Coron Island Tour A (Shared Tour)

If you’re dreaming about spending a full day exploring Coron’s stunning beaches, lakes, and coral gardens, then the Coron Island Tour A might be just what you’re looking for. This 8-hour guided adventure offers a mix of iconic spots like Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and Green Lagoon, along with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and simply soaking up the scenery. For just $37 per person, it’s designed to be a budget-friendly way to experience some of the best that Coron has to offer — with the added convenience of door-to-door transfer from select hotels.

One thing we love about this tour is its focus on authentic, natural beauty combined with practical amenities. The scenic stops and included lunch, with seasonal fruits, really help flesh out the experience. On the flip side, a potential concern is the crowd levels, as some reviews mention overcapacity issues and noisy lakes. Still, for travelers who enjoy socializing and don’t mind a lively atmosphere, this tour offers a well-rounded way to see Coron’s highlights without breaking the bank.

This tour’s ideal audience? Budget-conscious travelers seeking a comprehensive day of island-hopping, with the comfort of guided commentary and convenient transfers. If you prefer private, secluded experiences, or have specific needs like swimming assistance, you might want to explore other options. But for those eager to tick off several iconic spots in one day at a good price, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable and Convenient: At $37, this tour offers great value and includes door-to-door transfers from select Coron hotels.
• Rich Itinerary: Multiple stops like Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Green Lagoon, and Coral Garden ensure a diverse experience.
• Active and Relaxing: Combines hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and relaxing beach breaks.
• Authentic Scenic Beauty: Expect stunning views, crystal waters, and impressive underwater rock formations.
• Crowd and Capacity: Some reviews highlight issues with overcapacity, so expect a lively, possibly crowded experience.
• Good Food and Guides: Lunch and the guides are often praised for friendliness and helpfulness, adding a personal touch.

Exploring Coron Island Tour A in Detail

Getting There and Overall Experience

The tour kicks off at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it a hassle-free start. You’ll hop on a tourist boat with life vests provided, ready for a day of exploration. Expect a group size of around 15 people — intimate enough to enjoy the sights but lively enough to share the experience with others. The entire day lasts about 8 hours, giving you ample time to visit each destination without feeling rushed.

Kayangan Lake: The Crown Jewel

Most travelers agree that Kayangan Lake is the highlight of the tour. Recognized as Coron’s most iconic spot, it features crystal-clear freshwater with incredible underwater rock formations that make for great photographs and memorable swims. Visitors usually take a short boat ride then trek up a staircase to a vantage point, where the view over the lake is breathtaking. One reviewer shared that despite not being a confident swimmer, their guide, Kuya Bernie, helped them conquer the lake — a testament to the helpful guides on this tour.

Twin Peaks Reef: Snorkeling at Its Best

Next, the tour stops at Twin Peaks Reef, known for its exceptionally clear waters and good visibility. This makes it a perfect spot for snorkeling, with colorful coral and fish just beneath the surface. The reviews consistently mention helpful guides and a safe environment, although some found snorkeling conditions not as spectacular as other locations. Still, most agree it’s a worthwhile stop to explore Coron’s underwater world.

CYC Beach: Relax and Unwind

CYC Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with white sands, clear waters, and mangroves dotted along the shoreline. It’s a nice break and a chance to take photos, paddle around, or just soak up the sun. One reviewer mentioned that while the beach is pretty, it might not be the most unique stop, and some could consider swapping it out for other locations depending on preferences.

Coron and Coral Gardens

The tour then visits some of Coron’s lesser-known coral gardens. Though unassuming at first glance, reviewers describe these as spectacular underwater gardens filled with vibrant marine life. Since entrance fees are included, it’s a straightforward way to enjoy Coron’s coral ecosystem, even if the stops are brief.

Sunset Beach & Green Lagoon

Sunset Beach provides a peaceful spot to witness the sunset or simply relax after a busy morning. Adjacent to this, the Green Lagoon is often praised for its unique hue and scenic beauty. You might have the chance to kayak here, with equipment available for rent. One reviewer called it a magnificent lagoon, highlighting the sense of tranquility and stunning scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all permits and entrance fees, so you won’t be surprised by extra costs once you’re on the boat. It also includes a buffet lunch with seasonal fruits, which many travelers find surprisingly tasty and refreshing after a morning of activities.

Transportation is convenient with door-to-door pickup and drop-off, reducing the hassle of navigating to meeting points. The boat crew and local guides are often praised for their professionalism and helpfulness, especially in ensuring safety and giving informative commentary.

However, snorkeling equipment is available for rent on board, and additional costs like the environmental fee aren’t included. Some reviews mention the high cost of kayak rentals (around 1000 PHP), though they note the kayak is available for about 40 minutes — enough for a leisurely paddle if you’re prepared.

Note: The tour is non-refundable and can’t be changed once booked, so it’s best to be certain about weather conditions and your schedule.

The Real Deal: Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Pros:

• Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides like Kuya Bernie and Ryan are praised for their helpfulness, guiding abilities, and fun personalities.
• Stunning Views and Clear Waters: Visitors often mention the spectacular vistas, especially at Kayangan Lake and Green Lagoon, which truly look like postcard-perfect scenes.
• Good Value for Money: With the price including lunch, permits, and transfers, many find it a great deal for a full day of adventure.
• Authentic Experience: The tour includes a mix of active pursuits like hiking and kayaking with relaxing beach stops, offering diverse experiences.

Cons:

• Crowding: Several reviews highlight overcapacity and noise at certain spots, which might detract from the tranquility some seek.
• Inconsistencies in Stop Quality: While some loved CYC Beach, others felt it could be skipped or replaced. The Green Lagoon’s appearance and access can vary from visit to visit.
• Communication Issues: A few travelers reported poor communication or late pickups, so expect some logistical hiccups.
• Limited Swimming Time: The kayak rental and snorkeling durations might be brief for some, especially given the high rental cost.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This Coron Island Tour A is best suited for budget travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Coron’s top sights without the hassle of planning each stop separately. It’s also ideal if you’re okay with sharing the experience in a group setting and don’t mind some lively, energetic atmospheres. The inclusion of lunch, transfers, and entrance fees makes it a straightforward, no-fuss option.

If you prioritize secluded beaches or private experiences, or if you’re a very confident swimmer who wants longer snorkeling sessions, you might want to explore other tours. However, if you value friendly guides, gorgeous scenery, and a well-organized day at a great price, this tour offers solid value with plenty of memorable moments.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour offers door-to-door transportation from select Coron hotels, making your day easier to manage.

What’s the starting time? The tour departs at 8:00 am, so expect to be picked up early in the morning.

Are all attractions included in the price? All permits and entrance fees are covered, but snorkeling gear and kayaks are rented separately and at an additional cost.

How long do stops last? Each stop usually lasts around an hour, giving enough time to explore, swim, or relax, but some reviews mention that the timings can feel rushed depending on crowds.

What should I bring? Pack essentials like water, sunscreen, dry snacks, and your own snorkeling gear if you prefer to use your own rather than rent. Towels and water shoes are also handy.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers? Yes — guides often assist those who are uncomfortable swimming, and some reviewers shared positive experiences conquering Kayangan Lake with guidance.

In summary, Coron Island Tour A offers an affordable, lively snapshot of Coron’s stunning natural beauty. It suits travelers who want to experience the island’s highlights without fuss, value good guides, and are prepared for a day of active exploration and social atmosphere. While some may find the crowds a bit overwhelming or prefer quieter spots, many consider it a memorable, worthwhile adventure that captures the essence of Coron’s scenic charm.