Mount Tapyas in Coron: A Simple Stair Climb With a Big View
If you want an easy activity in Coron that does not need a tour, this hill is a smart pick. You walk to the base from town, climb a long set of stairs, and end up with a wide view over the bay and rooftops. It is short. It is sweaty. It is worth it when the light is right.
What this place is
This is a viewpoint above Coron town that you reach by climbing concrete steps. People go for the open view and the sunset glow. The top has a large cross and open areas where people stop, rest, and take photos.
| Detail | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Steps | Around 700 plus, with 721 often mentioned |
| Route | Out and back, all stairs |
| Time needed | Usually 30 to 60 minutes round trip |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate, mostly because of heat and stairs |
| Cost | Commonly free |
| Best time | Early morning for cool air, late afternoon for sunset |
Where It Is in Coron
Location overview
The viewpoint sits right above Coron Town Proper. It is close enough that many people simply walk there from their hotel. That is also why it is popular. You can do it even on a packed day.
What you can see from the top
From the upper area, you can look over the town and out toward Coron Bay. You will see water, islands, and rolling hills in the distance on clear days. At sunset, the view feels softer and more dramatic because the sky changes fast.
How to Get to the Trailhead
Starting point options
If you stay near the center, walking is easy. It saves money and warms you up. If the sun is strong, a tricycle can be the better move. You arrive less tired and less soaked in sweat.
Finding the base entrance without stress
Most people find the start by looking for the stairs near a basketball court. Some travellers also mention a nearby hotel as a reference point. If you feel unsure, ask a local for the stairs to the viewpoint. Keep it simple. They know what you mean.
Best time to arrive for sunset
The common mistake is leaving too late. The fix is easy. Reach the base about one hour before sunset. That gives you time to climb slowly and still enjoy the top. If you like photos, give yourself more time. You will stop more than you expect.
The Climb Experience: What It’s Really Like
Step count and what it means
You will hear different step counts. Do not overthink it. Plan for a long stair climb that takes steady effort. The exact number matters less than your pace and the temperature.
How hard is it, really
This is not a hiking trail with rocks and roots. It is stairs. The hard part is heat and humidity. The second hard part is rushing. If you go at midday, it can feel rough. If you go near sunrise or late afternoon, it feels much easier.
If you have knee pain, the walk down can be the toughest part. Your legs will feel tired. Your steps may feel shaky. Slow down. Use the railings when you need them.
A pace plan that works for most people
Start slower than you think you should. The first ten minutes decide how you feel later. Take a short break before you feel worn out. Not after. Drink small sips often. Do not wait until you reach the top.
If you are not very active, set a simple goal. Reach the next landing. Catch your breath. Then continue. If you are active, keep a steady rhythm and avoid sprinting. You will enjoy the top more if you arrive calm.
Best Time to Go: Sunrise vs Sunset
Sunset
Sunset is the popular choice for a reason. The light turns warm. The bay looks deeper. The islands look like dark shapes on the horizon. The downside is crowds. The stairs also feel hotter if you start too early.
If you want sunset but hate crowds, go on a weekday if you can. Or start earlier than most people. You will get a better spot and a smoother climb.
Sunrise
Sunrise is calmer and cooler. It is also kinder on your body. You sweat less. You stop less. Photos feel easier because fewer people are in your frame. The tradeoff is the early wake-up.
Comparison
| Factor | Sunrise | Sunset |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Cooler | Warmer |
| Crowd level | Lower | Higher |
| Photo light | Soft and gentle | Warm and dramatic |
| Mood | Quiet and peaceful | Social and lively |
| Timing stress | Low | Medium |
What to Bring and What to Skip
Essentials
Bring water. This is the main thing people regret forgetting. Wear shoes with grip. Wear light clothes that breathe. A cap helps if you go in the afternoon.
Smart extras
Electrolytes help if you sweat a lot. A small towel helps if you hate feeling sticky. A small snack is useful if you go before dinner. A phone tripod is nice if you want stable shots.
What to skip
Do not bring a heavy bag. It will annoy you on the stairs. Do not wear slippery footwear. The walk down becomes slow and risky when your feet slide.
