Palawan, with its scenic beaches and unique adventures, is among the top vacation spots in the Philippines. It is split into stunning destinations - El Nido and Coron. But which should you choose for your large group vacation? This guide will provide you with the pros and cons of both locations, helping you make an informed decision based on your group's preferences and activities in mind.
The Beauty of El Nido
Renowned for its majestic landscapes and turquoise waters, El Nido is a tropical paradise perfect for first-time visitors to the Philippines. This travel destination offers an array of activities, including island hopping, exploring lagoons, and visiting the renowned Twin Beach during sunset.
One striking benefit of El Nido is the easy accessibility to white sand beaches right from the mainland. If you are not a fan of boat rides, you'll be delighted to know that there are several beautiful beaches easy to reach without needing a boat.
El Nido also prides itself on having diverse choices in restaurants, bars, and accommodations. It provides a satisfying blend of sea, sun, and comfort making it an excellent location for group travelers.
The Charm of Coron
On the other hand, Coron is a haven for diversified marine life, making it an ideal place for diving. When planning your vacation, there are several things to consider. If you're intending to spend your trip relaxing on the beach or partying at the bar, El Nido might be a better choice due to more varied entertainment choices and easier beach accessibility.
If, however, exploring the ocean depths is more your group's speed, diving enthusiasts will find Coron more suitable.
Quick Comparison
Here’s a quick comparison of the features of both El Nido and Coron.
Location | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Rating |
El Nido | Stunning beaches, island hopping, sunset viewing | Larger choice of restaurants, bars, and accommodations; the Mainland location allows side trips | Quite crowded in certain areas | 4.5/5 |
Coron | Perfect for dives, peaceful island life | Best for diving activities; Less crowded than El Nido | Limited activities except island hopping | 4/5 |
Best Diving Spots in Coron, El Nido
Coron and El Nido are famed for breathtaking underwater landscapes littered with WW2 shipwrecks. The wealth of dive spots presents an overwhelming choice.
Recommended Dive Centers in Coron
One gem popular among divers is Corto Divers in Coron, known for their rigid safety protocols, which aren't very common in the area. Another top choice is Sangat Island, famous for its convenient accessibility to various wrecks and its serene private resort.
For a luxe experience, Two Seasons Coron offers both stellar diving spots and high-end accommodations. Being close to various WW2 wrecks, this resort caters to history buffs and diving enthusiasts simultaneously.
El Nido Diving Centers Recommendations
In El Nido, Palawan Divers come highly recommended. This diving center's passionate staff supports and guides you throughout the diving process, ensuring you take full advantage of El Nido's underwater beauty.
When choosing between the two, the consensus among diving veterans seems to lean towards Coron for an exceptional diving experience. However, don't be deterred from exploring El Nido as its boat excursions are quite an adventure themselves.
El Nido: A Paradise on Earth
El Nido is known for its spectacular beaches and breathtaking island-hopping tours. El Nido provides a large array of dining choices, numerous bars for nightlife lovers, and different types of accommodations from resorts to Airbnb that suit all budgets.
"The sunset view in El Nido is amongst the best, especially on the Twin Beach"
For adventure seekers, El Nido offers the option of touring mainland Palawan, arranging side trips to less crowded destinations such as San Vicente or Port Barton.
"There are beaches on the mainland that you don't need a boat to reach."
Coron: The Hidden Gem
Coron offers a serene island life, primarily known for diving activities. It is less crowded than El Nido, making it a peaceful getaway for groups. As one Redditor commented, "Coron is perfect for diving". However, there aren’t as many activities offered in Coron unless you plan to island hop.
The limited dining choices and accommodations may also be a deterrent for larger groups. However, for smaller, more intimate groups preferring a quieter stay and who have a diving adventure in mind, Coron might prove to be an advantageous choice.
Alternatives to El Nido and Coron
There are several tour packages available in both El Nido and Coron which include accommodation, breakfast, lunch, and island hopping. Trippy Travel and Tour Palawan in El Nido comes highly recommended. Ensure to check out relevant reviews and compare the options to find the most suitable package for your group.
If you decide to stay in El Nido, consider taking a side trip to Port Barton or San Vicente. These are less crowded locations in Palawan and may provide a different experience from bustling tourism hubs like El Nido and Coron.
Conclusion
Both El Nido and Coron offer unique vacation experiences in Palawan. Choosing between them may depend on several factors such as group size, preferred activities, budget, and dining preferences. Variety in all aspects seems to tilt the balance in favor of El Nido, but Coron provides a less crowded alternative with a focus on diving that may appeal to specific groups.
There you have it, a detailed guide to help your large group plan that amazing Palawan holiday. Your choice will largely depend on the interests and preferences of your group. Regardless of the location you decide on, rest assured that Palawan has something to offer to everyone in your group. Remember, it's not just about the destination, but the shared experiences and making memories together. Enjoy your time exploring the precious gem that is Palawan!
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