Maquinit Hot Springs – Palawan, Philippines

Located at Sitio Maquinit on the southern coast of Busuanga Island, Palawan’s city of Coron is a popular day trip destination for those visiting the Maquinit Hot Springs. According to its promoters, these thermal waters are one of the few known natural saltwater hot springs in the world, the only one in the Philippines, and likely the only one in Asia.

After an exhausting day of island-hopping activities, many visitors end their day here to soak their muscles and watch the sunset. The springs are open from 8 am to 7 pm every day. To avoid big crowds, don’t enter around 5 pm when the place starts to fill up with people.

Admission to the facility is charged per person, with rates based on age and whether the individual is a local or a tourist. The easiest way to get there is by hiring a tricycle from Coron and taking the ride each way.

Geothermal Springs Water

Maquinit Hot Springs, Philippines. Photo by: Matt Kieffer

When people go to Maquinit Hot Springs, the main reason is to use the healing waters, although the atmosphere is stunning in itself. These modest thermal pools are the perfect place to relax and unwind for anybody visiting Coron.

There are three pebble-bottom pools at the hot springs, with the largest holding up to a hundred people and the two smaller ones holding up to around ten. They are surrounded by beautiful scenery, including limestone cliffs and a mangrove forest.

Due to the extreme heat during the middle of the day, visitors are advised to avoid going to the springs until the late afternoon or evening, when the temperature outside has dropped enough to make swimming more bearable.

This geothermal spring is heated by an active volcano underneath the ground and fills an outdoor pool at a cozy temperature of 38–40°C C/100.4-104° F. Getting in the pools can initially feel very hot. Once you’ve gotten used to the temperature of the water, you can truly relax and rejuvenate in the therapeutic springs.

If you’re in the region for a week of snorkeling, diving, and island hopping, or if you just hiked up Mt. Tapyas, a relaxing bath in the hot tub will be the highlight of your trip.

Keep in mind that animals such as monkeys or lizards may pass through the area; it’s best to leave them alone if you encounter one.