Palawan, Philippines

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Palawan, Philippines: Island Hopping, Hidden Beaches & Adventure

Palawan, often called the “Last Frontier of the Philippines,” is a paradise of turquoise lagoons, limestone cliffs, and UNESCO-listed wonders. Whether you’re a first-time visitor choosing between Coron vs. El Nido, a luxury traveler seeking beachfront resorts, or an adventurer exploring shipwreck snorkeling spots, this guide covers everything—from top attractions to local secrets—helping you plan the perfect Palawan escape.

1. Destination Highlights

Must-Visit Landmarks & Natural Wonders

• Puerto Princesa Underground River – A UNESCO-listed subterranean river with stunning rock formations.
• El Nido’s Big Lagoon & Small Lagoon – Iconic turquoise waters surrounded by karst cliffs.
• Coron’s Kayangan Lake – The cleanest lake in Asia, perfect for swimming and photography.
• Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park – A UNESCO marine site (accessible via liveaboard diving trips).
• Nacpan Beach (El Nido) – A 4km stretch of golden sand with palm-fringed shores.

Unique Cultural & Historical Significance

• Palawan is home to the Tagbanwa tribe, one of the Philippines’ oldest indigenous groups.
• Coron’s WWII shipwrecks (e.g., Irako, Okikawa) offer world-class wreck diving.

Best Viewpoints & Photo Spots

• Taraw Cliff (El Nido) – Panoramic views of Bacuit Bay (challenging hike).
• Mt. Tapyas (Coron) – A 700-step climb for sunset vistas over the islands.
• Las Cabanas Beach (El Nido) – Famous for its golden sunsets.

2. Offbeat Nature Spots

Hidden Gems (Lesser-Known Beaches & Caves)

• Secret Beach (Coron) – Accessed through a narrow crevice in limestone cliffs.
• Marimegmeg Beach (El Nido) – A quieter alternative to Las Cabanas.
• Tabon Caves (Quezon, Palawan) – Archaeological site with ancient human remains.

Local Secrets (Sunrise/Sunset Spots)

• Sunrise at Banul Beach (Port Barton) – Secluded and crowd-free.
• Sunset at Malcapuya Island (Coron) – White sand and coconut groves.

3. Activity-Based Listings

Trekking & Hiking Routes

Wildlife Safaris

• Calauit Safari Park (Busuanga) – Spot giraffes, zebras, and Philippine deer.
• Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center – Home to rescued crocodiles and endemic birds.

Adventure Sports

• Scuba Diving in Coron – Explore WWII shipwrecks and coral gardens.
• Island Hopping (El Nido Tour A/B/C) – Kayaking, snorkeling, and beach-hopping.
• Parasailing in Coron – Soar above the islands (~₱1,500/$30 for 15 mins).

Eco-Tourism

• Dugong Watching (Busuanga) – Ethical encounters with sea cows (Nov–Apr).
• Community-Based Tours (Port Barton) – Support local fishermen and mangrove conservation.

4. Practical Information

Best Seasons to Visit

• Dry Season (Nov–May) – Ideal for island hopping (peak: Dec–Mar).
• Monsoon (Jun–Oct) – Fewer crowds but occasional rain (best for budget travelers).

Permits & Guides

• Underground River Permit – Book in advance via official website.
• El Nido Environmental Fee – ₱200 ($4) valid for 10 days.

Packing Tips

• Essentials: Quick-dry clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof phone case.
• Monsoon Gear: Light rain jacket, water shoes.
• Prohibited Items: Single-use plastics (banned in eco-zones).

5. Sustainable Travel Options

Eco-Friendly Stays

• El Nido Resorts (Lagen & Pangulasian) – Solar-powered luxury.
• Soultari Beach Resort (Port Barton) – Plastic-free and community-focused.

Responsible Tourism

• Avoid touching coral reefs – Protects marine ecosystems.
• Support local weavers – Buy handmade banig (woven mats) in tribal villages.

Conservation Projects

• Tubbataha Reefs Marine Park – Volunteer for coral monitoring (Apr–Jun).
• Palawan Council for Sustainable Development – Join beach clean-ups.

6. Local Insights

Flora & Fauna Guides

• Endangered Species: Philippine crocodile, Palawan peacock-pheasant.
• Birdwatching Hotspots: Rasa Island (Narra), home to the Philippine cockatoo.

Cultural Connections

• Tagbanwa Village Visit (Coron) – Learn traditional fishing and basket weaving.
• Kamuning Bakery (Puerto Princesa) – Taste Palawan’s best bread baked in a 1950s pugon.

Weather Alerts

• Typhoon Season (Jul–Oct) – Some island-hopping tours may cancel.
• Peak Heat (Mar–May) – Stay hydrated; beaches get crowded.

7. How to Visit

Best Way to Reach

• By Air: Fly to Puerto Princesa (PPS), El Nido (ENI), or Coron (USU) from Manila (1–1.5 hrs).
• By Sea: 2GO Travel ferries from Manila to Coron (12–14 hrs).

Luxury & Affordable Hotels

Best Food

• Must-Try Dishes: Tamilok (woodworm delicacy), crocodile sisig, seafood lato salad.
• Vegan/GF Options: Art Café (El Nido), Kalui (Puerto Princesa).

Bonus Enhancers

Maps

• Google Map of Palawan Highlights (Pinned: Underground River, Kayangan Lake, hidden beaches).

Itineraries

• 3-Day Coron Plan:
  • Day 1: Island hopping (Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon).
  • Day 2: Mt. Tapyas + Maquinit Hot Springs.
  • Day 3: WWII wreck diving.
• 1-Week Palawan Route: Combine Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron.

Local Quotes

“Palawan isn’t just islands—it’s a feeling. The moment you dive into its waters, you’ll never want to leave.” – Rico, El Nido Boat Guide

Safety Tips

• Avoid scams: Book tours through licensed operators (check reviews).
• Emergency Contacts: Tourist Police (Puerto Princesa): +63 918 914 7373.

Coron vs. El Nido: Which Is Better?

Final Tips for First-Time Visitors

✔ Book flights early – Palawan airports have limited capacity.
✔ Rent a motorbike (~₱500/$10 per day) to explore freely.
✔ Respect marine sanctuaries – Avoid stepping on coral.

Palawan is more than a destination—it’s an experience. Ready to explore? See you in paradise!