Black Island (Malajon Island)

Discover Black Island (Malajon Island): Busuanga’s Hidden Gem

If you ask me to name one of my favorite places in the entire Calamian Archipelago, Black Island (locally known as Malajon Island) is always right at the top of the list.
While most travelers stick to the classic island-hopping tours right around Coron Town, heading out to the western side of Busuanga to see Black Island feels like stepping into a completely different world. It’s dramatic, wild, and incredibly peaceful.

Black Island

Why goimg to Black Island ?

The moment your boat approaches the island, you’ll understand where it gets its name. Massive, dark limestone cliffs rise straight out of the turquoise sea, creating a stark and mysterious contrast against the bright white sand beach at the base.

What makes it so special to me is the sheer variety of things you can experience on a single island:

Vibrant Coral Gardens: The waters surrounding the island feature healthy coral reefs full of tropical fish, perfect for snorkeling and underwater photography.

Massive Karst Caves: Walking into the main cave feels like entering a natural cathedral. Inside, you’ll find soaring ceilings, stalactites, and even a clear natural freshwater pool where you can take a cool swim.

A Beachside Shipwreck: Just a short swim from the shoreline lies a small, shallow shipwreck. You don’t even need scuba gear—just put on a mask and snorkel, and you can explore a coral-covered wreck teeming with marine life right off the beach.

Uncrowded Shores: Because it is located further away from Coron Town, you won’t encounter the massive tour boat crowds here. You can often enjoy long stretches of white sand almost entirely to yourself.

How to Reach Black Island

Reaching Black Island requires a bit of journeying, but that is precisely why it remains so pristine!

Option 1: The Express Route (via Salvacion or Ocam Ocam Beach)

This is the fastest sea route and the way I highly recommend doing it:

  1. Take a motorbike or van from Coron Town or Busuanga to Ocam Ocam Beach or the port at Salvacion (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours scenic land trip).
  2. Hire a local motorized bangka (outrigger boat) from the beach. You can reserve a boat here.
  3. Enjoy a pleasant 20 to 30-minute boat ride directly to Black Island.
  4. If you like a wonderful organized trip you can book a whole package at coron-island-hopping.com

Option 2: Full-Day Boat Tour from Coron Town

You can book a long-distance private boat tour directly out of Coron Town. Keep in mind that the boat ride alone takes about 2 to 2.5 hours each way, so be prepared for a full day on the water.

What to Combine Your Trip With

Since you are traveling up to North Busuanga, make the most of your day by combining Black Island with these fantastic nearby spots:

  • Ocam Ocam Beach: A quiet, coconut-tree-lined beach mainland spot. It’s the perfect base to grab lunch, relax in a hammock, or watch the sunset after returning from Black Island.
  • Calauit Safari Park: Located nearby on Calauit Island, where giraffes and African wildlife roam freely alongside endemic Palawan animals.
  • Dibutunay Island , Pamalican Island , North and Souty Cay : Excellent nearby stops for extra snorkeling and quiet beach time on your boat return trip.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Bring Snorkel Gear & Water Shoes: The sea bed near the wreck and cave entrance can have sharp corals and rocks.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: There are no big restaurants on the island—just local cottages where you can sit and enjoy a packed lunch.
  • Environmental Fee: Keep a bit of cash handy for the local entrance/environmental fee collected by the indigenous Tagbanwa community who care for the island. Entrance Fee: 200 PHP per person.

If you are planning your Busuanga itinerary and want an unforgettable adventure away from the crowds, I highly recommend putting Black Island at the top of your list!