calamian islands travel & tours

Welcome to Calamian Islands Travel And Tours

Travel agency, about calamian islands travel and tours.

Calamian Islands Travel and Tours is a leading Tour and Travel Agent based in Coron, Palawan. Calamian Islands Travel and Tours is a recognized and accredited full service travel agency involved in all aspects of the tourism industry. The company, with its fully integrated services and facilities, is more than capable to deliver the most complete and most efficient tour packages at the most reasonable price. Calamian Islands Travel and Tours is totally committed to travel and tourism and have a team of dedicated professionals whose warmth transcends traditional Filipino hospitality. Be it an individual client or a tour group - Calamian Islands Travel and Tours is committed to provide a warm & memorable experience to each of its clients.

Backpacking

Eco-friendly, family holidays, yoga & meditation, 1 rating & 1 review.

unforgettable experience! its our first time to travel in islands of palawan and it was fantastic. before i have doubted to book a tour package, but now as we experience last august 5 -7 2018, calamian island travel and tours gives us a warm welcome from cebu to coron! as we arrived in the airport and escorted our group by a lady and kuya henri was our driver from the airport to casa coron. we arrived in the hotel safely and welcomed by hotel staffs. we didnt received any welcome drinks (

Coron Travel Guide

Coron and calamian islands.

Discover the stunning beauty of Coron and Calamian Islands with our comprehensive travel guide. Get all the information you need to plan your ultimate island getaway in this tropical paradise.

DESTINATIONS

Coron Island Super Ultimate Tour

Coron Island Hopping by Shared Boat

Essential Coron | 4 Days

Come to palawan.

The Calamian Islands, known for their historical and environmental riches, are among the best island destinations in the Philippines.

With crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and abundant marine life, the Calamian Archipelago, which includes Coron Island, Busuanga Island, and others, is perfect for scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Coron Island, with its dramatic rock formations, deep blue lagoon, and barrier reef, is a picturesque destination that is postcard-perfect.

What to See in Coron:

Are you planning a holiday to Coron and Calamian Islands? Y With so much to see and do in this beautiful part of the world, it can be hard to know where to start.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of our favourite places – the ones you simply can’t miss during your stay.

From stunning natural wonders to historic sites, there’s something for everyone in Coron and Calamian Islands. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Twin Lagoon

Twin Lagoon is a  spectacular attraction in Coron Island. The brilliant blue water lagoon is encircled by towering limestone cliffs, providing a truly awe-inspiring setting. One of the highlights of this lagoon is the opportunity to swim through a hole in the rock wall to reach the second lagoon, adding an adventurous element to your visit.

Kayangan Lake

Another hidden wonder in Coron island is Kayangan Lake. The lush vegetation and unbelievably transparent waters of the lake make it a breathtaking sight to behold. Surrounded by majestic limestone walls, the lake is an oasis of serenity and natural beauty.

Malcapuya Island

If you’re looking for paradise on earth, Malcapuya Island is a must-visit destination. With its pristine white sand, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters, this island is a true gem of the Philippines.

Ship Wrecks

For those interested in scuba diving or snorkeling, the Sunken Japanese Wrecks are a must-see. These two shallow gunboats, sunk during World War II, have become a popular spot for underwater exploration. With their rich history and unique marine life, these wrecks are a fascinating destination for any water enthusiast.

When to go to Coron:

Coron and Calamian Islands are fantastic destinations that can be enjoyed all year round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season , which runs from November to early May. During this period, the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. Keep in mind that the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so hotel rates may be higher than usual. If you plan to travel during this time, it’s best to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises.

If you’re traveling in the wet season from June to September, you may encounter some storms, especially in July and August. Despite the occasional storms, Coron and Calamian Islands are rarely hit by super typhoons, making it a relatively safe destination to travel to. 

Getting to Coron town:

Getting to Coron town, Busuanga Island is easy with several transportation options available from nearby destinations.

Here’s how you can get to Coron town, Busuanga Island from different places:

From El Nido

Ferry: for a cheap and efficient way to travel between the two destinations, consider taking a fast ferry. There are a  few ferry companies that operate daily sailings, with the crossing taking approximately 4 – 5 hours. To book your ferry ticket, simply click here.

Flight:   Alternatively, you can take a direct flight from El Nido to Coron Busuanga airport with Air Swift. This flight operates daily and is a convenient option for those looking to minimize travel time. 

