15 best things to do in Coron

Coron is a well-loved destination in northern Palawan, but the name actually refers to a few different places. Coron Island is the dramatic, mostly uninhabited limestone island you’ll see in most photos. It’s home to sacred lakes like Kayangan, which are only accessible by boat. Coron Town, where most travelers stay, is across the channel on Busuanga Island. That’s your jumping-off point for boat tours, dives, and inland trips. Here are the best things to do in Coron and the fantastic surrounding islands and dive sites.  
 

1. Barracuda Lake and Skeleton Wreck

Barracuda Lake is tucked into the limestone cliffs of Coron Island. It’s not your typical dive—it’s known for a strange thermocline where warm freshwater meets cooler saltwater.

As you descend, the water goes from clear to slightly distorted, like diving through heat waves. People call it otherworldly, but it’s mostly just a weird and interesting change in temperature and visibility. The lake’s named after a giant barracuda that locals used to talk about, though these days you’re more likely to see a few small fish and shrimp.

Nearby, Skeleton Wreck is easy to reach and doesn’t require a scuba license. This sunken WWII-era Japanese ship rests in shallow water—about 16 feet (5 meters) deep—so it’s ideal for snorkelers. 

The coral-covered frame has become a hangout for tropical fish, and because it’s so close to the surface, you get good light and visibility. It’s a quick, low-effort dive if you’re curious about wrecks but don’t want to commit to deeper dives.
 

2. Pass Island

Pass Island sits at the far northern edge of the Calamianes group, and it really does feel like you’re stepping off the grid. It’s a small, teardrop-shaped island known for a shifting sandbar that moves with the tides—sometimes forming a long stretch of sand, sometimes nearly disappearing under the water. This is often regarded as one of the best beaches in the Philippines.

Because it’s located between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea, the waves come in from different directions, creating a calm, rhythmic movement all around the shoreline. You can walk around the entire island in less than 30 minutes, passing different beaches and a few quiet coves. The water’s usually clear, and the coral reefs just offshore are in good shape—plenty to see if you're snorkeling.

It takes some time to get here, usually by boat from Coron town, but that’s part of why it feels so peaceful. A lot of people end up having the beach mostly to themselves, especially on weekdays
 

3. Conception Falls

Conception Falls is tucked inland on Busuanga Island (one of the best islands of the Philippines), and is a freshwater waterfall that flows into a series of natural pools, surrounded by jungle and volcanic rock.

The water is extremely clear—so much so that deep pools can look deceptively shallow. The minerals in the water give it a bluish-green tint, especially when the sun hits just right. The main pool is deep enough to jump into from the surrounding rocks, and there are smaller pools nearby if you're just looking to cool off and relax.

The trail to the falls isn’t too difficult, though it can be a little muddy depending on the season. It’s a short but satisfying walk, with a chance to see birds and butterflies along the way. 
 

4. Mount Tapyas

Mount Tapyas is one of the first things you’ll notice when you get to Coron town. It’s the hill with the big white cross on top, easy to spot from almost anywhere. At around 690 feet (210 meters), it’s not especially high, but climbing the 700-plus steps to the top still gives your legs a workout.

There are a few resting areas along the way where you can catch your breath and take in the view. The higher you go, the more of Coron Bay and the surrounding islands come into view. Once you reach the summit, you get a full 360-degree look at the landscape—including the town, the sea, and the distant mountain range.

It’s not a technical hike, and people of all ages make the climb, though it does take some effort. It's easily one of the best things to do in Palawan. 
 

5. Malcapuya Island

Malcapuya Island is known for its long, quiet beach and clear water. It’s got that classic white sand that’s easy on your feet, and the shoreline gently slopes into the sea. It’s a great place to swim or just float around.

What makes Malcapuya different is how undeveloped it feels. There are a few coconut trees, some shaded areas, and a short trail inland that leads to a viewpoint. You can see across the Calamian Islands.

Just off the shore, there are coral areas that are easy to reach with a mask and snorkel. You don’t have to go far to see some fish. Most people come here for a slow-paced beach day—reading, swimming, relaxing under the trees. It’s a bit out of the way compared to other beaches, so it doesn’t get too busy.
 

6. Coron Public Market

The public market in Coron is a great way to see what daily life is like. It gets going before sunrise, when fishermen bring in their catch and vendors start setting up. You’ll see a huge variety—fish, squid, crabs, even some less familiar marine creatures.

There’s a wet section with seafood and a dry section with fruits, vegetables, and everyday items. It’s lively and packed with color and movement. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s worth just walking through.

If you’re staying somewhere that lets you cook—you can pick out fresh ingredients and have a meal made from what you find (see our guide to accommodations in the Philippines). Early morning is the best time to go, around 5–7 AM, when the market’s at its busiest and most interesting.
 

7. Twin Lagoons

Twin Lagoons are one of those places that look exactly how you imagine Coron. Two blue lagoons are divided by a limestone wall—you can swim through a narrow gap at low tide or climb a ladder over the rocks at high tide. 

Boats pull into the outer lagoon, and from there you can swim into the inner one, which feels more enclosed and quiet. There’s a cool natural effect here where saltwater mixes with freshwater. It creates visible layers in the water that shimmer when the light hits, kind of like underwater heat ripples. It’s a simple swim, shallow in parts and deeper in others, so you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy it. It's easily one of the best things to do in the Philippines.
 

8. Lualhati Park

Lualhati Park is Coron town’s main waterfront area — a calm, open space that’s nice for taking a break from tours and boat trips. It runs along Coron Bay and has paved walkways, gardens, and shaded areas.

