First Coron or El Nido? Plan Your Perfect Palawan Itinerary
Introduction: Which Should You Visit First?
Planning a trip to Palawan but unsure whether to visit first Coron or El Nido? Both destinations offer stunning beaches, world-class diving, and unforgettable island-hopping adventures, but the order in which you visit them can impact your experience.
In this guide, we’ll compare Coron and El Nido, highlight the best travel route, and help you decide which to visit first based on your interests, travel time, and budget. Whether you’re into diving, eco-tourism, or just relaxing on pristine beaches, this article will help you craft the perfect Best Diving Palawan adventure.
A captivating photo of turquoise waters and limestone cliffs in Palawan
First Coron or El Nido? What’s the Best Option?
The Coron to El Nido route is one of the most popular island-hopping journeys in the Philippines. But should you start in Coron or El Nido first? Here are a few key factors to consider:
🚢 Travel Convenience: Which route offers better transportation options?
🤿 Best Diving in Palawan: Which destination has the best underwater experiences?
💰 Budget & Costs: Is one location cheaper than the other?
🏝 Island-Hopping & Tours: Which offers better day trips and adventures?
Let’s dive into the details and help you decide the best starting point for your Palawan itinerary.
Starting in Coron: The Perfect Introduction to Palawan
If you start your trip in Coron, you’ll be greeted with dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lakes, and incredible wreck diving. Here’s why Coron is a great first stop:
🏝 Less Touristy: Coron feels more laid-back compared to El Nido.
🐠 Best Diving in Palawan: Home to WWII shipwrecks and diverse marine life.
🚢 Easy Ferry to El Nido: Take a scenic 4 to 5-hour ferry ride for a seamless transition.
Top Things to Do in Coron
1️⃣ Kayangan Lake – The clearest lake in the Philippines, surrounded by towering limestone formations.
2️⃣ Twin Lagoon – A surreal mix of freshwater and saltwater swimming spots.
3️⃣ Skeleton Wreck – A shallow WWII shipwreck perfect for snorkeling and diving.
4️⃣ Tiki Tours – A multi-island expedition that takes you to hidden beaches and sandbars.
5️⃣ Mt. Tapyas Viewpoint – Hike for an incredible sunset view over Coron Bay.
📍 How to Get There: Fly directly into Busuanga Airport (Coron) from Manila or Cebu.
Best For: Divers, eco-tourists, and travelers who prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Starting in El Nido: A Gateway to Breathtaking Scenery
If you choose to visit El Nido first, get ready for dramatic seascapes, secret lagoons, and luxurious resorts. Here’s why El Nido is a great first stop:
🚤 More Tour Options: Four different island-hopping tours to choose from (Tour A, B, C, D).
🏖 Best Beach Vibes: Nacpan Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
🎉 Lively Nightlife: More bars, beach parties, and social events compared to Coron.
Top Things to Do in El Nido
1️⃣ Big Lagoon & Small Lagoon – Kayak through El Nido’s most iconic landscapes.
2️⃣ Secret Beach – A hidden paradise accessible only through a small rock opening.
3️⃣ Nacpan Beach – A 4-kilometer stretch of white sand and turquoise waters.
4️⃣ Dilumacad Tunnel – A unique underwater cave diving experience.
5️⃣ Taraw Cliff – A thrilling hike for panoramic views of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay.
📍 How to Get There: Fly into Puerto Princesa, then take a 5-6 hour van ride to El Nido.
Best For: Beach lovers, island-hoppers, and adventure seekers.
Best Travel Route: Should You Go from Coron to El Nido or Vice Versa?
Option 1: Start in Coron, then travel to El Nido
✅ Why? Ideal if you’re flying into Busuanga (Coron) first.
✅ Benefits: Enjoy Coron’s quieter atmosphere before heading to the livelier El Nido.
✅ Transport: Take a 4-5 hour ferry from Coron to El Nido.
Option 2: Start in El Nido, then travel to Coron
✅ Why? Works well if you’re flying into Puerto Princesa first.
✅ Benefits: El Nido offers a stronger “wow” factor at the beginning of your trip.
✅ Transport: Take a ferry or fly back from Coron to Manila or Cebu.
Which is better? Starting in Coron is best for divers and those wanting a gradual build-up to El Nido’s dramatic landscapes. Starting in El Nido is ideal if you prefer stunning scenery first and a relaxed end in Coron.
Best Alternatives: Other Amazing Destinations in Palawan
If you have extra time, consider adding these must-visit places in Palawan:
🏝 San Vicente – Home to the longest white sand beach in the Philippines.
🐢 Tubbataha Reefs – A UNESCO-listed diving paradise for serious divers.
🚣 Port Barton – A laid-back alternative to El Nido with secluded beaches and waterfalls.
Each of these destinations offers something unique, making Palawan a top-tier travel destination in the world.
Conclusion: What’s the Best Order for Your Palawan Trip?
Deciding whether to visit first Coron or El Nido depends on your travel style, interests, and arrival destination. If you love diving and quiet nature, start in Coron. If you prefer epic landscapes and lively beach scenes, begin in El Nido. Either way, both destinations will leave you in awe.
What’s your travel style—Coron first for adventure or El Nido first for stunning views? Let us know in the comments! 🏝🚤
