%2Cpin-s-a%252B356151(119.38673475%2C11.1811073)%2Cpin-s-b%252B8B4513(120.2124382%2C11.990058)%2F119.799586475%2C11.58558265%2C7%2F560x280%402x%3Faccess_token%3Dpk.eyJ1IjoiZ2Vja29yb3V0ZXMiLCJhIjoiY2plc2p0NmQ4MHh1cDJ4bXI3aWlraGh3YyJ9.ftb9bE1kUJiddMRbmZblQQ&w=3840&q=75)
Coron is a Palawan island best known for wreck diving. The sunken Japanese fleet lies just offshore, and Kayangan Lake draws almost as many visitors. Flying is the quickest way to get from El Nido to Coron, taking 1h 45m. By sea, the passenger-cargo ship is the cheapest at $40 (2,400 PHP). The fast ferry costs more but crosses in 3h 30m - 3h 40m.
Distance from El Nido to Coron
El Nido and Coron are about 127 km (79 miles) apart, crossed directly by sea. The quickest way to get from El Nido to Coron is by taking the flight, which takes around 1h 45m.
4 ways to travel from El Nido to Coron
There are four ways to travel from El Nido to Coron. You can choose between the ferry, passenger-cargo ship, flight, and multi-day expeditions. The journey takes 1h 45m–3d 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 $40 (2,400 PHP).
Fast Ferry3 departuresDuration3h 30m+Pricefrom$452,700 PHP
El Nido to Coron by Fast Ferry
The El Nido to Coron ferry ride is not just a mode of transport, but also a great experience. The ferries on this route pass a few well-known islands, such as Linapacan and San Miguel, all with beautiful beaches and landscapes.
The fastest way to travel by boat from El Nido to Coron is by fast ferry. You can choose among Phimal, Atienza Interisland Ferries, Montenegro Shipping Lines and Jomalia Shipping.
Fast ferries from El Nido to Coron sail daily between 12:00 and 12:30, except for Phimal, which only operates on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings. Check which company is running on your travel day before booking.
Ticket prices start from $45 (2,700 PHP) per person for the 3h 30m - 3h 40m ferry ride to Coron.
Fast Ferry schedule from El Nido to Coron
We recommend booking your tickets online in advance. Especially during peak season (December-April), ferry tickets for El Nido to Coron often sell out several days in advance.
On the day of your trip, arrive at the port at least an hour before the scheduled departure for a better chance of securing a seat on the fast ferry. If you don’t arrive early, you would be forfeiting your ticket, and they would give your seat to a passenger on the waiting list.
Departure port in El Nido
All ferries from El Nido bound for Coron depart from El Nido Ferry Terminal. From the town centre, it’s only a 10-minute walk to the pier, or you can ride a tricycle for a low price.
Upon entering El Nido Ferry Terminal, you need to pay a port fee of $0.30 (20 PHP).
Arrival port in Coron
The ferries arrive at Coron Port, about 2 km away from the town centre. Upon arrival, expect to pay $3.30 (200 PHP) for the environmental fee.
At the port’s gate, there are tricycles offering a ride to Coron town centre. Rates start from $0.30 (20 PHP). Alternatively, you can get to your hotel on foot in about 15 minutes or by habal-habal (motorbike taxi) for 5 minutes.
FlightWith transfersDuration1h 45mincl. transfersPricefrom$724,400 PHP
El Nido to Coron by Flight
If you're short on time, the quickest way to travel from El Nido to Coron is by flight. The flight itself takes 40 minutes, and with the transfers to and from the airport, total travel time is just around 2 hours.
The total cost of $72 (4,400 PHP) includes the tricycle ride to El Nido Airport, as well as a minivan transfer upon arrival in Coron.
Note that 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.
Step 1: El Nido town to El Nido Airport by Tuk-tuk
There are two airports in the northern part of mainland Palawan. Flights to Coron depart from El Nido Airport, about 5 km from El Nido town centre.
From your hotel, you can take a tricycle or tuk-tuk ride that takes around 20 minutes and costs $4.90 (300 PHP) for two people and luggage.
Step 2: El Nido Airport to Coron Airport by Flight
AirSWIFT and Cebu Pacific offer direct flights between El Nido and Coron, with one flight each day. They depart at 11:50 from El Nido Airport.
Flight prices start from $63 (3,850 PHP) for a one-way ticket. It takes only 40 minutes to reach Busuanga Airport.
Step 3: Coron Airport to Coron Town by Minivan
Flights arrive at Francisco B. Reyes Airport, also known as Busuanga Airport, on the island of Coron.
Outside Busuanga Airport, there are shared and private vans, as well as tuk-tuks, to take you to your hotel in Coron. Travel time between the airport and Coron town centre is about 45 minutes.
One of the easiest ways to get around is by booking a shared van transfer through Klook, which costs $4.10 (250 PHP) per person. You can also go for a private van, which fits up to 10 passengers. Prices for a private ride start at $31 (1,900 PHP) — not bad if you’re splitting the cost!
You can take a tricycle from the airport to your hotel for about $4.90 (300 PHP). But just a heads up, the ride can be pretty bumpy. For a more comfortable option, go with a van transfer instead.
Alternatively, you can ask your hotel prior to your trip if they offer airport pickup so that you won't have to worry about the ride to Coron town.
Reach out to our Community
No questions yet — be the first to ask about El Nido to Coron.
