Who would have thought that a lake on top of a volcano crater would be a popular diving spot? Through the years, Barracuda Lake has continued to catch the attention of thousands of divers all over the world. The lake offers a world-class diving site located in the enthralling island of Coron, Palawan. 
Mystery of Barracuda Lake
Locally known as the Cayangan Lake, Barracuda Lake is a freshwater lake on top of a volcano crater, although there are some aquifers that allow seawater to enter and exit the lake as well. It is named that way because of the barracudas living in the lake.
The lake has a maximum depth of around a 100 feet and a visibility of 5-30 meters. The thermoclines in this freshwater lake are extreme so divers could see a thin layer that separates the hot and cold water in the lake. After the first 12 to 13 meters, the water temperature rises to about 27°C to 38°C.
The towering scenic limestone structures along the wall and its abundance of freshwater and seawater marine life are two of the reasons why Barracuda Lake is a popular diving spot. Some of the species thriving here are crayfish, rabbit fish, shrimps, shellfish, and catfish. The barracuda that gave the lake its name can also be observed, but they are very elusive.
What to Pack
• The surrounding view of the lake is an attraction itself so camera is a must. If you have underwater camera, it is better.
• Prepare for the entrance fee being charged upon entering the lake.
• Of course, don’t forget to bring your diving equipments.
How to get there
Barracuda Lake is located northwest of Coron Island. Here are some ways in getting you to this popular dive spot.
By Air: Air Philippine Express, Cebu Pacific Airlines, and Zest Air have daily flights from Manila – Coron – Manila.
By Sea: WG&A Superferry sails from Pier 15 of the Manila South Harbor to Coron, Busuanga on Friday nights and returns on Monday mornings. The trip is approximately 12 hours, one way.
Renting a boat or getting a tour package from resorts based in Coron Town on Busuanga is the easiest way to reach the famous Barracuda Lake. Tour operators that offer tours of the islands that comprise Coron can also bring tourist to this amazing diving spot.
Hotels near Coron Island:
• Chindonan Island Resort & Dive Center - Chindonan Island, Barangay Libis, Coron, Culion, Palawan, Philippines 5315
• Puerto Del Sol Resort and Discovery Dive Center Palawan - Coron, Busuanga Island , Busuanga Island, Palawan, Philippines 5317
• Concepcion Divers Lodge - Barangay Concepcion Town, Busuanga Island, Palawan, Philippines
• Balinsasayaw Resort - Uson Island, Brgy. Lajala, Uson Island - Coron, Palawan, Philippines
• Kaniki Point Resort - Kaniki Island, Barangay Bugtong Busuanga, Busuanga Island, Palawan, Philippines
• Coral Bay Beach and Dive Resort - Popototan Island, Busuanga , Popototan Island, Coron, Palawan, Philippines
• Mangenguey Island - Mangenguey Island, Mangenguey Island, Palawan, Philippines
• Busuanga Island Paradise Hotel - Kilometer 12 Coron-Busuanga Highway, Barangay Guadalupe, Coron Town, Palawan,
• Dive Link Resort - Barangay Lajala, Uson Island - Coron, Palawan, Philippines
• Pamana Resort by the Bay - Uson Island,, Uson Island - Coron, Palawan, Philippines