Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Coron
Coron is famous for what you see during the day—limestone cliffs, clear lakes, coral reefs and shipwrecks.
But one of the simplest experiences happens at the end of it.
Sunset.
With mountains, islands and the waters of Coron Bay stretching toward the horizon, there are several ways to enjoy it—from climbing above town to simply sitting beside the water with a cold drink.
1. Mount Tapyas — The Classic View
If you want the big panoramic sunset, start here.
Mount Tapyas rises directly behind Coron Town and gives you a sweeping view across the town, bay and surrounding islands.
The catch?
You have to earn it.
There are more than 700 steps to reach the viewing area, and the climb can feel considerably harder in the afternoon heat.
Start early enough that you're not racing the sun.
Bring water.
Once you're up there, stay for a while. The view often becomes even more interesting immediately after sunset as the sky changes and the lights of Coron Town begin appearing below.
2. Coron Bay — Sunset Without the Climb
You don't necessarily need altitude.
The waterfront around Coron Town gives you a completely different sunset experience.
Fishing boats and tour boats return for the evening while the sky changes behind the islands.
It's less dramatic than Mount Tapyas.
But it's also considerably easier.
Take a walk, find somewhere comfortable and watch Coron finish another day.
Sometimes simple is better.
3. From a Boat
One of the best places to watch sunset may be somewhere without an address.
The sea.
If you're returning late enough from a private boat trip, you may catch the sun dropping toward the horizon while travelling back toward Coron Town.
After a full day of swimming and island hopping, sitting quietly on the boat as the islands become silhouettes can be spectacular.
Never pressure a boat crew to remain at sea later than they consider safe simply for sunset photographs.
4. Concepcion
If you're exploring farther across Busuanga, Concepcion offers another side of island life.
The coastal setting, offshore islands and quieter atmosphere make it an interesting place to spend the late afternoon.
It's also a reminder that Coron Town isn't the only place on Busuanga worth discovering.
If you're doing a road trip, consider arranging your schedule so you aren't automatically racing back to town before sunset.
5. Ocam Ocam Beach
For something completely different, head toward Ocam Ocam Beach on the western side of Busuanga.
Here the experience isn't about climbing a mountain or looking across Coron Town.
It's about being on the beach.
Swim during the afternoon, slow down and stay for sunset.
Because Ocam Ocam is a considerable distance from Coron Town, it makes more sense as part of a northern or western Busuanga itinerary rather than a quick sunset excursion.
Consider staying nearby or arrange your return transportation carefully.
6. Your Hotel, Restaurant or Bar
Don't underestimate the obvious option.
Some accommodations, restaurants and bars around Coron have elevated or waterfront positions with excellent views.
You don't need to turn every sunset into an expedition.
After spending eight hours on a boat, the perfect sunset location might simply be somewhere with a chair, something cold to drink and no stairs whatsoever.
Sunset Photography Tips
Coron sunsets can be beautiful, but don't concentrate exclusively on the sun.
Look for:
Boats in silhouette.
Reflections on the water.
The outlines of surrounding islands.
Clouds catching the final light.
And remember to turn around.
Sometimes the most interesting colors are happening in the opposite direction.
Don't Leave the Moment the Sun Disappears
This is probably the easiest sunset mistake.
People watch the sun reach the horizon, take a photograph and immediately leave.
Wait.
The 10 to 20 minutes afterward can produce some of the evening's most beautiful colors.
This is particularly true when clouds catch the remaining light.
Which Sunset Spot Should You Choose?
For the big panoramic view: Mount Tapyas.
For something easy: Coron waterfront.
For something romantic or memorable: sunset from the water.
For a Busuanga road trip: Concepcion.
For sand between your toes: Ocam Ocam.
And for the day when you're completely exhausted:
wherever you already are.
One Sunset Isn't Enough
Coron doesn't produce the same sunset every evening.
Clouds change.
Weather changes.
The sea changes.
And your perspective changes depending on where you happen to be.
So don't build your entire trip around finding the “perfect” sunset.
Just make time to stop occasionally and look west.
Some of the best experiences in Coron don't require a tour, an entrance fee or an itinerary.
You simply have to be there at the right time.
Discover more places around Coron and Busuanga on ilovecoron.com.
