Coron Diving and Snorkelling in Palawan
Part of the Palawan travel guide — see every topic in All Palawan Guides.
Coron is one of the best-known diving areas in the Philippines. The bays around Busuanga Island hold a group of large sunken ships, now covered in coral and full of fish. There are also clear lakes, reefs and gentle snorkelling spots. This guide explains what kind of diving Coron offers, who it suits, and how to choose a dive shop.
Wreck diving
The main reason divers come to Coron is the wrecks. Several large ships lie on the sea floor in the bays near Coron town, at depths from shallow to quite deep. Over many decades they have become artificial reefs, covered in hard and soft coral and home to schools of fish, turtles and small sea life. Some wrecks are shallow enough for beginners and even snorkellers to see from above. Others are deep and suitable only for experienced divers. Going inside a wreck is a special skill and needs proper training and a guide.
Lake and reef diving
Barracuda Lake, on Coron Island, is a very different dive. The water is a mix of fresh and salt water, and below a certain depth it suddenly becomes much warmer. The rock formations are dramatic, and the visibility is often very good. Around the islands, there are also coral reefs with colourful fish, giant clams and sea fans. Many dive days combine one wreck with a reef or lake dive. Ask your dive shop which sites match your level and interests.
Snorkelling
You do not need to dive to enjoy the water in Coron. Siete Pecados, a small marine park close to town, has healthy coral and many fish in shallow water. Some shallow wrecks can be seen from the surface with a mask and fins. Most island-hopping tours include at least one snorkelling stop. If you are not a strong swimmer, wear a life jacket and stay close to the boat. Currents can be strong in some channels. Never stand on coral, as it is a living animal and breaks easily.
Learning to dive
Coron has many dive shops that teach beginner courses. A first course usually takes three to four days and includes pool or shallow water practice, theory and open water dives. If you do not have time for a full course, many shops offer a try dive with an instructor. Experienced divers can take courses for deep or wreck diving here. Choose a shop with small groups, clear safety briefings and well-kept equipment. Ask to see the gear before you book, and read recent reviews.
Safety and good practice
Many Coron wrecks are deep, so plan your dives with care and follow your guide. Do not fly within about 24 hours after diving, as this is a health risk. Coron has limited medical services, so dive within your limits. Do not touch or take anything from the wrecks or reefs. Use reef-safe sun protection, or cover up with a rash guard. Check the weather before booking, because strong winds can stop boat trips. Bring cash, as some shops add marine park or site fees on top of the dive price.
Coron Diving and Snorkelling at a glance
| Getting there | Dive shops in Coron town; boats leave from the town harbour |
|---|---|
| Hours | Dive boats usually leave in the morning and return mid to late afternoon |
| Cost | Varies by number of dives and course; site and park fees may be extra |
| Best time | About November to June for calmer seas; check conditions before you go |
| Level | Shallow sites for beginners; deep wrecks for experienced divers only |