Explore Busuanga’s Hidden Gems
Short Trips from Coron Town
While Coron is famous for its incredible island-hopping adventures, not all the best experiences are by boat! Busuanga Island, home to Coron Town, offers a wealth of captivating day trips that are easily accessible and provide a fantastic contrast to the aquatic excursions. We consider a “short trip” anything that’s less than an hour’s travel from Coron Town, allowing for a relaxed day out and back.
Easily Accessible from Coron Town
Right on your doorstep, these spots are perfect for a quick escape.
Mount Tapyas: This iconic landmark in Coron Town is a must-do. While climbing the 700 to 750 steps to the summit is a good workout, the reward is an unforgettable panoramic view of Coron Town, the bay, and the surrounding islands. Many recommend starting your ascent in the late afternoon (around 4:00 PM) to experience a breathtaking sunset and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Maquinit Hot Springs: After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than a soak in these unique saltwater hot springs, nestled amidst lush mangroves. It’s one of the few saltwater thermal springs in the world, offering a relaxing and therapeutic experience, especially in the evening. Easily reached by tricycle or rented motorcycle.
A Little Further: Within 20-40 Minutes
Venturing slightly beyond town opens up more natural wonders.
Kingfisher Park: A Peaceful Oasis in Coron Just a stone’s throw from Coron Town, Kingfisher Park offers a serene escape for nature lovers and birdwatchers. This hidden gem provides a tranquil retreat into Palawan’s lush mangrove forests, far from the bustling island tours. Named for its vibrant residents, the park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous bird species like kingfishers, herons, and cormorants. It’s the ideal spot for quiet wildlife observation, enjoying nature’s sounds, and capturing stunning photos.
Explore the park’s calm environment with leisurely walks or relaxing kayak tours through the mangroves. Kingfisher Park perfectly complements Coron’s adventurous offerings, showcasing Palawan’s diverse natural beauty beyond its famous beaches. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a quieter, more authentic side of the Philippines.
Nearby, the Factuar Hill hiking route is easily manageable for all skill levels, rewarding you with stunning views and opportunities to observe nature up close, sometimes even spotting monkeys.
Waterfalls of Busuanga
Busuanga Island boasts several refreshing waterfalls, offering a lush, green contrast to the island’s coastal adventures. Keep in mind that some waterfalls might have less water during the dry season (October to May) but are still worth a visit.
Concepcion Falls: Located near the village of Concepcion, about 35-40 kilometers west of Coron Town, Concepcion Falls is a small yet picturesque waterfall. Its clear water cascades over rocks into natural pools, surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful spot to cool off on a hot day. Reaching it from Coron Town is easy, as the road is well-maintained, and the waterfall is just a short walk from the main highway. You can easily combine this trip with a visit to Kingfisher Park, which is along the way.
Kilien Falls: Situated further north and inland on Busuanga Island, Kilien Falls is often described as a “hidden gem.” Surrounded by dense nature, it offers a more untouched experience, with the journey itself often being part of the adventure. Reaching Kilien Falls from Coron Town is generally more challenging than Concepcion Falls. The drive towards northern Busuanga takes about 30-40 minutes to the turn-off, followed by a ride on a gravel road to the falls. A rented motorcycle is the most recommended option for experienced riders due to varying road conditions.
Gochi Falls: Gochi Falls is located closer to Busuanga Airport (USU), about 5.3 km west of the airport on the road to Salvacion. It’s a smaller waterfall (approximately 7m high), ideal for a quick refreshing stop if you’re in the area. The path from the highway to the falls is only about 200m.
Further Afield, But Worth the Journey
(Approx. 1+ Hour Travel)
These destinations require a bit more travel time but promise unique experiences.
Lakdayan Beach: For those seeking a beautiful white sand beach with delicious BBQ, a visit to Lakdayan Beach in the north of the island is highly recommended. The drive takes about an hour, possibly longer if you stop at The Riverhouse for its fantastic views. You’ll find a detailed description in our North Coast section.
Mount Talapay: Also in the north, Mt. Talapay offers wonderful views from a beautifully landscaped garden with a swimming pool. Local snacks are available, and for a more substantial meal, reservations are recommended.
Triangle Float: Tucked away in a forested bay, the Triangle Float invites you to swim, relax, and unwind. You can also book excellent meals here. Both the Triangle Float and Mt. Talapay trips can be combined into a single day’s itinerary. More details are available in our North Coast section. For reservations, transport, meal requests, or other services like massages, nannies, or organizing small celebrations (birthdays, weddings), feel free to contact Roy’s Travel Agency in the center of Coron Town.
Challenging but Rewarding Journeys
Marcilla Beach (East Coast): Located on the east side of the island, Marcilla Beach is less visited but harder to reach. The road can be very difficult, making the journey an adventure often accompanied by falls and accidents. If you’re determined, you can make a stop at the Seven Falls waterfall on the way, hike Mt. Dalara, or simply enjoy the views and visit the Kina John Bar. Find more information in our East Coast section.
connected themes :
Your Guide to Taxis, Rentals
& Local Transport.
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Explore Coron’s Iconic Lagoons & Beaches Your Guide to Unforgettable Island Hopping Tours.
Getting an overview of the islands many faces and attractions.
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find out about attractions
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Busuanga area.
