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Palawan Travel Guide – Paradise of Lagoons, Beaches, and Wild Nature

Intro to Palawan Travel Guide

Palawan is often called the Philippines’ last frontier — a province of emerald lagoons, limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and untouched islands. Stretching more than 400 kilometers, this archipelago is home to world-famous destinations like El Nido and Coron, as well as UNESCO-listed wonders such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Palawan is not just a place to see — it’s a place to feel: the rush of paddling through limestone canyons, the calm of snorkeling above coral gardens, and the warmth of fishing villages where time moves slowly. This Palawan travel guide pulls together the best attractions, itineraries, and insider details to help you unlock one of Asia’s most breathtaking tropical escapes.

Must-See Attractions in Palawan

💡Quick Facts:
Destination: Palawan
Continent: Asia
Country: Philippines
Region/Province: MIMAROPA Region, Palawan Province
Capital: Puerto Princesa City
Area: ~14,650 km² (5,650 mi²)
Population: ~1.1 million (2020 census)
Density: ~75/km²
Known Towns/Areas: Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, San Vicente, Taytay
Official Languages: Filipino, English; Cuyonon and other local languages also spoken
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP, ₱)
Time Zone: Philippine Time (PHT, UTC+8)
Airports: Puerto Princesa International (PPS), El Nido (ENI), Coron–Busuanga (USU), San Vicente (SWL)
Climate: Tropical rainforest, hot and humid year-round
Known For: UNESCO Puerto Princesa Underground River, El Nido limestone cliffs, Coron wreck diving, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic, with Christian and Muslim minorities

🛂Arrival Info:
Entry Requirements: Philippines entry rules apply — most ASEAN and many other countries visa-free up to 30 days; others require e-visa or visa on arrival. Philippines Immigration
Customs Restrictions: Duty-free limits on alcohol/tobacco; restrictions on medications, plants, and wildlife products.
Ports of Entry: Puerto Princesa (international and domestic flights), Coron and El Nido (domestic), ferry routes from Manila and Mindoro.
Entry/Exit Fees: Some ports and destinations (El Nido, Coron) charge environmental fees (~₱200).

🏥Health Info:
Vaccines: Routine plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus recommended.
Healthcare: Puerto Princesa has larger hospitals; rural towns and islands have limited facilities. For serious cases, evacuation to Manila or Cebu may be required.
Emergency Care: Dial 911 nationwide.
Tap Water: Not recommended; bottled or filtered water preferred.
Insurance: Highly recommended, especially for diving and remote area travel.
🚑 Check travel insurance options for travel emergencies, delays, and medical needs abroad — Get coverage here
💉 Stay Informed with Official Updates: WHO – International Travel & Health | CDC – Travel health updates

🚨Travel Advisory:
Overall Safety: Palawan is generally safe for tourists, especially in El Nido, Coron, and Puerto Princesa.
Crime: Petty theft and overcharging occasionally reported in tourist hubs.
Scams: Unlicensed tours, inflated transport prices, and unofficial guides.
Weather Risks: Typhoons (Jun–Nov), rough seas, and seasonal flooding. Diving/snorkeling can be affected by strong currents.
Political/Demonstrations: Palawan is peaceful; Mindanao advisories do not extend here.
🌍Track Real-Time Official Updates: US Travel Advisory | UK Foreign Travel Advice | Government of Canada | NZ SafeTravel

🥳Holidays:
New Year’s Day – Jan 1
Independence Day – Jun 12
All Saints’ Day – Nov 1
Christmas Day – Dec 25
Rizal Day – Dec 30
Holy Week (Maundy Thursday, Good Friday – movable)
Baragatan Festival (Puerto Princesa, June)

💰Visitor Info:
Currency & Payments: PHP; ATMs in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, and Coron, limited elsewhere. Cash essential in rural/island towns.
Tipping: 5–10% in restaurants; not mandatory.
Tourist Taxes: Environmental fees charged at multiple sites.
Costs: Coffee ₱100–150, tricycle fare ₱20–100, budget meal ₱150–250.

