8 Things To Do In Coron, Palawan

[Originally posted on aynbernos.net on April 5, 2016]

Coron, Palawan, without a doubt, is one of the most beautiful tropical destinations in the world. With stunning beaches, magnificent marine life, and stunning sights, it has found a spot in every traveler’s bucket list. It has so much to offer that scouring through tour packages can get a little overwhelming for first-timers.

That being said, I’ve put together my Top 8 favorite activities and destinations (in no particular order) to help you fix your itinerary, and maybe convince you to book that flight – like, right now.

1. Take a stroll along the Bulog Dos Sandbar

With amazing timing – best ask your resident boatman/tour guide – you can catch this immaculate strip of powdery white sand during low tide. It’s a boat ride away from the mainland of Busuanga but it’s definitely worth visiting for the view, if not for a quick swim. We were lucky to have been running late, because we ended up having the beach all to ourselves!

2. See giraffes and zebras up close at Calauit Island

While you’re still waiting for that African adventure of a lifetime, get a glimpse of its terrain and fauna at Calauit Safari Park. The heat will be crazy, but not if you manage your expectations early on. Lather on some sunscreen, put on your cap, hydrate, and enjoy close interaction with majestic giraffes and zebras. The vast plains are also perfect for photos, so stock up on battery power and memory — you’ll be needing them.

From Coron town proper, the Calauit Safari Park is 2 hours away via car and 4 hours away via boat. The reason we opted for the latter (despite its obvious time difference) is the snorkeling detour. If you’re in Coron, on your way to a remote location, might as well spend some quality time with the waves, right?

3. Swim in the clear waters of Kayangan Lake

I have never seen a body of water so calming and beautiful.

Getting to Kayangan Lake will require you to climb up and down 300 rocky steps, but trust me, it will be the most satisfying feat you will ever conquer. Once you get past those, you will be greeted by clear, aquamarine waters surrounded by wooden panels serving as pathways. Just reminiscing my first impression takes my breath away yet again.

The fresh waters are a marvel to swim in, and I found myself dancing underwater with my eyes open. The lake is deep, but far from terrifying. The sun glistened against the calmness and ultimately we were in love. Good God, thank you for this creation.

4. Go snorkeling (or diving) by the Japanese Freighter Shipwreck

The complete opposite of the Kayangan Lake, this Japanese Freighter Shipwreck site is quite the adventure. It’s shallow enough to be experienced by snorkelers, but also bewildering enough to be enjoyed by divers. It’s also surrounded by vibrant corals and fishes. In fact, we were lucky enough to catch a magnificent sea turtle hanging around!

5. Get an aquarium-like view of nearby marine life

A product of Pinoy ingenuity, snorkeling in Malcapuya Island now means getting pulled by a slow-paced motorboat while effortlessly savoring the view of the abundant marine life. Just ask one of the locals for Manong Mukhaism. Yep, as in THE Mukhaism guy – he owns the boat. It was an amazing experience because even our parents got to keep up with us, and we got to take this cool family photo!

6. Catch the sunset from a boat

We got treated to the most amazing sunset view while on our way back from Calauit Safari. I ran to the back of our boat, and instinctively, the boatman pulled the curtain away. “Alam na alam ko na ‘yan Ma’am, magpicture ka na,” he said. Apparently, I wasn’t the first to fall in love with this beauty.

7. Have lunch on an island somewhere

Island Buffet Lunch c/o Calamian Travel and Tours

The best thing about Calamian Travel and Tours is the convenience of it all. Because frankly, lugging around packed lunches is the last thing you need in paradise. Have lunch by the sea and indulge in a selection of fresh fruits and seafood. Best served with the tropical view.

8. Sleep on a hammock by the shore

Perhaps the lowkey highlight of my trip, lounging on a hammock in Banana Island was like a scene from Eat, Pray, Love. Although it’s not as romantic or idealistic, it’s pretty close to therapeutic. This. is. the. life.