Picture crystal-clear waters reflecting the color of a turquoise stone, with soaring limestone cliffs looming overhead like behemoths. Hidden circle-shaped lagoons, colorful corals below, and glittering fish swimming around create a dreamlike scenery that makes travelers wonder should they pick Coron or El Nido for their trip? As someone who has traveled to these destinations multiple times, I know the decision can be difficult. Both places, located in the biologically diverse region of Palawan, Philippines, offer unique island-hopping experiences. El Nido, more developed and popular, is filled with brilliant white sandy beaches, while Coron remains quieter with some of the best snorkeling and diving spots.
Separated by 100 kilometers of sea, these tropical islands each have their charm. This head-to-head comparison will help you decide which is the better choice for your travels, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or breathtaking scenery.
which is better coron or el nido
When deciding between Coron and El Nido, it all comes down to what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you love the ocean and want a relaxing trip, Coron is better with its world-class snorkeling, diving, and stunning island-hopping tours that take you to gorgeous beaches. The town center may not be as developed, but the peaceful resorts outside of it offer a quiet escape. On the other hand, El Nido is a lively tourist destination with a tropical atmosphere, distinct areas to stay, and a vibrant vibe. Even without joining a tour like Tour A, you can still enjoy beach days and soak in the vacation feel. Staying at places like H Hotel El Nido, managed by H Hospitality Group, adds a touch of comfort.
While El Nido’s bustling beaches bring energy, Coron’s Big Dream Boatman crossing offers a wonderful way to experience both. Whether you prefer adventure or relaxation, visiting these islands will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Exploring the Beauty of El Nido
El Nido is a paradise filled with breathtaking landscapes and stunning waters, making it a top choice for travelers looking to explore the Philippines. Whether you want to island hop, kayak through clear waters, or relax on white sandy beaches, El Nido has something for everyone. The nearby islands and spectacular views make it a must-visit destination.
The Charm of Big Lagoon
One of the biggest highlights of El Nido is the Big Lagoon. This spot offers an unforgettable experience where travelers can choose to kayak or swim through its super clear and calm waters. For just 250 pesos (around $5USD), you can rent a kayak and explore freely, or simply put on a snorkel and mask to enjoy the underwater beauty. The peaceful, floating experience in the lagoon makes it truly worth visiting. There is an additional entry fee of 200 pesos, but the freedom to explore this natural wonder is priceless.
Unique Adventures on the Islands
Island hopping is one of the best things to do in El Nido, offering unforgettable experiences across its many islands. The stunning sandbars, such as the one found on Snake Island (part of Tour B), are a favorite among visitors. The long stretch of sandbar connecting two islands makes for a perfect stop, whether you love hiking to a high vantage point or have an obsession with capturing drone shots. The adventure is a mix of nature, water, and exploration.
Beach Escapes and Scenic Views
For those who love beaches, El Nido offers some of the best options. One such place is 7 Commandos Beach, a must-visit on Tour A. This stretch of white sand is larger than most beaches in the area, giving travelers plenty of space to relax. Renting a kayak in Corong Corong makes it even easier to explore. Meanwhile, Las Cabanas Beach is famous for its pink and purple sunsets over the horizon. Visitors can head to The Birdhouse for an unforgettable view or enjoy a peaceful dinner at the Nesting Table. However, caution is needed while swimming due to sea urchins and stonefish in the waters.
Endless Activities and Experiences
El Nido is not just about sightseeing; there’s a long list of things to do. From exploring beaches to reading about various island excursions, the town offers countless adventures. Whether it’s a casual swim, yoga sessions by the sea, or simply staying in a place with stunning views, El Nido is a traveler’s dream.
Discovering Coron’s Natural Wonders
If you love adventure and untouched beauty, Coron is a paradise waiting to be explored. From its crystal-clear lakes to hidden caves and dramatic rock formations, this island offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an avid freediver, a drone enthusiast, or just someone looking for a peaceful escape, Coron has something unique to offer.
Twin Lagoons – A Mesmerizing Sight
One of Coron’s highlights is the breathtaking Twin Lagoons. A morning flight over the turquoise water reveals a magical view, perfect for capturing stunning drone shots. The calm lagoons are best visited early before they get crowded with people. However, if you’re visiting between April and May, be prepared for a swarming of jellyfish, which is a natural occurrence during this time.
Kayangan and Barracuda Lake – A Freediver’s Heaven
Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake are among the most popular spots in Coron. Though separate locations, they share similar features. Both are brackish, meaning a mix of freshwater and salt water, making them ideal for a unique freedive experience. The clear water allows you to dive deep and witness the underwater beauty. Arriving early around 7:30 or 8 AM gives you a chance to enjoy these places without large crowds. An afternoon visit to Barracuda Lake is particularly rewarding, as it’s often quieter than Kayangan.
