Powdery white sand…
Majestic limestone walls…
A dark cave…
And a SHIPWRECK right there on the shore.
You’ll get all that and more in Coron’s most underrated spot: Black Island.
In today’s post, I’ll go over
- What makes Black Island special
- How to get here
- FAQs
And then end by talking about whether it’s worth it to come here.
Let’s get into it!
Want more tips on traveling Coron? Check out my travel guide or tourist spots blog posts!
All You Need to Know About Coron’s Black Island
Fun fact:
Black Island isn’t found in Coron at all! 😂
The island is found off the coast of Busuanga.
It got its name from the steep black limestone cliffs of the island. As you approach it by boat, you’ll very quickly understand why it got that name.
The crazy thing about Black Island is…
There are so. MANY. things to do.
It’s such a small island, but it’s packed with things to see, such as the
Black Island Cave
One of the main highlights of Black Island is its cave.
For experienced spelunkers, this cave won’t impress you too much.
But for everyone else?
The rock formations here will make you feel like you’re in another world.
There’s also a swimming pool inside the cave. And it goes deeper, and deeper into it until no light can find its way in.
If you’re up for some thrills, see which one in your friend group can swim the farthest into the cave before chickening out!
Black Island White Sand
The name is Black Island, but they could’ve just as easily called it White Island.
Why?
Because the sand here is incredibly fine.
The powdery white sand is one of the best I’ve ever seen. It might even be better than the one in White Beach in Boracay.
That’s why most of our time in Black Island was spent just chilling in the sand, taking in how beautiful this island is.
There are also cottages around the sand where you can rest.
Black Island Shipwreck
Black Island would’ve been perfectly fine with just the sand and the cave.
But nope!
It wasn’t done yet.
Just a few feet into the water, you’ll find a shipwreck.
Now, don’t expect an entire ship like the wrecks you find by diving in Coron Bay.
Instead, this wreck is extremely eroded already.
All you’ll find is the shape of what once was a big ship.
However, it’s still very impressive.
It’s also super easy to get to, so definitely go and check it out while you’re in Black Island.
Black Island Rock Formations
Last but not least, you have the limestone walls that make Black Island Black Island.
By the time you get here, you’ve probably been to Twin Lagoon and Kayangan Lake already, so you might not be mindblown by the rock formations.
But in and of themselves, they are quite stunning.
What To Do on Black Island
Swimming, enjoying the fine white sand, checking out the cave and the shipwreck, and just resting in one of the many cottages are all things you can do on Black Island.
The island is just the right size.
It’s quite big, but most of the island is made of jagged rocks, so you can’t explore most of it.
If you were thinking of walking around the whole island… well… unless you’re a rock climber, that won’t be possible.
However, it’s not too small that there’s no privacy either.
In fact, when we were there, a couple managed to find a secluded spot and proposed! 😍
There is also plenty of small fish around Black Island.
We weren’t able to snorkel, but we were told that there are several interesting things to see if you decide to swim around here.
How to Get to Black Island
The easiest way to get to Black Island is to join a Calauit Safari tour. Most of these include a side trip to Black Island.
This is because Black Island is around 3 hours away from Coron Town (2 hours by van, and 1 by boat).
The Safari tours start at php2,500/head regular, but you can get them at php2,300 if you book online here. They head off to the Safari in the morning, have lunch in Busuanga town, then you’ll arrive at Black Island at around 2 pm.
You have about 2 hours to enjoy the island before it’s time to head back to Coron Town, so make the most of it!
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Island
Which Island is Known as Black Island?
Malajon Island in west Busuanga is known as Black Island!
Why Is It Called Black Island?
Malajon Island got the nickname “Black Island” for the imposing black limestone cliffs it has. As you approach the island by boat, all you’ll see is a thick, black line on the horizon.
Funnily enough, you can just as easily call this place White Island for its powdery white sand!
Where is Black Island?
Black Island is found off the coast of western Busuanga. It’s 3 hours of travel from Coron Town, 2 hours by van and 1 by boat.
Do I Need a Tour to Visit Black Island?
Yes, you need a tour as there is no other way to visit Black Island.
You can sign up for a Calauit Safari Tour that includes a side trip to Black Island anywhere in Coron town for php2,500/head. If you book on Klook, you can get it for php2,300 instead.
You can also go for a private tour.
What is Black Island Known For?
Black Island is known for its white sand and black limestone cliffs. Also for its cave and shipwreck just on the shore!
Conclusion: Should You Visit Black Island?
If you’re already visiting Calauit Safari, the answer is a very obvious yes.
The safari tours only take up the morning, so instead of riding the 2-hour van back to Coron Town right away, why not visit Black Island since you’re already in the area?
If it weren’t for the Safari tours, I wouldn’t be so sure about coming all the way here just to see Black Island.
Yes, it is beautiful.
And yes, it is underrated.
But maybe not something worth traveling three hours for?
There are other interesting islands closer to Coron Town.
However, if you want to spend time in one of the most remote islands in the country, Black Island is for you!
Need help planning your Coron trip? Check out my travel guide and tourist spots blog posts!