Calamian Islands

The Calamian Islands, a stunning archipelago in northern Palawan, offer a blend of pristine beaches, dramatic limestone karsts, and crystal-clear waters that rival any tropical paradise. This is a place where you can island-hop through lagoons, snorkel over vibrant coral reefs, and immerse yourself in the laid-back Filipino island life. The main gateway is Coron Town on Busuanga Island, a bustling hub with a frontier feel, while the surrounding islands provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayangan Lake – Often called the clearest lake in the Philippines, this emerald-green gem surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Coron Island's Twin Lagoon – A dramatic lagoon system where you can kayak through a narrow opening at the right tide, revealing a hidden turquoise sanctuary.
• Japanese shipwrecks – World-class wreck diving for all levels, with several WWII wrecks like the Irako Maru and Okikawa Maru teeming with marine life.
• Malcapuya Island – A picture-perfect white-sand beach with swaying palm trees and shallow turquoise waters, ideal for a lazy afternoon.
• Mount Tapyas – Hike up 700+ steps for a panoramic sunrise or sunset view over Coron Town and the surrounding islands.
• Banana Island & Bulog Dos – Two small islets with sandbars and excellent snorkeling right off the shore.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors base themselves in Coron for at least 3 to 5 days. This allows time for a full-day island-hopping tour to the main sights (Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and nearby beaches), a dedicated wreck-diving day if you're into scuba, and a day to explore Busuanga's inland attractions like the Calauit Safari Park or the Maquinit Hot Springs. If you have more time, consider a liveaboard or a longer island-hopping trip to the less-visited northern islands.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• El Nido, Palawan – The iconic limestone karst landscape of Bacuit Bay, about a 5-hour ferry ride south, offers similar island-hopping with a different vibe.
• Puerto Princesa – The capital of Palawan, home to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, is a 1-hour flight or a long ferry ride from Coron.
• San Vicente – Home to one of the longest white-sand beaches in the Philippines, a quieter alternative reachable by boat from Coron or overland from Puerto Princesa.
• Culion Island – A historic island with a former leper colony and Spanish-era fortifications, just a short boat ride from Busuanga.
• Linapacan Island – Known for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand, a less-visited gem between Coron and El Nido.

Please check official sources for current details.