The Ultimate Hidden Gem: Palawan’s “Magical Twin Lakes” You Can Only Reach by Swimming Through a Cave

▲ The Twin Lakes in Coron, Philippines, are the hidden gem among hidden gems. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

Reporter Chen Ziying / Reported from the Philippines

Recently named “The Best Island in the World,” the Philippines’ Palawan archipelago boasts breathtakingly pristine landscapes, especially its hidden treasures waiting to be discovered by travelers. Located in the northern Coron Island—one of the most famous spots in all of Palawan and already frequented by many Western visitors—lies what is known as the hidden gem among hidden gems: the “Twin Lakes (Twin Lagoon).” These two lakes are divided by a towering rock wall, with a smaller lake tucked deep inside, surrounded by steep cliffs. The atmosphere of being so closely connected to nature always keeps travelers coming back for more.

On a sunny afternoon, the boatman piloted a uniquely Filipino bangka (outrigger boat) from the main island of Busuanga Island. It took about 40 minutes before the true beauty of the Twin Lakes (Twin Lagoon) came into view. Travelers who wish to visit this place must not only navigate a winding waterway but also dock their boats outside the rock wall surrounding the lake. From there, they can either climb over the rocks using a ladder or snorkel through a narrow cave less than a meter wide to enter the inner lake area—the “hidden gem within the hidden gem.” Senior guide Rita said, “Both the Twin Lakes and the Kayangan Lake are must-visit spots on Coron Island. At the Twin Lakes, although the two lakes appear separate due to the dividing mountain, they are actually connected. Here, you can truly enjoy the feeling of venturing deep into a hidden world.”


▲ Boats arriving at the Twin Lakes must anchor outside. Travelers have to swim through the cave indicated by the arrow to reach the inner lake area. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

 

▲ The way to reach the inner lake is by swimming through a cave, as shown above. You have to dive and swim through to get there.

 

% The reporter visited the cave entrance.

The islands of the Philippines are always more surprising than travelers imagine. When snorkeling at the Twin Lakes, you’ll often notice the water temperature fluctuating noticeably between hot and cold—an intriguing phenomenon. This is because the lakes are karst lagoons formed through prolonged water erosion. The rocks contain numerous pores, and the water exchange between the two lakes results in mineral-rich spring water. The water is packed with minerals and gases, which create the variations in temperature. Rita specifically advises travelers that while you can snorkel through the cave, remember to keep your head low, move slowly, and stay in a single file line. Glide through gently, as the eroded cave walls are full of sharp edges that can be very dangerous.


▲ The real-life view of the cave lake is even more stunning than the photos. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)


▲ Looking up while lying on your back, you’ll see the mountains framing the sky into a perfect circle—it’s truly beautiful. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ziying)

Post-interview note: During the visit, one of my companions had the brilliant idea to lie on their back. The towering rocky cliffs surrounding the sky were captured right before our eyes, and it felt absolutely amazing. That’s what snorkeling in a hidden gem feels like. If you visit this place, be sure to try it too. Also, if you want to capture the essence of the hidden gem within the hidden gem, don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera and go exploring in this secret paradise.

[Transportation Information]
There are no direct flights from Taiwan to Palawan. You can take a flight with Cebu Pacific Air to Manila and then transfer to the northern Busuanga Airport to enter the northern part of Palawan.