Malcapuya Island Banana Island Bulog Dos Coron Philippines
Discover paradise on Malcapuya, Banana, and Bulog Dos islands in Coron, Palawan. White sands, clear waters, and iconic sandbars await.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Reveals stunning sandbars
Malcapuya Island Banana Island Bulog Dos Coron Philippines
Best Time
Reveals stunning sandbars
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover paradise on Malcapuya, Banana, and Bulog Dos islands in Coron, Palawan. White sands, clear waters, and iconic sandbars await.
"Bulog Dos was the most worthless island destination of all time!"
🎯 Book the Escapade Tour
This popular tour covers Malcapuya, Banana, and Bulog Dos islands, offering a taste of paradise .
⏳ Allow for Travel Time
Boat rides can take longer than expected, so factor this into your day's plans .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Malcapuya Island
Coron, Palawan
Expansive white sand beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Banana Island
Coron, Palawan
A tropical paradise offering excellent snorkeling opportunities and a serene beach escape.
Bulog Dos Island
Coron, Palawan
Famous for its picturesque sandbar, especially stunning at low tide for photos and swimming.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Hopping Essentials
Timing is Key for Sandbars
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book the Escapade Tour
This popular tour covers Malcapuya, Banana, and Bulog Dos islands, offering a taste of paradise.
⏳ Allow for Travel Time
Boat rides can take longer than expected, so factor this into your day's plans.
👟 Aqua Shoes Recommended
Essential for navigating rocky areas and enjoying the water comfortably.
📸 Capture the Sandbar
Visit Bulog Dos at low tide for the most dramatic sandbar views and photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book the Escapade Tour
This popular tour covers Malcapuya, Banana, and Bulog Dos islands, offering a taste of paradise.
⏳ Allow for Travel Time
Boat rides can take longer than expected, so factor this into your day's plans.
👟 Aqua Shoes Recommended
Essential for navigating rocky areas and enjoying the water comfortably.
📸 Capture the Sandbar
Visit Bulog Dos at low tide for the most dramatic sandbar views and photos.
💰 Private vs. Group Tours
Private tours offer flexibility but are pricier; group tours are more budget-friendly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Malcapuya, Banana, and Bulog Dos islands offer breathtaking natural beauty, with stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The iconic sandbar at Bulog Dos is a major draw, especially at low tide. While some find the islands lack extensive activities, their pristine, idyllic nature is a significant draw for many seeking a tropical paradise.
"This is not a report from a sour grape...it is simply the bare facts and truth that I myself and hundreds of other foreign tourist have experienced recently about the terrible destinations being pushed by local authorities in Coron Palawan!
Be aware that several islands are being included in an island hopping tour from Coron. One of those islands is Bulog Dos Island. You have the option of taking a group island hopping tour for 1,900 pesos each, (about 20 people per group). Or take a private tour for 5,000 pesos per person. The organizers will tell you it is about an hour and half travel time, one way, to the first island in the tour, but the truth is it will take every bit of 2 hours plus! Then after paying 10,000 pesos for a private tour for two people traveling 2 hours in a pump boat, you arrive at Bulog Dos. The second island in the tour is nothing more than a sand bar, (Ditaytayan Island), and the third island is a local garbage dump, (Malcapuya Island).
Now don't get me wrong...on Bulog Dos there is a very small, narrow stretch of white sand and the water was amazingly beautiful...(like hundreds, if not thousands of other beaches in Coron)...but other than that, there is absolutely NOTHING at this island!
OK...let me get this straight...I paid 10,000 pesos for two people to sit on a hard wooden seat in a little pump boat, for more than two hours of travel, (one way), passing up dozens and dozens of other beautiful beaches with great swimming and snorkeling just to go to Bulog Dos Island and find absolutely nothing there, along with stops at a sand bar and a trash dump...nothing special, no great views, no special attractions, nothing...just places to stop and swim next to all the dead trees and trash for large amounts of money paid?
An island hopping tour is supposed to be a small group of islands with special or unique destinations or attractions that offer one of a kind memories...not just another swimming hole
Don't be a victim!!!!! There is nothing wrong with island hopping tours but in my vastly experienced travel around the World, Bulog Dos was the most worthless island destination of all time!!!!!
The people who operate this island will probably not like this review...but I tell the truth no matter how painful it might be!"
Rick Bartel
"Visit during low tide so you can see the sand bar. The island itself if beautiful and perfect for picturel taking. Theres a viewing deck up the hill to capture the scenery. We did some swimming here and enjoy the sandbàr."
Aimee Lim
"This island is so beautiful with white sandy beaches, a beautiful sandbar, crystal clear water . Really a paradise island by itself. This is almost 2 hour by boat from the main island of Coron. My family rented a tour boat and its nice because you have your own schedule . When we went there there's pretty much not a lot of people. We snorkeled and the water was so clear and a lot of fish and corals. Our tour guide even prepared our lunch for us with fresh seafood and vegetables typical Filipino dish. A beautiful island worth visiting when you're in Coron, Palawan, Philippines.."
