Everything you need to know about diving in Barracuda Lake, Coron

Happy snorkeler — My happy face in the water

If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming somewhere that feels like another planet, Barracuda Lake is calling your name! 🚀 In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know before diving into this mind-blowing spot.

From the best time to go and how to get there, to what you’ll see (spoiler: it’s unreal)—plus why it’s a must for snorkeling, freediving, scuba diving, and even some epic Underwater Videography! 🎥✨

So, let’s dive in—literally! 🤿

Me diving in the famous Twin Towers in Barracuda Lake

🗓️ Best Time of the Year to Dive in Barracuda Lake

Diving in Barracuda Lake is at its best during the dry season (November to May). This is when the skies are clear, the seas are calm, and the visibility is so good that you’ll feel like you’re floating in space. 🚀

If you want peak conditions, plan for March to May—the water is at its clearest, and the experience is nothing short of magical.

🛫 How to Get There

Getting to Barracuda Lake is super easy once you’re in Coron. But first, you need to get to Coron:

✈️ Step 1: Fly to Busuanga Airport (Francisco B. Reyes Airport)

🚐 Step 2: Hop in a van for a quick 30-minute ride to Coron Town

🚤 Step 3: Join a freedive tour heading to Barracuda Lake

Now, here’s where you need to be extra careful.

Sure, you can dive Barracuda Lake with a regular island-hopping tour… but here’s the catch: you’ll miss out on the best part of the lake. 😬

There’s a rope in the lake—yes, a literal rope—that separates regular tourists from freedivers. And guess what? The most jaw-dropping part of Barracuda Lake is on the other side of that rope. 😏

So, here’s my pro tip: Don’t settle for “normal.” Book a trip with a freediving tour agency! I’ve been here twice with the guys from Pala-One Freediving, and they were amazing. 🙌 I highly recommend them—they’ll take you to the real hidden gem of the lake.

👀 What Will You See There?

Barracuda Lake isn’t just a lake—it’s an experience.

🏔️ Towering limestone cliffs that make you feel like you’re inside a sci-fi movie.

🌊 Crystal-clear water so transparent that you can see deep into the abyss.

🔥 The famous thermocline—where hot and cold water layers meet, creating a wavy, dreamlike effect.

🎥 The ultimate Underwater Videography playground—if you bring a GoPro, you’ll capture insanely surreal footage.

Instead of me just describing it, check out my YouTube video below to see exactly what I mean. (Spoiler: It’s absolutely breathtaking!)

🤿 Barracuda Lake Snorkeling & Freediving

If you’re into freediving and deep snorkeling, Barracuda Lake is a playground like no other. 😍

🌊 Water so clear, you’ll feel like you’re flying.

🪨 Underwater rock formations straight out of a sci-fi movie.

🌡️ The thermocline effect—hot and cold layers of water warping your vision as you swim through them.

But here’s the deal… you can’t just snorkel a few meters and hit the thermocline.

It starts at 14 meters (45 feet)—so if you want the full mind-bending experience, you’ll have to dive deep. 😏

Snorkelers, don’t worry!

The shallow areas around the lake are still incredible. Just floating in this surreal environment is worth the trip.

⚠️ Remember: If you’re on a regular tour, you’ll miss out on the best spots. Book with Pala-One Freediving for exclusive access to the hidden parts of the lake.

🤿 Barracuda Lake Scuba Diving

Diving here? It’s next level.

Unlike most dive sites where the main attraction is marine life, Barracuda Lake’s magic is the lake itself.

🔹 Descend through multiple thermoclines—each layer changing temperature as you go deeper.\

🔹 Experience the halocline—where freshwater and saltwater mix, creating a bizarre, blurry effect.

🔹 Explore massive limestone formations that look like something from another planet.

🛑 Heads-up: This dive is for experienced divers. The depth reaches 40 meters, and navigating the halocline can be tricky. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s one of the most unique dives you’ll ever do.

Final Thoughts

Barracuda Lake is not just a place—it’s an adventure. 🌊

It’s where science fiction meets reality, where hot and cold water collide, and where every freediver, snorkeler, and diver gets an unforgettable experience.

So, are you ready to go beyond the rope and experience the real Barracuda Lake?

If so, grab your mask, your fins, and maybe a GoPro for some epic Underwater Videography—because this is a dive you’ll never forget. 🎥🔥