
Malcapuya Island and Green Lagoon Coron
Malcapuya Island: A pristine paradise with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a tranquil escape in Coron, Palawan.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light, fewer crowds

Malcapuya Island and Green Lagoon Coron
Best Time
Best light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Malcapuya Island: A pristine paradise with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, offering a tranquil escape in Coron, Palawan.
"Malcapuya Beach is absolutely stunning! Crystal-clear water, powdery white sand, and peaceful vibes all around."

Pack Water Shoes
Rocky paths and underwater terrain make water shoes essential for comfortable exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Cash for Snacks
Locals sell delicious turon and fresh coconut juice. Perfect for a beachside treat! :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Malcapuya Island Beach
Malcapuya Island
Powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a long stretch of pristine beach. Pure paradise!

Green Lagoon
Coron Island
A serene, emerald-green lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Perfect for a peaceful swim.

Kayangan Lake Viewpoint
Coron Island
Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of Coron's lagoons and islands. A must-see!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Hopping Essentials
Environmental Fees & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Water Shoes
Rocky paths and underwater terrain make water shoes essential for comfortable exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Cash for Snacks
Locals sell delicious turon and fresh coconut juice. Perfect for a beachside treat! :moneybag:
Book Island Hopping Tours
Most visitors join organized tours for easy access to these islands. :ferry:
Stay Hydrated
The sun can be intense; carry plenty of water and consider coconut water. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Water Shoes
Rocky paths and underwater terrain make water shoes essential for comfortable exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Cash for Snacks
Locals sell delicious turon and fresh coconut juice. Perfect for a beachside treat! :moneybag:
Book Island Hopping Tours
Most visitors join organized tours for easy access to these islands. :ferry:
Stay Hydrated
The sun can be intense; carry plenty of water and consider coconut water. :droplet:
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine ecosystem with eco-friendly sunscreen. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Malcapuya Island is widely praised for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, offering a truly idyllic tropical escape. Visitors love the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity for swimming and relaxation. However, some guests have expressed disappointment regarding the presence of trash near the docking areas, contrasting with the island's natural beauty.
"Very relaxing place. There’s a nippa huts whenever you want to chill and eat your beach snacks while watching the sea waves. They are also selling fresh coconut juice in the shell and locally made crunchy cashew nuts."
Simon Flores
"Malcapuya Beach is absolutely stunning! Crystal-clear water, powdery white sand, and peaceful vibes all around. It’s like a hidden paradise—perfect for swimming, relaxing, and just soaking in nature. A must-visit when in Coron!"
Rahul Singh
"I was a little disappointed with this stop as part of an island hopping adventure in Coron, Palawan.
You would think that collecting taxes from tourist attractions and businesses PLUS the super high 200 peso per person "Environmental Fees", collected from each and every Barangay you enter, from each and every visitor to Coron, local government units would actually spend all that money trying to keep the top visited tourist sites pristine and beautiful for the millions of tourists that arrive here!
But what you will see when you arrive at Malcapuya Island is a hideous local trash dump and garbage site, right were all of the boats dock. (Please do not take my word for it...see the attached photographs and videos).
Such a waste for such a potentially beautiful area!
After walking past all the trash and garbage, there is a 150 meter hike past all the dead trees and dead vegetation on an unmaintained trail before you finally arrive at the swimming beach where you will find nice white sand and crystal clear water for swimming...but nothing special! Just another swimming beach. I love to swim and snorkel but I am not sure this location is worth a 5 hour round trip boat ride...just to go swimming! (2 hours to Bulog Dos another 30 minutes to Ditaytayan Sandbar, and 30 minutes to Malcapuya Island, and finally another 2 hour boat ride back to Coron!).
So ask yourself...if you want to spend time swimming and snorkeling in nice locations...is it really worth passing up 100's of pristine beautiful beaches, much closer to Coron, and spend a minimum of FIVE HOURS traveling on a boat, just to go swimming on 3 mediocre beaches with absolutely NOTHING spectactlar or unique to offer?
Sorry if anyone is offended but my responsibility to Google Maps is to record and report the truth so that people can make their own informed decisions when visiting areas."
Rick Bartel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Malcapuya Island and Green Lagoon are typically accessed via organized island hopping tours from Coron town. These tours usually depart from Coron Port. The boat ride can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours depending on the specific island and sea conditions. Many tours combine these spots with other nearby attractions like Bulog Dos Island or Ditaytayan Sandbar.
The most common and practical way to travel between islands like Malcapuya and Green Lagoon is by joining a shared or private boat tour. These tours are readily available in Coron town and offer a convenient way to visit multiple destinations in a single day.
Public transportation directly to Malcapuya Island is not common. Island hopping tours are the standard method for tourists to reach these beautiful spots. This ensures a structured itinerary and access to necessary safety equipment.
The boat journey to Malcapuya Island from Coron town typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. It's a significant travel time, so it's best to be prepared for a full day of island hopping.
Yes, you can arrange a private boat for island hopping tours in Coron, which offers more flexibility. However, this will be more expensive than joining a group tour. It's advisable to book this in advance through your accommodation or a local tour operator.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there are typically environmental fees and entrance fees for these islands, which are collected to help maintain their pristine condition. The exact amount can vary, but be prepared for fees per person, often collected by tour operators.
