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Coron, located in the northern part of the Palawan archipelago in the Philippines, is a world-renowned destination for diving enthusiasts and marine adventurers. With its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and an array of sunken World War II shipwrecks, Coron offers one of the most unique and thrilling underwater experiences on the planet. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a snorkeling enthusiast, the vibrant reefs and historic shipwrecks make Coron an underwater paradise waiting to be explored. This guide will help you plan your adventure, from how to get there to what to pack, where to stay, and what makes each dive site unique.

Location

Coron is part of the Calamian Islands in northern Palawan, Philippines. The town of Coron is located on Busuanga Island, while the nearby waters host several smaller islands, reefs, and the famous shipwrecks. Coron’s underwater sites are part of the Coral Triangle, known as the global center of marine biodiversity, making it a prime location for diving and snorkeling.

How to Get There

To reach Coron, you can fly into Francisco B. Reyes Airport on Busuanga Island, which is about an hour’s flight from Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Several airlines offer daily flights from Manila and other major cities in the Philippines. Once you arrive at the airport, it’s a 30-minute drive to Coron town, where you can find accommodations and arrange diving or snorkeling tours. Alternatively, you can reach Coron by ferry from El Nido or Puerto Princesa in Palawan, although the journey is longer.

Best Time to Go / Weather

The best time to explore Coron’s shipwrecks and reefs is during the dry season, from November to May. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with calm seas and excellent visibility, perfect for diving and snorkeling. The peak diving season is between March and June, when water conditions are at their best. The wet season, from June to October, can bring rain and rougher seas, but it’s also a quieter time with fewer tourists.

What to Bring / What to Pack

When planning a diving or snorkeling trip to Coron, it’s essential to pack the right gear and supplies. Here’s a list of what to bring:

Diving Gear: Most dive shops in Coron provide equipment rentals, but if you have your own, bring your mask, snorkel, fins, and wetsuit. If you’re planning multiple dives, a dive computer and underwater camera are also recommended.
Swimwear: Bring several swimsuits, as you’ll be spending a lot of time in the water.
Rash Guard: A rash guard or UV-protective shirt is useful for sun protection and preventing jellyfish stings.
Sunscreen: Opt for reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
Dry Bag: A dry bag is essential for keeping your belongings safe and dry on boat trips.
Waterproof Camera: Capture the vibrant underwater world with a waterproof camera or GoPro.
Light Jacket: The evenings in Coron can be cool, so a light jacket or cover-up is recommended.

How Long to Plan For

To fully explore the shipwrecks and reefs of Coron, plan for at least 4 to 7 days. This allows time for multiple dives, relaxation, and exploring other attractions in the area. A typical itinerary might include:

Day 1: Arrival and orientation in Coron town, with a possible sunset cruise or island-hopping tour.
Days 2-4: Dive the famous shipwrecks, such as the Irako, Akitsushima, and Olympia Maru, as well as Barracuda Lake and other reef sites.
Days 5-6: Snorkeling at nearby coral gardens, exploring more remote dive sites, or enjoying a relaxing day at the beach.
Day 7: Departure or continue your adventure in other parts of Palawan.

Where to Stay

Coron offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences:

Luxury Resorts: For those seeking comfort and exclusivity, luxury resorts like Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa or Club Paradise Palawan offer private beaches, overwater bungalows, and full-service amenities.
Mid-Range Hotels: Coron Town has several mid-range hotels and resorts, such as Coron Westown Resort and The Funny Lion, which provide comfortable accommodations and easy access to dive shops and restaurants.
Budget Guesthouses: For budget travelers, there are numerous guesthouses and hostels in Coron Town offering affordable stays, such as Seahorse Guesthouse and Hop Hostel.

Average Price

The cost of exploring Coron can vary depending on your diving experience, accommodation choice, and activities:

Diving: A single dive typically costs around PHP 1,500 to 2,500 (USD $30-50), including equipment rental. Dive packages and courses are available, often at discounted rates for multiple dives.
Snorkeling Tours: Island-hopping and snorkeling tours range from PHP 1,200 to 2,000 (USD $25-40) per person, depending on the destinations and inclusions.
Accommodation: Budget accommodations start at around PHP 1,000 (USD $20) per night, while mid-range hotels are around PHP 2,500 to 5,000 (USD $50-100) per night. Luxury resorts can range from PHP 10,000 (USD $200) and up per night.
Meals: Expect to pay around PHP 200 to 500 (USD $4-10) per meal at local restaurants, with higher prices at resort dining establishments.

What Makes Each Location Unique

Irako Shipwreck: This Japanese refrigeration ship, sunk during World War II, lies at a depth of 30-40 meters and is known for its intact structure and diverse marine life. It’s one of the most challenging and rewarding dives in Coron.
Akitsushima Shipwreck: A Japanese seaplane tender, the Akitsushima is unique for its large crane, which is still visible underwater. The wreck is home to schools of barracuda, groupers, and other large fish.
Barracuda Lake: A thermocline lake surrounded by limestone cliffs, Barracuda Lake is known for its dramatic temperature changes and eerie underwater landscapes. It’s a popular site for both diving and freediving.
Siete Pecados: This is a group of seven small islands surrounded by vibrant coral gardens, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving. The site is teeming with colorful fish and healthy corals.
Twin Lagoon: Accessible by boat, Twin Lagoon offers stunning scenery above and below the water. The lagoons are separated by a rock wall, and visitors can swim through a small opening or climb a ladder to reach the inner lagoon.

Conclusion

Exploring the shipwrecks and reefs in Coron, Philippines, is an adventure that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and thrilling underwater experiences. Whether you’re diving through the haunting remains of World War II ships or snorkeling over vibrant coral gardens, Coron’s underwater world is unlike any other. With its crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, a visit to Coron promises to be an unforgettable journey into one of the most stunning aquatic environments on Earth.