Coron: Island Escapade Tour with Lunch

Planning a trip to Coron? This Island Escapade Tour promises a full day of scenic beauty, snorkeling, and relaxing beach time for just $50 per person. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a solid option for those wanting a taste of Palawan’s famed islands without breaking the bank.

What draws us most? The chance to explore Malcapuya Island’s pristine sands, marvel at Bulog Dos’s sandbar and crystal-clear waters, enjoy the tranquil Coco Beach, and even visit a lesser-known spot like Ditaytayan Sandbar. The inclusion of a buffet lunch, professional guides, and hotel transfers makes this a convenient, all-in-one package. However, be aware that some reviews point to issues like limited time at each stop or less-than-stellar food. Still, if you’re after value, iconic scenery, and a chance to meet fellow travelers, this tour could be perfect.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Affordable price point makes it accessible for many travelers.
• Visiting four islands and sandbars provides a varied experience within one trip.
• Snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Shared tour format offers social interactions but limits individual time at stops.
• Includes a buffet lunch with seafood, meats, fruits, and drinks.
• Guides and permits are covered, simplifying your planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Coron Island Escapade Tour

This Coron Island Escapade is designed as a full-day excursion, typically departing early in the morning (around 8-9am) and returning around 5pm. The tour covers four main stops—Malcapuya Island, Bulog Dos, Coco Beach, and Ditaytayan Sandbar—each offering distinct sights and experiences.

The total cost of $50 covers boat transportation, guides, entrance fees, permits, and lunch. The boat used is described as secure and well-maintained, ensuring safe travel across Coron’s waters. Pickup and drop-off are provided only within Coron Town Proper, so travelers staying outside this area may need to arrange additional transport.

How the Itinerary Breaks Down

Malcapuya Island: The Showstopper

Most travelers agree that Malcapuya is the star of the tour. Its white sandy beaches and clear waters create a postcard-perfect setting. Visitors are encouraged to swim, sunbathe, or snorkel amidst coral reefs teeming with marine life. One reviewer notes that despite some commercialization, the island remains remarkably beautiful, providing excellent photo opportunities and a relaxing escape from crowds.

Bulog Dos: The Sandbar & Serenity

Bulog Dos is renowned for its sandbar, a stretch of sand emerging during low tide, surrounded by crystal-clear waters. This spot is ideal for relaxing, taking photos, or enjoying a quick swim. Tourists often mention the tranquil vibe—perfect for unwinding after the busy morning. However, some reviews highlight the limited time spent here, so if you’re eager to explore, keep expectations realistic.

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Coco Beach: The Chill Spot

Coco Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with lush vegetation and calm waters. It’s the place to lounge, swim, or have a beach picnic. While some visitors find it peaceful and beautiful, others, like one reviewer, felt there wasn’t much to do during their visit, especially with limited time allocated. Still, if tranquility is your goal, Coco Beach delivers.

Ditaytayan Sandbar: Hidden Gem

Ditaytayan is less known but equally stunning—white sands, clear waters, and fewer crowds. It’s perfect for swimming, walking along the sandbar, or snapping photos. Guests mention that the natural beauty here is impressive, with some noting it as a quieter alternative to the more popular stops.

What to Expect from the Experience

Group Size & Atmosphere

This is a shared tour, accommodating between 12 and 20 participants. While this format makes the price more affordable and brings opportunities to meet fellow travelers, it also means less individual time at each stop. Reviewers mention that even with a busy schedule, the tour organizers do a good job of balancing exploration with relaxation.

Guides & Local Knowledge

The guides, like Joshua, are described as friendly and attentive, eager to ensure everyone is comfortable and informed. Their role is to keep the group organized, provide safety instructions, and enrich your understanding of the islands. Some reviews note that guides could improve on explaining the islands’ features, but overall, their professionalism is appreciated.

Food & Refreshments

The included buffet lunch features grilled meats, seafood, vegetables, fruits, rice, and drinks, making it a decent meal after a morning of activities. Several reviewers mention that the lunch, while plentiful, could be better in quality—some found it lacking in variety and flavor. As a result, bringing extra snacks or water might be wise, especially if you have a bigger appetite or dietary preferences.