Environmental fees in Coron can add up, with some visitors mentioning around 200 pesos per person for various sites. It's best to confirm the current rates with your tour provider, as they can change.
It's highly recommended to book your island hopping tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and to secure your preferred tour operator or boat.
Tour fees usually cover the boat rental, a tour guide, and sometimes lunch. Entrance and environmental fees for the islands are often separate and collected on-site or by the tour operator. Always clarify what's included.
While generally open to visitors, it's important to respect the local environment and regulations. Some sources mention potential development plans for Malcapuya Island, so it's good to check for any updates closer to your travel date.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Malcapuya Island is perfect for swimming in its crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on the powdery white sand, and simply relaxing. You can also enjoy the peaceful vibes and take stunning photos. Some locals offer drinks and snacks.
Green Lagoon is known for its tranquil, emerald-green waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful swim and to appreciate the natural beauty of Coron.
While it's a popular destination, Malcapuya Island can feel less crowded than other spots in Coron, especially if you visit during off-peak hours or days. Some visitors describe it as 'Boracay without the people'.
Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. For Malcapuya, wearing water shoes is highly recommended due to rocky paths and the terrain.
Absolutely! Malcapuya Island boasts stunning, clear waters perfect for swimming. The gentle waves and soft sand make it a delightful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no formal restaurants on Malcapuya Island. However, local vendors often sell snacks like turon, saging, and ube, as well as fresh coconut juice. Many island hopping tours include lunch.
Most island hopping tours in Coron provide a delicious Filipino-style lunch, often featuring grilled fish, chicken, rice, and fresh fruits. This is usually included in the tour package.
Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and drinks. However, it's important to practice 'leave no trace' principles and dispose of your trash properly.
In Coron town, you can find budget-friendly eateries and local carinderias (small eateries) offering Filipino dishes. Exploring the local market can also lead to affordable and delicious food options.
It's best to inform your tour operator in advance if you have dietary restrictions, including vegetarian needs. While not always guaranteed, many operators can accommodate special requests if notified ahead of time.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of Malcapuya Island's white sand beach is incredibly photogenic. Capture the long, sweeping coastline, the clear turquoise water, and the palm trees. The viewpoint overlooking the beach is also a must for panoramic shots.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. Midday sun can be harsh, but the vibrant blues of the water are still impressive.
Drone usage regulations can vary and may be subject to local restrictions or permits. It's advisable to check with your tour operator or local authorities before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing the stunning water activities. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky.
Focus on the dramatic contrast between the emerald water and the towering limestone cliffs. Shots from within the lagoon looking out, or from the surrounding rocks looking in, can be very striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When booking tours, look for family-oriented operators who can provide a more relaxed pace and ensure safety. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as formal dining options are limited on the islands. Consider bringing beach toys for the kids. The boat rides themselves can be an adventure for children, but ensure they are comfortable with longer journeys.
💰 Budget Travelers
While on the islands, be mindful of costs for snacks and drinks sold by locals. Bringing your own water and some snacks can help save money. Remember to factor in the environmental and entrance fees, which are mandatory and contribute to conservation efforts.
💑 Couples
Consider a private island hopping tour for a more intimate experience. This allows you to set your own pace, enjoy the scenery without a large group, and perhaps find secluded spots for relaxation. The breathtaking views make it an ideal backdrop for memorable photos together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Coron's Island Hopping Tours
When choosing a tour, consider whether you prefer a group tour for a more budget-friendly option or a private tour for greater flexibility and a more personalized experience. Group tours are a great way to meet other travelers, while private tours allow you to customize your itinerary and spend more time at your favorite spots. Always clarify what is included in the tour package, such as lunch, snorkeling gear, and entrance fees, as these can vary.
Be prepared for the travel time involved. Reaching Malcapuya Island, for instance, can take over an hour by boat. While the journey is part of the adventure, it means these tours are a full-day commitment. Pack accordingly with essentials like sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks, and embrace the scenic boat rides as part of the overall Coron experience.
The Pristine Beauty and Environmental Concerns
However, some visitors have noted environmental concerns, particularly regarding trash near the docking areas. This has led to discussions about the effectiveness of environmental fees collected in Coron. While the beaches themselves are stunning, the presence of litter can detract from the overall pristine image.
Despite these concerns, the natural beauty of Malcapuya Island and the surrounding areas like Green Lagoon remains a significant draw. Responsible tourism practices, including proper waste disposal and supporting eco-friendly tour operators, are encouraged to help preserve these beautiful destinations for future visitors.
What to Pack for Your Island Adventure
Footwear is important. While flip-flops are fine for the boat, water shoes are highly recommended for Malcapuya Island due to the rocky terrain and potential for sharp objects in the water. This will make exploring the island and wading into the sea much more comfortable.
Essential items also include reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine ecosystem, insect repellent, a dry bag for your valuables, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a power bank for your devices. A waterproof camera or a good smartphone with a waterproof case is a must for capturing the stunning scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit