Banana Island (Dicotuyan Island) | Coron

Banana Island, also known as Dicotuyan Island, is a tranquil destination in the southern part of the Coron archipelago. It is a staple of the "Island Escapade" tour, typically paired with Malcapuya and Bulog Dos.

Visual Characteristics

The island features a crescent-shaped beach with white sand and clear turquoise waters. It is characterized by its lush vegetation and numerous coconut trees that provide natural shade. Unlike the long, open stretches of Malcapuya, Banana Island has a more intimate, garden-like feel with wooden cottages and hammocks scattered along the shore.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Q4CG+9M4, Coron, Palawan, Philippines.

Access: Reachable only by boat from Coron town proper.

Transport: * Boat: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Coron town pier.

Entry: Requires an entrance fee (approx. 200–250 PHP), usually included in organized tour packages.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The island is privately owned and maintained as a tropical retreat. Its name "Banana Island" is attributed to its shape when viewed from a distance, which some say resembles a banana. The surrounding waters are a protected marine sanctuary, hosting a healthy reef system very close to the shoreline.

Key Highlights & Activities

Snorkeling: The reef just a few meters from the shore is home to schools of fish, sea turtles, and giant clams.

Relaxation: The island is equipped with numerous hammocks and shaded huts, making it a preferred spot for afternoon siestas.

Beach Dining: Most tours use the island's picnic facilities for seafood lunch breaks.

Photography: The leaning coconut trees and wooden piers are popular subjects for coastal photography.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The island offers more established amenities than neighboring Malcapuya, including wooden cottages, benches, and basic restroom facilities. A small shop sometimes sells cold drinks and snacks. There are no large resorts or reliable electricity. Cellular signal is extremely weak.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (December to May): Essential for the long boat crossing, which can be difficult during the monsoon.

Mid-Afternoon: Often the second stop on day tours, providing excellent lighting for snorkeling.

Rules

No Single-Use Plastics: Strictly enforced.

Coral Protection: Do not step on the reef; use fins or stay in the designated swimming lanes.

Waste Management: All trash must be returned to the boat.

Nearby Landmarks

Malcapuya Island: 1.0 km South.

Bulog Dos Island: 0.5 km North.

Culion Island: Located to the West.