Kimberly ChuaWith its pristine beaches, crystal clear lakes and lagoons, impressive rock formations, sumptuous food and friendly locals, Coron truly captured my heart. Here are the top things to do in Coron on your first getaway. Trust me, this piece of paradise will leave you wanting to come back asap!
Also read: Best Coron Guide: All You Need to Know Before Your Trip
1. Pamper yourself at Club Paradise Palawan
Image credit: Club Paradise Palawan
Start your adventure by spoiling yourself with a luxurious stay at one of Coron’s most sought-after resorts, Club Paradise Palawan. Located right next to a popular island hopping stop called Bulog Dos Island, this exclusive property has its own white sand beaches, dive shop, restaurant, outdoor activities and a massage centre all set to accommodate all your pampering requests!
What’s more, Club Paradise Palawan was voted Best Luxury Hotel in the Philippines at the 2018 TripZilla Excellence Awards, so the last thing you’ll worry about staying in the resort is having a mediocre experience!
2. Relax at Sophia’s Garden Resort
Image credit: Sophia’s Garden Resort
Life in Coron is simple and laidback. It gives you the opportunity to relax and be away from the busy streets of the metro, not to mention Manila’s stressful traffic. There are a couple of great accommodations around the island but I would personally recommend Sophia’s Garden Resort. It has a serene, natural atmosphere with helpful and friendly staff. Thumbs up for this garden resort!
3. Take time to marvel at the beauty of God’s creation
Image credit: Bro. Jeffrey Pioquinto, SJ
Yes, you have to go swimming, island hopping and all those outdoor activities, but don’t rush it. Take a moment to do nothing. Just relax, observe the peaceful environment and thank God for the beautiful gift of nature.
Also read: Travel Tips for Island Hopping in El Nido, Palawan
4. Swim in Asia’s cleanest lake
Image credit: Christian Ronnel
Kayangan Lake has been dubbed as the cleanest lake in Asia and it truly is! I love the fact that you can see the rock formations underneath despite its depth. No need to be scared that some creatures might pull you down because you can clearly see everything down there.
5. Have lunch at Banol beach
Image credit: Roslyn
It’s not every day that you get to have lunch at the shore so make sure you seize the moment when you’re in Banol beach. Sit on the sand and have fun eating with your hands as you enjoy the cool sea breeze.
6. Chill out at Balinsasayaw Floating House
Image credit: Wim Hertog
After lunch, spend some time to reflect and relax at Balinsasayaw Floating House. You can sleep there for a while before taking an afternoon dip. The area has cute marine creatures like Nemo, the clownfish.
7. Play line up to go inside the twin lagoon
Image credit: Roslyn
To get inside the twin lagoon, you’ll have to go through a narrow passageway. Our tour guide thought of a creative way for us to pass through without breaking apart. Lying on our back, we fell in line and held each other’s feet so we can pass through together. The waters of the twin lagoon are generally cold but there’s a part where the water becomes warm.
8. See the unearthly rock formations of Barracuda Lake
Image credit: Roslyn
Want to see some Avatar-like rock formations? Then, head to Barracuda Lake. If you’re not into scuba diving, seeing its jagged rock formations and snorkelling in its calm waters are more than enough to experience its otherworldly charm. When I went there, it really felt like I was in a totally different realm.
9. Meet the giraffes and zebras of Calauit Safari
Image credit: Roslyn
Have a taste of Africa by going to Calauit Safari. Giraffes, zebras and other animals are freely roaming around the area. This place is a good treat for kids and animal lovers.
10. Beach bumming
Image credit: Allan Ascaño
Coron has lots of pristine beaches. You can spend a whole day just beach bumming. Put on that sunscreen and enjoy the warmth of the sun.
Also read: A Perfect Beach Getaway in Coron, Philippines
11. Eat delicious seafood
Image credit: Roslyn
Don’t leave Coron without treating yourself to a delectable seafood feast. Never miss the fresh crabs, squids and tinapa (smoked fish), which can be ordered from almost every restaurant.
Also read: 18 Philippine Provinces for the Absolute Foodie
12. Hike up Mt. Tapyas
Image credit: nucksfan604
Coron is not all about life in the water. Hike up Mt. Tapyas and be rewarded with breathtaking views of Coron and its surrounding islands. Definitely a must-do before saying goodbye to this paradise.
13. Interact with the locals
Image credit: brownpau
Interact with the locals as much as you can. It’s a great way to meet new friends and learn so many interesting things only locals know about. The people in Coron are very friendly, helpful and hospitable, so it shouldn’t be hard for you to talk and mingle with them.
Also read: 3-Day Coron Itinerary for Your Next Long Weekend Getaway
Complete these experiences in Coron and I guarantee you’ll be back to the city recharged and ready to take on life.