It’s not a major tourist destination, but that’s kind of the point. You’ll see families gathering, kids playing, and food stalls setting up near the pier. The view across the water is especially nice at sunset, with the limestone islands in the distance.

The nearby municipal pier is usually busy with fishing boats and water taxis coming and going. If you’re curious about daily life in Coron, this is a good place to see it at a slower pace.
 

9. Smith Beach

Smith Beach is a small strip of white sand tucked between limestone formations, usually included as a stop on island-hopping trips. It’s quiet and easy to swim in—the water is shallow with a gentle slope, so it works well for families or anyone looking for a relaxing swim.

There’s decent snorkeling close to shore. You’ll see coral and small fish without needing to go far out. Most tours stop here around lunchtime, and there are a few simple huts where you can eat in the shade.

It’s not a huge beach, but it’s peaceful, and the surroundings are pretty dramatic — white sand, clear water, and tall cliffs right behind you.

10. Kayangan Lake

Kayangan Lake is one of the most visited inland lakes around Coron. You’ll reach it by boat, then hike up a set of stone steps — about a 10–15 minute climb — followed by a short walk down to the lake itself. On the way up, there’s a lookout point with a well-known view of Coron Bay. That photo often gets mistaken for the lake itself.

The lake is calm and incredibly clear. It’s about 70% freshwater and 30% saltwater, which makes for good visibility — you can often see as far as 30 feet (10 meters) below the surface. The surrounding limestone cliffs give it a quiet, enclosed feeling.

Kayangan Lake is also significant to the local Tagbanwa community. It’s one of thirteen lakes they consider sacred, and it was only opened to visitors after traditional permissions were granted.

You’ll need to wear a life vest to swim, and while you won’t see much marine life, the underwater rock formations are interesting, and the water is refreshing. Try to go early in the morning or later in the day — not just to avoid crowds, but to see how the light changes the look of the water and cliffs.
 

11. Lusong Gunboat wreck

If you're new to wrecks, the Lusong Gunboat is a good one to start with. It’s a Japanese patrol boat that sank during WWII, and it’s shallow enough that you can see parts of it from above the surface, especially at low tide. No need for dive gear—just snorkel and float over it.

The wreck is now mostly covered in coral, and you’ll see fish weaving in and out of the structure. The light in the shallow water makes it easy to take decent photos, and the nearby reef adds more to explore if you’ve got time. It’s calm, easy to reach, and gives you a good sense of Coron's wreck-diving scene without going too deep. It's a great addition to any Palawan itinerary.
 

12. Maquinit Hot Springs

Maquinit Hot Springs is about a 30-minute ride from Coron town, set near the coast and surrounded by mangroves. It's one of the few saltwater hot springs you’ll come across. The water stays consistently hot—around 102–104°F (38–41°C)—thanks to underground volcanic activity heating the seawater before it reaches the surface.

The setup is simple but striking. Stone-lined pools sit next to the sea, with forest surrounding. It’s easy to spend an hour here, especially after a long day out on the water or a hike up Mount Tapyas. 

Most people head here in the late afternoon or early evening when it’s cooler out. There’s a chance to catch the sunset, but it also just feels better soaking when the sun isn’t blazing. Bring water and a towel—there aren't many facilities around, and the ground can be slippery in places. See our Philippines travel tips for more advice.
 

13. Siete Pecados Marine Park

Just off the coast from Coron town, Siete Pecados is a cluster of seven rocky islets with coral reefs that are still in good shape, thanks to local conservation efforts. The name means “Seven Sins,” based on a story about seven sisters who disobeyed their parents and drowned—legend says the islets are what’s left of them.

The marine life here is worth the short boat ride. You’ll likely see reef fish in all shapes and colors, soft and hard corals, and sometimes sea turtles or barracuda if you’re lucky. The reef is shallow, so even if you’re just snorkeling, there’s plenty to see without diving deep.

Because it’s a protected marine area, there are a few basic rules: no standing on or touching the coral, no feeding the fish, and no littering. The current can sometimes pick up in the afternoon, so earlier tends to be a calmer time to visit. See our Philippines travel health tips for more safety advice.
 

14. Motorbiking around Busuanga

If you’re comfortable on two wheels, renting a motorbike is a great way to explore Busuanga beyond the usual island tours. Rentals run about 400–800 pesos per day, and they give you a lot more freedom to check out places that aren’t in the typical itineraries.

Once you leave Coron town, the roads open up pretty quickly. You’ll pass rice fields, fishing villages, and plenty of empty stretches where it’s just you and the landscape. The north part of the island feels especially untouched, with quiet beaches and backroads that don’t see many visitors.

The roads are a mix—some are newly paved, others are bumpy and unsealed, especially after rain. So it’s a good idea to go slow and be cautious, especially around bends or downhill. Bring plenty of water and some snacks, and if you’re planning to stay out all day, maybe a swimsuit and towel too. 
 

15. Cathedral Cave

Cathedral Cave is tucked beneath the limestone cliffs of Coron Island and gets its name from the massive chamber inside—it’s about 65 feet (20 meters) high, with jagged stalactites that look like stone columns hanging from the ceiling. What makes it stand out is the shaft of sunlight that shines through a hole above, lighting up the water inside. When the timing lines up, it creates this dramatic natural glow that cuts through the dark.

You’ll need to go by boat, and it’s only accessible by diving. There’s a tunnel entrance around 20–26 feet (6–8 meters) down that leads into the main chamber. Once you’re inside, the space opens up dramatically, with shifting light and shadows that change depending on the time of day.

It’s not packed with marine life, but you might see lobsters, groupers, cowries, and the occasional moray eel. This dive is really more about the cave itself. It’s especially appealing if you’ve already done a few reef or wreck dives and are looking for something a bit different.