Siete Pecados: A Marine Paradise That Gets It Right
Siete Pecados: A Marine Paradise That Gets It Right is a shining example of how responsible tourism and conservation can thrive together. After a disappointing experience on Tour C in El Nido, where we saw overcrowding and coral damage, our visit to this incredible marine reserve was a breath of fresh air. The pristine waters, thriving coral reefs, and ethical snorkelling practices made this an unforgettable adventure, proving that tourism can support and protect the environment when done right.
How to Get There & Costs
Siete Pecados is located just a short ride from Coron town and is easily accessible (2025 Prices):
- Tricycle fare: ₱800 return
- Boat rental with captain or Sit on Top Kayak: ₱250 per person
- Entry fee: ₱100 per person
- Snorkel gear rental: Available on-site if you don’t have your own
It’s best to bring cash as there are no ATMs nearby, and prices are very reasonable for the experience you’ll get.
A Snorkelling Experience Like No Other
From the moment we arrived, we knew this was going to be a completely different experience from the crowded chaos of El Nido. Our boat captain also acted as our guide, ensuring that we followed all conservation rules and respected the marine environment. Unlike typical boat tours, where you’re left to explore on your own (often leading to damage to the coral), here the guide comes into the water with you, leading you around the coral, never over it, ensuring you have the best experience while protecting the reef.
- Duration: Approx. 1.5 hours in the water
- Water conditions: Warm, clear, and calm
- Group size: Small and manageable
- Marine life: Incredible biodiversity
This was one of the most peaceful, enjoyable snorkelling experiences we’ve had. No overcrowding, no rush—just pure magic.
Day Two: A Self-Guided Paddle to Siete Pecados
For our second visit to Siete Pecados, we decided to hire a kayak and head out on our own, bringing fewer items this time for a lighter, easier trip. Upon reaching the marine reserve, we secured our kayak to the pontoon, where three daytime guards keep watch over the reserve (with another three taking over at night). Leaving our paddles and gear safely on the pontoon, we slipped into the water for another round of snorkelling.
Banded Sea Krait
The highlight—or perhaps the most nerve-wracking moment—was spotting a banded sea krait gliding through the reef. Its striking yellow, black, and white bands were a clear warning, though it showed no interest in us. Even so, we didn’t take any chances and made sure to move along swiftly!
What to Bring
- Snorkelling gear (fins, mask, snorkel) – or rent on-site
- Reef-safe sunscreen (to protect the marine ecosystem)
- Towel & dry bag
- Cash for fees
- GoPro or underwater camera to capture the marine life
- Water & snacks (though the trip isn’t too long)
The Marine Life: A Thriving Reef
This is exactly what snorkelling should be. Unlike the bleached, damaged reefs we saw in El Nido, Siete Pecados is alive and thriving.
- Huge shoals of colourful fish, constantly weaving through the coral
- A variety of healthy corals, from brain corals to branching staghorn
- A beautiful turtle gliding gracefully through the reef
- Crystal-clear water, allowing for fantastic visibility
Everywhere we looked, the reef was bustling with marine life, a testament to how well the reserve is protected and managed.
Why Siete Pecados Gets It Right
Siete Pecados is a model for responsible marine tourism. Here’s why:
- Small groups – No overcrowding, ensuring a peaceful and respectful experience. ✔️
- Guided snorkelling – The guide comes into the water with you, ensuring responsible behaviour. ✔️
- Respect for marine life – Visitors are taken around the reef, not over it. ✔️
- Wildlife protection – The reserve safeguards its marine inhabitants while allowing the local community to earn a living sustainably. ✔️
- Active conservation – The locals directly benefit from the reserve, so they actively protect and preserve it. ✔️
Final Thoughts – Siete Pecados: A Marine Paradise That Gets It Right
Siete Pecados was everything we had hoped for—and more. After our disappointing El Nido experience, this place restored our faith in ethical, well-managed tourism. It proves that conservation and tourism can go hand in hand, benefiting both the environment and the local people. If you’re in Coron and want a snorkelling experience that respects nature while offering incredible marine life sightings, skip the big tour operations and head to Siete Pecados.
🌊 It’s worth every peso! 🌊
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