Coron, Palawan: 4 Days and 3 Nights Guide

For the past years, Coron, Palawan had been welcoming numerous tourists that are in hunt of a great tropical escapade. And it's safe to say that this place, even for once, never disappoints.

Here's what you should know:

Coron is part of the Calamianes or Calamian Group of Islands which can be found at the Northern tip of Palawan province.  Technically, there are two Coron, first is the largest town on Busuanga Island while the other one is a small island just a few minutes away from Coron Town. A bit confused eh? Just always remember, Coron Town is where most accommodations are and it's the usual jump-off point to any excursions on the island.

Since it is widely known that this place has pristine clear waters, stunning limestones cliffs, unique lagoons and lakes, a handful of WWII shipwrecks, rich culture, and amazing people, creating a list of where to go, what to  do, where to eat, and even deciding where to stay can be kinda exhausting, right? But hey, set your worries aside as we now took the liberty of looking these things up and running it down for you in one comprehensive itinerary below.

Better grab a pen and paper now and prepare to take note below suggested itinerary for you to try!

Getting to Coron

There are two (2) ways of getting to Coron:

BY AIR

Located at the center of Busuanga Island, Francisco B. Reyes Airport also known as Busuanga Airport (USU) serves as the major point of entry in the island since flying is the quickest way to get in here. There are several local airlines that run daily flights from major airport hubs in the country namely Clark, Manila, and Cebu.

Travel time to Coron from Manila (MNL) takes 1 hour and 20 minutes fly time, while from Clark (CRK) will take 1 hour and 5 minutes. And if you'll be coming from Cebu (CEB) it'll take only 25-minutes. 

To maximize your time, we recommended flying in the early morning so that you’ll have lots of free time in the afternoon. Read more here to see Philippine Airline’s flight schedule: How To Go To Coron Via Philippine Airlines

Ready to book? Check the flight availability here: Rakso Travel Airline Ticket Reservation

BY SEA

Coron can also be easily reached via fast craft coming from El Nido with only 2 hours of travel time. Through this, you can manage to combine Coron, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa in one long stay itinerary especially for those travelers who want to experience the best of whole Palawan.

Recommended Hotel

Here are our suggested hotels or resort to stay in to match your style.

Backpackers:                      The Funny Lion

Family:                                 Coron Hilltop View Resort

Deluxe Budget:                   Coron Soleil Garden Resort

Luxury:                                Busuanga Bay Lodge

             Private:                                 Club Paradise Palawan

For more details, check this link: 6 Best Hotels to Stay When in Coron

Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival

Whether you’re arriving via ferry or plane, our friendly representative will pick you up and transfer you to the resort/hotel. Feel free to enjoy your time resting at the comforts of your room or you can step outside and see what this humble town has to offer!  

Visit its landmarks such as San Agustin Church, Coron Baywalk, Harbour center, and Town Plaza. See for yourself how Coron's famous cashews are harvested and processed to be one of the best snacks you can bring home. Take a short trek to reach the top of at Mt Tapyas to have a bird's eye view of Coron town and wrap up your day with a soothing dip at Maquinit Hotspring!

Click here to start booking: Coron Half Day Town Tour

Day 2: Coron Island Hopping

When we say you shouldn't miss Coron Island Hopping Tour, we mean it! Aside from being one of the top tours, it highlights all the must-visit spots in the area.

You definitely won't get enough of Coron's charm once you snorkel to witness the colorful tropical marine life at Malwawey Coral Garden, indulge a savory picnic lunch at Beach 91 and lay under the palm trees to feel the paradise vibes at CYC Beach. Want a taste of history? Then dive a little further to be amazed by the remnants of Skeleton Wreck, one of the many Japanese wrecks in Coron.

But the main highlight of this tour is a visit to the mystical Twin Lagoon and Kayangan Lake!

Entering Twin Lagoon is where the fun begins! The boat will dock at the first lagoon then visitors will have to swim their way down and into a small hole underneath a rock formation or climb up a ladder over the same rock to reach the second lagoon.

As for Kayangan Lake, after a 10-minute steep climb, its view will leave you in awe with its beauty hidden in the mountain walls. For the best part? Go for a soothing dive beneath its crystal clear waters to witness its moonscape-like underwater. Make sure to bring a waterproof camera with you so that you wouldn't miss taking snaps of this paradise!