From Manila and Cebu

Flight: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and Air Asia operate direct flights to Coron Busuanga airport.

Ferry: 2GO Ferry operates twice a week sailing from Manila to Coron and vice versa.  The travel time of 2GO ferry from Manila to Coron varies depending on the type of ferry and the specific schedule. Generally, the travel time ranges from 12 to 15 hours.

From Puerto Princesa

Ferry: 2GO Ferry operates twice a week sailing from Puerto Princesa to Coron and vice versa. The travel time of 2GO Ferry from Puerto Princesa to Coron and vice versa usually takes around 11-12 hours.

Recommended Tours:

Where to stay:.

If you’re planning to explore the stunning natural attractions of Coron and Calamian Islands, the town of Coron is the most convenient jump-off point for diving and island hopping tours. Located just 40 minutes away from Busuanga airport, Coron town offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to mid-range hotels and guesthouses.

For those looking for a more luxurious stay, there are a few exclusive five-star resorts located on nearby islands, as well as several diving resorts that cater to diving enthusiasts.

The Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel is a stylish and modern hotel located in the heart of Coron town, offering guests a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore the surrounding area. The hotel features spacious and elegantly designed rooms, ranging from standard rooms to Bayview rooms with stunning views of the bay.

The hotel boasts a wide range of amenities, including a bar and restaurant where guests can enjoy delicious meals and drinks while taking in panoramic views of Coron Bay. There is also a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center on-site, ensuring that guests can stay active and refreshed throughout their stay.

Corto del Mar Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Coron Town, just a short distance from the town’s main attractions. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, each of which is tastefully decorated in a contemporary style and features all the modern amenities that guests could need during their stay.

One of the highlights of Corto del Mar Hotel is its stunning pool, which is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the town and its surroundings. There is also a Mediterranean-style restaurant on-site that serves a range of international and local cuisine, as well as a bar.

Club Paradise Palawan Resort is a luxury resort located on the beautiful and secluded island of Dimakya in northern Palawan. The resort is surrounded by pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical forests, offering guests a truly unforgettable experience.

The resort features 55 well-appointed rooms and villas, each of which is tastefully decorated in a contemporary style and features all the modern amenities that guests could need during their stay. Guests can choose from a range of room types, including garden suites, and beachfront villas, all of which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the highlights of Club Paradise Palawan Resort is its wide range of activities and amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of water sports, including snorkeling, diving, and kayaking, as well as land-based activities such as hiking and tennis. There is also a luxurious spa on-site that offers a range of treatments and massages to help guests relax and unwind.

Two Seasons Coron Island Resort is a luxury resort located on Bulalacao Island, about 30 minutes by boat from Coron town. The resort is situated on a secluded beach and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, offering guests a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

The resort features 42 well-appointed villas, each of which is designed with modern and elegant furnishings. The accommodations offer breathtaking views of the sea, while the private balconies provide guests with an outdoor space to relax and unwind. The villas are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and spacious bathrooms with rain showers.

Two Seasons Coron Island Resort offers a range of activities and amenities for guests to enjoy during their stay. The resort features an outdoor pool, a spa offering various treatments, and a fitness center. Guests can also enjoy a range of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and island-hopping tours.

The resort has several dining options, including Sulu Restaurant, which serves both local and international cuisine, and the Baya Beach Bar, which offers refreshing drinks and cocktails. The resort also has a private sandbar that guests can visit and enjoy a picnic.

Read More...

Coron Attractions

How to plan a Coron Trip

Beautiful Brown Adventures - Families of Color Travel Inspiration and Tips

2023 Coron Itinerary & Tour Review: 4-day/3-night Family Friendly Guided Tour

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may receive a small commission if you book travel or make purchases using these links.

During our six-week summer stint in Asia, my family and I joined up with 25 of our extended family members for a jam-packed four-day/three-night tour of Busuanga, Coron, and the islands of the Calamian archipelago in the western Philippines.  

Part of Palawan Province, Coron and the Calamianes Islands are about as picturesque as tropical islands go with their translucent blue waters; soft, sandy beaches; colorful sea life; natural hot springs; epic rock formations; and lush greenery. 

We spent our days island-hopping, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and, of course, feasting, with guides from Calamian Islands Travel & Tours . Our visit was most definitely a highlight of my six-year-old’s entire trip, and mine, too! Read on about our experience below.

