Palawan, the largest island province in the Philippines, owns 1,780 islets! That is one-fourth of the country’s bragged 7,000 plus islands. (And if I haven’t mentioned yet – the “Pearl of the Orient Seas” is the second largest archipelago in the world!) Wow, that is a whole lot of islands to explore, then! So it just makes sense why island-hopping is in your Palawan top things to do! So I repeat, if there is one thing you need to tick off your travel bucket list, island-hopping tour it is! Your itinerary should include Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, and Bulog Dos Island.
Because of these clusters of islands dispersed in the cleanest waters of the Philippine seas, one can come back and again and still cannot explore it all. But the good news for those who are on a short visit! They’ll get to see at least three enchanting islands. And how? Join an excursion (The Island Escaped Tour) from the town of Coron. The itinerary includes Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, and Bulog Dos Island. You can book this tour through any of the hotels or through a travel agency in town.
The Trip Itinerary
First Stop: Malcapuya Island
Malcapuya Island is the first stop on this island-hopping tour. A one-and-a-half-hour rough but fun-filled sailing from the pier to the first stop. You’ll agree that the long boat ride was all worth it the moment that long stretch of the blindingly white sandy beach appears. Everybody was excited to leave the boat, but we dropped anchor at the bay behind this island. So, we had to walk a couple of minutes to get to the front shore. We spent two hours here and had enough time to laze on the beach, take pictures, and snorkel. Given the variety and colors of fish, snorkeling is a must-activity.
Want to experience a solitary life on an island? Then spend a night or two here. Stay on either rustic cottages or put up a tent by the shore. Bring those camping gear, drinking water, and food supplies. You might want to know if there is a power supply on the island. Yes, there is run by a generator, but who needs electricity when you are in paradise? Now write this on a sticky note; you need to arrange for a pick up for the trip back to the harbor of Coron town. Never want to get stranded there.
Who doesn’t loves coconuts? You can pick your own here and eat it fresh! Perfect for quenching thirst from the heat of the sun. Oh boy, the refreshing drink costs very cheaply too!
Second Stop: Banana Island
After that top-notch snorkeling adventure and laid-back stroll on the snow-white shores of Malcapuya, it was time to head for the next islet – the Banana Island. The island’s name comes from its shape, much like a banana’s contour. Those who wish to indulge in slow sway while watching or listening to the waves, they have hammocks tied up on towering coconut trees. This spot is glorious for such. Every vacation should have a piece of heaven, right? We had that on Banana Island.
There is a family-friendly resort on this island. Their cabins are complete with bathrooms and toilets. Plus fire pits for those who want to barbecue. It was on here where we stopped for lunch. We had rice, fried fish, chicken adobo, barbecue pork chops, cucumber salad, seaweed salad, and many more.
Final Stop: Bulog Dos
Only ten minutes away by boat from Banana Island is Bulog Dos (BD). BD is not an island but a sandbar that joins Cauayan Island north and Bulalacao Island south. This island may not be as exotic as the previous stops, but BD has its own character. Here are its assets:
First, the beach has the softest sand ever! It felt like I was walking on baby talcum powder! And it makes barefoot walking extraordinarily pleasurable and relaxing. Second, the hill between the two islets is perfect for a piece-of-cake hiking stint. Upon reaching the top of the rock, take a seat under the trees and enjoy those beautiful views of limestone cliffs rising from the emerald waters. Third, the scenery here proved to be even more photogenic during sunset and low tide. Take tons of pictures to capture this beautiful place.
And last but not least, if I am to recommend the best snorkeling ground in the entire Calamian or Coron, I will pick this area of BD! For the last time, we snorkeled to our heart’s content. But suffice it to say, it was hard to forgo when you are having the best moments in such a breathtaking place.
Where to stay in Coron, Philippines
Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel
Located along Coron-Busanga Road, the Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel offers accommodations with views of the sea, 3.1 mi from Kayangan Lake. It is a 919 foot-walk to Coron Seaport. Coron Public Market is 1.2 mi away, while Maquinit Hot Spring is 1.9 mi from the property. Busuanga Airport, 14 mi from Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel, is the nearest airport. There is a 24-hour front desk and a gift shop at the property. In addition, a business center is available for the use of meeting facilities. BAYA Resto Lounge serves up a variety of local and international cuisine.
Asia Grand View Hotel, Coron
Located in Coron, a 3-minute walk from Dicanituan Beach, Asia Grand View Hotel provides accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden, and a shared lounge. The daily breakfast offers buffet, à la carte, or continental options. You can play pool, ping pong, and darts at this 4-star hotel, and bike rental is available. Maquinit Hot Spring is 3.7 miles from the accommodation, while Mount Tapyas is 0.8 miles away. The nearest airport is Francisco B. Reyes Airport, 13 miles from Asia Grand View Hotel.
My Opinion and Last Word
Have you been to Coron, Philippines? Any cool tips to share?
loved being in Coron, Philippines, and want to go back again. I hope my story has motivated you to visit Philippines.
Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge.
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Thanks Dizzy Traveler for the detailed info with matching pictures of Coron, Palawan. It’s like having been in the place. Hope to visit the island in my lifetime. Thanks again.
Thank you, Oscar, for your comment! I am sure you will because the God you serve is generous! He will give the desires of your heart! 🙂
A place where i wanted to visit, but through your blog, it’s like having been there…thank you for this trip May…Hope to visit Coron someday..
Thank you for your comment! Dreams do come true, Minda! I had Coron on my travel bucket list for a long, long time also before I finally saw this beautiful island right before my eyes.
What a beautiful place! I pray that I and my family can have a vacation there!!!
Thank you, Mr. Lino, for your comment! It is indeed a beautiful place, Mr. Lino! I am sure one day you and your family could visit Coron also.
This is article was just awesome!! That is why it is included in one of my travel bucket list. Thank you May for a very-well write up, you nailed it by describing relevant characterstics of each island. It was so vivid that I can almost touch it in my mind. Kudos to you! Proud of you.
Thank you, Miss Dori, for your comment! Coron was on my bucket list also for a long, long time! I am sure one day, you will get to visit the island too!
Such a vivid and detailed description of your travels and experiences transports your reader to where you were. Thank you for this article.
You’re welcome! Thank you also for the comment, Tess!
Beautifully written travelogue and beautiful pictures. You made the islands come alive!
You sweet soul shines through your words!
Hi, Amudha!
Thank you! I’m glad you like the article and the photos! You’re very sweet! I hope you’ll consider this place to be your next family destination! 😉
Your article plus the beautiful photos made me desire to visit and experience God’s wonderful creations in Coron, someday. Thank you. 💗