🛫Airports:
PPS – Puerto Princesa International Airport: Main entry point, domestic and limited international flights.
USU – Busuanga (Coron): Domestic connections from Manila and Cebu.
ENI – El Nido: Private operator AirSWIFT connects from Manila, Cebu, and Clark.
SWL – San Vicente: Limited domestic service
Cebu Pacific Air
🧳 Delayed or canceled flight? Check if you’re eligible for compensation

🚍Transport:
Local Transit: Tricycles and vans; motorbike rentals popular.
Inter-Island: Ferries connect Coron, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa; boats serve smaller islands.
Driving: Right-hand traffic; road conditions vary; rentals available in tourist hubs.
Tourist Routes: El Nido–Coron (ferry 4–6 hrs), Puerto Princesa–El Nido (van 5–6 hrs).
🚗 Book reliable airport transfers and in-city rides in advance. Reserve your ride here

🛰️Connectivity:
SIM/eSIM: Globe, Smart.
Coverage: Reliable in major towns, weak in remote islands.
Wi-Fi: Common in resorts/cafes, but speeds vary.
Power: 220V, 60Hz, Type A/B/C plugs.
🛜 Stay connected abroad with affordable eSIM data packs. Get your eSIM here

📜Laws & Etiquette:
Alcohol: Legal age 18.
Drugs: Strict penalties for possession/use.
Dress Codes: Casual at beaches; modest attire in churches and villages.
Etiquette: Respect eco-tourism rules; many sites have visitor caps.
Environment: Tubbataha and Underground River are UNESCO sites with strict preservation rules.

👮Emergency Info:
Emergency: 911
Tourism Info: Philippines Tourism
Hospitals: Ospital ng Palawan (Puerto Princesa)
🗺️US/UK Embassies Abroad: US Embassies | UK Embassies
🏛️ Embassy locator tools: Embassies Worldwide

🌞Weather:
Climate: Tropical; warm (25–32°C / 77–90°F) year-round.
Dry Season: Dec–May; peak travel period.
Wet Season: Jun–Nov; heavy rains, possible typhoons.
Rainfall: 1,500–2,000 mm annually, heaviest Aug–Oct.
Daylight: 11–13 hrs year-round.
Forecasts: PAGASA
🌦️ Stay prepared—check the weather forecast for your destination — Weather Forecast

Exploring Palawan by Area

Puerto Princesa

The provincial capital is the main gateway and home to the Underground River. It offers city comforts, restaurants, and a strong ecotourism scene.

El Nido

Famous for dramatic limestone cliffs and island-hopping tours, El Nido is the most iconic part of Palawan. Its Bacuit Archipelago is a maze of lagoons, secret beaches, and turquoise waters.

Coron

Known for shipwreck diving and clear lakes, Coron draws both divers and adventure-seekers. Kayangan Lake, often dubbed the cleanest lake in Asia, is a highlight.

Port Barton

A laid-back beach town between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, Port Barton is for those who prefer fewer crowds and a slower pace.

San Vicente

Home to Long Beach, the Philippines’ longest white-sand stretch at 14 kilometers, San Vicente is emerging as an eco-destination.

Balabac

At the southern end of Palawan, Balabac boasts remote islands with powdery sandbars and pristine reefs, ideal for explorers.

Can’t-Miss Sights in Palawan

Natural Icons

Puerto Princesa Underground River: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and New 7 Wonders of Nature, featuring a navigable subterranean river system.
El Nido’s Big Lagoon & Small Lagoon: Signature stops with towering cliffs and glassy blue water.
Kayangan Lake: Coron’s most photographed spot, with crystal-clear water framed by karst cliffs.

Cultural Landmarks

Plaza Cuartel in Puerto Princesa: A historic site tied to WWII.
Cuyonon Heritage Village: Showcasing traditional Palawan architecture and culture.

