Malcapuya Island

Malcapuya sits well south of Coron town toward Culion, far enough that reaching it takes most of the morning and the day is built around it. What you get for the crossing is the sort of beach the northern circuits do not have: fine white sand rather than coral rubble, a long shallow shelf of clear water good for simply standing in, palms and a low hill behind with a path up for the view over the sandbar. There is snorkelling off one end, basic huts and toilets, and a small entrance fee collected on the island, which is privately held rather than part of a public park. Tours usually combine it with Banana Island and the Bulog sandbar nearby to make the distance worthwhile. The crossing is open water and gets bumpy, so the trip is weather-dependent in a way that Coron's near stops are not.

What you actually see

• The powder beach - fine white sand, unusual for Coron.
• The shallow shelf - clear standing-depth water off the shore.
• The hill path - short climb for the view down the beach.
• The reef end - snorkelling at one side of the island.

When to go

November to May for the calmest crossing. Weekdays are quieter; the island fills when several boats land together at lunchtime.

Honest expectations

The boat ride is long and exposed - rough seas cancel the trip. Facilities are basic huts and toilets, cash only. The entrance fee is separate from the tour price.

Nearby

Banana Island and Bulog Dos sandbar are on the same southern route; Culion town lies further on.