During World War II, Coron Island was a strategic location for the Japanese military. The island’s natural harbor was used as a base for the Japanese navy, and the surrounding waters were used as a supply route for their troops in the region. In September 1944, the United States launched a major offensive against the Japanese forces in the Philippines.
The Battle of Coron Bay, also known as the Second Battle of the Philippine Sea, took place on September 24, 1944. It was a naval battle between the United States and Japan, which resulted in a decisive victory for the United States. The Japanese lost most of their ships and aircraft in the battle, effectively ending their naval power in the region.
After the war, Coron Island remained relatively unknown and undeveloped for many years. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the island started to gain recognition as a tourist destination. In the early 1980s, a group of divers discovered the sunken Japanese warships in Coron Bay, which sparked interest among diving enthusiasts from around the world.
Today, Coron Island is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. Visitors can enjoy activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. The island also has a rich cultural heritage, with many of the local communities still practicing traditional ways of life. Overall, Coron Island is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and history.
What To Do In Coron Island
Coron Island in Palawan is a paradise for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top things to do on Coron Island:
Island hopping
Coron Island is surrounded by numerous other islands, each with its own unique beauty. Island hopping tours are popular activities, where you can explore hidden lagoons, stunning beaches, and snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters. Some of the popular destinations include Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Siete Pecados, and Malcapuya Island.
Snorkeling and diving
Coron Island is known for its underwater beauty, with numerous coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore. You can take a snorkeling or diving tour to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures. Some of the popular dive sites include the World War II shipwrecks, Barracuda Lake, and Skeleton Wreck.
Relax on the beaches
Coron Island has many picturesque beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. Some of the popular beaches include Banol Beach, Atwayan Beach, and Malcapuya Beach.
Trekking and hiking
The island has several hiking and trekking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The most popular trek is the Mt. Tapyas trek, which offers a stunning view of Coron Town and the bay.
Kayaking and paddleboarding
If you want to explore the island’s waterways at a leisurely pace, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the bays and lagoons.
Experience the local culture
Coron Island is also home to several indigenous communities, where you can learn about their traditional way of life and culture. You can visit the Tagbanua Tribes or the Calamian Islands Cultural Village to experience the local way of life.
Overall, Coron Island offers a range of activities that cater to all types of travelers, whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation.
Where To Stay in Coron Island
Coron Island in Palawan, Philippines offers a range of tourist accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some options:
- Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa
- Club Paradise Palawan
- Coron Westown Resort
- Coron Soleil Garden Resort
- Sophia’s Garden Resort
- Darayonan Lodge
- Hop Hostel
This luxury resort is located on the beach and features beautiful villas and a variety of amenities such as a spa, restaurant, and infinity pool.
Another luxury resort on Coron Island, Club Paradise offers beachfront rooms, a swimming pool, a spa, and several dining options.
A mid-range resort with comfortable rooms and a swimming pool. It also has an on-site restaurant and bar.
This hotel is located in the town of Coron and offers comfortable rooms and a swimming pool. It also has an on-site restaurant.
A boutique hotel with beautiful gardens and comfortable rooms. It is located in the town of Coron and has an on-site restaurant.
A budget-friendly option located in the town of Coron. It offers simple rooms and an on-site restaurant.
A popular backpacker hostel located in the town of Coron. It offers dormitory-style rooms and a communal kitchen.
These are just a few of the many options for tourist accommodations in Coron Island, Palawan. It’s always a good idea to research and compare prices and amenities to find the best option for your budget and travel preferences.
How To Get There
There are few options to get to Coron Island. These are the following:
Fly to Busuanga Airport: Coron Island can be reached by taking a flight to Busuanga Airport. There are direct flights available from Manila, Cebu, and other major cities in the Philippines. From the airport, you can take a van or tricycle to the town of Coron, which is about 30 minutes away. For a more comfortable, convenient and flexible travel you can book a car rental in Palawan ahead of time and pickup the car when you get to the airport.
Take a ferry: Once you reach Coron town, you can take a ferry to Coron Island. There are several ferry companies that operate regular services between the town and the island. The journey takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on the weather and sea conditions.
Hire a private boat: Alternatively, you can hire a private boat to take you to Coron Island. This is a more expensive option but allows you to have more control over your schedule and itinerary. You can negotiate with local boat operators in Coron town to find the best price.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Coron Island in Palawan is generally from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. These months are the peak tourist season, and the sea is usually calm, making it ideal for island hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
However, it’s worth noting that the Philippines is a tropical country, and sudden rains or typhoons can occur at any time of the year, so it’s best to always check the weather forecast before your trip.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, the low season from June to October can be a good time to visit as the prices are lower, and the landscapes are more lush and green. However, there’s a higher chance of rainfall and rough seas during these months, which may affect your itinerary.
The best time to visit Coron Island really depends on your preferences and travel plans.
Conclusion
Coron Island in Palawan is a true paradise for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure. With its crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, hidden lagoons, and limestone cliffs, Coron Island offers a unique blend of underwater and overwater experiences that are truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re a scuba diving enthusiast, an island-hopping adventurer, or simply looking to relax on a pristine beach, Coron Island has something for everyone. The best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny, but the low season from June to October can also be a good option for budget travelers.
Overall, Coron Island among the top 10 tourist destinations in Palawan is a must-visit destination in the Philippines and a true gem of Southeast Asia.