CEBU, Philippines - If mainland Palawan was the Queen of the Philippine Islands for its breathtaking beauty stretching from end to end, the Calamianes Islands scattered on the northernmost tip would be the crown. From Coron to Busuanga to Culion, Cuyo and the Quinublan Group, the island group off the northernmost tip of mainland Palawan is a receptacle of blue lagoons and calm waters perfect for kite surfing and wreck diving.
The most popular of the bunch is Coron, the springboard to Coron Bay and Kayangan Lake where staggering limestone cliffs rise from still aquamarine waters fringed with branches of hard corals near the base. Beyond the town, the outskirts of Coron and Busuanga are replete with forests, putting the spotlight on the breathtaking view of the limestone cliffs and the lagoons.
Climb the steep rocky stairway to Kayangan Lake and stand by the edge of Kayangan Cave for the best aerial view of the turquoise lagoon below. Take the plunge at Barracuda Lake where the water heats up when you hit 18 meters beneath the surface. The water is as clear as crystal in Coron Bay making Skeleton Wreck, a sunken Japanese fishing vessel highly visible to snorkelers skimming the water’s surface.
Once an island of the sick—a leper colony where hundreds of patients suffering from the then incurable condition were rounded up and treated, Culion no longer inspires fear. Today, the tiny island two hours away by boat from Coron inspired unperturbed beauty making it one of the last pinpricks of untouched beaches in the entire archipelago.
Culion Museum located inside the hospital compound now keeps staggering amounts of patient records and old photographs which have become interesting remnants of its past. While the island is no longer a spot where leprosy is being treated, Culion has now become a place to restore lost inspiration.
Travel Tips:
When to Go: Skip the crowds for some peace and quiet and celebrate summer from September to December.
Where to Stay: Located at the heart of the Coral Triangle in the Calamianes Group, Mangeguey Island is a resort set in a 13-hectare island paradise that’s a work of art in itself by Barcelon-born Helena Carratala Mander and her husband, Richard Carlisle Mander.
Getting Around: Local transportation like sikad and the tricycle are the best ways to get around town. To explore the islands, tour operators provide giant outriggers for a seamless skim through the sea.
Chow Time: For a Michelin experience on tropical shores, Mangeguey Island’s Catalan-inspired dishes is a journey in itself. Surprise your stomach with braised octopus salad from Kokie Restaurant.
Take Home: Postcard-perfect shots.
Listen Up: The Island Awaits You from The Island soundtrack is Coron beckoning you to island life at its best.
Helpful link: http://corontourism.info/ Islands