After, get back to Coron Town and hunt down the best restos therein.

Having a hard time deciding where to dine? We heard that Buzz Express got a signature burger that lures many diners all day long! It's a real deal so you better give it a try!

To know more about Coron Island Hopping, check out our blog: Majestic Coron Island

Click here to start booking: Coron Island Hopping Tour

 Day 3: Calauit Safari Park

Unending surprises indeed are here in Coron, Palawan! Some of you might not hear it before but yes, Coron got a 3700-hectare island that serves as a game reserve and wildlife sanctuary!

You don't have to go too far to see wild animals such as zebras and giraffes. Make friends with various wild animals from the African plains and endemic and endangered Philippine Animals.

After the tour at the park, hop on your boat and head to Black Island. Feel like you're in a castaway movie because of this island's towering dark limestone cliffs, blinding white beach, and a small shipwreck just a few meters away from the shore. There are also caves inside with large chambers and natural pools waiting to be discovered. It may be odd but the beauty of this island stands out from the rest!

But if you would like to discover treasures from the past beneath the crystal clear waters of Coron better opt for the Reefs and Wrecks Tour. Visit Pass Island's pearly white sands that seemed like a jewel in the middle of the sea then head on to Lusong Coral Gardens' spectacular vivid coral bed featuring so many types of corals in breathtaking colors. For the highlight of this tour, take a deep breath and dive into a Japanese shipwreck, famously known as Lusong Gunboat. It is from the WWII-era but is now covered with brightly colored corals and home to different types of fishes. So if you're planning to get a diving certificate, then Coron got is the best diving spot for you!

To know more about Calauit Safari and Black Island, check out our blogs: Let’s Get Wild in Coron, Palawan & The Hidden Majesty of Black Island

Click here to start booking: Calauit Safari with Black Island Tour or Reefs and Wrecks Tour

Day 4: Departure

During your last day, it’s wise that you just spend the rest of your time prepping for your departure. You don’t want to ruin it with a hectic schedule by cramping tours in it, right?

Just simply stay idly at the resort/hotel, roam around Coron Town, try other restaurants, or do a little souvenir shopping to take home a piece of Coron's crafts and delicacies. We suggest grabbing some cashew nuts; they produce one of the best!

It's not difficult to appreciate Coron's exceptional beauty. Towering limestone cliffs, crystal clear waters, and flourishing flora and fauna, adventure is boundless. So a 4 days vacation may not be enough but there are lots of ways for it to be worth it! We hope our guide ease you’re planning process and gave you an idea for the perfect travel!

Don’t have a hotel yet? Check out our recommended hotels & resorts: 6 BEST HOTELS TO STAY WHEN IN CORON

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Was our recommendation helpful enough? Let us know by commenting below or send us an email at tours.ph@raksotravel.com. If you'd rather talk to one of our travel representatives call us at +63 (2) 8651-9000.

For other tours and travel needs, check out our website at www.islastory.com.

Don’t forget to follow & subscribe to get updated with Philippines travels!

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Cebu’s Top Family-Friendly Adventures

We can all agree, nothing can beat a time well spent with our family and because of that, organizing a great fam-bam escape can be stressful to whoever is in charge.

But we're pretty sure that won't be your case if you'll be heading to Cebu!  Everyone knows this place got something for travelers of all kind mainly because of the wide array of activities and sights to see in here!

So, we list down 6 places you can visit that are sure to have you planning your next family getaway to Cebu:

FORT SAN PEDRO

Want to have a travel experience that is both fun and knowledgeable? Then take your time visiting Fort San Pedro. 

Tucked in the heart of Cebu City, it is considered as the smallest and oldest Fort in the country but the history that it holds is much more than you could imagine! Standing for hundreds of years, it was a military defense structure back then. Inside its 20 feet tall and 8 feet thick walls are canons, lush greeneries, a turret, and bastions. On the gate itself, you can see the seal of the Spanish King and a niche that houses an image of the Sto. Niño, the patron saint of the city.

Just a simple stroll here will give you and the kids amazing insights about Cebu's rich history.

ALEGRE GUITAR FACTORY

Admit it, when we visit a place we're all on the hunt for the best souvenir we can bring home. So when in Cebu, make sure to check out Alegre Guitar Factory.

