About the journey from Coron to El Nido
After a few days of exploring the tropical island of Coron, you may find yourself reluctant to leave. But El Nido's beauty is equally mesmerizing, and it's calling your name.
Home to gorgeous blue azure waters and insanely fun island-hopping adventures, El Nido, in the Palawan Province, is the perfect place for solo travelers, couples, and groups of friends.
The question now, however, is how to travel between Coron and El Nido. While they may seem close on a map, they are located 280 km (174 miles) apart by ferry.
Below, let's break down the three convenient transportation modes to make your vacation hassle-free.
Tourist ferry: This option takes approximately five to six hours and operates from Coron Port to El Nido Ferry Terminal.
High-speed ferry: This option also takes approximately four to five hours and operates from the Coron Port.
Flight: This convenient option is a short 40-minute non-stop flight between Coron and El Nido.
As you travel from Coron to El Nido, you can admire the endless blue ocean from a ferry or an airplane seat.
No matter how you get there, you'll float or fly by the islands of Culion and Linapacan before arriving at your final destination.
The best things to do in El Nido
Once you arrive in El Nido, you'll quickly be thankful for adding this location to your itinerary. From beautiful lagoons, picturesque islands and white sandy beaches, here are some of the top activities you must include on your trip:
Island hopping: This is a must! Four main island hopping routes take you to the most famous areas near El Nido town, including Secret Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Pinagbuyutan Island, and Cadlao Island.
Hike Taraw Peak in El Nido Town: If you are a thrill seeker, wake up early to hike this challenging yet rewarding rock face. It's not for the faint of heart, with sharp, jagged rocks and two vertical sections to tackle. However, at the peak, you will have incredible views over El Nido and Bacuit Bay.
Motorbike to Nacpan Beach: If you are looking for a carefree adventure, make your way to Nacpan Beach, 45 minutes from El Nido Town. There, you can relax on the white-speckled sand as you listen to palm trees swaying in the background.
Surf the waves at Duli Beach: Are you a surfer? Then don't miss a visit to Duli Beach. This two-kilometer (1.24-mile) stretch of sand has a sandy break suitable for all levels of surfboarders.
Go kayaking: If you want to island hop while exercising, hire a kayak for the day. Depending on whether you start in El Nido Town or Corong Corong Beach, you'll visit several idyllic beaches, including Nat Nat Beach, Lapus Lapus Beach and Papaya Beach.
How to travel from Coron to El Nido
Now that you know there are three transportation options from Coron to El Nido let's delve a little deeper.
Tourist ferry
The tourist ferry between Coron and El Nido departs once a day.
Get a good night's rest the evening before, as it departs promptly at 7 a.m. Be sure to arrive approximately an hour beforehand so you have time to load your luggage on board. Guests can travel with up to 25 kg.
You will also need to show your booking confirmation to the office staff so they can issue you a ticket to board.
While the duration of the trip will vary depending on the weather conditions, it typically takes five hours. Thankfully, on board, you can sit in an air-conditioned cabin. There is also an open-air space to take in the sea breeze.
High-speed ferry
This high-speed ferry departs an hour earlier, at 6 a.m. You should arrive approximately an hour before to organize your luggage and collect your boarding tickets from the office near the port. The maximum amount of luggage you can bring on board is 20 kg.
The journey takes five hours, and you will arrive at El Nido Ferry Terminal around 11 a.m., so you'll have the rest of the day to explore.
Flight from Coron to El Nido
If you get seasick or prefer to take the fastest mode of transportation, the flight between Coron and El Nido is the right choice.
The only downside is this is the most expensive option.
This convenient 40-minute flight departs from Busuanga Airport (USU) to El Nido Airport (ENI). The departure time is typically around 10.20 a.m. or 12.50 p.m., depending on the day of the week, but it's best to check dates online and book in advance.
As with any flight, be sure to arrive at the airport with enough time to check in.
Depending on the type of ticket you purchase, whether it is basic, promo, value, or premium, all tickets include 7kg of carry-on luggage.
What is the weather like in El Nido?
Coron and El Nido experience tropical climates, with the dry season running from November through April. During these months, the sun shines, and the seas are calmer.
Expect the ferries to be pleasant, with few delays and cancellations due to bad weather.
During the rainy season, from June to October, expect heavy downpours. You'll need to be more flexible with your travel plans, particularly during July and August when the weather is at its worst.