Coron, Palawan has always been on my bucket list, but not for the reasons you might think. While most tourists flock to Coron Island for its world-famous Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoons, so my sights were set on a different kind of underwater adventure: Barracuda Lake with its unparalleled depth, and crystal-clear water had captured my imagination long before I set foot on the island (or even the Philippines!). Little did I know that this lake and the island itself would hold so many unexpected wonders.
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Barracuda Lake
Barracuda Lake, also known as Luluyuan Lake, is a geological marvel. Unlike traditional freshwater lakes, it’s a mix of saltwater and freshwater. The lake gets its name after discovering a Barracuda skeleton in the deep parts, but they’re rarely seen these days along with any other underwater life from what I saw.
Volcanic Activity
While freediving, I observed a distinct change in the water as the temperature shifted to nearly 32 degrees Celsius. The water distorted before my eyes, marking the precise location of the temperature change. This phenomenon hinted at the volcanic activity beneath this enigmatic island, which also explains the nearby Maquinit Hot Springs.
Crystalline Waters
What truly sets Barracuda Lake apart is its visibility. The water is so clear that you can see for meters in every direction, making it an absolute paradise for divers and snorkelers. However, this clarity can also induce vertigo for those afraid of heights, as you can see quite deeply below your feet.
Diving Deeply
As I descended into the lake, I felt like I was entering another world. The underwater landscape is a breathtaking combination of jagged limestone cliffs and unique rock formations. A mesmerizing thermocline, where the temperature changes rapidly, further adds to the otherworldly feel. However, the lakebed is surprisingly devoid of life, with nothing but murky white dusty sediments at the bottom.
In my video below, all these scenes were taken on the island of Coron. The diving scenes are all in the Lakes. My Cressi frameless freediving mask has become my trusty companion for exploring the depths of Barracuda Lake. Its minimalist design and soft silicone skirt create a comfortable, barely-there feel on my face, while still maintaining an exceptional seal, even during deep dives. The low-profile design minimizes drag, allowing me to move effortlessly through the water, while the wide field of vision enhances my underwater experience.
You can buy the mask here.
Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoon
While Barracuda Lake was the highlight of my trip, Coron Island itself had plenty to offer. I spent the day exploring Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoons, known for their clear, deep water. However, as of 2024, Kayangan Lake has a strict “no fins” policy, requiring visitors to free-dive without assistance (quite challenging on the ascent). Twin Lagoons, in contrast, is more open to the sea, with a narrow underwater passageway that you can swim through to reach the second lagoon.
Twin Lagoons also features a deep, dark pit around 15 meters deep where boats typically park. This part was rather eerie and unsettling, and I didn’t particularly enjoy exploring it. It’s worth noting that there are no coral reefs in these lakes, except for Twin Lagoons since it’s a hybrid lake connecting to the sea.
The “Ultimate Tour”
I joined the Ultimate Tour, a staple experience available throughout the island. This is the quintessential tour that most tourists opt for when visiting Coron. The itinerary includes the island’s famous lakes, snorkeling around coral reefs, a beachside lunch, more swimming at another reef, and a return trip for the sunset. The most affordable option I found was booking through the Screaming Gecko Mansion. I only truly enjoyed the three lakes, as the other attractions were underwhelming for my taste.
Beneath Coron
If you’re looking for an island adventure that’s a little different from the norm, Coron should be on your list. It’s a place where you can dive into the mysterious depths of a crystal-clear lake reputed to be the cleanest in all of Asia, explore hidden beaches, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Philippines. There’s also plenty to offer free drivers and scuba divers. The island is famous for its WWII-era sunken Japanese warships, but most of them are over 20 meters deep, making them primarily accessible to scuba divers.
Coron’s Secret
Coron Island is quite mysterious, a fact that most visitors don’t discover during their short stays. Its unusual, Jurassic Park/Skull Island-esque cliffs and environment hint at something deeper. Although daily tours bring tourists to the island, no one stays there. The island’s center is inaccessible to tourists and is considered a highly sacred site. It’s said to be a sacred burial ground for the Tagbanwa tribe who own the island, and no one is allowed there. It’s rarely discussed, and even locals often aren’t aware of it. Coron holds many mysteries that I’m eager to uncover!
Conclusion
My trip to Coron was a revelation. It wasn’t just about Barracuda Lake or the popular tourist spots; it was about the unexpected mysteries and adventures that unfolded once I arrived. This discovery wouldn’t have been possible if I had read about it online or watched a video of some influencer passing through. I’ve been here for a month as of the writing of this article, and I am determined to further unveil the secrets this island holds.
I’m curious to hear what you have to say…heard any rumors?