Black Island – A Hidden Gem
Many blogs and hopping excursions overlook Black Island, but it’s one of Coron’s best-kept secrets. The beach stretches long, with white sand and stunning jagged cliffs. The dramatic rock formations add to its raw beauty. Unlike other stops in El Nido, Black Island remains untouched, offering a peaceful escape. One of its highlights is the cave, where you can take a refreshing swim. Spending an hour in this secluded spot feels like a private adventure. Located at the north end of Coron, it’s a perfect place to stay for a few days. If you’re looking for more details, you can find useful info in the accommodation section of travel guides.
Exploring Coron and El Nido: Which Destination Suits You?
Visiting Coron or El Nido is a tough choice for many travelers. Both island destinations have their own charm, making the decision feel like a thorn in holiday planning. Your personal preferences play a key role in choosing the best place for your travels. Whether you’re drawn to historic shipwrecks, stunning snorkeling, or a vibrant beach town vibe, each location offers something special.
If you love the thrill of exploring underwater, Coron is an excellent choice with its historic shipwrecks and rich marine life. On the other hand, El Nido offers a lively atmosphere, making it ideal for those looking for fun beyond sightseeing. Many, including myself, find El Nido perfect for a family getaway or even getting married, thanks to its breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re into tours, exciting things to do, or just a relaxing time outside, both places promise unforgettable experiences. Consider what fits your travel style and make the most of your destination.
Cost Comparison: Coron vs. El Nido
Traveling to Coron and El Nido can be expensive compared to other parts of the Philippines. Island hopping tours in El Nido have fixed prices, usually ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 pesos per person. Additionally, there’s a 200-peso environmental fee valid for 10 days, while access to the Big and Small Lagoons requires an extra 200 pesos. Renting a mask and snorkel costs 150 pesos per day, but bringing your own can save money. Private tours are significantly higher, with prices once listed at 3,000 to 4,000 pesos now reaching 7,000 to 9,000 pesos. Some travelers, including myself, try to cut costs by bringing food and checking forums or outdated websites for deals.
Coron, on the other hand, has a different pricing structure since many islands and lagoons are privately owned. Entry fees are included in group tours, which cost 1,500 to 2,300 pesos per person. If you prefer a private boat, you’ll need to pay fees at every stop—Kayangan Lake costs 300 pesos, the Twin Lagoon is 200 pesos, and other locations are usually 150 pesos. Booking a boat directly at the dock (2,700 pesos) avoids the hotel or agency middleman fee, while farther destinations may go up to 5,000 pesos. Splitting costs with a group makes it more affordable, giving you more flexibility in your itinerary.
Aside from tours, the cost of food and accommodation is fairly equal in both places. However, haggling in El Nido is often necessary, especially with tricycle drivers and private tours, making it feel a bit scammy at times. In Coron, prices are more organized and straightforward, which makes the experience less stressful. While both destinations are stunning, understanding these pros and cons can help travelers decide which place best fits their budget and travel style.
Coron Compared to El Nido
If you love diving and island hopping, Coron is a fantastic destination. The town itself may not have a beach, but its private island resorts and overwater bungalows, like those at SETIR, offer a peaceful environment perfect for a romantic getaway or a memorable family vacation. Many discerning travelers prefer Coron for its opulent accommodations and luxurious feel, making it one of the most sought-after vacation spots in the Philippines. Whether you’re looking for cheap hotels or high-end resorts like Sunlight, there’s something for every budget.
For adventure seekers, Coron is famous for its historic wreck dives, and places like Sangat Island Dive Resort provide easy access to these underwater treasures. If diving isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy a range of fun things like island hopping, hiking up Mt. Tapyas for breathtaking views, or relaxing at Maquinit Hot Springs. While public tours to famous sites can get crowded, booking private excursions ensures a more exclusive experience. With its private islands, boat rides, and stunning scenery, Coron is a dream destination, even if it lacks a beach in town.
El Nido Compared to Coron
El Nido offers something for everyone, whether you’re a backpacker, a solo traveler, or someone seeking a peaceful getaway. For those wanting to escape the crowds, El Nido provides plenty of solitude on its stunning beaches, some of which are only accessible by kayak from the mainland. The limestone cliffs in El Nido Town create a mesmerizing backdrop that you can admire right from your hotel room, adding a touch of romance to any vacation. With exclusive beachfront hotels and luxury accommodations near Bacuit Bay, El Nido is a haven for those seeking a relaxing retreat.
El Nido is also known for its world-class island-hopping experiences, which draw travelers from all over the globe. Its famous lagoons, idyllic islands, and crystal-clear waters are the main reasons why it’s become a popular destination. Beyond the tours, the area is also home to some of the best sunset spots. I personally recommend watching the sunsets from Las Cabañas Beach or from the Taraw Cliffs for an unforgettable experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, El Nido also offers cliff diving competitions, such as the one I had the honor of being invited to by Redbull. Whether you’re looking for romantic beachfront hotels, incredible diving spots, or simply a serene escape, El Nido has something special to offer.