Click to jump ahead to

• Quick Recs & Details
• Trip Highlights

Where We Stayed

• 4-day/3-night Itinerary
• Wishlist for our Next Visit

Coron Highlights

We loved visiting Coron for its:

• Amazing sea life
• Natural wonders (rock formations, lagoons, caves, reefs)
• Picturesque and clear-blue beaches

DESTINATION : Coron/Calamianes Islands

WHEN WE VISITED : August

LENGTH OF OUR STAY : 4 days

AGE OF OUR KID : 6 years

Tour Package Cost includes:

• 3 nights of accommodations
• 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 snacks
• Tours, guides, and transportation by van and boat
• Round-trip transfers to/from Busuanga Airport

4-day/3-night Family Friendly Coron Itinerary - Summary

• Day 1: Arrival & town tour
• Day 2: Lakes, lagoons, & coral gardens
• Day 3: Beaches & reefs
• Day 4: Shopping & departure

Ruhe Suites

Included in tour package; otherwise ~$30-$60 USD/night

Calamian Islands Travel & Tours seems to run a few hotels, including Ruhe Suites , where our family stayed during our visit. Ruhe is a Santorini-inspired hotel about a five-minute ride outside of Coron town proper. We loved the open layout, pool, and restaurant that served up huge mango shakes. We noticed that the rooms on the first deck (their Deluxe Rooms ) were slightly roomier per-person than the ones on deck two and three.

Two cons: the rooms are outfitted with queen beds only, so be prepared if you’re bunking with someone else. Secondly, I and a couple other family members came down with a bad case of food poisoning on our last morning in Coron, and unfortunately we suspect the chop suey from the hotel restaurant. Bummer, because it was quite tasty the first night we ordered it.  

Would I stay again? Yes, but I’d steer clear of the food.

4-day/3-night Family Friendly Coron Itinerary

There are a number of tour companies that use similar itineraries, but we enjoyed booking our multi-day tour package with Calamian Islands Travel and Tour company. The English- and Bisaya-speaking guides were kind, knowledgeable, and amazing swimmers and “human-drones” (more on that later!).

Due to our limited time in the area, we chose the four-day, three-night Escapade Package  in order to maximize our sightseeing with guides. Check out our full itinerary below:

DAY 1: Town Tour

This was a great way to ease into our vacation and get a sense of our surroundings.

On the afternoon of our arrival and after settling in for a few hours at our hotel, Ruhe Suites , we were loaded into two large vans and brought to Coron town to visit a souvenir shop and a cashew shop with delicious samples.

We then made the 700-step climb up Mt. Tapyas for sweeping views of Coron town and the surrounding islands. I was amazed that my six-year-old made it to the top with hardly a complaint. Unfortunately, I can’t say the same for the descent. 

We spent the evening relaxing in the pools of Maquinit Hotspring , a privately owned natural hot spring.

For dinner (not included in the tour price), we ate at Lobster King , where our family enjoyed delicious seafood for about $20 USD per person. Our meal was accompanied by live music, and a few of our family even went up to sing and play along, which, after a day full of travel, was a lovely way to cap our evening.

DAY 2: Super Ultimate Tour

Lakes, lagoons, & coral gardens $30 USD if not purchased with package; ~10 hours

Following the buffet breakfast provided at Ruhe Suites , our guides picked us up around 8 a.m for our Super Ultimate Tour . We made our way to the harbor to await our pump boat that would take us around the Calamian Islands.

Once our group boarded the boat, we were given an orientation by our guides, and were also asked whether we wanted to rent any equipment like snorkeling gear, water shoes, kayaks, and more. Then we sat and wait while the guide stepped off the boat to grab the items for us. This process took longer than expected and I wish we could’ve “ordered” our rentals ahead of time so that they’d be ready for us by the time we boarded our boat.

Finally, once our gear was set, we were off!

Our second tour day was an active one with lots of stops: 

• Kayangan Lake, which included a quick and somewhat steep hike and descent before our swim;
• Baracuda Lake, where my snorkel gear sank to the bottom, thankfully close enough where a guide could get it!; 
• buffet lunch prepared by our crew, and a pool break at Balinsasayaw Resort ; 
• Snorkeling in two coral gardens (Smith and Twin Peaks); and
• Kayaking and swimming at Twin Lagoons.  

