KAYANGAN LAKE
The Cleanest Lake in the Philippines
Kayangan Lake is one of the most iconic and most photographed destinations in all of Palawan. Often referred to as the cleanest lake in the Philippines, it is located on Coron Island and is managed by the indigenous Tagbanua tribe. The lake is accessible via a short but steep hike up limestone steps, which leads to a famous viewpoint overlooking the stunning emerald waters of Coron Bay a must-see photo opportunity.
Once you reach the lake, you'll be greeted by unbelievably clear freshwater surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery. Swimming in its cool, calm waters is an incredibly serene experience, and snorkelers will enjoy the underwater rock formations and occasional sightings of small fish. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the raw beauty of nature, makes Kayangan Lake a top highlight of any Coron island hopping tour.
Why It's Famous
Kayangan Lake is a must-visit destination on Coron Island, Palawan 🇵🇭—often hailed as one of the cleanest and most picturesque lakes in both the Philippines and Asia .
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Crystal-clear, brackish water: A unique mix of roughly 70% freshwater and 30% saltwater allows for incredible underwater visibility down to 30 m in some spots
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Underwater limestone formations: Ideal for snorkeling and freediving, the lake’s submerged rock structures offer dramatic, sci-fi-like scenery
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Iconic viewpoints: A short climb (~300 steps) leads to lookout decks offering breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon and karst cliffs
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Cultural significance: The Tagbanwa tribe regards it as sacred. After ancestral rites in 2001, it was opened for tourism with protections and an entrance fee
GREEN LAGOON
Green Lagoon (also known as Green Lagoon Cove) is a serene gem on Coron Island, Palawan
Nestled among towering limestone cliffs, the Green Lagoon is a hidden gem in Coron, Palawan, known for its serene turquoise waters and untouched natural beauty. This peaceful lagoon is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply swimming while surrounded by dramatic karst formations.
At low tide, you can walk between the two connected lagoons, but at high tide, you’ll swim through a narrow, hidden passage under the rocks—an adventure in itself. The lagoon also features a unique thermocline, where warm freshwater mixes with cooler saltwater, creating a surreal swimming experience that sets it apart from other spots in Coron.
Why It's Famous
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Stunning natural beauty – Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery with crystal-clear emerald waters.
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Hidden adventure spot – Features a secret passage between two lagoons that can be walked through at low tide or swum through at high tide.
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Thermocline experience – Swim through layers of warm freshwater and cooler saltwater, creating a unique and refreshing sensation.
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Perfect for peaceful activities – Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming in a calm, uncrowded environment.
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Highly photogenic – A favorite for travel photos and videos due to its dramatic scenery and vibrant water.
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Tranquil atmosphere – Offers a quiet escape from busy tourist spots, making it a relaxing and serene destination.
QUIN REEF
One of the most stunning and accessible coral reefs in Coron, Palawan.
Quin Reef is one of the most vibrant and easily accessible snorkeling destinations in Coron, Palawan. Located near the popular Siete Pecados Marine Park and other iconic dive sites, Quin Reef is celebrated for its shallow depth, calm waters, and stunning visibility, making it ideal for both first-time snorkelers and seasoned underwater adventurers. The reef lies within a sheltered area, which allows for safe, leisurely exploration of its colorful and diverse marine ecosystem.
As you glide through the water, you'll encounter an explosion of life schools of neon-colored fish weaving through forests of hard and soft corals, sea anemones swaying with the current, and the occasional graceful sea turtle passing by. Starfish, nudibranchs, and small reef sharks may also be seen, adding to the excitement. The coral formations themselves are vibrant and healthy, with various textures and hues ranging from bright purples and oranges to soft blues and greens.
Why It's Famous
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Calm and peaceful – Ideal for relaxed underwater exploration without strong currents.
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Vibrant marine life – Home to colorful fish, corals, and occasional sea turtles and reef creatures.
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Shallow, clear waters – Perfect for easy and safe snorkeling, even for beginners.
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Convenient location – Near major attractions like Siete Pecados and Kayangan Lake.