Whether you're a musician or just a music lover, you'll definitely get fond of the guitars in here! Located at Abuno, Pajac near the Maribago Area, they showcase affordable guitars with world-class quality. You can even participate in workshops, experience on-hand guitar crafting, and take home one of these as a souvenir!

10,000 ROSES CAFE

Turn your Disney dreams into reality as you walk in a garden surrounded by thousands of roses. Fancy isn't?

10,000 Roses Cafe has grown popularity through the past years due to its serene ambiance and Instagram worthy corners. Although the flowers here are LED-powered artificial roses only, the whole place gives out a romantic and tranquil vibe especially when all of the flowers start to light up from dusk till night.

SIRAO GARDEN

If the thousand rows of flowers in Amsterdam, Netherlands is included in your bucket list, you must consider visiting that of Cebu.

Dubbed as the Little Amsterdam of Cebu, get your cameras ready for this place is a green thumb's haven.  Sirao Garden is set on a picturesque hill just a few minutes away from JY, Lahug, Cebu City. This place features thousands of flowers that come in various bright colors. Its main flower is known as "Celosia", derived from the Ancient Greek word “kḗleos” which means “burning”, referring to its flame-like flower heads.

You'll also see windmills, figurines, signages, and lots of corners to take a cute family portrait!

JPARK ISLAND RESORT AND WATERPARK

Tucked in Mactan Island, keeping cool under the sun will never be as fun as staying at Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark!

Aside from its world-class accommodation, this place is well-known for its wide array of amenities and activities such as themed pools, water slides, and a private beach. Catch some waves and release the inner child in you while you satisfy your taste buds at their various dining venues. Bring your family and friends and make the most out of your trip as this resort offers a never-ending summer experience making you not want to leave!

SUMILON SANDBAR

If you're planning to take the kids out in the sun, better head to Sumilon Sandbar. This island is just a short boat ride from Oslob Cebu offering pristine white sands that blend perfectly with the clear azure waters! 

The busy city may get you worn out, so a day away from it is something you will need. Beach bum all-day, snorkel around, play beach activities, and enjoy a delightful lunch; this gem is definitely worth a visit!

Which of these attractions are already on your list? Or should we say, will be included on your list? We swear, ya’ll have the best time in Cebu so you should not miss any of these!

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Did we miss something? Share us your thoughts by commenting below or send us an email at tours.ph@raksotravel.com. If you'd rather talk to one of our travel representatives call us at +63 (2) 651-9000.

For other tours and travel needs, check out our website at www.islastory.com.

Don’t forget to follow & subscribe to get updated with Philippines travels!

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Quick Facts and Tips Before Visiting Cebu City

Crowned as the "Queen City of the South", Cebu is a place where business and leisure keep the city busy for every type of visitors.

This city will undoubtedly give you a taste of history and adventures. Beneath its towering skyscrapers, modern malls, and world-class accommodations are well-preserved remnants of the past showcasing its rich culture. There are also numerous activities to choose from that will surely trigger your inner adventurer.

But before you all get too excited and start booking your trip, it's wise to bring along with you a bit of knowledge about Cebu City. We also included here some tips that can be of help once you venture out, so better check our list below!

FIRST AND OLDEST PHILIPPINE CITY

Fact:

Just before Manila was hailed as the capital of the Philippines, it was Cebu that was the center of the economy back then. It was where the Spaniards first settled in and the birthplace of Christianity making it the first and oldest city in the country. Despite the growing economy and fast modernization, you can still see historical landmarks, streets, and other valuable relics that are well preserved and showcasing its rich Spanish heritage.

Tip:

Who says history is boring? Learn more during your stay in Cebu City by exploring its streets and landmarks and fully immerse yourself with the history thru a City Tour. From the must-visit historical sites, meeting with people and their culture to shopping souvenirs and tasting local delicacies, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience!

LOCATION AND GETTING THERE

Fact:

Cebu City is located at South-Central Philippines and considered as the capital of the province of Cebu. This sprawling metropolis is surrounded by offshore Mactan Channel and the inland Cordillera Central. As a 1st class highly urbanized city, Cebu plays a significant role as the center of economy, trade, and education in the Visayas Region. Plus, its focal position enables it to be the main gateway of local and foreign tourists exploring the Central Visayas and even the Mindanao Region.