Family-Friendly Spots

Honda Bay: A cluster of islets near Puerto Princesa, ideal for island-hopping with calm waters.
Coron Hot Springs: Maquinit Hot Spring offers family-friendly relaxation after a day of adventure.

Natural Escapes in and Around Palawan

Twin Lagoon (Coron)

Accessible only by boat, these lagoons are separated by towering cliffs. Swimming through a crack in the rock feels like entering another world.

Snake Island (El Nido)

A curving sandbar where you can walk surrounded by shallow seas — one of Palawan’s most scenic stops.

Long Beach (San Vicente)

A vast stretch of sand with little development, offering tranquility and sunset views.

Onok Island (Balabac)

Considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, with surreal turquoise waters and untouched coral.

Must-See Experiences in Palawan

El Nido Island-Hopping: Tours A, B, C, and D cover lagoons, caves, and beaches. Tour A is most popular for lagoons, while Tour C features hidden beaches.
Coron Wreck Diving: Dive into WWII Japanese shipwrecks, now thriving reefs.
Underground River Tour: A boat ride into caverns filled with stalactites and bats.
Firefly Watching: River tours at night light up with thousands of fireflies.
Mangrove Paddling: Eco-tours reveal mangrove forests critical to Palawan’s ecosystem.

Uncover more with curated Palawan tours, then dive deeper into local culture, landmarks, and natural wonders — the essential things to do in Palawan. We may earn a commission if you book through our links — at no extra cost to you.

Hidden Gems of Palawan

Linapacan Islands: Between El Nido and Coron, these remote islands have some of the clearest waters on earth.
Culion Island: Once a leper colony, now a town with fascinating history and serene beaches.
Tabon Caves: Archeological site with evidence of early Filipino civilization.
Nacpan Beach: A 4-kilometer golden beach near El Nido, less crowded than town beaches.

Cultural & Historic Highlights of Palawan

Palawan Heritage Center: In Puerto Princesa, this museum highlights Palawan’s diverse indigenous groups.
Batak and Tagbanua Tribes: Indigenous communities with strong ties to forests and sea, some offering cultural exchanges for visitors.
Spanish-era Forts: Remnants of colonial defense structures dot the islands.
Religious Festivals: From Baragatan Festival in Puerto Princesa to town fiestas, Palawan celebrates with parades and local food.

Eating Your Way Through Palawan

Tamilok: Woodworm mollusks, a local delicacy often served kinilaw-style (ceviche).
Fresh Seafood: Grilled fish, lobster, and crabs served beachside.
Lato (Sea Grapes): A seaweed salad with a salty, popping texture.
Cashew Nuts: A local specialty from southern Palawan.
Street Barbecue: Skewered pork and chicken found in markets across the province.

Nightlife and Events in Palawan

El Nido Beach Bars: Sunset happy hours with live music and cocktails.
Coron Rooftop Cafés: Relaxed nightlife with sea views.
Puerto Princesa’s Baywalk: Evening food stalls and casual bars for families and friends.
Baragatan Festival: Celebrated every June in Puerto Princesa, showcasing Palawan’s cultural heritage.

Suggested Palawan Travel Itinerary Ideas

3 Days in Palawan

Day 1: Explore Puerto Princesa, with an Underground River tour and evening at Baywalk.
Day 2: Island-hop Honda Bay, stopping at Luli, Cowrie, and Starfish Islands.
Day 3: Visit Baker’s Hill and the Palawan Wildlife Rescue Center before departure.

5 Days in Palawan

Day 1–2: Follow the Puerto Princesa highlights above.
Day 3: Travel to El Nido and enjoy sunset at Nacpan Beach.
Day 4: Take El Nido’s Tour A, featuring lagoons and Secret Beach.
Day 5: Relax in El Nido town, shop for crafts, and join a firefly river tour.

