Busuanga Island is the largest island of the Calamian group in the northern reaches of Palawan province, west Philippines. It is one of fine beaches, a lush interior and comes with good hiking and superb diving.
Although the largest island in the Calamian group, it’s only a few tens of kilometers across and it is no problem getting from one end to the other. Most of the action occurs in the south of the island, however, and most tourists tend not to leave the confines of Coron Town and Coron Bay.
It is in Coron Bay that two dozen Japanese WWII warships lie; these were sunk by the US navy in 1944. The wreck diving here is well known in the scuba diving fraternity. The wrecks are in good condition and feature colorful hard and soft corals along with numerous species of exotic fish. Snorkelers can even get in on the action at the shallow lying wreck of the Skeleton.
Coron Town in the south of Busuanga Island is the main town on the island and has the greatest appeal and tourist infrastructure. There are many hotels and resorts here, numerous shops and stalls at Market Pier, as well as plentiful eateries. Off the north of Busuanga Island lies the Calauit Game Preserve and Wildlife Sanctuary, perfect for lovers of wildlife.
Getting There & Away
Busuanga Island is relatively close to Manila, being right up in the north of Palawan. Flight time from Manila Domestic Airport to Busuanga Airport with a number of airlines is under an hour. SuperFerry stops off at Coron Town on the way to Puerto Princesa - a 13-hour trip.