Tip:

First is via Mactan-Cebu International Airport which is considered to be the second busiest international airport in the country. Daily, this airport serves flights from several major domestic hubs in the country such as Clark, Manila, Palawan, Kalibo, and others. They even also serve daily flights from other major cities in Asia!

Second is via ferry which is very much ideal since Cebu is considered to have one of the busiest port in the country! If you're coming from other neighboring islands, travel time usually takes from 2 hours or more and is distinctively cheaper that booking a flight.

NAVIGATING THRU THE CITY

Fact:

Even Cebu City is not spared from the annoying traffic, but that doesn't mean that getting around will be difficult for you. It will be easier for you to have a fixed itinerary planned ahead of time so that you can maximize your time very well. When you're in the city, public transportations such as jeepney, tricycles, buses, and taxis are available everywhere and so is Grab, which helped a lot of tourists. But if you happen to be at the latter part of the island, there are also locals who offer a habal-habal ride.

Tip:

Who doesn't want a hassle-free ride? The best option for you is to have your own chartered transfer. Not only that you can easily manage your time but also create your own itinerary and your driver guide can help you the best way possible to avoid the traffic!

HOME OF THE FIRST FILIPINO HERO

Fact: Regarded as the first national hero, Lapu-Lapu was a native and ruler of Mactan who initiated the very first resistance against the Spaniard's occupation.  It was him that defeated and killed the Portuguese conquistador, Ferdinand Magellan. His bravery inspired lots of locals and is widely celebrated up until now.

Tip:

To commemorate his triumph, he has his own bronze statue that stands tall at Mactan Island where the infamous Battle of Mactan took place. Make sure to pay a visit there to take a closer look!

HOME OF AN OLD CHRISTIAN RELIC

Fact:

When Ferdinand Magellan (the Portuguese conquistador) arrived in Cebu, he gave a gift to Rajah Humabon and his wife Queen Juana which is a carved wooden figure of Little Jesus in 1521. Believed to be miraculous, Sto. Niño de Cebu can be seen in every Catholic's home and shops and it draws millions of devotees every year! 

Tip:

To see this beloved relic, make sure to visit Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu commonly known as the Santo Niño Basilica. This minor basilica is one of Cebu's holiest churches that house the statuette for years!  It'll be part of your itinerary once you go for a Cebu City tour.

HOSTS A GRAND FESTIVAL

Fact:

Every third Sunday of January, it has been an annual tradition in Cebu city to celebrate Sinulog Festival in honor to one of the country’s most famous historic relics: the Santo Niño de Cebú. It's also known as “Mother of All Festivals” and attracts not only millions of Filipinos but many other foreign tourists from across the globe. What to expect? A month-long celebration filled with full-day processions, locals competing in a street dance competition all adorned by brightly colored costumes, and numerous street parties!

Tip:

If you want to join the festivity, make sure to secure your hotels, tours, flights, and transfers as early as 3 months prior! If not, chances are, you'll run out of rooms and rates can go higher than you could imagine.

Read more:  A Handy Travel Guide in Cebu’s Sinulog Festival

LECHON HAVEN

Fact:

When it comes to the best tasting "Lechon" (whole-roasted suckling pig) in the country, Cebuanos definitely perfected the art of cooking it. It's undeniably a crowd favorite, from festivals to parties, or any Filipino gathering, Lechon is definitely there. And your Cebu vacation would not be complete without a taste of this roasted pig's tender, flavorful meat, and crunchy red skin!

Tip: Suddenly craved for a tasty lechon? Throw yourself on Cebu's streets and you'll see numerous restaurants claiming that theirs are the original while others manage to add their own twist to it. But as for our personal favorite, make sure to try the one served at House of Lechon. This restaurant is famous for its lechon served in a Carcar way added with the distinctive lechon sauce to make your whole dining experience complete!

So treat yourself with a travel experience that's fun, authentic, and culturally diverse vacation only at Cebu City!

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Did we miss something? Share us your thoughts by commenting below or send us an email at tours.ph@raksotravel.com. If you'd rather talk to one of our travel representatives call us at +63 (2) 651-9000.

For other tours and travel needs, check out our website at www.islastory.com.

Don’t forget to follow & subscribe to get updated with Philippines travels!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islastoryph/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/IslaStory