7 Days in Palawan

Day 1–5: Follow the 5-day plan.
Day 6: Travel to Coron and relax at Maquinit Hot Spring.
Day 7: Explore Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, and snorkel at Siete Pecados.

10 Days in Palawan

Day 1–7: Follow the 7-day itinerary.
Day 8: Go wreck diving in Coron or island-hop Malcapuya and Banana Island.
Day 9: Take a day trip to Culion or Linapacan Islands for history and remote beaches.
Day 10: End your journey in San Vicente with a walk along Long Beach before flying out.

Where to Base Yourself in Palawan

Puerto Princesa: Best for first-timers and Underground River access.
El Nido: Perfect for island-hopping and nightlife.
Coron: A must for divers and lake explorers.
Port Barton: Great for those wanting quiet charm and a backpacker vibe.
San Vicente & Balabac: Ideal for remote, pristine beach lovers.

Insider Tips for Experiencing Palawan Like a Local

Book El Nido tours a day in advance, but expect some flexibility with weather.
Avoid single-use plastics; Palawan is strict on eco-rules.
Try van transfers early morning to avoid bumpy nighttime rides.
Support local craftspeople by buying woven baskets and shells.
Respect indigenous community guidelines if visiting tribal areas.

Navigating Palawan Like a Local

Jeepneys & Vans: Connect towns like Puerto Princesa to El Nido or San Vicente.
Ferries: Link Coron, El Nido, and Manila.
Tricycles: The go-to for short distances in towns.
Flights: Small airports in Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron, and San Vicente make traveling faster.
Motorbike Rentals: Ideal for exploring beaches and countryside roads.

Best Time to Visit Palawan

November–May: Dry season, with sunny skies and calm seas.
June–October: Rainy season, with fewer tourists and lush scenery but risk of storms.
December–February: Peak season with ideal weather — book well ahead.
June: Baragatan Festival adds cultural vibrancy to your trip.

Planning Your Stay in Palawan – Practical Tips

Booking: Secure accommodations months in advance for El Nido and Coron in peak season.
Duration: At least 7 days recommended to see highlights; 10+ days for full exploration.
Budgeting: Tours are standardized, but meals range from cheap street eats to fine dining.
Connectivity: Patchy Wi-Fi outside cities; mobile data more reliable.
Safety: Strong eco-regulations mean tours are generally safe and well-managed.

Plan Smarter, Travel Better

Palawan is where you can paddle into caves, dive onto shipwrecks, and walk barefoot on untouched sandbars all in one trip. This Palawan travel guide gives you the roadmap to balance adventure and relaxation in the Philippines’ most idyllic island province.

Continuing Your Journey Beyond Palawan

Cebu: Dive with sardines in Moalboal or chase waterfalls.
Bohol: See the Chocolate Hills and tarsiers.
Boracay: A quick flight away, with nightlife and powder-white beaches.
Coron: Northern Palawan’s gem, with shipwreck diving and pristine lakes.
El Nido: Limestone cliffs and lagoons, Palawan’s most iconic destination.

Final Tips for a Smart Palawan Adventure

Pack waterproof bags — island-hopping means getting wet.
Wear reef shoes for rocky shores and caves.
Always carry cash; ATMs are limited outside main towns.
Avoid overloading itineraries — distances are long, travel takes time.
Stay hydrated; tropical heat can be intense.
Bring eco-friendly insect repellent, especially in mangrove areas.
Book flights to/from Coron and El Nido early — seats are limited.
Respect marine life: don’t step on corals or chase turtles.

It’s Time to Experience Palawan

Palawan is not just another island — it’s a journey into the Philippines’ wild heart, where lagoons sparkle, reefs teem with life, and culture thrives quietly in villages and festivals. This Palawan travel guide equips you with everything needed to craft your dream itinerary, whether it’s diving shipwrecks, gliding through underground rivers, or simply basking on a secluded beach.

Start planning today, and let Palawan’s beauty redefine your idea of paradise.