Black Island and Debotunay – The western islands of Busuanga
2 hours from Coron Town
My favorite place in Palawan : Black Island on the West Coast of Busuanga
Located off the northwest coast of Busuanga, Black Island (locally known as Malajon Island) is one of the most striking destinations in Palawan. Famous for its dramatic towering black limestone cliffs, pristine white sand beach, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it offers a dramatic landscape unlike anywhere else in the region. I came here about 10 years ago for the first time and return every year.
What Makes Black Island Special ?
Mystical Caves & Freshwater Lake: Hidden within the island’s towering cliffs are natural caves. The main cave features a cool freshwater lake inside where visitors can take a refreshing swim.
Protected Wildlife: Black Island is home to protected monitor lizards (varans). These harmless reptiles can often be spotted roaming freely around the island.
Underwater World & Sardine Run: Right in front of the beach lies a vibrant house reef filled with colorful corals and marine life—ideal for snorkeling and freediving. Over the past two years, a massive sardine run has formed underwater, allowing divers and snorkelers to witness breathtaking schools of hundreds of thousands of fish moving together.
3 Ways to reach Black Island from Coron & Busuanga
Depending on your travel style and starting location, there are three primary ways to visit Black Island:
1. Direct Day Tour from Coron Town
You can book an organized group tour or hire a speedboat directly from Coron Town. These trips are frequently combined with visits to the Calauit Safari Park or a dugong watching excursion along the northern coast.
2. Via Salvacion
Travel overland from Coron Town to Salvacion by car, motorbike, or shared public van. From Salvacion harbor, hire a local outrigger boat to reach Debutonay and Black Island in about 1 hour.
Boat Prices: Typically range between 4,000 PHP and 6,000 PHP depending on group size.
Additional Fees: Entrance fee of 200 PHP per person for Black Island, plus optional lunch packages.
3. From Ocam Ocam Beach (The Best Option)
The absolute best way to visit Black Island is from Ocam Ocam, a quiet coastal village with arguably the finest beach on Busuanga Island.
From Ocam Ocam, the boat ride to Black Island takes only 20 minutes. Local boatmen also offer combined island-hopping trips to Debutonay Island, North & South Cay, and the nearby Dugong Marine Park.
Pro Tip: We highly recommend combining your Black Island trip with a stop at Debutonay Island to enjoy its wide white sand beach and excellent snorkeling reef.
Plan Your Visit
Since Ocam Ocam itself is a highlight of Busuanga, staying a night or two in the village allows you to experience its relaxed beach atmosphere before setting off for the island.
Detailed Itinerary & Boat Booking: Read our comprehensive guide on coron-island-hopping.com/black-island-debotunay-ocam-ocam/
Ocam Ocam Beach Guide: Learn more about where to stay and eat at coron-busuanga.com/ocam-ocam/
Need assistance planning your trip or booking local transport? Send us an email, and we will be happy to help you organize your journey!
Debutunay Island
Nestled off the northwestern coast of Busuanga, Debutunay Island (often spelled Debotunay or Dibutunay) is an uncrowded tropical gem. It features a sweeping stretch of powdery white sand beach bordered by swaying palm trees, offering a peaceful, classic island escape.
Why It Combines Perfectly with Black Island
Pairing Debutunay with neighboring Black Island (Malajon) creates a balanced trip:
The Ultimate Landscape Contrast: While Black Island captivates with its massive, dark limestone cliffs, dramatic caves, and deep underground freshwater pools, Debutunay offers a low-key, idyllic beachscape with soft sands and shade-dappled palm groves.
Immediate, Vibrant Snorkeling: Unlike spots that require a long swim to reach marine life, Debutunay boasts an excellent fringing reef just a few meters from the shore. You can step right off the white sand directly into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful corals, sea anemones, and tropical fish.
Effortless Proximity: Located only a short boat ride apart off the coast of Ocam Ocam / Salvacion, combining both islands lets you spend less time in transit and more time exploring caves, swimming, and relaxing under the palms.
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