El Nido vs Coron: Which Philippine Paradise is Best for You?
El Nido and Coron have long been the top choices for travelers visiting the island paradise of Palawan. Both offer breathtaking natural beauty, plentiful marine life, and unique island-hopping experiences.
However, as Palawan is becoming more popular and yes a little overtouristed, savvy travelers are fleeing to quieter areas like Balabac and Port Barton – myself included. Factor in budget and time constraints when traveling around the Philippines (there is simply so much to see!) and many travelers are choosing to either tour El Nido or Coron, not both.
So… if you need to choose, who wins the debate of El Nido vs Coron? I've created a quick comparison of popular activities, tourist infrastructure, and budget details for each destination to help you choose the perfect island escape.
Overview of El Nido Palawan
El Nido Town is a cute coastal village lining a white sand harbour, surrounded by towering limestone karsts. Sounds pretty heavenly doesn't it?
I expected to be underwhelmed by El Nido. I assumed it was overrated, but I was pleasantly surprised. The area is home to some of the best beaches in the world, and the town is charming too.
It features many restaurants, a good variety of accommodation options, quirky nightlife, and easy access to boat tours.
Overview of Coron
Coron, located in the northern part of Palawan, is less traveled but is rapidly growing in popularity due to its untouched lakes and laid-back vibe. Both Coron and El Nido have stunning marine life, but Coron also has world-class wreck diving.
Coron Town is actually located on the island of Busuanga (not on Coron Island). While small, it serves as the hub for most tours and activities in the area. Its charm lies in its simplicity and the warmth of the locals' hospitality.
El Nido vs Coron: Getting There
Traveling to Palawan typically begins with a flight to Puerto Princesa, the capital city of the island. From here, you have several transit options to either destination.
The reach El Nido is a scenic six-hour drive by van. You can easily book these shared vans through 12Go or BookAway. They typically include pickup from your hotel and drop-off at a central station in El Nido. The van journey can be long and bumpy.
Alternatively, you can opt for direct flights to El Nido’s Lio Airport via Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines from Manila, Cebu, and other select cities.
In my experience, these flights are much more expensive than the flight to Puerto Princesa. However, if money is not an issue, and you want to save time, a flight is certainly the better option.
To reach Coron, take a flight directly to Busuanga Airport followed by a short drive to Coron Town. Alternatively, hop a ferry from Manila or Puerto Princesa which of course takes a lot longer.
Overall, I would say El Nido is easier to get to from a budget standpoint, as it has cheap van options. The only time-friendly way to get to Coron is by flight as the ferries mentioned above take 12 to 15 hours.
⬆️ My Vote: El Nido
El Nido vs Coron: Top Attractions
Best Things to Do in El Nido
- Island Hopping Tours: The best way to explore El Nido is with one of the tour packages. You'll see hidden lagoons, tropical scenery, and some of the most stunning beaches on earth. El Nido boat tours (conveniently named A, B, C,& D) are extremely popular, so expect to share your day with people from all over the world. You can take a private boat, but you'll still be sharing the sites with everyone else.
Tour A and C are the most popular. You can negotiate prices with local vendors at the beach or all along the main strip, but I personally found the best prices to be online through Klook. I booked this tour and was very satisfied with the quality and personnel. - Nacpan Beach: Often listed among the most beautiful in the world, Nacpan features four kilometers of white sand beach shared with its twin, Calitang Beach. It's located north of El Nido Town.
- Seven Commandos Beach: This is a beautiful beach just off the main island. It has swimmable water (watch out for jellyfish), coconut trees, and a volleyball court. You'll visit it on Tour A, but you can also rent a kayak from Corong Corong and paddle out if you have the arm strength.
- Miniloc Island: Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, and Secret Lagoon! Big and Secret Lagoons are on Tour Package A, but Small Lagoon has been moved to Tour D. Kayaking Big Lagoon is one of the highlights of the Palawan experience!
- Matinloc Island: The owners of the private island reportedly found WWII treasure buried on the island. They built The Shrine of the Blessed Virgin Mary to cover the dig site. The shrine and the adjacent mansion are neglected today, but it's become a crowd favorite on Tour C, along with Secret Beach.
- Taraw Cliff: Taraw Cliff offers panoramic views of El Nido town and Bacuit Bay. Locals (and I) highly suggest hiring a guide for traversing the sheer limestone cliffs, hanging bridges, and giant spiderweb overlooks!
- Las Cabanas Beach: This is the go-to place for stunning sunsets. A few cute bars provide view-enhancing cocktails. There's also a fun zipline that runs from Las Cabanas to Delpedet Island!
- Snake Island: Incredible sandbar that's perfect for beach bumming; included on Tour B. FYI, Tour B is way less crowded, and you get to explore Pinagbuyutan Island too, which is mind-blowing!
Best Things to Do in Coron
- Island Hopping Tours: Coron is also best visited by boat tours. Several companies offer “The Ultimate Island Hopping Tour” and that's what I'd suggest for first-timers. Details vary a bit, but most include Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Siete Picados, Skeleton Wreck, Sunset Beach, CYC Beach, Las Islas De Coral, and Barracuda Lake. There is also a lettering system similar to El Nido's, but it isn't quite as set in stone or organized. Check the details because Coron tours may or may not include food.
