Comprising 680 of the Philippine archipelago’s more than 7,000 islands , the Calamianes chain presents a rare opportunity for travelers to explore several natural attractions in one destination. There are lush mangrove forest traversed by quiet rivers that flow out to the sea, where colorful birds can be seen during late afternoon boat rides. Scuba divers love to descend crystal -clear waters of the lakes that lie hidden in the massive rocky outcrops of Coron Island. Around most of the islands stunning coral reefs provide a colorful playground for a wide variety of fish and other undersea creatures. Near Calauit Island lucky divers and snorkelers may spot the elusive dugong or sea cow which feeds on sea grass or the endangered marine turtle.