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.

Recommended Sunset Kayak Tour in Coron

Coron Island at the end of the day. An unforgettable sunset kayaking experience between islets, hidden coastlines, & that golden hour. With a local, professional kayak guide. A must do in Coron.

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.

Best Hiking Trails in Coron & Busuanga: From Easy Views to Jungle Adventures


Whether you want a quick sunset walk or an adventurous trek through the forest, here are 7 awesome hiking spots you should check out.

1. Mount Tapyas (Coron Town)

  • Duration: ~45 minutes
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Lots of steps!)

Located right in Coron Town, there is truly no excuse not to hike Mount Tapyas! A long staircase leads you all the way to the top, where you will enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of Coron Town and the surrounding islands.

  • Best Time to Go: Early morning for a cool breeze and sunrise, or late afternoon for sunset.
  • Good to Know: The stairs are lit up at night, so going down after dark is super safe.
  • Pro Tip: Start early, take your time on the steep steps, and bring plenty of water!
  • Bonus Trail: Once you reach the top and enjoy the main deck, you don’t have to turn back immediately. There is a path behind the giant cross that leads further into nature for a peaceful walk: Mount Tapyas Trail Guide.

2. Mount Dalara (For Adventurous Hikers)

  • Distance: ~10 km | Height: ~700 meters
  • Difficulty: Hard (Not for beginners)

If you are looking for a real challenge, Mount Dalara is one of the longest and most impressive hikes on the island! Standing at nearly 700 meters, it offers a majestic, panoramic view of the surrounding islands, including Bancuan and Uson Islands.

  • How to Get There: Hikes usually start near the Balisungan Elementary School, where you can park your vehicle. It is recommended to register at the local Barangay Hall before starting: Mount Dalara Location.
  • What to Expect: Prepare for a real off-road adventure! The path starts easy, but soon you will be navigating through thick jungle, crossing small rivers (you will get wet feet!), and walking through tall bushes. You must keep your map or GPS in hand as the path can blend into the forest.
  • Top Tip: Start very early in the morning to catch the sunrise at the top, then descend down the other side through a fantastic jungle path filled with natural lagoons. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring lots of water!

3. Turda Hills (Off the Beaten Path)

  • Difficulty: Moderate

Turda is a great hiking area if you like raw nature, but it can be a bit tricky to reach: Turda Location.

There are no marked trails or signs here—just small local paths winding up into the hills. However, once you climb up, the hill views are absolutely fantastic! It is also a wonderful area if you want to set up camp and spend a night under the stars.

4. San Nicolas Valley (Easy Walk & Cozy Cafe)

  • Difficulty: Very Easy (Beginner-friendly)

Easily accessible via well-paved roads, San Nicolas Valley is a gentle hike that leads into scenic green hills. It is perfect for families or anyone wanting a relaxed afternoon outdoors.

  • The Highlight: Right along the trail, you will find the wonderful Valley Cafe. Stop by during the day for cold drinks and fresh coffee, or stay in the evening to relax around cozy small campfires!

5. Waterfalls Adventure: Guchi Falls to Kilian Falls

  • Type: River Trekking & Swimming
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Love waterfalls? This unmarked river hike is a fantastic adventure for anyone who doesn’t mind getting wet!

  1. Start at Guchi Falls, which are easily accessible: Guchi Falls Location.
  2. Follow the trail through the Osano River Valley: Osano River Location. Here you can swim, climb over rocks, and enjoy pure nature.
  3. After about 40 minutes of trekking, you will reach the hidden Kilian Falls: Kilian Falls Location.

💚 A Quick Note to Our Readers: Please pack out all your trash and help us keep Palawan beautiful. If you have extra space in your bag, consider picking up any rubbish left behind by others. Thank you for protecting our nature!

6. Savanna Kereb (Concepcion)

  • Duration: ~1 hour
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Located near Concepcion, this hidden gem is reached via a small dirt path starting right behind the local Elementary School: Savanna Kereb Location.

The trail is unpaved and informal, leading you up through the hills. After about an hour of walking, you will reach a beautiful high plateau (savanna) with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

7. Factuar Hill (Quick Sunset & Rest Stop)

  • Duration: ~5 minutes
  • Difficulty: Very Easy

More of a viewpoint than a hike, Factuar Hill is a quick stop up a short set of steps: Factuar Hill Location.

Located on private land with handy parking spaces, the friendly English-speaking owner is currently building a cozy hut complete with seating, a swing, and a hammock. There are also plans for a small restaurant near the parking area. It is the perfect scenic spot for a quick break while exploring Busuanga by scooter or car!

connected themes :

01

how to get here

an overview on flights,
ferry and island-hopping
connections to Coron.

02

island-hopping

Explore Coron’s Iconic Lagoons & Beaches Your Guide to Unforgettable Island Hopping Tours.

03

services and contacts

Doctors, Police, Bank, Laundry
and other useful services you find in the city

04

coron town

where to eat and drink and
more useful informations about
Coron Town.