Things to Do in Coron

Coron sits on Busuanga Island in northern Palawan, and it's honestly one of those places that feels almost too beautiful to be real. The town itself is fairly small and unpretentious, but it serves as the gateway to some of the Philippines' most spectacular marine landscapes - think crystal-clear lagoons hidden between towering limestone cliffs, World War II shipwrecks that have become thriving coral gardens, and lakes so pristine they seem untouched by time. What makes Coron particularly appealing is that despite its growing popularity, it still maintains that laid-back island vibe where the biggest decision you'll face is whether to go island hopping or wreck diving. The area is actually part of the ancestral domain of the indigenous Tagbanua people, who have done an remarkable job protecting these waters and islands. You'll notice this immediately - the marine life is abundant, the coral reefs are healthy, and there's a genuine sense that tourism here is being managed thoughtfully rather than exploited. The town has grown considerably in recent years with new resorts and restaurants, but it hasn't lost that authentic Filipino island charm where locals still wave from their bancas and the pace of life moves with the tides.

Coron's food scene has evolved considerably, offering everything from fresh seafood grilled right off the boats to international cuisine for homesick travelers. The local specialty is definitely fresh seafood - try the grilled fish, prawns, and lobster at places like Santino's Grill or Kawayanan Grill, where you can often pick your fish from the display. For Filipino comfort food, head to Lolo Nonoy's Food Station for excellent adobo and sisig. The town also has a growing number of cafes and international restaurants - Brujita Bar & Restaurant does solid Western food, while G&M Cafe serves good coffee and breakfast. Street food around the market area is cheap and authentic, though stick to busy stalls with high turnover for safety.

The dry season from December to May offers the most reliable weather for island hopping and diving, with March and April being particularly ideal - calm seas, minimal rain, and excellent visibility underwater. That said, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded lagoons. The wet season (June to November) brings afternoon thunderstorms and rougher seas, which can cancel boat trips, but you'll find better deals and fewer crowds. Interestingly, many divers actually prefer the wet season as underwater visibility can be excellent between storms. If you're flexible, late November or early December can be a sweet spot - the rains are tapering off but peak season pricing hasn't kicked in yet.