The hype
Guests are blown away by the crystal-clear water and friendly staff, but consistently disappointed by the aging facilities and food quality.
Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort
$150-400/ night
Book this if You want the 'Maldives of the Philippines' aesthetic for your Instagram feed and don't mind overpaying for the privilege.
Why People Love It
- Stunning overwater villas with glass-bottom floors
- Incredible snorkeling right off the resort pier
- Sunrise and sunset views that actually live up to the hype
Quick Take: A visually spectacular private island that is heartbreakingly let down by 'neglected paradise' maintenance issues and airport-priced mediocre food.
Reviewed by @thurexxta: I couldn't get over how vibrant this place is—the yellow buildings against the blue sky gave me so much energy. My favorite part was definitely the seaside terrace; it's so peaceful for a morning walk. If you need a mental reset, this spot works wonders.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Multiple reports of sewage smells in older villas and 'slab of marble' mattresses that make sleep a challenge.
- You are an influencer prioritizing visuals over service
- You are a snorkeler who wants reef access 10 steps from your bed
- You are traveling with a large family (Duplex Villas are huge)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Reviews mention 'sheets not changed' during stays and missed trash.
- Bathroom hygiene: Major red flag. Frequent reports of 'sewage odors,' 'mold in grout,' and 'wobbly taps.'
- Maintenance: Struggling. Peeling paint, broken lights, and 'boarded up' neighboring villas are visible.
- Linens & towels: Weary. Towels can be scarce; some guests reported stained bedding.
- Odors & scents: Ocean breeze mixed with intermittent plumbing smells in older units.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Neighbor noise in connected Duplex Villas
- Boat engine noise for rooms near the dock
- Construction/maintenance sounds during the day
Before you book
Good to know
- There is NO ATM on the island; bring plenty of cash for tips and incidentals.
- The gym closes strictly at 7:00 PM.
- Transfer boats leave Coron town at set times (e.g., 2 PM, 5 PM); miss it and you're stuck.
What to pack
- Your own snorkel gear (resort gear is often unavailable or broken)
- High-protein snacks (dining portions are small and pricey)
- Downloaded movies (TVs are outdated and WiFi is useless)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Sirakan Villas (newer, better maintained, jacuzzi on deck)
- Salepan Villas (premium, butler service, furthest from noise)
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Water Villas (often cited for 'sewage smells' and wear)
- Duplex Villas if you want privacy (walls are thin between connected units)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a Sirakan Villa or a renovated unit away from the main dock to avoid boat noise. Please ensure the room has been checked for plumbing odors prior to arrival.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the transfer fee included in the room rate?
No. It is a mandatory extra charge of PHP 4,000 per person roundtrip.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Officially no. They check bags. However, discreetly packed dry snacks are rarely confiscated.
Is there hot water in the showers?
Hit or miss. Many reviews cite lukewarm or cold showers due to solar heating systems.
Are the overwater villas safe for kids?
Yes, but be vigilant. Balconies have railings, but direct ocean access means constant supervision is required.
How is the food quality?
Generally poor for the price. 'Mangrove' restaurant is the safest bet; avoid the steakhouse.
Is it worth the price?
Only if you score a deal under $200/night. At full price ($400+), the service gaps are unforgivable.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Eat a heavy meal in Coron town (try Poco Deli) before your boat transfer.
- ✨
Book spa treatments immediately upon arrival; slots fill up fast.
- ✨
The 'glass bottom' floor in some rooms is just a small viewing window, not the whole floor.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'sewage smell' in older bathrooms is a recurring, unaddressed complaint.
💡You are a captive audience: boat transfers to town are not free or frequent.
💡The 'gym' is basic and closes early, so no late-night workouts.
💡Room service adds up fast: a simple pizza costs ~800 PHP ($14+).
💡The resort is popular for weddings, which can take over the main pool/bar areas.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort is located and what's nearby.