7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Coron
Summary: Planning a quick weekend getaway is a great way to save money while still seeing new places. Here are 7 fun weekend getaways for digital nomads living in Coron.
Coron, is a paradise for digital nomads who enjoy the blend of work and leisure in a tropical setting. With its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Coron offers a unique experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. While the town itself is a haven of tranquility, the surrounding areas offer a plethora of weekend getaways that cater to all tastes, from popular tourist spots to hidden gems off the beaten track. Here are seven fun weekend getaways for digital nomads living in Coron.
El Nido, Palawan
El Nido is a top destination for travelers seeking breathtaking scenery and an array of water activities. Known for its towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches, El Nido is a must-visit for anyone in Coron. You can go island hopping, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply relax on the beach. The nightlife in El Nido is also quite lively, with a variety of bars and restaurants to enjoy after a day of exploring.
How to Get There: The most convenient way to reach El Nido from Coron is by ferry, which takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to kayak through the Big and Small Lagoons – it's an otherworldly experience that showcases the natural beauty of Palawan.
Where to Stay: Consider staying at resorts like El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island for luxury accommodations or Spin Designer Hostel for a more budget-friendly option with a social atmosphere.
Where to Eat: Visit the Artcafe for its fresh seafood dishes and a great selection of vegetarian options, as well as its cozy ambiance.
Linapacan Islands
The Linapacan Islands are a lesser-known archipelago between Coron and El Nido, offering some of the clearest waters in the world. This off-the-beaten-path destination is perfect for digital nomads looking for a tranquil escape. The islands are ideal for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying untouched beaches. With fewer tourists, you can experience a more authentic side of Palawan's island life.
How to Get There: To get to Linapacan, you can arrange a private boat from Coron, which can take several hours depending on the weather and sea conditions.
Travel Tip: Make sure to visit Eli Island, known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for an afternoon of relaxation.
Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited, but Ariara Island Resort offers a luxurious and private experience, while Tapik Beach Park Guest House provides a more rustic and budget-friendly option.
Where to Eat: Dining options are scarce, so it's best to arrange meals with your accommodation. Many offer fresh, locally-sourced seafood prepared in traditional Filipino style.
Culion Island
Culion Island, once known for its leper colony, is now a historical and cultural gem just a boat ride away from Coron. The island offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved historical sites, including the Culion Museum and Archives. Nature lovers can also enjoy snorkeling and diving in the surrounding coral reefs, which are teeming with marine life.
How to Get There: Regular boats are available from Coron to Culion, and the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Travel Tip: Visit the Culion Church and Fortress for a panoramic view of the island and to learn more about its unique history.
Where to Stay: Hotel Maya is a good option with comfortable rooms and a view of the sea, while La Estancia Busuanga offers a more secluded retreat.
Where to Eat: Try the local eateries for traditional Filipino dishes, especially the fresh catch of the day, which is always a treat.
Calauit Safari Park
Calauit Safari Park is an unusual destination that offers a slice of Africa in the Philippines. This wildlife sanctuary is home to giraffes, zebras, and a variety of other animals, many of which are free-roaming. It's a great place for digital nomads who are animal lovers and want to experience a unique adventure without leaving the island of Palawan.
How to Get There: The park is accessible by a combination of road and boat travel from Coron, typically organized as part of a tour.
Travel Tip: Take the early morning tour to see the animals when they are most active and to avoid the midday heat.
Where to Stay: There are no accommodations in the park, but you can stay in nearby areas like Busuanga Bay Lodge, which offers luxury amenities and stunning views.
Where to Eat: Dining options are limited near the park, so it's recommended to bring your own food or arrange meals through a tour operator.
Malcapuya Island
Malcapuya Island is a tropical paradise that boasts one of the best beaches near Coron. With its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, it's an ideal spot for digital nomads to unwind and disconnect. The island is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and simply enjoying the serene environment. It's less crowded than other popular destinations, offering a more peaceful retreat.
How to Get There: You can reach Malcapuya Island by booking an island-hopping tour from Coron, which usually includes other nearby islands as well.
Travel Tip: Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral gardens just offshore.
Where to Stay: Overnight stays are not common on Malcapuya, but you can find accommodations back in Coron town, such as Two Seasons Coron Bayside Hotel or Coron Soleil Garden Resort.
Where to Eat: There are no restaurants on the island, so pack a picnic or arrange for a beach BBQ with your tour operator.
Barracuda Lake
Barracuda Lake is a unique and mysterious diving spot known for its thermocline and halocline water layers, which create an otherworldly diving experience. The lake is surrounded by dramatic karst cliffs and is named after the lone barracuda that used to inhabit its waters. It's a great place for both novice and experienced divers to explore the underwater landscape and experience the sudden changes in water temperature.
How to Get There: Barracuda Lake is located on Coron Island and is accessible by a short boat trip from Coron town.
Travel Tip: Even if you're not a diver, you can still enjoy snorkeling or swimming in the lake's clear waters.
Where to Stay: Stay in Coron town for easy access to the lake. Coron Westown Resort offers comfortable accommodations and a large swimming pool.
Where to Eat: Back in Coron town, enjoy a meal at La Sirenetta Restaurant & Bar, which offers a great view of the bay and delicious seafood dishes.
Pass Island
Pass Island is a secluded and idyllic spot perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway. This small island offers a beautiful white sand beach, clear waters for snorkeling, and a laid-back atmosphere. It's one of the less frequented destinations, making it an ideal place for digital nomads to relax and enjoy the simplicity of island life.
How to Get There: You can visit Pass Island as part of a private island-hopping tour from Coron, which allows for a more personalized experience.
Travel Tip: Try to stay overnight in one of the basic huts on the island to experience the tranquility of the place without the day-trippers.
Where to Stay: Accommodation options on Pass Island are limited to simple huts, but for more comfort, you can choose to stay at Club Paradise Palawan back on the main island.
Where to Eat: Meals are usually provided by the island caretakers, featuring fresh seafood and local dishes prepared in a home-cooked style.
These weekend getaways offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unique experiences for digital nomads living in Coron. Whether you're looking to explore underwater worlds, encounter exotic wildlife, or simply soak up the sun on a secluded beach, there's something for everyone just a short trip away from your tropical home base.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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