The Coron Islands, part of the larger Calamian archipelago in the province of Palawan, have quietly earned a reputation as one of the Philippines' most captivating destinations. A day spent in Coron introduces visitors to an enchanting place where limestone cliffs plunge into the turquoise sea and nature's drama unfolds at every turn. The crystal-clear waters around these islands reveal a kaleidoscope of marine life, pristine beaches, and no fewer than ten remarkably preserved shipwrecks from WWII. Whether you're drawn to underwater exploration, the restorative powers of hot springs or thought-provoking history, an extraordinary tapestry of experiences awaits.

Enjoy Coron town's provincial charm

You might want to begin your day with a visit to Coron town on Busuanga Island. The small and walkable town retains its old-fashioned character and moves at a relaxed pace. Brightly colored wooden bangka boats, traditional throughout the Philippines, come and go from the main pier in the harbor, creating a picturesque atmosphere. Visit the modest Coron Public Market in the morning to see local fishermen bringing in the day's catch and market vendors arranging their goods with pride. Sample tropical fruits, browse the abundant seafood selection, or seek out handicrafts made by the indigenous Tagbanua people of Palawan including woven mats, bags and baskets. Thanks to the region’s pearl farming industry, you can also find freshwater and South Sea pearl jewelry.

The streets in Coron tell stories of a community deeply connected to the sea, where life has revolved around fishing and marine resources for generations. Small family-owned restaurants serve fresh seafood caught that morning, while local guides can share stories about the islands, the shipwrecks, and the legends that give this place its soul.

Discover an underwater time capsule

Beneath the surface of Busuanga Island’s crystalline seas lies one of the most significant collections of WWII wreckage in the world. Ten well-preserved Japanese ships rest on the seafloor, silent witnesses to the fierce battles that took place here during September 1944. When American forces attacked the Imperial Japanese Navy fleet sheltering in Coron Bay, these vessels were sunk, and over the decades, they've transformed into thriving artificial reefs.

Today, these shipwrecks offer a haunting yet beautiful glimpse into history. The wrecks range from cargo ships to gunboats, some sitting in shallow enough depths for snorkelers to appreciate, while others require diving to fully explore. Marine life has reclaimed these vessels— coral encrusts the hulls, schools of fish weave through compartments, and soft corals wave from what were once gun turrets and masts. It's a powerful reminder of how the ocean ultimately prevails, turning instruments of war into sanctuaries of life. For history and diving enthusiasts alike, these time capsules are moving and unforgettable.

Immerse yourself in natural wellness

Busuanga Island also features one of the very few saltwater hot springs in the world. Perhaps nowhere else does this region's volcanic character reveal itself more dramatically than at Maquinit Hot Spring. The spring itself consists of a two-tiered circular pool with walls built from stacks of rocks and floors strewn with smooth pebbles. Mineral-rich saltwater warmed by deep volcanic forces bubbles up into these pools, creating temperatures ranging from soothingly hot to comfortably warm. The minerals in the saltwater are believed to wash away fatigue and ease aches, leaving visitors in a state of deep relaxation.

This restorative wellness ritual connects perfectly with Coron's identity as a destination where the healing properties of the sea take center stage. The salt water, the thermal variations, the act of floating in warm volcanic waters — it all combines to create a sense of restoration that goes beyond the physical.

Island-hop through paradise

An island-hopping excursion is hard to resist and can include a picnic-style lunch so you can enjoy fresh Filipino cuisine with your toes in the sand. Bulog Island is a diminutive gem that takes mere minutes to circumnavigate on foot. Don't let its small size fool you—the waters surrounding this islet offer exceptional snorkeling opportunities, where you can drift above coral gardens alive with darting fish. Nearby Banana Island continues the theme of pristine beaches and crystalline waters, its shallow shores perfect for both swimming and snorkeling. Venture a bit farther from shore, and you'll find yourself immersed in an aquatic world where every glance reveals something new. The crown jewel of the island-hopping adventure awaits at Malcapuya Island, home to one of the finest beaches in the Calamian group. The water here remains shallow for quite a distance from shore, creating an expansive natural swimming pool where curious fish dart around your legs and giant clams rest among the corals on the seafloor.

An excursion to the highlights of Coron Island is another must. The legendary Siete Pecados, or Seven Sins, is a spectacular snorkeling site with an underwater garden where vibrant coral formations create a living mosaic beneath the surface. Twin Lagoon presents another otherworldly scene. Your boat will anchor in the first lagoon while the second, more hidden lagoon is accessible only through a small crevice that is exposed at low tide or via a ladder over the rock at high tide. Limestone formations surround emerald waters that shift from shallow turquoise to deep sapphire, making it another incredible spot for snorkeling — or for simply floating your cares away. Cap off your island visit with a stop at Banol Beach, a stretch of sandy white beach surrounded by majestic cliffs.

Coron Island’s Barracuda Lake includes a unique phenomenon you will not want to miss. Here, you'll encounter a reverse thermocline, where the water temperature grows warmer as you descend into the depths. This unusual occurrence happens because volcanic activity beneath the islands heats the deeper currents, creating an inversion of the usual temperature gradient. For snorkelers and divers, this means experiencing the pleasant surprise of warmth, rather than the chill typically associated with depth.

Experience a day that lingers in memory

There's something special about this place. Perhaps it's the way the limestone catches the golden hour light... or how the warm springs seem to dissolve the boundaries between body and nature... or simply the accumulation of countless small discoveries.

Your special time in Coron will resonate long after you've sailed away. It's a place where adventure and relaxation aren't opposing forces but complementary elements of a perfect day— a day that reminds you why you travel... why you seek out the world’s hidden corners... and why some destinations manage to capture not just your attention, but your heart.

Ready to explore the multifaceted wonders of the Philippines including a memorable day in Coron? A Seabourn ultra-luxury voyage offers the best way to experience this remarkable destination.