This was my six-year-old’s second time snorkeling (the first being just a few days earlier in Moalboal, Cebu), and she was such a trooper! She had a blast looking at all the fish and swimming her heart out. 

My favorite memory on this day was of my family in Twin Lagoons forming a human chain where each person wearing a life vest laid back to float in the water, while holding the feet of another person under their arms. It was so silly, yet quite a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery!

The waters were especially blue and clear at the start of the day, and I was awestruck by that and the limestone islands that towered above us. By the late afternoon the waves were choppier and the waters felt more muddled.

Our tour didn’t include stops at CYC Beach or Beach 91; the latter was where we were supposed to have lunch but it was apparently too crowded. Even though they look lovely to visit, I don’t feel like we missed out on anything special in these places.

After another day in the books and when we were dropped back off at the hotel, we put in a huge order of McDonald’s for us all to feast on by the pool.

DAY 3: Island Escapade Tour

Beaches & reefs $30 USD/person if not purchased with package; ~9 hours

Day 3, the Island Escapade Tour , started off similar to Day 2, but our itinerary was much more aligned with life in a tropical paradise: SLOW. As opposed to the day before, we only made three stops, which made sense as they were significantly further away. But it also meant we were able to savor each destination. 

Our first stop was to Malcapuya Island, which was not quite a two-hour boat ride from Coron town. Many of us caught a couple extra zZzs on the ride over.

Malcapuya Island was probably my favorite stop on our entire tour—the bright, sandy beach is expansive, clean, and there are loads of colorful clams and fish not too far from the shore. We had so much fun swimming, snacking, snorkeling, and taking portraits 😛

Our guides were very skilled in the art of the “human drone,” where they take your camera and swish it around, resulting in videos that mimic drone footage. It’s like they’re practicing dance choreography and you get amazing videos as a result!

Before we could leave for our next stop, the tide had gone out so our family had to help the boat crew maneuver our vessel off of Malcapuya. This took the form of folks (mostly the men) getting off the boat, helping push it out of the sand, and moving from one side of the boat to the other to redistribute the weight. We got some cool band photos as a result.

Our next stop was Banana Island for lunch and more snorkeling and swimming. The crew cooked up another excellent meal of seafood and veggies, and prepared this sweet fruit plate for the newlyweds! After lunch we had almost two hours to relax, drink a coconut, and explore the reef.

The tide was quite low at that point, so while the reef was really close to the shore, we had to be very careful in our maneuverings and make sure our life vests and feet weren’t hitting the coral. We saw more clown fish, coral, and even a tiger shark! Plus there was a fish that kept giving me the stare-down.

Our final stop of the day was the Bulog Dos sand bar, which is adjacent to the fancy Two Seasons private island resort. The water was murkier and more choppy at this point of the day, so it was difficult to see. The coolest thing we saw here was a starfish fossil that one of the guides pointed out!  

After a short stint at Bulog Dos, we loaded back into the boat to make the long ride back to the harbor, and arrived back at the hotel by 6 p.m., which for my kid meant another couple hours at the pool before bedtime!

DAY 4: Shopping & departure

After two full days of adventuring through the area, I was excited to sleep in and rest before our flight back to Cebu. I’m extra glad I did because I ended up with full-blown (no pun intended) food poisoning immediately before we left for the airport. UGH. Some of my family members, on the other hand, went back into town for one last bit of shopping, specifically for cashews and treats from Melb’s Cashew Factory , as well as souvenirs like t-shirts and coin purses. We got picked up by Calamian Islands Travel & Tours one last time and made our way back to tiny Busuanga Airport for our departure.

Wishlist for Our Next Visit

Perhaps when my kid is older we can learn how to scuba dive and check out some of the famous shipwrecks in Coron.

And I’d love the chance to stay on a private island resort 😎

What an adventure!

I would highly recommend making the trek to Coron and Palawan with your family if you’re looking for a beach vacation with tons of swimming and sea life. I haven’t visited El Nido or Puerto Princesa, but my family members who have said they preferred Coron for its accessibility (you don’t need to drive 5 hours from the airport to get there!) and its natural beauty. We saw a lot of Pilipino families and groups on our travels, as well as a smattering of tourists from different places.

Looking back at our experiences and photos, I feel so privileged that we had the chance to visit this beautiful slice of nature, and with so much of my family in tow. For me, the can’t-miss highlights on our tour were definitely Malcapuya and Banana Islands, and the Twin Lagoons. I would certainly be excited for our next visit!

