El Nido vs Coron: Which Island Paradise in Palawan Should You Visit?
Discover two stunning destinations in Palawan, El Nido and Coron, each offering a unique set of attractions. Learn more about attractions, activities, accessibility, and more to identify which location best matches your travel style.
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Palawan boasts breathtaking destinations, two of the most popular being El Nido and Coron. While both feature pristine islands. stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and awe-inspiring scenery, there are certain distinguishing factors that may aid in selecting the ideal destination for your trip.
Accessibility
El Nido is more accessible than Coron, with an airport served by Air Swift that offers direct flights from Manila, Cebu, Boracay, Clark, and Bohol. El Nido town is also accessible by a 5-hour drive from Puerto Princesa city, which has a larger airport with several daily flights from Manila and other major cities. Additionally, El Nido boasts a wider range of accommodations and restaurants, making it a more convenient destination for travelers who want more options.
Island Hopping
Both El Nido and Coron are known for their island hopping tours, which take visitors to some of the most stunning beaches and lagoons in the world. However, El Nido’s island hopping tours offer a wider range of destinations, while Coron’s tours are less developed but offer a more authentic experience.
Scuba Diving
If you’re a scuba diver, Coron is the better destination, with several World War II shipwrecks that are popular dive sites. El Nido also has some good dive sites, but they are not as famous as Coron’s wrecks.
Nightlife
El Nido Town has a more vibrant nightlife scene than Coron Town, with more bars and restaurants that stay open late. Coron, on the other hand, is a quieter destination that is better suited for travelers who want a more laid-back experience.
Cost
El Nido is generally more expensive than Coron, with higher prices for accommodations, food, and activities. However, the difference in cost might be worth it for travelers who want more amenities and a more established tourism industry.
5 Stunning Highlights of El Nido
The Bacuit Bay Archipelago is a group of around 45 small islands and islets located in El Nido, Palawan. It features stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, pristine beaches, and diverse marine life. Island hopping tours are a popular way to explore this beautiful and unique destination.
Nacpan Beach is a secluded, 4-kilometer long stretch of white sand located in El Nido, Palawan. It offers clear turquoise waters and a relaxed atmosphere with a few local bars and restaurants. A perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the scenic views.
7 Commandos Beach is a beautiful beach near El Nido town, Palawan. It features soft white sand, turquoise waters, and stunning views of the surrounding limestone cliffs. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the laid-back island vibe.
Sibaltan is a small fishing village located in El Nido, Palawan. It offers a tranquil and authentic experience, with white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful coral reefs. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, island hopping, and immersing yourself in the local culture.
Duli Beach is a pristine, secluded beach located on the western coast of Palawan, near El Nido. It offers a peaceful and unspoiled environment with white sand, clear waters, and tall palm trees. It’s a perfect spot for surfing, swimming, or just relaxing in the sun.
5 Stunning Highlights of Coron
Coron Island is a stunning destination in northern Palawan known for its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and limestone cliffs. It is also home to two enchanting lakes, Kayangan and Barracuda, which offer a unique experience for divers and snorkelers. Coron Island is the most popular destination for diving and island hopping tours.
The Wrecks of Coron Bay are a group of WWII-era shipwrecks located in the waters surrounding Coron, Palawan. They offer a unique and eerie diving experience, with the wrecks serving as artificial reefs and home to diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for divers.
Malcapuya Island is a small and undeveloped island the Calamianes Archipelago. It offers a secluded and unspoiled environment, with white sand, clear turquoise waters, and tropical vegetation. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun.
Culion is the second-largest island in the Calamianes Archipelago, in northern Palawan. It is known for its rich history, as a former leprosy colony during the American colonial period. Today, it offers a peaceful and authentic experience, with turquoise waters, and friendly locals.
Black Island is a hidden gem located in the Calamian Islands of Coron, Palawan. It boasts a unique natural beauty with black volcanic rock formations, a white sand beach, and crystal-clear waters. It’s a perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island’s caves and lagoons.