Kayangan Lake | Coron

Kayangan Lake is a primary destination in Coron, Palawan, often cited as one of the cleanest lakes in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. It is located on Coron Island and is a central feature of most Coron "Tour A" or "Super Ultimate" itineraries.

Visual Characteristics

The lake is composed of approximately 70% freshwater and 30% saltwater (brackish water). It is surrounded by sharp, towering limestone karst walls and lush tropical foliage. The water is exceptionally clear, with underwater rock formations visible from the surface. The entrance to the lake is a scenic cove where tour boats dock, leading to a steep climb.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Coron Island, Coron, Palawan, Philippines.

Access: Only reachable by boat from Coron town proper.

Transport:

Boat: Motorized outrigger boats (bangkas) depart from the Coron town pier.

Hiking: Reaching the lake requires a steep ascent and descent over a limestone ridge (approximately 150–300 steps).

Entry: Requires an entrance fee (approx. 300 PHP), usually included in organized tour packages. Visitors must also pay the Coron Eco-Tourism fee.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The lake is situated within the ancestral domain of the Tagbanua people, the indigenous inhabitants of Coron. It is a sacred site for the tribe, who manage the area’s conservation. Geologically, it is a volcanic crater lake that has been partially filled with seawater and rainwater over millennia.

Key Highlights & Activities

Kayangan Lake Viewpoint: Located at the midpoint of the climb, this deck offers the iconic "Postcard View" of Coron-looking down at the turquoise waters of the docking cove (not the lake itself).

Swimming and Snorkeling: The brackish water provides unique buoyancy. Snorkelers can explore jagged underwater rock spires.

Cave Exploration: A small cave is accessible near the viewpoint for quick exploration.

Photography: The viewpoint and the lake's crystal-clear edges are the most photographed spots in the region.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Development is kept to a minimum to maintain ecological standards. There are wooden boardwalks around parts of the lake for safety and gear storage. Tour boats provide life vests, which are mandatory for swimming. Basic restrooms are available at the docking area. 4G/5G cellular signal is non-existent within the karst walls.

Best Time to Visit

Operating Hours: Typically 08:00 to 17:00.

Dry Season (December to May): Offers the best visibility and calmest sea conditions for the boat crossing.

Early Morning: Arriving by 08:00 or 08:30 is recommended to avoid the heavy crowds of large group tours.

Rules

Mandatory Life Vests: Must be worn at all times while in the water, even for strong swimmers.

No Single-Use Plastics: Strictly enforced in the Coron Island protected area.

Preservation: No spitting, littering, or touching the delicate rock formations underwater.

Sunscreen: Use of reef-safe sunscreen is highly encouraged to protect the water quality.

Nearby Landmarks

Twin Lagoons: 2.0 km South.

Barracuda Lake: 1.5 km South.

Siete Pecados Marine Park: 4.0 km North.