The Philippines is home to some of the most stunning islands in the world, and two of its most popular destinations are Coron and El Nido in Palawan. Both are famed for their spectacular landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs. However, choosing between these two paradises can be tough. This guide will help break down the key differences, allowing you to decide which destination is best for your next trip.
1. Accessibility: How to Get There
- El Nido: Getting to El Nido can be more convenient, especially for tourists flying from Manila. There are direct flights to El Nido Airport via AirSWIFT, although they can be pricier. Alternatively, you can fly to Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, and take a five to six-hour van or bus ride to El Nido.
- Coron: To reach Coron, you’ll need to fly into Francisco B. Reyes Airport (Busuanga), which offers regular flights from Manila and Cebu. From there, it’s a 30-40 minute drive to the town of Coron. Another option is a ferry from El Nido, which takes around 4 hours.
Verdict: If you’re looking for quicker access from Manila, Coron might be the easier option.
2. Natural Attractions: Which Has the Best Scenery?
- Coron: Known for its WWII shipwrecks, lakes, and pristine coral reefs, Coron is a diver’s dream. Highlights include Kayangan Lake, often dubbed the cleanest lake in the Philippines, and Barracuda Lake, with its fascinating thermoclines. Coron also boasts stunning lagoons and smaller, more secluded beaches.
- El Nido: If you love dramatic island formations, El Nido is your paradise. Its Bacuit Bay is filled with towering karst cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and secret beaches. The famous Big Lagoon and Small Lagoon are bucket-list experiences, while the Hidden Beach and Seven Commandos Beach offer picture-perfect settings.
Verdict: For diving and unique natural formations, Coron excels. But if you’re seeking a variety of island-hopping experiences, El Nido‘s scenery is more varied and dramatic.
3. Island-Hopping Tours: Which Has Better Options?
- Coron: Coron’s island-hopping tours focus heavily on lakes, lagoons, and WWII wrecks. The most popular tours include Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and Siete Pecados Marine Park. Malcapuya Island and Banana Island are excellent beach stops for swimming and snorkeling.
- El Nido: El Nido offers four main tours, labeled A, B, C, and D, each covering a different set of islands and lagoons. Tour A includes the Big Lagoon and Secret Lagoon, while Tour C highlights the Matinloc Shrine and Hidden Beach. The tours are well-organized, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snorkel, kayak, and enjoy the stunning seascapes.
Verdict: El Nido is the winner for island-hopping variety, while Coron offers more intimate, less crowded tours with unique lake and lagoon stops.
4. Snorkeling and Diving: Where’s the Best Underwater Experience?
- Coron: As one of the world’s top wreck diving destinations, Coron is ideal for divers. The Japanese wrecks sunk during WWII are now thriving artificial reefs. Snorkelers can also enjoy rich marine life at Siete Pecados and Coral Garden. Coron is better suited for those with more interest in diving, especially technical or wreck diving.
- El Nido: El Nido also offers some fantastic diving and snorkeling spots, with highlights including Dilumacad Tunnel and South Miniloc Island. However, the coral reefs around El Nido are slightly less vibrant than those in Coron, and wreck diving opportunities are minimal.
Verdict: Coron is the clear choice for divers, while El Nido is great for casual snorkeling and underwater exploration.
5. Atmosphere and Vibe: What’s the Feel of Each Destination?
- Coron: Coron is quieter, with a more laid-back atmosphere. The town is small and lacks the bustling nightlife or shopping scene that other tourist spots might have. Coron is more about nature, diving, and relaxation.
- El Nido: El Nido has a more lively vibe. The town offers a wider range of restaurants, bars, and social scenes, attracting a younger and more adventurous crowd. While El Nido still retains its natural charm, it has more options for dining, partying, and mingling with fellow travelers.
Verdict: For a peaceful, nature-focused retreat, Coron is perfect. For more excitement and nightlife, El Nido delivers.
6. Accommodation: Where Should You Stay?
- Coron: Coron’s accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to more upscale hotels, but it doesn’t offer the same level of luxury resorts as El Nido. Still, the island’s pristine beauty compensates for the simpler lodging options.
- El Nido: El Nido has a wider variety of accommodations, from budget backpacker hostels to luxurious private resorts like El Nido Resorts Miniloc Island and Lagen Island Resort. If you’re looking for upscale beachfront stays, El Nido is your best bet.
Verdict: El Nido wins for luxury stays, but Coron offers plenty of mid-range and budget options that won’t disappoint.
7. Budget: Which Destination is More Affordable?
- Coron: Coron tends to be more affordable overall. Activities like island-hopping and diving are competitively priced, and accommodations are generally cheaper than in El Nido.
- El Nido: El Nido can be slightly more expensive, especially for food and accommodation. The influx of tourists has increased the cost of activities and dining, particularly in the main town.
Verdict: If you’re traveling on a budget, Coron is the more affordable destination.
8. Best Time to Visit: When Should You Go?
Both Coron and El Nido experience the same tropical climate, with the dry season from November to May being the best time to visit either destination. However, during peak season (December to February), both can get crowded.
Tip: If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in June or October, when the weather is still pleasant but fewer tourists are around.
Conclusion: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between Coron and El Nido depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for:
- Choose Coron if you’re passionate about diving, wreck exploration, and want a quieter, more relaxed getaway with stunning lakes and fewer tourists.
- Choose El Nido if you prefer dramatic island-hopping adventures, a lively social scene, and more luxurious accommodation options, all while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere.
Both destinations offer world-class beauty and unforgettable experiences, so whether you choose Coron or El Nido, you’re guaranteed an amazing time in the Philippines.
