Coron

Where to shoot

• The WWII Japanese shipwrecks — a dozen ships sunk in a single 1944 air raid, now diveable and snorkelable coral-encrusted wrecks in Coron Bay.
• Kayangan Lake — a limestone-ringed lake reached by a short ridge climb, rated among the cleanest water in the Philippines.
• Twin Lagoon — two connected lagoons split by a limestone wall, with a visible thermocline where fresh and salt water meet.
• Siete Pecados — a cluster of small reef islets with some of the healthiest snorkeling coral around Coron.

When to go

November through May, outside typhoon season, for calm water and reliable boat access to the outer bay's wrecks and lagoons.

What to eat

Look for grilled fish and pork cooked over open charcoal along the main strip's carinderias, served on banana leaf with rice and a side of vinegar-chili dip — Coron's actual everyday food, not a resort menu.

Where to stay

Base yourself in Coron town itself, close to the pier — nearly everything worth doing is a boat ride from there, and the town center keeps food and dive shops within walking distance.