Pass Island
A picturesque island in Coron, Palawan, known for its pristine white sand, vibrant coral reefs, and stunning panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the crowds
Pass Island
Best Time
Escape the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque island in Coron, Palawan, known for its pristine white sand, vibrant coral reefs, and stunning panoramic views.
"Snorkel amongst a stunning coral reef and spot baby blacktip reef sharks!"
snorkel gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant coral reef just offshore.
Pack water & snacks
Limited food and drink options available; bring your own to stay refreshed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Coral Reef
20 meters offshore
Snorkel amongst a stunning coral reef teeming with marine life, including baby blacktip reef sharks.
Panoramic Island View
Island deck
Climb the island deck for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and turquoise waters.
Pristine White Sand Beach
Main beach area
Relax on the soft, clean white sand and enjoy the laid-back island atmosphere. Perfect for swimming.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Island Hopping Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
snorkel gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant coral reef just offshore.
Pack water & snacks
Limited food and drink options available; bring your own to stay refreshed.
Early bird gets peace
Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy the island's tranquility before tour boats arrive.
Consider private tours
Private tours offer flexibility and can help you avoid peak times.
Tips
from all over the internet
snorkel gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant coral reef just offshore.
Pack water & snacks
Limited food and drink options available; bring your own to stay refreshed.
Early bird gets peace
Arrive before 9 AM to enjoy the island's tranquility before tour boats arrive.
Consider private tours
Private tours offer flexibility and can help you avoid peak times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pass Island is lauded for its beautiful white sand and accessible snorkeling, with many visitors enjoying the chance to see marine life, including baby reef sharks. It's a popular lunch stop on island hopping tours, offering a scenic break with great views from its island deck. However, some find it can get crowded, and amenities are limited, so bringing your own provisions is key.
"Pass Island is a must-visit destination, especially if you arrive early to escape the crowds and enjoy its serene beauty. Just 20 meters from the shore lies a stunning coral reef that stretches far into the sea, offering excellent snorkeling opportunities. With a bit of luck, you might even spot baby blacktip reef sharks gracefully swimming near the reef—a truly unforgettable experience."
Dennis Lampe
"We visited the island last Friday last week. This was our ultimate island tour that was supposed to cover malcapuya island and banana island. However, due to the gale warning, we were diverted to different places. We ate our lunch at Pass island. The island has cottages and tables and chairs for tourists that they can use for setting up their lunch buffet. The food was great and fresh. We had fruit carvings taken care of by our tour guide. We enjoyed the beach and the white fine sand. There was also an island deck that you can climb and view other islands nearby. I would recommend this place for your next visit in coron."
Michael Angelo Tadeo
"The tour we booked ditched us on the day we were supposed to go here. We were lucky that our tricycle driver hooked us up with a boat. We decided to just stay at Pass Island since we left after 9am and we wanted to enjoy the rest of our day. lots of fishes here and beautiful beach."
Adelle Padua
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pass Island is typically accessed via island hopping tours from Coron, Palawan. You can book these tours through local agencies or your accommodation. Some tours may include it as part of a multi-island itinerary.
While less common, it's possible to arrange a private boat charter to Pass Island, especially if your planned tour is altered due to weather. This offers more flexibility.
Travel time can vary depending on the boat and sea conditions, but it's generally about 45 minutes to an hour by boat from Coron town.
No, there are no direct public transport options to Pass Island. Access is exclusively through organized boat tours or private charters.
Pass Island is primarily accessible from Coron. If you are in El Nido, you would typically need to travel to Coron first to join an island hopping tour that includes Pass Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is usually an environmental or entrance fee for Pass Island, which is often included in the tour package price. It's advisable to confirm this with your tour operator.
Pass Island is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of island hopping tours. There are no specific opening or closing times posted, as it's a natural attraction.
You don't typically buy individual tickets for Pass Island. Instead, you book an island hopping tour that includes it. Booking your tour in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended.
The main restriction is weather-related; tours may be rerouted during gale warnings. Otherwise, visitors are expected to respect the natural environment.
Tour packages usually include boat transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear (sometimes), and access to the island. Confirm the inclusions with your chosen tour provider.
📸 📸 Photography
The white sand beach, the island deck for panoramic views, and the underwater coral reefs are prime photo opportunities. Capturing the clear turquoise water is a must.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the island's pristine beauty. Midday sun can be harsh but also creates vibrant blues.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with your tour operator or local authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
A waterproof camera or action camera is great for snorkeling. A wide-angle lens is useful for landscapes, and a good zoom can capture marine life.
The chance to spot baby blacktip reef sharks while snorkeling is a unique photographic opportunity. The island deck view is also a signature shot.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Pass Island is a popular lunch stop for island hopping tours. Tour operators typically provide a buffet-style lunch with fresh seafood and fruits.
Options for purchasing food and drinks directly on the island are very limited or non-existent. It's highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks.
Expect fresh seafood like grilled fish and shrimp, rice, local vegetables, and fresh fruits. Fruit carvings are also a common and appreciated addition.
There are no standalone restaurants or cafes on Pass Island. The dining facilities are primarily set up for tour group lunches, with tables and chairs under coconut trees.
While not standard, if you arrange a private tour, you might be able to discuss specific meal preferences with your tour provider in advance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as options on the island are scarce. Consider bringing beach toys for the kids. While the island deck offers great views, ensure children are supervised closely when climbing the steps. The laid-back nature of Pass Island makes it a pleasant, less hectic stop on a family island hopping tour.
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
While Pass Island is primarily known for snorkeling, the surrounding waters in Coron are world-renowned for diving. If you're a certified diver, consider extending your trip to explore the famous wreck dives in Coron Bay. Pass Island can serve as a beautiful, relaxed stop before or after a more adventurous diving excursion.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The island deck provides a stunning vantage point for capturing panoramic shots of the archipelago, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset (though tours typically depart before sunset). For underwater photography, the accessible coral reef is a fantastic subject. Don't miss the chance to capture the vibrant marine life. If you have a drone, check local regulations, as aerial shots can offer a unique perspective of the island's beauty.
Early morning visits are ideal for avoiding crowds and capturing softer, more atmospheric light.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Snorkeling and Marine Life
Many travelers recommend bringing your own snorkeling gear to ensure a comfortable fit and to guarantee availability, as rental options might be limited or of varying quality. The clarity of the water around Pass Island often enhances the snorkeling experience, allowing for clear views of the coral formations and the creatures that inhabit them.
Pro Tip: While spotting baby blacktip reef sharks is a highlight, remember they are generally harmless. Maintain a respectful distance and avoid touching any marine life or coral to preserve their habitat for future visitors.
Island Experience and Amenities
One of the most recommended activities is climbing the island deck. This elevated viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding turquoise waters and neighboring islands, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Key Takeaway: While Pass Island offers natural beauty and a pleasant stopover, come prepared with your own provisions as on-site services are minimal.
Navigating Island Hopping Tours
When booking a tour, it's crucial to confirm whether Pass Island is part of the itinerary, as routes can sometimes be adjusted due to weather conditions, such as gale warnings. Many travelers suggest booking tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. Some content creators highlight the benefit of early morning departures, around 6 AM, to maximize the day and experience islands like Pass Island before the main crowds arrive.
Traveler Insight: 'The tour we booked ditched us on the day we were supposed to go here. We were lucky that our tricycle driver hooked us up with a boat. We decided to just stay at Pass Island since we left after 9am and we wanted to enjoy the rest of our day.'
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit