In 2025, Australians are looking beyond the usual Bali or Phuket for their tropical fix. And quietly rising on the travel radar is the Philippines, a Southeast Asian archipelago that offers postcard-perfect scenery without the price tag of more established island destinations. One such jewel? Coron, Palawan.

Arrival in Paradise

My journey began with a flight into Busuanga Airport, a modest gateway that felt more like arriving into someone’s backyard than a major travel hub. But that’s the magic, immediately, the unspoiled nature captures you. Coconut trees swaying lazily, rich green hills rolling behind the runway, and that warm island air promising a slower pace.

From there, the adventure began almost instantly. We were whisked away to a nearby wharf, where a boat awaited to take us through a network of tranquil mangroves, a watery maze that felt like entering a secret world. It was the perfect introduction to Coron’s quiet wildness.

Staying at Discovery Coron

Our home base for the trip was Discovery Coron, specifically their Sunset Villa. Perched overwater with a front-row view to crimson-hued skies, this was the kind of place that made every golden hour feel like a personal event. The resort is tucked away on its own island, which amplifies the feeling of exclusivity.

That said, it’s worth noting that the resort was undergoing renovations during our stay. Service was inconsistent more in line with a solid 3-star than a polished 5 but what it lacked in polish, it more than made up for in setting. The dive shop on-site, for instance, was top-tier. Professional, safety-oriented, and incredibly welcoming especially for our children, who enjoyed a gentle introduction to diving for the first time.

Island-Hopping Coron-Style

One highlight of our trip was the Coron Island Tour, which took us by bangka—a traditional outrigger boat—across the glassy sea. We arranged clear-bottom kayaks, adding a surreal dimension to our paddling as fish and coral drifted beneath us. Stops included:

Kayangan Lake – Often dubbed the cleanest lake in Asia, it’s otherworldly with its mix of salt and fresh water framed by limestone cliffs.
Twin Lagoons – A natural wonder where warm and cool waters meet beneath soaring karst walls.
Maquinit Hot Springs – A blissful soak with views to the sea, especially at sunset.
Seven Islands Beach Picnic – Where a traditional Filipino lunch of grilled fish, rice, and tropical fruit was served in a rustic hut right on the sand.

A Rare Encounter with Dugongs

Another unforgettable moment was our day trip to see the elusive dugongs, gentle marine mammals that glide like shadows under the sea. Coron offers one of the few places in the world where respectful, regulated encounters are possible. Strict guidelines allow only four swimmers at a time, with timed limits to protect these endangered creatures. Swimming alongside them in the wild was humbling, a reminder of how precious and fragile nature is.

Final thoughts

Coron isn’t polished. It’s not trying to be the next Maldives or a carbon copy of Santorini. Instead, it invites you to slow down, explore with intention, and reconnect with the natural world. Yes, service can be hit-or-miss, and the infrastructure isn’t as smooth as more touristy locales—but that’s precisely why now is the time to go. Before the secret gets out.

For Australian travellers seeking authentic encounters and a raw, untamed beauty, Coron is a destination worth discovering.