Malcapuya Island is the quintessential tropical paradise—an idyllic retreat with powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and a slow-paced island vibe that seems to pause time itself. Located off the southern coast of Culion in the Calamianes group of northern Palawan, this island is one of Coron’s most prized hidden gems. What makes Malcapuya stand out is its wide, untouched beachfront that rivals even the famed shores of Boracay, but without the crowds. It’s a sanctuary for sun-seekers, swimmers, and those simply craving a slice of serenity surrounded by natural beauty.
Malcapuya Island is the quintessential tropical paradise—an idyllic retreat with powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and a slow-paced island vibe that seems to pause time itself. Located off the southern coast of Culion in the Calamianes group of northern Palawan, this island is one of Coron’s most prized hidden gems. What makes Malcapuya stand out is its wide, untouched beachfront that rivals even the famed shores of Boracay, but without the crowds. It’s a sanctuary for sun-seekers, swimmers, and those simply craving a slice of serenity surrounded by natural beauty.
Location and Accessibility
Malcapuya Island sits roughly 1.5 to 2 hours by boat from Coron Town on Busuanga Island, Palawan. Though administratively part of the municipality of Culion, it’s most commonly accessed via island-hopping tours originating from Coron.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly to Francisco B. Reyes Airport (Busuanga) from Manila or Cebu. Then take a 30- to 45-minute van ride to Coron Town.
- From Coron Town: Join a full-day island-hopping tour that typically includes Malcapuya, Banana Island, and Bulog Dos. Private boat charters are also available.
- Travel Time: Boat trips take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on sea conditions.
Natural Features
Malcapuya Island is famed for its long stretch of powdery sand, often compared to Boracay’s White Beach but with far fewer visitors. The crystal-clear, shallow waters off the main beach are ideal for swimming and wading, gradually deepening into a vibrant marine ecosystem perfect for snorkeling.
The island also features:
- Lush coconut trees lining the beach
- A rocky view deck offering a panoramic vista of the Sulu Sea
- Coral gardens and tropical fish a few meters from shore
Its natural charm is preserved thanks to limited infrastructure and development, making it a raw and authentic experience of Palawan’s coastal beauty.
Activities and Experiences
Visitors to Malcapuya Island can enjoy:
- Swimming and sunbathing on its postcard-perfect beach
- Snorkeling in the clear waters to see clownfish, parrotfish, and vibrant corals
- Picnicking on the beach under the shade of coconut palms
- Photography at the rocky cliffs and elevated viewpoints
- Relaxation in simple native huts or on a beach mat with a good book
Private tours offer the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace and catch the golden hues of sunset before heading back.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (December to May) is the best time to visit Malcapuya Island, offering calm seas, blue skies, and uninterrupted sunshine.
- January to April are especially ideal, with lower chances of rain and better underwater visibility.
- Avoid the typhoon season (June to October) due to rough seas and potential tour cancellations.
Facilities and Nearby Amenities
Malcapuya Island has basic facilities only:
- A few native huts and benches for resting
- Toilets, though not always well-maintained
- No restaurants; most tours include a picnic-style lunch
- No overnight accommodations; this is typically a day-trip destination
Nearby islands like Banana Island and Bulog Dos offer similar amenities and are commonly included in combo tours.
Visitor Tips and Guidelines
- Bring your own drinking water, snacks, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if not included in your tour.
- Water shoes are helpful when exploring rocky areas or reefs.
- Cash only – no ATMs or mobile signal on the island.
- Follow Leave No Trace principles: take your trash with you and avoid damaging corals.
- Respect local caretakers and posted rules; some areas may be restricted to protect vegetation.
Malcapuya Island is a blissful escape from the noise of modern life—a sun-drenched sanctuary where you can truly disconnect and reconnect with nature. Its raw beauty, peaceful ambiance, and postcard-perfect shoreline make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Coron. Whether you’re lounging under a palm tree or floating in the clear waters, Malcapuya offers a timeless island experience that’s hard to forget.
Russian version:
Text