Exploring the Depths: Diving Adventures
Diving in the Philippines is a dream, and both Coron and El Nido offer incredible underwater experiences. Coron, widely considered the best place for scuba diving, is famous for its WWII wrecks hidden deep beneath the clear water. The Apo Reef, one of the largest reefs in the country, is a fantastic spot for advanced divers, with schools of fish, reef sharks, and even occasional whale shark sightings. If you’re Nitrox certified and an open water diver, you can explore these historic ships resting silently below. Black Island, another diving hotspot in Coron, boasts beautiful coral reefs teeming with sea turtles and big marine life. Meanwhile, El Nido’s diving spots, though not as well-known, are rumored to be good, offering encounters with specks of colorful fish and breathtaking coral formations. Whether you’re on an eight-day liveaboard in 2014 or just exploring for a day, both places provide an unforgettable dive experience in the heart of the Philippines.
Finding the Best Stay: Accommodation Options
When choosing between Coron and El Nido, accommodation plays a big role. Both places offer a variety of stays, from budget hotels to luxury options, but the experience differs.
El Nido, located in Palawan, is famous for its scenic beauty, but its hotels can be quite pricey compared to other parts of Southeast Asia. Many tourists find that they get less value for their money than in places like Bali. The high demand for stays has outpaced development, meaning newer hotels are still being built to accommodate the growing influx of island hoppers. While El Nido does have some stunning resorts, you might need to spend more for a comfortable experience.
On the other hand, Coron offers a cheaper and often better value alternative. If you’re on a tight budget, you can still find decent budget hotels that provide clean rooms with cold A/C. One such option is the Coron Visitors Hotel, which is known for its good location, close to nice restaurants and essential amenities. If you have a larger travel budget, there are some luxury options available as well. Coron might not have as many high-end resorts as El Nido, but you can still find nice places to stay without breaking the bank.
If you’re looking for a luxury experience and don’t mind spending more, El Nido might be a better choice. But if you want a better value stay with affordable yet comfortable options, Coron is worth considering.
Where to Eat: A Tale of Two Islands
Food lovers will find a world of flavors in both Coron and El Nido, but there’s a clear difference in the variety and dining experience each offers. If you’re someone who enjoys exploring tons of options, El Nido might be your go-to, while Coron is catching up quickly with new and exciting restaurants.
El Nido: A Foodie’s Paradise
El Nido stands out with its better selection of restaurants, ranging from cheap Asian eats at CB Cafe to international and western-style dining at El Nido Boutique Artcafe. For those craving pizza, Altrove is a top-notch choice, while The Vegan Cafe serves fresh fruit smoothie bowls for a healthy fix. The mix of street food, casual spots, and fine dining, along with vibrant nightlife, makes El Nido a perfect place to eat out, no matter what you’re craving.
Coron: Small but Growing Food Scene
Coron lags behind El Nido in terms of the number of restaurants, but its food scene is growing quickly. You won’t have a hard time finding good food, with favorites like Om’s Thai, El Kuvo, and Levine’s Eatery offering great options at reasonable prices. While it can’t stand up to the extensive choices in El Nido just yet, the restaurant scene in Coron is evolving, giving travelers more reasons to explore its local flavors.
Best Ways to Travel to Coron and El Nido
Traveling to Coron or El Nido is fairly easy, with multiple options depending on your budget and preference. Most travelers take a plane from Manila, Cebu, or Clark International Airport, as both destinations have daily domestic flights. If you’re heading to Coron, you’ll land at Francisco B. Reyes Airport (Busuanga), followed by a 30 to 45-minute drive north to Coron Town. Meanwhile, flying into El Nido takes you to Lio Airport, just 15 minutes away, or you can opt for Puerto Princesa International Airport, which requires a 5-hour drive south.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly choice, traveling to El Nido can be cheaper if you’re willing to fly to Puerto Princesa and take a shared transfer. However, some visitors regret this option due to the long ride. Alternatively, you can cross between Coron and El Nido by ferry, which is a popular but uncommon alternative to the expensive direct flights via AirSwift. If you’re after a more scenic and adventurous journey, I highly recommend the Big Dream Boatman crossing, as it offers a unique island-hopping experience while making the transit enjoyable.
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Things to Do in Coron vs El Nido
If you’re deciding between Coron and El Nido, here are some top recommendations. Both destinations boast stunning island-hopping tours that take you to crystal-clear lagoons and picturesque beaches. Each place also features a well-known hike that begins right in town, offering breathtaking views along the way
Things to do in Coron
Coron and El Nido are two of the most stunning destinations in the Philippines, each offering unique experiences. If you love exploring underwater wonders and breathtaking landscapes, Coron might be your best choice. Let’s dive into the top things you can do in Coron to make the most of your visit.
