best places for kayaking and hiking in Coron and Busuanga
Kayaking Guide
Explore Coron by Paddle
1. Coron Island: Limestone Labyrinths & Hidden Lakes
The dramatic karst cliffs of Coron Island are world-famous. To explore them intimately, we recommend renting a private boat from Coron Town and having kayaks strapped to the deck.
Twin Lagoon: This is the quintessential kayaking spot. The two lagoons are separated by a narrow limestone wall. At low tide, you can paddle through a small opening under the rock. At high tide, you’ll need to climb the wooden stairs, but having a kayak inside the second lagoon allows you to explore every turquoise corner far from the crowded boat docking area.
Kayangan & Barracuda Lake: These lakes are unique mixtures of salt and fresh water. Paddling on the crystal-clear, emerald surface while surrounded by jagged black cliffs is a surreal experience.
Note: Accessing these lakes with a kayak requires carrying the gear over steep rock paths. Always check with your guide first, as special permits and extra effort are required.
Decalachao: River Adventures & Glowing Nights
Located in the quiet north, The Riverhouse offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.
River Paddling: Explore the pristine Decalachao River directly from the hotel’s pier.
Firefly Watching: Join a guided night tour to see the mangroves sparkling with fireflies and bioluminescent plankton in the water.
Dining: Enjoy a meal at their hilltop restaurant afterward, famous for its incredible 360-degree views.
Kingfisher Park: A birdwatcher’s paradise.
If you want to experience the “wild” side of Busuanga, Kingfisher Park is an absolute must. Located about 30 minutes from Coron Town, this privately managed nature reserve is a pioneer in local conservation and eco-tourism. Unlike the open lagoons of Coron, Kingfisher Park offers a dense, labyrinth-like network of ancient mangrove forest. As you paddle through these narrow, shaded “tunnels,” the silence is only broken by the sound of your paddle and the calls of exotic birds. It is a true sanctuary for birdwatchers—keep your eyes peeled for rare kingfishers and other endemic species.
While the park is beautiful by day, it becomes truly magical after sunset. Kingfisher Park is famous for its combined Firefly and Plankton Night Tours.
Busuanga’s South-West Coast: Mangroves, Beach & Seaplane Wreck
The coastline near Concepcion and Sagrada is protected from heavy waves, making it an ideal playground for all skill levels.
Busuanga Bay & The Seaplane Wreck: Rent a kayak at Al Fresco or Al Faro. Just a short paddle from the shore lies the wreck of an old seaplane. It sits in shallow water, making it easy to spot from your kayak or while snorkeling.
Sagrada & Kaniki Island: At Bella Louise Guesthouse, you can start a journey through a labyrinth of untouched mangroves. If you are feeling adventurous, paddle out to Kaniki Island. It features a long, beautiful white sand beach and an abandoned (and guarded) resort that adds a mysterious atmosphere to your trip.
Concepcion: Ann and Mike’s Guesthouse is a great local hub. Rent a kayak here to explore the local coastline or combine it with a boat trip to the stunning Pass Island.
Old Busuanga: The River Expedition
This area is more rugged and less visited, perfect for travelers seeking a local experience.
The Route: You can find kayak rentals right by the main road . Follow the winding river as it flows toward the sea.
Stop & Eat: Once you reach the beach area, stop at the River Crab House for some of the best local seafood on the island, or grab a cold San Miguel beer at the Rio Playa Bar.
The Remote Beaches: Ocam Ocam & Lakdayan
If you have the time to travel to the far west, you will be rewarded with postcard-perfect scenery.
Ocam Ocam Beach: This is arguably the most beautiful “quiet” beach on the island. We recommend staying overnight here to enjoy a sunrise paddle when the water is like a mirror.
Lakdayan Beach: Located in the North, this beach offers a great day-trip setup. Rent a kayak at Bay Adelas Beach Camp and paddle across to the small offshore island for some of the best snorkeling in the area.
Essential Kayaking Tips:
Safety First: Always wear a life vest, especially when paddling in open bays where currents can be stronger than they look.
Protect Your Gear: A Dry Bag is essential for your phone and camera.
Sun Protection: The reflection of the sun on the water is intense. Wear a hat, a rash guard (long-sleeve swim shirt), and reef-safe sunscreen.
Timing: The best time for paddling is between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM, or after 4:00 PM to avoid the midday heat.
connected themes :
an overview on flights,
ferry and island-hopping
connections to Coron.
Explore Coron’s Iconic Lagoons & Beaches Your Guide to Unforgettable Island Hopping Tours.
Doctors, Police, Bank, Laundry
and other useful services you find in the city
where to eat and drink and
more useful informations about
Coron Town.
