Coron Island Escapade: A Tropical Feast & Adventure

If you’re dreaming of powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and tropical island vibes, the Coron Island Escapade might be just what you’re looking for. For around $41 per person, this day-long excursion takes you through some of Palawan’s most iconic spots—Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, and Bulog Dos Island—offering a mix of relaxing beaches, snorkeling, and picture-perfect sandbars. The tour is offered by H&H Holidays Travel and Tours and lasts approximately a full day, including hotel pickup and drop-off within Coron town.

What we really like about this tour: First, the stunning beaches and ergonomic setup—with comfy cottages, snorkeling gear, and a beachside buffet—make it easy to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. Second, the organized itinerary ensures you hit key spots without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. That said, a potential drawback is the rigid schedule, which might leave some travelers feeling rushed or disappointed if certain stops aren’t fully enjoyed.

This experience suits travelers who value beautiful scenery, want to stay within a reasonable budget, and prefer guided convenience. It’s especially appealing for those eager to see Coron’s most photogenic beaches and sandbars without a complicated setup. If you’re looking for a straightforward day of tropical fun with a touch of adventure, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $41, the tour offers good value considering the inclusions.
• Stunning Locations: Visit Malcapuya, Banana, and Bulog Dos islands—famous for their pristine beaches and crystal waters.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, cottage rental, guide, boat, and permits are covered, making for a hassle-free experience.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is fixed, and some reviewers noted issues with stops like Banana Island.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most ages, but not for pregnant women.
• Essential Packing: Bring your beachwear, camera, and a change of clothes for after swimming.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at Coron Island Escapade

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Coron Island Escapade is designed to provide a taste of Palawan’s breathtaking island scenery without breaking the bank. For just $41, you get a day packed with unforgettable views, relaxing beaches, and snorkeling opportunities. The tour covers several popular spots, each offering a slightly different slice of tropical paradise.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel within Coron town, making it an easy start. Once on the boat, the journey is as much about the scenery as the destinations. Expect to cruise past limestone formations that have been millions of years in the making—an impressive backdrop that reminds you of the island’s geological history.

Malcapuya Island is often the highlight. Known for its powdery white sands and calm, turquoise waters, this beach welcomes travelers to lounge, swim, or snorkel. We loved the way the soft sands feel underfoot and how the water is warm and inviting—perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Snorkeling here is popular, with clear waters revealing colorful fish just below the surface.

Banana Island (Dicalabuan Island) is touted as a peaceful spot with fewer crowds (though not always, according to some reviews). You might find it a quiet refuge for wading in shallow waters and taking photos of the iconic sandbar. One reviewer mentioned some tension with the guide regarding this stop, highlighting the importance of clearly understanding the schedule.

Bulog Dos Island (Cauayan Island) offers a stunning sandbar experience, where the tide exposes a wide stretch of white sand surrounded by water. This is a great place to take photos, wade through shallow water, or enjoy a beachside lunch among coconut palms. The buffet lunch is included, and many travelers appreciate the simple but tasty local fare served in a scenic setting.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers essentials like a licensed guide, boat, life vests, and a buffet lunch with drinking water. All permits and entrance fees are taken care of, so you don’t need to worry about additional costs unless you choose optional extras like kayaking or snorkeling gear.

You’ll also get a cottage rental during the day—ideal for resting or sheltering from the sun. The boat ride offers a smooth transfer between islands, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the views.

However, some popular activities—like kayaking, using your own snorkel gear, or additional swimming accessories—are not included and require extra payment. An environmental fee of 200 pesos per person is also charged, which might come as a surprise if you haven’t prepared for it.

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The Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

On the upside, the organized nature of the tour means less planning hassle. You get to see some of Coron’s most photogenic spots without worrying about navigation or logistics. The inclusions like lunch and cottage rental add convenience, especially for first-time visitors.

However, a common criticism—highlighted in a review—mentions a less-than-ideal experience with the guide, who allegedly said Banana Island was not part of the itinerary despite it being listed. This points to the importance of clarity before booking and managing expectations about schedule flexibility. Some travelers might find the fixed schedule a bit rigid, particularly if they wish to spend longer at certain locations or explore other spots independently.

The Authenticity Factor

While the beaches are stunning and the tour is well-organized, some might find it a bit commercialized or rushed. The inclusion of all permits and entrance fees is reassuring, indicating an official and legit operation. The guides are likely knowledgeable, though the review hints that customer service can vary.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travellers seeking a straightforward, affordable way to experience Coron’s top beaches and islands. It’s perfect if you prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing your own boat trips or catching multiple ferries. If you’re on a budget but still want a taste of island paradise, this tour offers good value.

However, if you’re a traveler who values flexibility or personalized experiences, you might find this tour a little too structured. It’s also not suitable for pregnant women or those with limited mobility, as it involves boat rides and beach activities.

Final Thoughts

The Coron Island Escapade delivers on its promise of beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and a relaxing day in the sun. The price point makes it accessible without sacrificing the quintessential tropical experience. Expect postcard-perfect moments, especially at Malcapuya and Bulog Dos islands, where the scenery truly lives up to expectations.

You’ll love the easy logistics, the scenic boat rides, and the chance to unwind on some of Palawan’s most famous sands. That said, be prepared for a schedule that might feel a bit hurried if you’re keen on spending more time in one spot or exploring independently.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates well-organized tours, stunning views, and a comfortable, hassle-free experience, this tour hits the mark. Just keep in mind that the experience can vary slightly depending on guide interactions and weather conditions.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts a full day, starting with hotel pickup and returning in the late afternoon after visiting multiple islands.

What is included in the price?
You get a licensed guide, boat transfer, life vests, cottage rental, permits, entrance fees, and a buffet lunch with drinking water.

Are snorkeling masks and gear included?
No, snorkeling gear and masks are not included in the main package, and you will need to rent or bring your own if you want to snorkel.

Can I bring my own equipment?
Yes, bringing your own snorkeling gear is recommended if you want to ensure proper fit and comfort.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but consider the boat rides and swimming activities—if your children are comfortable in water, they should enjoy the experience.

What should I bring on the tour?
Pack essentials like beachwear, a change of clothes, a camera, sun protection, and a hat. Don’t forget your swimming gear if you plan to snorkel.

Is the tour flexible regarding stops?
Not really; the schedule is fixed, but some travelers have expressed disappointment if certain stops, like Banana Island, are cut short or skipped unexpectedly.

In summary, if you’re after a cost-effective, scenic, and well-organized way to see Coron’s best beaches, the Coron Island Escapade offers a memorable day in paradise. While it’s not perfect and might feel a bit rushed for some, it provides an authentic taste of Palawan’s island charm at a price that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: