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El Nido sits at the northern tip of Palawan, ringed by limestone cliffs. Its lagoons and hidden beaches are the reason most people come to the island at all. Flying is the quickest way to get from Coron to El Nido, taking 1h 45m. By sea, the passenger-cargo ship is the cheapest at $39 (2,400 PHP). The fast ferry costs more but crosses in 3h 30m - 3h 40m.
Distance from Coron to El Nido
Coron and El Nido are about 127 km (79 miles) apart; the sea crossing itself covers around 277 km over water. The quickest way to get from Coron to El Nido is by taking the flight, which takes around 1h 45m.
4 ways to travel from Coron to El Nido
There are four ways to travel from Coron to El Nido. You can choose between the ferry, passenger-cargo ship, flight, and multi-day expeditions. The journey takes 1h 45m–3d and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by passenger-cargo ship with tickets starting at $39 (2,400 PHP).
incl. transfers — see itinerary
- Coron town→Coron Airport45m
- Coron→El Nido40m
- El Nido Airport→El Nido town20m
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3Coron to El Nido by Fast Ferry
Travelling by boat from Coron to El Nido is a beautiful journey. The route passes a few well-known islands, such as Linapacan and San Miguel, all with beautiful beaches and landscapes.
PRO TIP: Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in El Nido? Check out the Multi-Day Expeditions. It costs some money, but we can assure you that it will be the highlight of your trip!
If you want to travel from Coron to El Nido in one day, you can choose from several ferry companies, such as Phimal, Montenegro Shipping Lines, Atienza Interisland Ferries and Jomalia Shipping. Ticket prices start at $45 (2,740 PHP).
Fast ferries from Coron to El Nido run daily, except Phimal, which only operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Check which company runs on your travel day before booking. Regardless of which company you book with, all ferries depart in the morning and travel time takes 3h 30m - 3h 40m.
Fast Ferry schedule from Coron to El Nido
Fast Ferry tickets are available on Bookaway.
It’s best that you book your ticket in advance. Tickets for Coron to El Nido sell out fast during peak season from December to April.
On the day of your trip, arrive at the port at least an hour before the scheduled departure for a higher chance of securing a seat on the fast ferry. If you don’t arrive early, there’s a good chance you’ll lose your seat — your ticket can be given to someone on the waiting list.
Departure and arrival ports
All ferries depart from Coron Port, 2 km away from the town centre. From your hotel, you can reach the port on foot in about 15 minutes. If you carry (heavy) luggage, you can ride a tricycle for around $0.30 (20 PHP).
Upon entering Coron Port, you need to pay a port fee of $0.30 (20 PHP).
Ferries from Coron arrive at El Nido Ferry Terminal. This pier is within walking distance from most hotels in the town centre, but you can also rent a tricycle for a low price.
Coron to El Nido by Passenger-Cargo Ship
Aside from fast ferries, you can also take the MV Star San Carlos, a passenger-cargo ship run by Atienza Interisland Ferries. It's a RORO vessel that carries both people and goods between Coron and El Nido.
The ship leaves Coron Port every Tuesday at 21:00, and the travel time to El Nido is 8 hours. Tickets cost around $39 (2,400 PHP) per person for a non-airconditioned seat and $43 (2,600 PHP) if you want a bit more comfort with air conditioning.
You can visit their Facebook page for more info.
Coron to El Nido by Flight
If you’re short on time, you can take a flight from Coron to El Nido.
The cost of $72 (4,410 PHP) includes the van transfer from Coron town to the airport, as well as the tricycle ride from El Nido Airport to town.
Taking a flight is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Coron to El Nido. However, short-haul flights like this have a negative effect on the environment due to the high emissions caused by taking off and landing.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Coron town to Coron Airport by Minivan
From your hotel in Coron, you can take a minivan to Francisco B. Reyes Airport, also known as Busuanga Airport. Travel time is around 45 minutes.
Some hotels in Coron offer free airport shuttles. If this is not available in your hotel, you can book a shared van transfer through Klook. It costs just $4.10 (250 PHP) per person and includes hotel pickup.
If you’re travelling in a group, you can also book a private van that can fit up to 10 passengers. Rates start from $31 (1,890 PHP).
Another option is to rent a tricycle from the town proper to the airport for $4.90 (300 PHP). Keep in mind it’s a bumpy 45-minute ride. If comfort matters, we recommend sticking with a van transfer.
Step 2: Coron to El Nido by Flight
AirSWIFT and Cebu Pacific offer daily flights between Coron and El Nido.
The plane leaves Busuanga Airport at 12:50 and arrives 40 minutes later in El Nido. One-way ticket prices start at around $63 (3,860 PHP) if you book early, but prices can go up quickly, especially during high season.
It's best to check Skyscanner for the most up-to-date schedules and prices.
Step 3: El Nido Airport to El Nido town by Tuk-Tuk
Flights from Coron arrive at El Nido Airport, about 5 km away from El Nido town centre.
To get to your hotel, you can take a tricycle or tuk-tuk ride for $4.90 (300 PHP). You can check with your hotel if they offer airport pickup .
Flight tickets are available on Skyscanner.
Coron to El Nido by Multi-Day Expeditions
If you're up for more than just a ferry ride and want to turn the journey into an unforgettable island-hopping adventure, there are a few amazing multi-day boat expeditions from Coron to El Nido (and vice versa). These trips let you explore remote islands, enjoy off-the-grid beach life, and sleep under the stars.
Here’s a quick look at some of our top island expedition picks:
Option 1: Island Hopping Expedition on Klook
Klook offers a 3-day, 2-night island hopping expedition from Coron to El Nido for $305 (19,000 PHP) per person.
This island-hopping trip from Coron takes you to stunning spots like Malcapuya, Banana, Bulog, and Ditaytayan Islands, with a stay in a native teepee hut. You'll snorkel at Bolina Island, enjoy lunch onboard near Manligad Island, and try fishing and cliff jumping at Doble Nueve.
Other highlights include a village visit on Hinapupuan Island (with a chance to play volleyball with locals), kayaking at Asis Island, and snorkelling or relaxing at Cagdanao, Calacala, and Cobra Islands — known for crystal-clear waters and off-the-beaten-path gems.
Option 2: Open Expeditions with Buhay Isla
Buhay Isla offers 3-day, 2-night expeditions for $300 (19,000 PHP) per person on open trips. Private trips start at $405 (25,000 PHP) per person (based on 6 people). Smaller groups can still go but must cover the cost for six. Custom trips are also available.
You'll get to travel by traditional bangka, explore remote islands, snorkel vibrant reefs, and camp under the stars — no strict schedules, just pure off-grid freedom.
The package includes daily meals, snacks, drinks (plus a bit of rum!), local guides, basecamp stays, snorkelling gear, kayaks, and fishing gear. Sleep in a beach hut or right on the sand.
Note: Minimum age is 10 years old unless you're booking a private expedition.
Option 3: TAO Original Expeditions
TAO Philippines runs off-the-grid adventures with all-inclusive packages.
Escape the crowds and explore remote islands like West Busuanga, Linapacan, and Daracouton Bay. You'll stay in off-grid bamboo camps, enjoy fresh local meals (with vegan options), and snorkel, swim, or just relax onboard. It’s a mix of adventure, community, and laid-back island life.
The 4D/4N Original Expedition costs $650 (40,000 PHP) depending on the season. This includes travel, meals, accommodation, and a required pre-trip briefing at 18:00 the day before departure.
Departure is at 08:00, and arrival is before lunch.
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Multi-Day Expeditions tickets are available on Klook.
Our favourite places to stay in El Nido
El Nido is all about stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and natural beauty. And that’s what our favourite stays in El Nido reflect!
There are a lot of awesome accommodations for all budgets to pick between in El Nido. Our favourite stays are places with the best views, incredible nature, stunning decor and amazing staff.
Before you start reading about our favourite stays, it’s good to know a bit about the best areas to stay in El Nido, so that you’re picking the best accommodation in the area that’s right for you.
- El Nido Town is where you’ll find most of our favourite stays. It’s the main tourist area in El Nido, and where you’ll find the ferry point. Nice and convenient!
- Corong-Corong is a quieter area located just south of El Nido Town and is known for its beautiful sunsets and picturesque beach.
Treat YourselfCadlao Resort and Restaurant
Area: Next to El Nido town — 10-minute walk to town centre
Your only negative comment about this place is that you wish you’d stayed longer. This place really is the tropical island resort that you’ve been dreaming of.
The infinity pool overlooks the sea, there are palm trees everywhere and the service is incredible. Here you’ll get to enjoy your own spacious cottage, with some of them opening up right onto the beach.
- Three swimming pools
- Beach-side bungalows
- Incredible views
- Tasty breakfast included
Double rooms start from $150 per night
Treat YourselfDuli Beach Resort
Area: Duli Beach — around 1-hour to El Nido town
There’s no better way to start your day than drawing back the curtains and seeing the ocean right there. That’s exactly what you can get at Duli Beach Resort. Their spacious bungalows with private terraces are set right on the beach.
The remote location means that a lot of the time you’ll have the beach to yourself. You also don’t have to worry about finding food or a drink as the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar will undoubtedly satisfy you. If you want to head to El Nido town, it’s just under an hour's drive away.
- Right on the beach
- Secluded location
- Amazing staff
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Mid-RangeSpin Designer Hostel
Area: El Nido town — only a 5-minute walk around the town and beach
You might have guessed by the name, Spin Designer Hostel has been designed to perfection. It’s so nicely and creatively designed that you probably wouldn’t expect it to be a hostel.
The great thing about staying in a hostel, whether you’re in a private room or the dorms, is that there’s often great facilities. Spin Designer Hostel has a shared kitchen with BBQ facilities, a games room and a terrace surrounded by the forest. How about enjoying your complimentary breakfast here?
- Stylish and modern hostel
- Great amenities
- Delicious breakfast included
- Private and dorm rooms
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Mid-RangeHutch Lodging House
Area: Next to El Nido town — approx. 20-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Hutch Lodging House brings the outside inside. With most of the hotel being open-air and plants scattered throughout, there’s a very relaxing ambience here. You also have the option to relax on your own private balcony as every room has one.
It’s beautifully designed! The hotel is only a 10-minute walk from town — far enough that you get peace and quiet, but not too far.
- Great location
- Beautiful design
- Air conditioning
- Every room has a private balcony
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
BudgetBale Cabugao Cottages
Area: Near El Nido town - approx. 10-minute walk to El Nido beach and town centre
Only steps from the beach, all you have to do is stand on the balcony at Bale Cabugao Cottages to hear the sound of the waves. Imagine eating your breakfast with this view! Great news: it’s included in the price.
The hosts go out of their way to help you organise anything in El Nido. Their energy is also guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
- Incredible views
- Great location
- Helpful and happy hosts
- Comfortable rooms
Double rooms $15-$30 per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit El Nido?
El Nido is Palawan Island's northernmost tip, popular around the world as the gateway to paradise — the Bacuit Archipelago. This group of picture-perfect limestone islands boasts white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, enchanting lagoons, and beautiful underwater.
El Nido's town centre leaves much to be desired with its mediocre beach, narrow streets, and mostly backpacker and mid-range hostels. But the island-hopping adventures from here are some of the best you will see in the world. Outside town, you should also include in your El Nido itinerary a visit to Nacpan-Calitang Beach and a hike to Taraw Peak.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Coron to El Nido, roughly 127 kilometres (79 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $39 (2,400 PHP). The quickest trip takes 1h 45m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Coron to El Nido?
The distance from Coron to El Nido is 127 kilometres (79 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Coron to El Nido?
The fastest way to get from Coron to El Nido is by flight and takes 1h 45m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Coron to El Nido?
The cheapest way to get from Coron to El Nido is by passenger-cargo ship with ticket costs starting from 2,400 PHP.
About the Authors
Travel Writer
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She's loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand's beaches also have a special place in her heart.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
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Ferry Schedule Notice
Ferry schedules can change due to weather, sea conditions, or seasonal adjustments. We recommend confirming departure times directly with the operator, especially during monsoon season.