Safety, Comfort, and Basic Etiquette
Heat problems and how to avoid them
The most common problem here is heat. People start strong and then crash. If you feel dizzy or weak, stop and rest. Find shade when you can. Drink water slowly. Wait until you feel steady.
The best prevention is timing. Go early morning or late afternoon. If you must go in the middle of the day, go slow and take more breaks.
Stair safety on the way down
Downhill is where people slip. Your legs get tired. Your focus drops. Slow down and take smaller steps. Hold the railing when needed. If you have knee issues, do not rush. A slow descent is still a good finish.
Being respectful at the top
The cross is a landmark and also has meaning for locals. You can still take photos and enjoy the view. Just avoid blocking paths when it is busy. Avoid climbing on structures. Give others space for their photos too.
Photo Spots and Viewpoint Tips
The sign area
Near the upper section, there is a large sign that many people use for photos. It is a popular stop. The best approach is simple. Take your shot quickly. Then move to the side so others can do the same.
The top viewpoint areas
At the top, look for a clear angle toward the bay. If you want fewer heads in your frame, step away from the main crowd line and wait for a gap. People move constantly. Patience works better than pushing forward.
A timing tip that improves photos
Do not leave the moment the sun disappears. Stay a little longer. The sky often looks best a few minutes after sunset. Colors soften. Town lights begin to show. The view changes again.
Accessibility and Who This Is For
Kids and families
Families can do this if they treat it like a slow walk. Bring water. Take breaks often. Start early so no one feels rushed. When kids feel pressure, they get tired faster and complain more.
Seniors and knee issues
If stairs bother your knees, plan for a slower descent. Consider sunrise for cooler air and fewer crowds. Use the railing. Take short steps. Stop when you need to.
A simple fitness check
If you can climb stairs at home for a few minutes, you can likely do this with breaks. If you get winded quickly, you can still do it. The key is pace and timing.
Common Mistakes and Easy Fixes
Going at the hottest time
Mistake: You climb under strong midday sun and feel exhausted early.
Fix: Go at sunrise or late afternoon. If you must go midday, slow down and rest more.
Not bringing water
Mistake: You assume it is short and bring nothing.
Fix: Bring a bottle. Sip often. If you sweat heavily, bring electrolytes.
Leaving too late for sunset
Mistake: You rush, arrive stressed, and miss the best light.
Fix: Reach the base about one hour before sunset. Start the climb earlier if you want more photos.
Wearing the wrong shoes
Mistake: Slippery sandals make the descent frustrating.
Fix: Wear shoes with grip. Comfort matters more than looks here.
What to Do After the Climb
Easy ideas right after
After the stairs, most people want something simple. Get a drink. Eat dinner in town. Go back to your room for a quick shower. If your legs feel tight, do a slow walk and light stretching.
How it fits into a Coron plan
This works well on your first day because it helps you understand the layout of the town and bay. It also works on days when tours end early. If you feel tired from island hopping, sunrise is a gentle option that still feels productive.
FAQs
How many steps are there?
People usually describe it as 700 plus steps, and 721 is commonly mentioned. Treat it as a long set of stairs and plan for breaks.
How long does it take?
Many visitors finish in 30 to 60 minutes round trip. Your time depends on breaks, heat, and how long you stay at the top.
Is it hard?
It is not technical, but it can feel tough in hot weather. A slow pace and enough water make it manageable for most people.
Is there an entrance fee?
Most visitors do not pay a fee. Still, bring small cash in case you want water or a snack near the base.
What time should I go for sunset?
A good rule is to reach the base about one hour before sunset. If you want a calmer top area, arrive earlier.
Is it safe near dark?
It usually feels fine when other people are around, but use common sense. Walk carefully on the stairs, especially on the way down. Do not rush.
Where is the starting point?
Look for the staircase near a basketball court. If you are unsure, ask locals for the stairs to the viewpoint above town.
What can you see from the top?
You can see Coron town, the bay, and islands across the water. The view looks different at sunrise and sunset, so the timing changes the experience.
Is it worth it if I am not doing other hikes?
Yes. It gives you a big view without leaving town. It is also easy to fit into almost any schedule.
Final Take
This is one of the simplest ways to get a great view in Coron without planning a full day. Choose a cool time. Bring water. Walk at a steady pace. If you do that, the climb feels fair and the top feels rewarding.