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Great for underwater photos – Bright coral formations and clear water make for amazing pictures.
ATWAYAN BEACH
Tucked beneath towering limestone cliffs and lined with powdery white sand
Atwayan Beach is a peaceful and scenic cove tucked along the coast of Coron Island, Palawan. Known for its powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and lush limestone cliffs, this small beach offers a perfect escape for travelers looking to relax and enjoy nature. It’s a popular lunch stop on many island-hopping tours, featuring shaded picnic huts and cozy tables right by the shore where guests can enjoy freshly cooked meals and refreshing drinks like coconut juice or locally brewed coffee.
The shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish just a few steps from the beach. Despite being included in many tours, Atwayan remains relatively uncrowded, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, giving visitors a serene and laid-back atmosphere. Its natural beauty, friendly locals, and quiet charm make Atwayan Beach a hidden gem and a favorite stop for those exploring the islands of Coron.
Why It's Famous
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Scenic setting – A small cove (~220 m) surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush foliage, with pristine white sand
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Chill lunch destination – Equipped with shaded huts and picnic tables, making it a favorite stop for island‑hopping tours
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Accessible snorkeling – Shallow, calm, crystal‐clear waters hide vibrant corals, tropical fish, clams, and even turtles
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Local hospitality – Known for friendly locals (like Capt. Aguilar), serving homemade coffee and fresh coconuts
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Peaceful ambiance – Less crowded than other stops; best visited early or late for maximum tranquility
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Ideal for relaxing & photo‑ready – Perfect for leisurely beach walks, paddling, or capturing postcard-worthy moments .
CYC BEACH
Tucked beneath towering limestone cliffs and lined with powdery white sand
Atwayan Beach is a peaceful and scenic cove tucked along the coast of Coron Island, Palawan. Known for its powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and lush limestone cliffs, this small beach offers a perfect escape for travelers looking to relax and enjoy nature. It’s a popular lunch stop on many island-hopping tours, featuring shaded picnic huts and cozy tables right by the shore where guests can enjoy freshly cooked meals and refreshing drinks like coconut juice or locally brewed coffee.
The shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish just a few steps from the beach. Despite being included in many tours, Atwayan remains relatively uncrowded, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, giving visitors a serene and laid-back atmosphere. Its natural beauty, friendly locals, and quiet charm make Atwayan Beach a hidden gem and a favorite stop for those exploring the islands of Coron.
Why It's Famous
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Beautiful natural scenery – White sand, turquoise water, mangroves, and rugged rock formations
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Great for snorkeling – Shallow and calm waters with coral, small fish, and marine life
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Peaceful & uncrowded – A chill vibe perfect for relaxing away from large tour crowds
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Popular island-hopping stop – Regularly included in tours thanks to its accessibility and charm
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Family-friendly – Shallow areas ideal for kids and beginner swimmers
LAS ISLAS DE CORAL
The Cleanest Lake in the Philippines
Las Islas de Coral, also known as Coral Garden, is one of Coron’s most spectacular underwater destinations, famed for its vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem. Located near the Calamian Islands, this snorkeling paradise boasts crystal-clear waters and an abundance of colorful coral formations—ranging from brain corals and sea fans to soft corals and branching types.
The reef is teeming with tropical fish such as clownfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes even giant clams and sea turtles. With excellent visibility and gentle currents, it's an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Surrounded by majestic limestone cliffs, Coral Garden offers not only a breathtaking snorkeling experience but also a chance to witness the incredible biodiversity that makes Palawan a world-class ecotourism destination. It's often included in island-hopping tours, and many consider it a highlight of their Coron adventure.
Why It's Famous
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Top snorkeling destination – Known for its vibrant coral reefs and clear, calm waters
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Diverse coral formations – Home to colorful hard and soft corals, including brain corals, sea fans, and branching types
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Abundant marine life – Spot clownfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, and even sea turtles or giant clams
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Excellent visibility – Crystal-clear water with up to 20–25 meters of visibility, perfect for underwater viewing
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Easy access – Common stop on Coron island-hopping tours (like Tour A or Ultimate Tour)