1. Explore the Best Diving and Snorkeling Spots
Coron is a dream for divers and snorkelers. It is home to historic WWII Japanese shipwrecks, making it one of the world’s premiere dive sites. Even if you’re a beginner, discovery dives and snorkeling in the clear waters of Coral Garden offer an unforgettable experience.
2. Hike to the Top of Mt. Tapyas
For the best panoramic views of Coron Town and Coron Bay, a climb to Mt. Tapyas is a must. The viewpoint rewards you with sweeping views of rolling hills and surrounding islands. Be prepared to tackle 721 steps to reach the summit!
3. Relax in the Maquinit Hot Springs
After a long day of adventure, unwind in the Maquinit Hot Springs, one of the few saltwater hot springs in the world. The soothing waters, with temperatures ranging from 38 – 41 °C (100 – 106 °F), make it a perfect spot, especially in the late afternoon when the warm climate cools down. It’s only a 30-minute tricycle ride from town, making it easily accessible.
4. Go on an Island-Hopping Adventure
No trip to Coron is complete without island hopping. From stunning lagoons to crystal-clear lakes, Coron Island is filled with iconic sites. Swim through vibrant reefs, explore hidden coves, and take in the beauty of one of the most breathtaking locations in the world.
Things to do in El Nido
El Nido is a dream destination for those who love vibrant beach life, stunning island views, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Unlike Coron, which is famous for its wreck diving and secluded lakes, El Nido offers a mix of lively energy and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or breathtaking scenery, this paradise in Southeast Asia has something for everyone.
1. Experience the Best Beaches and Epic Sunsets
El Nido is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Nacpan Beach, just a half-hour away, boasts fine white sands and a peaceful atmosphere. If you prefer a livelier spot, head south to Corong Corong, where you’ll find a fun vibe and epic sunsets. Lio Beach, only 10 minutes north of El Nido Town, offers chill vibes perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring.
2. Take an Adrenaline-Packed Zipline Ride
For those seeking adventure, the El Nido Zipline is a must-try. Starting from Las Cabañas Beach and stretching toward Depeldet Island, this thrilling ride offers a breathtaking aerial view of Bacuit Bay. Unlike climbing Mount Tapyas in Coron, this activity requires no scrambling or stairs—just pure excitement. It’s the perfect way to start your day with an adrenaline rush.
3. Hike to Taraw Peak for a Stunning Aerial View
One of El Nido’s most rewarding short hikes is Taraw Peak, a solid climb that gives you an unmatched view of El Nido Town and the surrounding islands. The best time to hike is early in the morning to avoid the midday sun, which can make the climb tough. If you’re new to hiking, a local guide is highly recommended to help navigate the route safely.
4. Discover Hidden Waterfalls to Cool Off
Beyond the beaches, El Nido is blessed with hidden waterfalls perfect for cooling off in the summer heat. Nagkalit-Kalit Waterfalls, located just outside town, offer a refreshing escape from the bustling beach areas. If you’re willing to explore further, Bulalacao Falls and Nacpan Falls provide an even more secluded and serene experience. These waterfalls are not just stunning—they’re also a great way to stay active while enjoying nature.
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Best Time to Explore Coron and El Nido
If you want to see the breathtaking islands of Coron and El Nido at their best, visiting during the dry season is ideal. From November to May, the weather is stable, making it perfect for island hopping and sightseeing. If you’re looking for a mix of discounted travel and ideal weather, the shoulder seasons—November and May—offer a great balance.
For El Nido, April is often the best month. However, the Amihan monsoon can bring adverse wind conditions earlier in the year. The temperatures in April and May are quite warm, so it’s best to plan accordingly. Additionally, Holy Week in the Philippines, which leads up to Easter Sunday, sees a surge in domestic travel, which affects prices and availability.
Coron offers something unique in December—the Festival of Islands, a celebration of the Calamian Islands. This event showcases traditional music, dance, games, and a variety of local food. Whether you’re capturing the beauty of Palawan through photos, exploring island tours, or admiring the stunning gallery of images, both destinations promise unforgettable experiences.
El Nido vs. Coron Who wins?
Choosing between Coron and El Nido is a tough choice because both places offer beautiful scenery, popular tourist spots, and similar activities like island hopping. But if you ask for a definitive answer, my opinion leans toward Coron. While El Nido has its charm, it feels a bit aggressive, and maybe it was just luck of the draw, but my experiences there weren’t as enjoyable. The boat crews in Coron seemed more welcoming and friendlier, never trying to strong-arm tourists into anything. That gave Coron an edge, making it the better choice for me. Of course, travel is subjective, and I’d love to hear if others agree or not. But personally, if I had to choose, I’d keep going back to Palawan and checking out my favorite spots in the Philippines.