Manny Alonzo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
These islands are typically visited via island hopping tours from Coron town. You can book a group tour or a private boat. The 'Escapade Tour' is a popular choice that includes these three islands.
Yes, Bulog Dos Island is accessible from Two Seasons Resort. There's an entrance fee of 200 pesos, though it might not always be collected. Visiting during low tide is recommended to see the sandbar.
The most common and practical way to travel between Malcapuya, Banana, and Bulog Dos islands is by boat. Tours are the easiest option, providing transportation and often including lunch.
No, there are no direct flights to these specific islands. You'll need to fly into Busuanga Airport (USU) near Coron town and then arrange boat transportation.
It's not practical to visit these islands as a day trip from El Nido due to the significant travel distance. They are best accessed from Coron.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Group tours typically range from 1,900 pesos per person, while private tours can cost around 5,000 pesos per person. Prices can vary based on the tour operator and inclusions.
While some sources mention an entrance fee for Bulog Dos (around 200 pesos), it's not always consistently collected. Tour packages usually include these fees, but it's good to confirm with your operator.
It's advisable to book your tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. You can book through your accommodation or local tour agencies in Coron town.
An Escapade Tour usually includes visits to Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, and Bulog Dos Island. Lunch, snorkeling gear, and boat transportation are often part of the package.
These islands are natural attractions and are generally accessible during daylight hours when tours are operating. There are no specific opening or closing times for the islands themselves.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Malcapuya Island is perfect for swimming, sunbathing on its long stretch of white sand, and enjoying the clear waters. It's also great for kayaking and simply relaxing.
Yes, Banana Island offers excellent snorkeling opportunities with vibrant marine life and clear waters.
Bulog Dos is renowned for its beautiful sandbar, which is most visible and impressive during low tide. It's a fantastic spot for photography and a relaxing swim.
Facilities can be basic. Some tours include lunch prepared by your boat crew. It's best to bring your own snacks and water, and check with your tour operator about available facilities.
Crowds can vary. Visiting during low tide or booking a private tour can help you experience these islands with fewer people.
📸 📸 Photography
The long, pristine white sand beach and the turquoise waters offer endless photo opportunities. Capture the sweeping vistas from different angles.
The key is to visit during low tide. Walk along the sandbar, take aerial shots, and capture the contrast between the white sand and the blue water.
On Bulog Dos, there's a viewing deck up the hill that offers a great vantage point for scenery. Malcapuya's expansive beach also provides panoramic views.
Early morning or late afternoon generally offers softer light and fewer harsh shadows, ideal for landscape and beach photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A waterproof camera or phone case is also useful for capturing underwater shots while snorkeling.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Banana Island is particularly good for snorkeling, offering a chance for kids to see colorful fish.When booking a tour, consider a private boat to allow for more flexibility with your children's schedules and needs. Pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection. While facilities are minimal, the sheer joy of exploring beautiful beaches and shallow waters will likely be a hit with younger travelers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for tour packages that include lunch to save on food costs. Bringing your own reusable water bottle is also a good way to cut down on expenses and reduce waste. Be prepared for longer travel times on group tours, but the savings are often well worth it.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the beaches and consider a waterproof camera or phone case for capturing underwater shots while snorkeling around Banana Island.
Visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) will provide the best lighting for your photos.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Coron Escapade Tour: A Traveler's Perspective
+2 This tour is praised for showcasing some of Coron's most stunning natural beauty, from the expansive white sands of Malcapuya to the vibrant snorkeling spots around Banana Island and the iconic sandbar of Bulog Dos.+1 Many travelers find this tour to be a highlight of their Coron trip, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.However, it's important to manage expectations regarding travel times. Some visitors report that the journey to these islands can take up to two hours or more, which is longer than often advertised.
When planning your Escapade Tour, consider whether a group tour or a private tour best suits your needs and budget. Group tours are more economical but involve sharing the boat with other travelers. Private tours offer more flexibility in terms of schedule and pace, allowing you to linger longer at your favorite spots. Regardless of your choice, remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and aqua shoes for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Understanding Bulog Dos Island: Sandbar Magic and Traveler Reviews
While the sandbar and beach are undeniably beautiful, some travelers have expressed disappointment, labeling it as 'worthless' or 'nothing special' beyond a swimming spot.
For the best experience at Bulog Dos, timing is crucial. Visiting during low tide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the sandbar's grandeur.
Malcapuya and Banana Islands: Pristine Beaches and Underwater Wonders
+1 It's an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil beach experience, perfect for sunbathing, leisurely strolls, and swimming in calm seas. The sheer beauty and relative seclusion of Malcapuya make it a standout location within the Coron archipelago, offering a postcard-perfect tropical escape.Adjacent to Malcapuya, Banana Island offers a similar idyllic setting but is particularly noted for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The waters surrounding Banana Island teem with vibrant marine life, making it a fantastic spot for underwater exploration.
+1 Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, the clear visibility and abundant fish species are sure to impress.Both islands are typically part of the same island hopping tours, often combined with Bulog Dos. While they offer distinct charms, their shared characteristic is their unspoiled natural beauty. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the serene atmosphere and the sheer visual appeal of these island gems.
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