Our favourite places to stay in Coron
With plenty of adventure and day trips available from Coron, you want your accommodation to be somewhere clean, comfortable and relaxing to lay your head at the end of the day.
The main area to stay, which is where all of our favourite stays are located, is within Coron Town Proper. This is where you’ll find the most action — plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and tour agencies.
With so much to plan for your time in Coron, we’ve sorted one thing for you — accommodation. Here are our favourite stays in Coron:
Treat YourselfThe Funny Lion
Area: Next to Coron town proper — approx. 10-minute drive to the centre
Relaxing in a hot tub whilst the sun sets right in front of you. Can life get any better than that? Maybe it can at The Funny Lion. They also have an infinity-style pool that looks out over endless treetops.
You’ll never want to leave this place, and maybe you won’t have to, with their on-site restaurant and rooftop bar ticking off all the boxes of a relaxing retreat.
- Hot tub
- Infinity pool
- Amazing views
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 (3,050 PHP) per night
Mid-RangeThe Bay Area Lodge
Area: Next to Coron town proper — approx. 5-minute drive to the centre
Only a 5-minute drive from the port, and close to the centre, you can’t ask for a better location than here. Even better, The Bay Area Lodge is hidden behind thriving gardens, which helps you to forget about the hustle and bustle outside. The lush gardens are the perfect place to relax.
All of the rooms have their own balcony area, meaning that you can take full advantage of the gardens. Inside, the rooms are comfortable, spacious and nicely designed.
- Beautiful gardens
- Great location
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Comfortable and spacious rooms
Double rooms cost $30-$50 (1,820-3,050 PHP) per night
BudgetHop Hostel
Area: Next to Coron town proper — approx. 5-minute drive to the centre
Offering both dorms and private rooms, Hop Hostel is the perfect option if you’re looking for budget accommodation and a sociable atmosphere. The refreshing swimming pool, on-site restaurant and rooftop make it super easy to meet other travellers.
The hostel also often runs a free sunset dinner on the rooftop. Can you ask for much more than that? Even if you’re staying in the dorm rooms, the privacy curtains and comfy mattresses guarantee a good night's sleep.
- Swimming pool
- Rooftop
- On-site restaurant
- Dorms and private rooms available
Double rooms cost $30-$50 (1,820-3,050 PHP) per night
BudgetAquilah Homestay
Area: Next to Coron town proper — approx. 5-minute drive to the centre and a minute walk to Mount Tapyas
Aquilah Homestay is a great place to lay your head for a few nights. It’s away from the city centre, and it’s noise, but close enough that you’re only a short walk away. The staff here are the star of the show, offering to help you book tours and plan your days in Coron.
The rooms are basic, but offer everything you need — a clean space, a comfortable bed and much-needed air conditioning.
- Great location
- Helpful staff
- Clean and comfortable rooms
- Breakfast available
Double rooms cost $15-$30 (910-1,820 PHP) per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Coron?
Coron is one of the Philippines' most popular destinations. Part of the Palawan group of islands, Coron boasts white-sand beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters. But the best part about it is not on the surface, it's underwater. Its vibrant marine life is home to beautiful coral gardens and impressive shipwrecks.
The main island is where most accommodations are. There are a few attractions here, but you'd want to go on a boat tour to the nearby smaller islands to really uncover the beauty of Coron. Some of the must-visit spots include Kayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake and Twin Lagoon.
Coron Environmental and Terminal Fees
- Environmental Fee: $3.30 (200 PHP) valid for 10 days, pay again if staying longer
- Port Fee: $0.30 (20 PHP) only if arriving by ferry
- Airport Terminal Fee: $1.60 (100 PHP) when departing from Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU)
All fees are cash only, so keep some pesos ready.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from El Nido to Coron, roughly 127 kilometres (79 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $40 (2,400 PHP). The quickest trip takes 1h 45m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from El Nido to Coron?
The distance from El Nido to Coron is 127 kilometres (79 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from El Nido to Coron?
The fastest way to get from El Nido to Coron is by flight and takes 1h 45m.
What is the cheapest way to get from El Nido to Coron?
The cheapest way to get from El Nido to Coron is by passenger-cargo ship with ticket costs starting from 2,400 PHP.
What are the most popular things to do in Coron?
The most popular thing to do in Coron is island hopping. This is the best way to explore its limestone cliffs, clear blue lagoon, white-sand beaches, and secluded islands. You will also have the opportunity to dive or snorkel. Enjoy its coral reef gardens and shipwrecks that are teeming with fish.
Also include in your itinerary a DIY adventure on the mainland. Take a dip at the salt water hot spring of Maquinit, visit the Calauit Safari, or take a morning hike to Mt. Tapyas.
What are the best beaches in Coron?
Coron Island is nature at its finest — a paradise surrounded by turquoise water and a number of beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches are Malcapuya Island, Bulog Dos Island and Smith Point Beach. These are generally included in island hopping tours, but they are not always grouped together.
Most travellers pick a number of different tours to visit as many beaches as they can, while others choose to get a private tour so that they can handpick the beaches they want and skip the islands that they do not prefer.
What is the weather like in El Nido and Coron?
The weather in El Nido and Coron is usually hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25-32°C throughout the year. The best time to visit is from December to April — generally the driest and sunniest.
We recommend against visiting in the rainy season from May to November. During these months, the waters can get really rough and island hopping tours can be suspended on some days.
About the Authors
Travel Writer
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She's loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand's beaches also have a special place in her heart.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep Gecko Routes free and up to date.
Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