Have you been to Coron or the Calamianes Islands?  What would you recommend to other families of color?

Angelica (she/her) is of Cebuano(Pilipinx)-descent and was born and raised in Huchiun Ohlone territory (the East Bay Area--pay your Shuumi Land Tax!), where she also now resides with her partner and their toddler. She loves to spend her time sipping on boba and dirty chai lattes (sometimes together), and eating pescetarian goodies at BIPOC-owned cafes and restaurants.

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2 thoughts on “ 2023 Coron Itinerary & Tour Review: 4-day/3-night Family Friendly Guided Tour ”

where did you book the tour? may I know the name of the travel agency?

Hi Dianne! Thanks for your interest–the name of the tour company is Calamian Islands Travel and Tours, linked in the post. Hope you have an amazing trip!

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• Destinations
• Central and South America

These Little-Known Islands Are Colombia's Best-Kept Secret For A Cheap Tropical Vacation

Your next cheap tropical beach vacation is calling, but it might be somewhere you've ever heard of before. Introducing Colombia's best-kept secret: the Rosario Islands. This breathtaking archipelago of 28 protected islands, located just an hour away from the bustling tourist city of Cartagena, offers everything you could want from a dreamy Caribbean getaway. Turquoise waters and white sandy beaches come as standard, with plentiful opportunities to explore the rich marine biodiversity these islands have to offer.

Located just 12 miles from the Colombian mainland, the Rosario Islands are ideal for day-trippers or those short on time. Four to six ferry operators transport passengers to the largest island in the chain, Isla Grande, usually making one daily departure. Speedboat and standard ferries leave at 8:30 or 9 a.m., with tickets ranging from $15 to $30. However, these islands are perhaps best enjoyed over a multi-day visit, especially during the week if you'd prefer to cut out weekend crowds.

While most of the islands that make up this archipelago are private, there are several islands that host overnight guests, including the  tropical paradise of Isla Barú and Isla Grande. The latter was in fact once a holiday destination for Pablo Escobar, who owned a luxury property on the island. With boutique hotels, romantic resorts perfect for honeymoons , and rustic hostel options available on the islands, you're sure to find a great value stay to suit any budget.

The Rosario Islands: A tropical paradise for marine lovers and beachgoers

Whether you're a beginner to snorkeling or an experienced scuba diver, the Rosario Islands offer numerous underwater adventures for you to experience. Out of Colombia's 59 natural national parks, the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park is perfect for divers and snorkelers, as it is the only one located mostly underwater.

Opportunities for underwater activities such kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving are plentiful. The marine life here is exceptionally diverse, with one Tripadvisor reviewer noting, "My teenagers and I were impressed by how colorful the coral is in the Rosario Islands." From dense mangrove forests to lush seagrass beds, marine lovers will truly be able to experience the wonders of the sea. Migrant birds also frequent the islands, making the archipelago a haven for birdwatchers.

There's no better way to unwind after an action-packed day than by heading out to watch the sunset at a westward-facing beach. If you're heading out to dinner, expect the freshest seafood caught daily by local fishermen, paired with cold beer or a cocktail. For a taste of authentic, no-frills Colombian cuisine on Isla Grande, visit Sol y Papaya or Sabor Nativo Café, located just next to the island's Museum of Living Memory.

Experience the magic of seeing bioluminescent plankton

Isla Grande's Enchanted Lagoon is a particular highlight of the Rosario Islands, where you can witness the natural phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton glowing in the ocean on a dark night. This lake comes alive with the pretty green light emitted by these tiny creatures, which dance at any movement of the water. Swimming with bioluminescent plankton is perfectly safe and one of the most unique and memorable activities this dreamy island has to offer — a novelty, as the phenomena only occurs at night and in very specific parts of the world. Although the plankton can theoretically be seen year-round, the event is best witnessed on a starless, moonless night as the lights shine more clearly. One tourist told the BBC , "It's the northern lights of the ocean."

A number of evening tours operate from Cartagena, Playa Blanca, and Isla Grande to the Enchanted Lagoon, so be sure to pick an operator that best suits your accommodation location. Some tours also add on the experience as part of a full-day trip around the Rosario Islands, complete with dining options. With these tours coming in at as little as $30 or $40, your tropical vacation budget can go much further!

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