Calamian Islands
Islands Archipelago in Palawan noted for diving and beaches
In northern Palawan, the Calamian group - including Coron and Culion - attracts wreck divers, limestone karst scenery, island-hopping and clear inland lagoons for snorkeling.
.jpg?width=1200)
.jpg?width=1200)
,_Palawan,_Philippines.jpg?width=1200)
The Calamian Islands are an island group in the northern part of the Palawan province in the Philippines, situated between the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea. The group includes major islands such as Busuanga, Coron and Culion, and is a well-known destination for diving, snorkeling and island-hopping.
Highlights of the islands include clear karst-fringed bays, freshwater lakes with high visibility such as Kayangan Lake, white-sand beaches and one of the best concentrations of accessible World War II shipwrecks in the Philippines. Boat tours from the main towns take visitors to diving sites, lagoons and scenic viewpoints.
The islands are served by small airports and regular boat services from Palawan and nearby ports, with Coron town on Busuanga serving as the main tourism hub. Local infrastructure supports dive operations, day trips and short-stay accommodation for visitors.
- Wreck diving: Famed dive destination with multiple World War II shipwrecks in Coron Bay and around Busuanga that are accessible to sport divers.
- Day-trip highlights: Island-hopping tours typically include limestone karst scenery, freshwater lakes such as Kayangan Lake, and sheltered snorkeling bays.
What to See #
- Busuanga Island: Busuanga Island, the largest island in the group, contains the main towns, the airport and serves as the transport hub for island-hopping trips.
- Coron and Coron Bay wrecks: Coron and Coron Bay, known for multiple sunken Japanese World War II ships that are popular dive sites and snorkel locations.
- Culion and islets: Culion Island and several smaller limestone islets that offer freshwater lakes, clear bays, and karst scenery used in day-tour circuits.
How to Get to Calamian Islands #
Most visitors reach the Calamian Islands via Busuanga Airport (Francisco B. Reyes Airport, code USU), which has daily flights from Manila and Clark. From Busuanga Town and Coron proper, local tricycles or short van rides reach the port where public and private boats depart. Alternatively, regular fast ferries and overnight boats link Coron with El Nido (Lio) and Puerto Princesa on Palawan; travel times vary from 3-8 hours depending on vessel.
Tips for Visiting Calamian Islands #
- Take the short inter-island ferries from Coron or El Nido rather than booking a private boat for a single day - schedules are frequent and cheaper.
- Visit early morning to see limestone karsts and hidden lagoons with glassy water before tour boats arrive; snorkeling is best at slack tide mid-morning.
- Bring cash - small island shops and local boat operators rarely accept cards.
Best Time to Visit Calamian Islands #
Best for sea and sun: go in the dry season (Nov-May) for calm water and peak visibility.
