Exploring Coron by Motorbike
Where Can You Find the Best Motorbike Rentals in Coron Town?
Finding a rental bike in Coron is very easy. You do not need to book months in advance.
As you walk down the main roads in Coron Town (such as National Highway and Real Street), you will see plenty of motorbike rental shops with scooters parked outside. Many hotels, guesthouses, and tour agencies also offer bike rentals directly at their front desk or can call a rental shop to deliver a bike to your room.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Motorbike in Coron?
Renting a scooter in Palawan is very budget-friendly, especially compared to taking private vans or tricycles everywhere.
- Average Daily Rates: Expect to pay between 600 PHP and 700 PHP per day (24 hours) for a standard automatic scooter (like a Honda Click or Yamaha Mio).
- Long-Term Discounts: If you plan to rent the bike for a week or more, always ask the shop owner for a discount. They will often lower the daily rate.
What Do You Need to Bring to Rent a Scooter in Palawan?
Before the rental shop hands you the keys, they will require two important things to secure the vehicle:
- A Valid Driver’s License: You must show a valid driving license from your home country. It is highly recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well to stay fully legal.
- A Deposit: Most shops will ask you to leave a cash deposit (usually around 1,000 PHP to 2,000 PHP) or leave a physical ID/passport as a security deposit. Always get a written receipt for your deposit.
What Should You Check Before Driving Your Rental Bike?
Before you drive away from the shop, you must do a quick safety inspection. Do not just hop on and go! Check these vital parts while the shop owner is watching:
- Brakes: Squeeze both the front and rear brakes to make sure they are tight and responsive.
- Lights and Signals: Test the headlights, high beams, brake lights, and turn signals. You will need good lights if you drive back to town after sunset.
- Tires: Check if the tires have good tread and are properly inflated.
- Take Photos: Use your phone to take photos or a quick video of the entire motorbike. This proves the condition of the bike before you took it, so you are not blamed for old scratches or dents when you return it.
Road Safety in Busuanga: Why You Must Wear a Helmet
Driving in Coron and around Busuanga Island can be challenging. While the main highway is mostly paved and in good condition, many roads leading to remote beaches (like Alito or Maricella Beach) are made of gravel, dirt, and loose sand.
Crucial Safety Rule: Always wear a helmet! It is the law in the Philippines, and it can save your life. Road accidents are the most common issue for tourists in Palawan. Drive slowly, watch out for loose gravel on turns, and be mindful of local animals or pedestrians crossing the road.
No Signal? How to Download Google Offline Maps for Busuanga Island
Many parts of Busuanga Island—especially the remote northern and western coasts—have no internet connection or very weak mobile phone signals. If you rely on live online maps, you will get lost.
To navigate safely without internet, you should download an offline map on your smartphone before you leave Coron Town.
1.Open Google Maps:Do this while connected to Wi-Fi.
Open the Google Maps app on your phone while you still have good internet at your hotel.
2.Search for the Region:Find the island.
Type “Busuanga” or “Coron” into the search bar.
3.Access the Menu:Tap your profile.
Tap your profile picture or initials in the top-right corner of the screen.
4.Select Offline Maps:Choose your area.
Tap on “Offline maps” and then select “SELECT YOUR OWN MAP.”
5.Adjust and Download:Save to your phone.
Zoom out until the box covers the entire island of Busuanga and Coron Town. Tap the “Download” button. The map will save directly to your phone, and your GPS will work perfectly even with zero cell service.
