How to get from Coron to El Nido

Why visit El Nido?

El Nido is Palawan Island’s northernmost tip, popular around the world as the gateway to paradise — the Bacuit Archipelago. This group of picture-perfect limestone islands boasts white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, enchanting lagoons, and beautiful underwater.

El Nido’s town centre leaves much to be desired with its mediocre beach, narrow streets, and mostly backpacker and mid-range hostels. But the island-hopping adventures from here are some of the best you will see in the world. Outside town, you should also include in your El Nido itinerary a visit to Nacpan-Calitang Beach and a hike to Taraw Peak.

There are 4 ways to travel the 277 kilometre (172 miles) distance from Coron to El Nido. You can choose between the flight, fast ferry, passenger-cargo ship and multi-day expeditions. The journey takes 1 hour 45 minutes to 4 days and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by passenger-cargo ship with tickets starting at 2,400 PHP ($40).

Travelling by boat from Coron to El Nido is a beautiful journey. The route passes a few well-known islands, such as Linapacan and San Miguel, all with beautiful beaches and landscapes.

PRO TIP: Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in El Nido? Check out the Multi-Day Expeditions. It costs some money, but we can assure you that it will be the highlight of your trip!

If you want to travel from Coron to El Nido in one day, you can choose from several ferry companies, such as Phimal, Montenegro Shipping Lines, Atienza Interisland Ferries and Jomalia Shipping. Ticket prices start at 2,680 PHP ($44.50).

Fast ferries from Coron to El Nido run daily, except Phimal, which only operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Check which company runs on your travel day before booking. Regardless of which company you book with, all ferries depart in the morning and travel time takes 3 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes.

Aside from fast ferries, you can also take the MV Star San Carlos, a passenger-cargo ship run by Atienza Interisland Ferries. It’s a RORO vessel that carries both people and goods between Coron and El Nido.

The ship leaves Coron Port every Tuesday at 21:00, and the travel time to El Nido is 8 hours. Tickets cost around 2,400 PHP ($40) per person for a non-airconditioned seat and 2,600 PHP ($43.50) if you want a bit more comfort with air conditioning.

You can visit their Facebook page for more info.

If you’re short on time, you can take a flight from Coron to El Nido.

The cost of 4,410 PHP ($73) includes the van transfer from Coron town to the airport, as well as the tricycle ride from El Nido Airport to town.

Taking a flight is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Coron to El Nido. However, short-haul flights like this have a negative effect on the environment due to the high emissions caused by taking off and landing.

TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.

From your hotel in Coron, you can take a minivan to Francisco B. Reyes Airport, also known as Busuanga Airport. Travel time is around 45 minutes.

Some hotels in Coron offer free airport shuttles. If this is not available in your hotel, you can book a shared van transfer through Klook. It costs just 250 PHP ($4.20) per person and includes hotel pickup.

If you’re travelling in a group, you can also book a private van that can fit up to 10 passengers. Rates start from 1,890 PHP ($31.50).

Another option is to rent a tricycle from the town proper to the airport for 300 PHP ($5). Keep in mind it’s a bumpy 45-minute ride. If comfort matters, we recommend sticking with a van transfer.

AirSWIFT and Cebu Pacific offer daily flights between Coron and El Nido.

The plane leaves Busuanga Airport at 12:50 and arrives 40 minutes later in El Nido. One-way ticket prices start at around 3,860 PHP ($64) if you book early, but prices can go up quickly, especially during high season.

It’s best to check Skyscanner for the most up-to-date schedules and prices.

Flights from Coron arrive at El Nido Airport, about 5 km away from El Nido town centre.

To get to your hotel, you can take a tricycle or tuk-tuk ride for 300 PHP ($5) . You can check with your hotel if they offer airport pickup .

If you’re up for more than just a ferry ride and want to turn the journey into an unforgettable island-hopping adventure, there are a few amazing multi-day boat expeditions from Coron to El Nido (and vice versa). These trips let you explore remote islands, enjoy off-the-grid beach life, and sleep under the stars.

Here’s a quick look at some of our top island expedition picks:

Klook offers a 3-day, 2-night island hopping expedition from Coron to El Nido for 19,000 PHP ($310) per person.

This island-hopping trip from Coron takes you to stunning spots like Malcapuya, Banana, Bulog, and Ditaytayan Islands, with a stay in a native teepee hut. You’ll snorkel at Bolina Island, enjoy lunch onboard near Manligad Island, and try fishing and cliff jumping at Doble Nueve.

Other highlights include a village visit on Hinapupuan Island (with a chance to play volleyball with locals), kayaking at Asis Island, and snorkelling or relaxing at Cagdanao, Calacala, and Cobra Islands — known for crystal-clear waters and off-the-beaten-path gems.

Buhay Isla offers 3-day, 2-night expeditions for 19,000 PHP ($310) per person on open trips. Private trips start at 25,000 PHP ($415) per person (based on 6 people). Smaller groups can still go but must cover the cost for six. Custom trips are also available.

You’ll get to travel by traditional bangka, explore remote islands, snorkel vibrant reefs, and camp under the stars — no strict schedules, just pure off-grid freedom.

The package includes daily meals, snacks, drinks (plus a bit of rum!), local guides, basecamp stays, snorkelling gear, kayaks, and fishing gear. Sleep in a beach hut or right on the sand.

Note: Minimum age is 10 years old unless you’re booking a private expedition.

TAO Philippines runs off-the-grid adventures with all-inclusive packages.

Escape the crowds and explore remote islands like West Busuanga, Linapacan, and Daracouton Bay. You’ll stay in off-grid bamboo camps, enjoy fresh local meals (with vegan options), and snorkel, swim, or just relax onboard. It’s a mix of adventure, community, and laid-back island life.

The 4D/4N Original Expedition costs 39,000 PHP ($650) – 45,000 PHP ($750) depending on the season. This includes travel, meals, accommodation, and a required pre-trip briefing at 18:00 the day before departure.

Departure is at 08:00, and arrival is before lunch.

These expeditions aren’t just about getting from Coron to El Nido — they’re the adventure itself. Keep in mind, though, spots are limited and they often sell out quickly, so it’s best to book in advance.