- Kayangan Lake: Often referred to as one of the cleanest lakes in Asia, Kayangan Lake is famed for its stunning beauty and crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering karst formations.
- Twin Lagoon: Accessible by a short climb over jagged rocks or a swim through a narrow crevice, this pair of brackish water lagoons offers a tranquil escape, bordered by steep cliffs.
- Shipwreck Dive Sites: Coron is renowned worldwide for several Japanese shipwrecks from World War II. You'll also have a chance to dive with sea turtles, sea cows, and thousands of tropical fish.
- Siete Pecados Marine Park: Ideal for snorkeling, the marine park has coral gardens and abundant marine life.
- Maquinit Hot Springs: A rare saltwater hot spring, perfect for a soothing dip after a day of touring.
- Malcapuya Island: Gorgeous white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, available on Tour C.
- Calauit Island: Famous for its wildlife preserve and safari park.
- Black Island: A looming edifice just off Coron Busuanga. It features several large caves to explore and a hidden beach that is paradise on Earth!
Both destinations are packed with fun activities. There's plenty to do for most travelers in both spots. It's just a matter of personal style.
I would say activities on Coron are a bit more adventurous and slightly less organized. El Nido tours are cheap and easy to book, but harder to enjoy due to crowds.
⬆️ My Vote: It's a tie
El Nido vs Coron: Beaches
When it comes to stunning beaches, both Coron and El Nido offer spectacular options, but with distinct experiences. El Nido is renowned for its vivid, azure waters and fine, powdery white sand. Several amazing mainland beaches near town offer beach games, quirky bars, and convenient tours.
In contrast, Coron's beaches are generally more rugged and scattered with rocky outcrops. Although they might not boast the same vibe as El Nido, the beaches here are often less crowded, offering a more secluded atmosphere.
⬆️ My Vote: El Nido (by a smidge)
El Nido vs Coron: Diving
Diving is a major draw for both destinations, yet each offers a different temptation for underwater explorers. El Nido is primarily famous for its dramatic seascapes, healthy coral reefs, and rich marine biodiversity, making it ideal for snorkelers and beginner divers. Snorkeling is included on most boat tours.
Meanwhile, Coron's reputation as one of the world’s best destinations for shipwrecks makes it a top pick for experienced divers. The US Navy surprised a fleet of Japanese supply ships in September 1944, and now Coron Bay is littered with sunken treasure.
⬆️ The Winner: Coron!
El Nido vs Coron: Tourism Infrastructure and Accommodation
El Nido Town offers budget hotels in town and luxury beach resorts on outlying stretches like Nacpan Beach. Plus there are tons of restaurants and access to day tours.
In short, there are plenty of fabulous places to stay in El Nido, and it's an all-around good tourist hub for most travelers, especially for your first trip to Palawan.
Coron, on the other hand, is catching up fast, with new developments continuously emerging, but it still retains a more laid-back, rustic feel.
Coron accommodation, though limited in quantity, still offers something for everyone. Adventure lovers and scuba diving enthusiasts prefer West Busuanga's dive hostels and luxury travelers visit Coron for 5-star amenities on private islands like Bulalacao.
⬆️ My Vote: El Nido
El Nido vs Coron: Budget
Budget-wise, both destinations can cater to a range of travelers, from backpackers to luxury seekers. Many blogs state that Coron is much cheaper, but that's kind of old news in my opinion.
Food and accommodation are similar these days, but you get slighter better value for money on Coron. Flights to Coron are nominally cheaper than to El Nido, so that is a perk for Coron.
El Nido has fairly fixed tour prices, but you might have to haggle more for souvenirs or a tricycle ride. Tours on Coron, especially private tours, can be a bit pricier. There are fewer companies and most of the islands are private, so they require a fee to visit. If you plan on doing several dives, that can also add up.
El Nido Average Price: US$20-30 for group tours
Coron Average Price: US$25-55 for group tours
All-in-all, both locations provide good value considering the incredible natural beauty and unique experiences they offer.
⬆️ My Vote: Tie
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El Nido vs Coron – Frequently Asked Questions
🤑 Which is better for budget travelers, El Nido or Coron?
Both El Nido and Coron offer options for budget travelers, but Coron tends to be slightly more affordable in terms of accommodation and food. However, El Nido has a slight advantage with fixed tour prices.
🏝️ Which has better islands, El Nido or Coron?
If you don't mind crowds, an island-hopping tour in El Nido is fantastic. Tour packages usually include a boat ride, lunch, and snorkeling. A boat tour in Coron visits private islands which can be more expensive, but they are slightly less crowded.
☀️ What is the best time to visit El Nido and Coron?
The best time to visit Palawan is during the dry season, from November to May. This period offers the calmest waters and the most pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities like beach hopping and snorkeling.
El Nido vs Coron- Final Words
The winner of El Nido vs Coron is ultimately determined by what you wish to get out of your holiday. If you're looking for more budget-friendly hostels, easy tours, nice beaches, and great nightlife, then El Nido is your place. For adventurous tours, diving, and slightly fewer crowds, Coron is your spot!
Both El Nido and Coron have their pull and adventures to offer. Whether you decide to relax in the turquoise waters of Coron or explore the majestic scenery of El Nido, you really can't go wrong!
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