and tourists
• The BrewHouse – Craft beers, live music, and unique Coronian character

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Transportation Tips

Airport Transfers (Busuanga Airport – Coron Town)

• Shared Vans/Minibuses: ₱250 per person (45 minutes to 1 hour). Available outside the arrival area
• Private Vans: ₱2,500–₱3,000 per van (up to 10 pax). Best if traveling with family or groups

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Local Transportation (Coron Town)

• Tricycles: Most common. ₱20–₱30 short rides, ₱100–₱150 for special trips
• Motorbike Rentals: ₱500–₱700/day (perfect for DIY trips to hot springs, beaches, or safari)
• Bicycle Rentals: ₱300–₱400/day for eco-friendly exploration

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Essential Packing List

Water Activities

• Freediving gears (if you do not have your own or did not travel with one, rentals are available)
• Aqua shoes (essential for sharp corals and sea urchins)
• Waterproof action camera (GoPro/DJI Osmo)
• Quick-dry swimsuits & rash guards (protect from jellyfish + sunburn)
• Dry bag (₱200–₱400 in Coron Town)

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General Travel

• Reef-safe sunscreen (coral protection is strictly encouraged)
• Insect repellent (especially for island and safari trips)
• Light, breathable clothes & swimwear cover-ups
• Poncho and Rain Jacket (June–September)
• Power bank (many tours last all day, outlets not available)
• Travel insurance (highly recommended for diving & island hopping)

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Cultural Considerations

Respect Local Communities

Coron Island is the ancestral domain of the Tagbanua people, with villages at Banuang Daan and Cabugao. Always ask permission or join accredited tours when visiting their lands and sacred sites.

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Environmental Responsibility

• Use reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen damages corals)
• Never touch or step on corals
• Follow Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you bring in

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Safety Tips

Water Safety

• Always dive/freedive with a safety buddy
• Check weather updates (especially June–September, typhoon season)
• Wear aqua shoes to avoid cuts and sea urchin stings
• Stay hydrated—bring a tumbler with you on tours, free refillable water
• Apply and reapply reef-safe sunscreen, especially during dry season

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General Safety

• Coron is considered very safe, even for solo travelers
• Keep digital and paper copies of passports and IDs
• Secure travel insurance covering water sports (diving, freediving, island hopping)
• During typhoon season, stay flexible with your itinerary—boat tours may be canceled for safety