Water Activities & Equipment

Snorkel gear can be rented for PHP 200 per set, including mask, snorkel, and fins. Fins, masks, or aqua shoes are available separately, and there’s an option to rent a clear kayak for PHP 1,500. Having your own snorkel gear could enhance your experience, as some travelers noted the provided equipment was just adequate.

Timing & Pacing

Each stop typically allows 1-2 hours of exploration, meaning you get a decent glimpse of each site without feeling rushed. However, some reviews highlight that the tour sometimes spends longer at certain spots—like Coco Beach—leading to less time at others, such as Bulog Dos. Planning ahead and managing your expectations for limited free time at each stop can make your experience more enjoyable.

Practicalities & Tips

What to Bring

• Sunscreen (biodegradable preferred)
• Swimwear and towels
• Camera and charged smartphone for capturing memories
• Flip-flops or beach shoes
• Water and snacks if you want extra sustenance
• Beachwear suitable for swimming and relaxing

Important Restrictions

• No pets, alcohol, or drugs allowed onboard.
• Smoking is prohibited during the tour.
• Be mindful of your personal belongings; the guide isn’t responsible for lost items.
• The tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of adverse weather—stay flexible.

Accessibility & Suitability

The tour involves boat rides, some walking, and swimming, so it might not suit travelers with mobility challenges, pregnant women, or those over 95 years old. It’s best suited for active, adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and coastal scenery.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

While the tour offers amazing views and a good value, reviews remind us that experiences can vary. One guest mentions that the guide, Joshua, was very attentive, enhancing the trip’s overall enjoyment. Conversely, another reviewer criticizes the food, describing it as poor and scarce, which might be a consideration if you’re a foodie or have dietary restrictions.

A common theme among positive comments is the stunning scenery—crystal waters, white sands, and fewer crowds at certain stops—making it a worthwhile adventure for nature lovers. On the other hand, some found the long wait times or the limited explanation from guides a tad disappointing, so managing expectations is key.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a cost-effective way to see some of Coron’s most beautiful islands with the convenience of hotel transfers, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for budget travelers who want to snorkel, relax on white sandy beaches, and capture memorable photos without the fuss of planning every detail.

Adventure seekers and nature lovers will appreciate the variety of stops and the opportunity to explore lesser-known spots like Ditaytayan. Social travelers will enjoy the group setting and the chance to meet people from around the world.

However, if you’re particular about food quality or prefer spending more time at each destination, this might not be the best fit. Also, those with mobility challenges should consider the physical demands of boat rides and walking.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour provides complimentary pickup and drop-off from hotels within Coron Town Proper, making it easy to start your day.

How long does the tour last? The full day usually runs from around 8 or 9 am until approximately 5 pm, giving you about 8 hours of island hopping and relaxation.

Are all the island entrance fees and permits covered? Yes, the tour price includes all entry fees, taxes, and permits, so there are no hidden costs.

Can I rent snorkeling equipment? Yes, snorkel masks, fins, and aqua shoes can be rented for PHP 200 each, or you can bring your own gear for better comfort.

What should I bring on the tour? Pack essentials like sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), swimwear, towels, sunglasses, a camera, water, snacks, flip-flops, and your charged smartphone.

Is the lunch provided good? The buffet includes grilled meats, seafood, fruits, and rice, but some reviews mention that the food quality could be improved. It’s a filling meal, but not gourmet.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly? The physical activities and boat rides make it less suitable for those with mobility challenges, pregnant women, or very elderly travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Coron Island Escapade Tour with Lunch offers a balanced mix of iconic scenery, snorkeling, and relaxation at a reasonable price point. You’ll get to see some of Coron’s best-loved islands and enjoy a convenient, guided experience that minimizes planning stress. While some might wish for longer exploration times or better food, the stunning waters, friendly guides, and the opportunity for social connection make it a worthwhile choice for many.

This tour is ideal for adventurous, budget-conscious travelers eager to tick off key island highlights and enjoy the natural beauty of Palawan. If you’re prepared for a busy day with limited free time at each stop, it’s a great way to maximize your time in Coron and make lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: