Exploring: Coron

January 5, 2021

Years ago, on my first visit to the Philippines since my family migrated to America, I had the thought of hopping over to Bali, since it was so close and all. I had asked friends and family if anyone was interested in coming with. Most of them had already been and had no interest in returning. Compared with beach spots in the Philippines, they felt that Bali was overcrowded and too expensive.

 

“Trust us, the beaches here are better.” Many of them had echoed.

 

Flash forward a couple of years later, and numerous travel polls had placed Philippine beach destinations at #1 and #3 on the list.

 

 

One of the must-visit destinations in the Philippines is Palawan, an island group about an hour flight south of Manila. Palawan boasts several resort areas and all have something different to offer.

 

Here I’ll highlight Coron, a beautiful part of Palawan that is not necessarily known for its beaches but rather its beautiful clear aquamarine waters and limestone rock formations.

 

 

Our stay was short (only a couple of nights) but if you plan well, you can squeeze a lot into a weekend visit.

 

We arrived in the morning and were whisked directly to our hotel. After dumping off our luggage, we headed off on a driving tour of town and headed to Mt. Tapyas where we were encouraged to hike to the top of the mountain for scenic views. I had worn flip flops, feeling too lazy for any kind of hike. I resolved to go up about 1/3 of the way, but as I got up each section, found myself challenging to go just a little more. When I noticed that my elderly relatives were game for the full hike, I sucked it up and gave it a go. (Challenge accepted.) Before I knew it, I found myself at the top of the mountain despite numerous “breaks” and attempts to talk me out of the task. If you can muster the hike, the panoramic views are well worth the effort.

 

 

After watching the sunset from the mountain top and making our way back to our van, we were taken to the Maquinit Hot Springs where soaking in nature’s jacuzzi was a soothing treat for our tired bodies.

 

 

 

The next day was our big excursion day. We boarded boats to first explore Kayangan Lake (this required a short hike). This had to be one of the clearest, most beautiful lakes I have ever swum in.

 

 

Next we made our way to one of the small islands where we enjoyed lunch in a bamboo hut that stood on stilts over the water. Since the boat couldn’t go up on the shore, we had to swim for food. Lunch was a simple spread of fresh seafood, vegetables and rice but our boat drivers/tour guides cooked it on the spot. Afterwards, I enjoyed a nap while my family played in the water.

 

 

Then we went out to open water for some snorkeling fun and checking out corral.

 

 

Finally, we visited Hidden Lagoon, which is accessible via water (you have to swim through an opening in the rock) or by climbing a ladder.

 

The best part is that the getaway cost just under $300 US: lodging, tours and airfare from Manila included. This is what I call dreaming on a dime!

 

Where To Stay

We stayed at Sophia’s Garden Resort, which is a charming, no-frills hotel surrounded by cashew trees; it offers a pool, air-conditioned rooms, and free breakfast. (Delicious buffet dinner is also available for a nominal fee.)

 

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